HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance 3000ORDINANCE NO. 3000
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 98 OF THE NORTH
RICHLAND HILLS CODE OF ORDINANCES, ADOPTING THE 2006
INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE AS AMENDED AS THE BUILDING
CODE OF THE CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS; AMENDING
OTHER PROVISIONS OF SUCH CHAPTER 98; REPEALING
OBSOLETE AND CONFLICTING ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; ESTABLISHING A PENALTY; AUTHORIZING
PUBLICATION AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the North Richland Hills City Council desires to adopt the 2006
International Building Code with amendments recommended by the North
Central Texas Council of Governments and other amendments proposed
by staff in order to better provide for the safety of its residents and their
property; NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND
HILLS, TEXAS:
Section 1: THAT Sections 98-41(a), (b), and (c), 98-42(a), 98-62, 98-63, 98-92(a),
98-93 and 98-94 of the North Richland Hills Code of Ordinances be
amended to read as follows:
"Sec. 98-41. Building inspectors.
(a) In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction, the building
official shall have the authority to appoint an assistant building official, building
inspectors, and other related technical and clerical staff as may be approved.
Where the term "building official" or "Code Official" is used in this chapter, it shall
mean either the chief building official or his authorized representative.
(b) An official or employee connected with the department of building inspections
shall not be directly, or indirectly, engaged or connected with the furnishing of
labor, materials or appliances for the construction, alteration or maintenance of a
building within the City of North Richland Hills. Such officer or employee shall
not engage in any work that conflicts with the official duties or with the interests
of the department.
(c) The building official, his designee, and/or a building inspector shall be authorized
during reasonable hours to enter any building or premises in the discharge of
their official duties, or for the purpose of making any inspection or reinspection of
the structure."
"Sec. 98-42. Construction code appeals board
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(a) There is hereby created a construction code appeals board. There shall be seven
members of such board recommended by city staff and appointed by the city
council. No member shall be a city employee. Members may be removed by the
council. At least one member shall be a registered master electrician; one shall
be a state-licensed master plumber; one shall be a master mechanical
contractor; one person shall be a registered design professional with architectural
or civil/structural engineering experience and be duly licensed by the State of
Texas; and all others shall be knowledgeable of construction methods and
materials with at least ten (10) years of building construction experience. Each
appointee shall serve for atwo-year term, but may be reappointed. Four
members shall have terms expiring June 30 of odd-numbered years, and three
shall have terms expiring June 30 of even-numbered years. Four members shall
constitute a quorum. The board shall select a chair from its members to preside
at meetings, and may adopt rules of conduct of meetings. The building official
and fire marshal shall be ex officio members without vote."
"Sec. 98-62. Failure to obtain a permit.
When work requiring a permit is found to be in progress or completed and no permit has
been issued for such work, the required permit fee shall be doubled and shall be
charged to the contractor or homeowner doing all or part of the work. Continued failure
to obtain a permit after having been duly notified is considered a violation of this
ordinance.
Sec. 98-63. Fees.
Every applicant for a building permit shall submit a written application to the building
official and pay a permit fee prior to receiving said permit. The permit fee shall be
determined according to the fee schedules contained in appendix A.
(1) The permit fee for construction or reconstruction of single-family
residential dwellings, multifamily residential dwellings and nonresidential
structures shall be calculated by applying the fee schedule contained in
appendix A to the estimated construction cost of the structure.
Note: Tables with fee amounts are found in appendix A. The director of
finance shall review all fees annually and adjust fees by the increase in
the DFW Consumer Price Index for the preceding 12 months as
established by the U.S. Department of Commerce.
(2) Every applicant for a sign permit shall pay the applicable fee as
established in Table 3 in appendix A. In the event that the applicant does
not return to obtain the applied for permit, all future permit requests may
be held until either the permit is obtained or a 65 percent plan review fee
is paid.
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(3) Every commercial building permit applicant shall pay a nonrefundable plan
review fee which shall be 65 percent of the building permit fee. This fee is
due prior to issuance of the permit.
(4) The permit fee for miscellaneous type construction shall be calculated
according to the fee schedule contained in Table 3 in appendix A.
(5) The permit fee for swimming pools and hot tub/spas shall be as indicated
in Table 3 in appendix A.
(6) The minimum estimated cost for commercial tenant finish out or remodel
shall be calculated as established in appendix A per square foot of
occupied or controlled area.
(7) The minimum estimated cost for automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be
calculated at an amount established in appendix A per square foot of
protected area."
"Sec. 98-92. Building permit fees.
(a) All classes of construction (new, addition, remodel, alteration, etc.) shall pay a
building permit fee that is assessed based on the valuation of the project. The fee
shall be based on "Table 1--Building Permit Fees." in appendix A. The building
valuation may be established using the most recent "Building Valuation Data" as
published in the Building Safety Journal, published by the International Code
Council or may be established as submitted by the permit applicant, which ever
is greater. The valuation of construction shall include the fair market value of the
work described on the application and shall include architectural, structural,
electrical, plumbing and mechanical work. Except as specifically referenced in
"Table 2--Miscellaneous Permit Fees" in appendix A, the building permit fee shall
be based on valuation."
"Sec. 98-93 Permit Expiration.
Every permit issued by the building official under the provisions of this code shall expire
by limitation and become null and void if the building or work authorized by such permit
is not commenced within 90 days from the date of such permit, or if the building or work
authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned at any time after the work is
commenced for a period of 90 days. Before such work can be recommenced, a new
permit shall be first obtained to do so, and the fee therefore shall be one half the
amount required for a new permit for such work, provided no changes have been made
or will be made in the original plans and specifications for such work, and provided
further that such suspension or abandonment has not exceeded one year. In order to
renew action on a permit after expiration, the permittee shall pay a new full permit fee.
The requirements of this section may be appealed to the Building Official.
Sec. 98-94 Fee Refunds
(a) The building official may authorize refunding of any fee paid hereunder
which was erroneously paid or collected.
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(b) The building official may authorize refunding of not more than 80 percent
of the permit fee paid when no work has been done under a permit issued
in accordance with this code.
(c) The building official may authorize refunding of not more than 80 percent
of the plan review fee paid when an application for a permit for which a
plan review fee has been paid is withdrawn or canceled before any plan
reviewing is done.
The building official shall not authorize refunding of any fee paid except on written
request filed by the original permittee not later than 180 days after the date of fee
payment."
Section 2: THAT Section 98-143 of the North Richland Hills Code of Ordinances be
amended to read as follows:
"Sec. 98-143 2006 International Building Code Adopted.
The International Building Code, 2006 Edition, together with Appendix I of such Code,
as adopted by the International Code Council, Inc., in cooperation with the International
Conference of Building Officials, a copy of which is on file in the office of the City
Secretary, as herein amended, is hereby adopted by reference and designated as the
Building Code of the City of North Richland Hills, the same as though such Code,
Appendix and amendments were copied at length herein."
Section 3: THAT Section 98-144 of the North Richland Hilts Code of Ordinances be
amended to read as follows:
"Sec. 98-144 Amendments to the 2006 International Building Code
***Section 101.1, change to read as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Building Code of the City of North
Richland Hills, hereinafter referred to as "this code."
***Section 101.2, change exception to 101.2 to read as follows:
Exception: Detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings
that are constructed on individual parcels (townhouses) not more than three stories
above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory
structures shall comply with the International Residential Code.
**Section 101.4; change to read as follows:
101.4 Referenced codes. The other codes listed in Sections 101.4.1 through 101.4.7
and referenced elsewhere in this code, when specifically adopted, shall be considered
part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extend of each such reference.
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Whenever amendments have been adopted to the referenced codes and standards,
each reference to said code and standard shall be considered to reference the
amendments as well. Any reference to NFPA 70 or the ICC Electrical Code shall mean
the Electrical Code as adopted.
**Section 101.4.1; change to read as follows:
101.4.1 Electrical. The provisions of NFPA 70 (the National Electrical Code), shall
apply to the installation of electrical systems, including alterations, repairs, replacement,
equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances thereto. Any references
herein to the ICC International Electrical Code shall refer to NFPA 70 National Electrical
Code.
**Section 101.4.5; Delete
**Section 102.6; change to read as follows:
102.6 Existing Structures. The legal occupancy of any structure existing on the date
of adoption of the code shall be permitted to continue without change, except as is
specifically covered in this code, the city's substandard building regulations, or the
International Fire Code, or as is deemed necessary by the building official for the
general safety and welfare of the occupants and the public.
**Section 103.3; change last sentence to read as follows:
For the maintenance of existing properties, see Article X of Chapter 98 of the North
Richland Hills Code of Ordinances.
**Section 105.2; modify items #1, 2, 4, 6, 10 and add items #14 & 15: change to
read to read as follows:
Provided they meet all other
detached accessory structures
similar uses, are exempt from
exceed 200 square feet.
local, state and federal
used as tool and storage
building permits provided
2. Replacement of up to four eight-foot sections of fence.
requirements, one-story
sheds, playhouses and
the floor area does not
4. Retaining walls which are not over 3 feet in height measured from the bottom of
the footing to the top of the
class I, II or III-A liquids.
considered one wall if, upon
lower wall at a 45-degree
intersects the higher wall o
Retaining walls 3 feet or tal
practice in the State of Texas
wall, unless supporting a surcharge or impounding
(Retaining walls placed in succession shall be
drawing a line from the bottom of the footing of the
angle up and towards the higher wall. The line
r any material retained by the wall at any point.)
ler must be designed by an engineer licensed to
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6. Sidewalks and other flatwork less than 200 SF in area not located within the
public right-of-way or more than 30 inches (762 mm) above grade, and not over
any basement or story below, and are not part of an accessible route or intended
for public use.
10. (Deleted}
14. Roof repairs on group R, division 3 and their accessory structures. For the
purpose of this section, roof repairs shall include the repair and replacement of
the material above, but not including, the decking material, lathing boards or
sheathing boards. The building official may revoke this exception during periods
of federal or state disaster relief efforts; in which case a building permit and
contractor registration is required prior to commencement of roofing
repair/replacement activities.
15. Freestanding satellite dishes not exceeding one meter in diameter that do not
exceed 12 feet in height.
Exemption from the permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant
authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this
code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction.
**Section 105.7; change to read as follows:
105.7 Placement of permit. The building permit or copy shall be kept on the site of the
work until the completion of the project. A permit card which has been issued by the
department of building inspection shall also be kept on the site in a prominent location
and remain visible to the building official and/or his designee until the completion of the
project.
**Section 106.4.1; add section to read as follows:
106.4.1 Final as-built grading surveys. A final "as-built" grading & drainage survey
must be provided to the building inspector prior to final inspection approval on all new
construction (commercial and residential), swimming pools, and other features which
may affect the City's engineered drainage designs. The grading and drainage survey
must be prepared by a licensed surveyor and must include site elevations, finish-floor
elevations, site features (i.e. trees, sod, A/C units, accessory buildings, etc.), drainage
arrows, building foot print(s) and fence locations. The survey must also include a
written statement by a licensed surveyor certifying that the final grading of the individual
site conforms to the engineered drainage and grading plans approved by the Public
Works Department for the particular lot/subdivision. The Building Inspection
Department will not issue an approval of the feature/lot/subdivision until this survey and
corresponding certification have been received and approved by the Building Official or
his designee.
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**Section 109.3; change section to read as follows:
109.3 Required Inspections. The building official, upon notification, shall make the
inspections set forth in the following sections.
109.3.1 Footing and foundation inspection. To be made after excavations for
footings are complete and any required reinforcing steel is in place. For concrete
foundations, any required forms shall be in place prior to inspection. All materials for the
foundation shall be on the job, except where concrete is ready mixed in accordance with
approved nationally recognized standards, the concrete need not be on the job. Where
the foundation is to be constructed of approved treated wood, additional inspections
may be required by the building official.
109.3.2 Concrete slab or under-floor inspection. To be made after all in-slab or
under-floor building service equipment, conduit, piping accessories and other ancillary
equipment items are in place, but before any concrete is placed or floor sheathing
installed, including the subfloor.
109.3.3 Lowest floor elevation. In flood hazard areas, upon placement of the lowest
floor, including the basement, and prior to further vertical construction, the elevation
certification, when required, shall be submitted to the building official.
109.3.4 Frame inspection. To be made after the roof, all framing, fire blocking and
bracing are in place and all pipes, chimneys and vents are complete and the rough
electrical, plumbing, and heating wires, pipes and ducts are approved.
109.3.5 Steel and structural framework. Reinforcing steel or structural framework of
any part of any building or structure, including those items of Section 109.3.1 and
109.3.2, shall not be covered or concealed without first obtaining the approval of the
building official.
109.3.6 Fire-resistive penetrations. Protection of joints and penetrations in fire-
resistance-rated-assemblies shall not be concealed from view until inspected and
approved
109.3.7 Energy efficiency inspections. Inspections shall be made to determine
compliance with the Energy Code and shall include, but not be limited to, inspections
for: envelope insulation R and U values, fenestration U value, duct system R value, and
HVAC and water-heating equipment efficiency.
109.3.8 Other inspections. In addition to the inspections specified above, the building
official may make or require other inspections of any construction work to ascertain
compliance with the provisions of this code and other laws which are enforced by the
department of building safety.
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109.3.9 Special Inspections. For special inspections, see Section 1704
109.3.10 Final inspection. To be made after finish grading and after wall work required
by the building permit is completed. The Final Inspection shall take place when the
building is completed and ready for occupancy.
109.3.11 Storm Water Pollution Inspection. During the course of construction, every
inspection mentioned in section 109.3.1 through 109.3.10 shall also include a storm
water pollution control inspection in accordance with section 1803.3.1. Construction
sites failing to provide and/or maintain adequate storm water pollution controls may be
disapproved regardless of the condition of the primary inspection.
**Section 109.4; change section to read as follows:
109.4 Inspection Agencies. At the discretion of the building official, reports from
approved inspection agencies may be accepted with prior written approval. If approved
by the building official, inspection agencies must satisfy the requirements as to
qualifications and reliability.
**Section 109.6.1; add section to read as follows:
109.6.1 Covered or concealed work. Any work covered or concealed without
inspection shall be considered to constitute an unsafe structure and subject to the
corrective provisions of Section 115. Such consideration as an unsafe structure shall
exist every day until the work is inspected and approved as being in compliance with
this code. Inspections will not be performed until a valid active permit is obtained in
accordance with this code.
**Section 110; change entire section to read as follows:
110.1 Use and occupancy. Except for one and two family dwellings and their
accessory buildings, no building or structure within the city shall be used; subjected to
change in occupancy classification, use or character of use; occupied or reoccupied
unless the building official has issued a certificate of occupancy. In the event that any
building or structure is leased or subleased in separate lease-units, each lease-unit
must have a certificate of occupancy issued to such separate lease-unit. The certificate
of occupancy shall be posted in a conspicuous place on the premises and shall remain
visible at all times the building is occupied. No utility service shall be supplied to any
building or separate lease unit until the building official has notified the supplier in
writing after review, inspection, and approving the certificate of occupancy applicant.
Exception: The building official may release utility services for a temporary period of
time upon written request by the applicant for the purposes of cleaning and showing
prospective rental properties.
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110.1.1 Responsible party. Any person, firm or corporation who violates any portion of
this section by using or occupying a building or structure without obtaining a certificate
of occupancy shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and fined in accordance with this code
and the city Code of the City of North Richland Hills, Texas. Both the tenant and the
landlord shall be deemed guilty of violation in the event of use or occupancy of leased
premises without a certificate of occupancy.
110.1.2 Authority to remove utilities. In order to further compel compliance with this
section, the building official may order that no utility, including water and/or electrical, be
provided to the building, or portion thereof, which is occupied or used without a
certificate of occupancy. In the event that a leased portion of any building is in violation
of the ordinance, the utility provided to the entire building may be discontinued upon
order of the building official until the violation is abated. However, in the event that the
portion of the lease portion of the building which is in violation of the ordinance is
separately metered for water, then the building official's order to stop utilities shall apply
only to that meter which controls the services provided to the portion of the building in
violation of this section. The utility department shall give full force and effect to the order
of the building official.
**Section 110.3; Amend section 110.4 to read as follows:
110.3 Temporary occupancy. The building official is authorized to issue a temporary
certificate of occupancy before the completion of the entire work covered by the permit,
provided that such portion or portions shall be occupied safely and all sanitary and life-
safety requirements are installed and completed. The building official shall set a time
period not to exceed 60 days in which the temporary certificate of occupancy is valid.
The fire marshal or his designee shall also approve all temporary occupancies.
Exception: Group R, Division 3 and their associated accessory Group U Occupancies.
**Section 110.4; Amend section 110.4 to read as follows:
110.4 Revocation. The building official is authorized to, in writing, suspend or revoke a
certificate of occupancy or completion issued under the provisions of this code wherever
the certificate is issued in error, or on the basis of incorrect information supplied, or
where it is determined that the building or structure or portion thereof is in violation of
any ordinance, regulation, or law, or any provisions of the building codes adopted by the
City of North Richland Hills. The building official is also authorized to, in writing,
suspend or revoke a certificate of occupancy when it is determined that a building is
used or occupied for activities that are not in compliance with Chapter118 of the City
Code of Ordinances or used to house activities that are in violation of other local, state,
and/or federal laws.
**Section 113; Modify sections 113.1, 113.2, and 113.3 to read as follows:
SECTION 113 -VIOLATIONS
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113.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to erect,
construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, remove, convert or demolish, equip, use, occupy
or maintain any building, structure or equipment or cause or permit the same to be done
in violation of this code.
113.1.1 Unsafe buildings. Failure to correct an unsafe building as provided for in
Sections 109.6.1 or 115, shall constitute a violation of this code.
113.1.2 Occupancy violations. Whenever any site, building, structure or equipment
therein regulated by this code or any other code is being used contrary to the provisions
of this code or any other code, the building official may order such use discontinued and
the structure, or portion thereof, vacated by notice served on any person causing such
use to be continued. Such person shall discontinue the use within the time prescribed
by the building official after receipt of such notice to make the site, building, structure, or
portion thereof, or equipment comply with the requirements of this code.
113.1.3 Failure to comply with notice. Failure to comply with a notice shall be
considered a violation of this code.
113.2 Notice of violation. The building official is authorized to serve a notice of
violation or order on the person responsible for the erection, construction, alteration,
extension, repair, moving, removal, demolition or occupancy of a building or structure in
violation of the provisions of this code, or in violation of a permit or certificate issued
under the provisions of this code. Such order shall direct the discontinuance of the
illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation. Citations for violations of
this code may be issued without requiring the issuance of a notice. When a notice is
issued, it is not necessary to reissue a notice prior to issuance of any further citations
for the same violation.
113.3 Prosecution of violation. A notice of violation issued or served as provided by
this code shall be complied with by the owner, operator, occupant or other person
responsible for the condition or violation to which the notice of violation pertains.
If the notice of violation is not complied with promptly, the building official is authorized
to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate legal
proceedings at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation or to require
removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the structure in violation of the
provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant hereto.
**Section 115; Replace entire section to read as follows:
SECTION 115 -UNSAFE BUILDINGS, STRUCTURES OR EQUIPMENT
115.1 Unsafe buildings. All buildings, structures or equipment regulated by this code
that are structurally unsafe or not provided with adequate egress, or that constitute a fire
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hazard, or are otherwise dangerous to human life are, for the purpose of this section,
unsafe. Any use of buildings or structures constituting a hazard to safety, health or
public welfare by reason of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, obsolescence, fire
hazard, disaster, damage or abandonment is, for the purpose of this section, an unsafe
use. Parapet walls, cornices, spires, towers, tanks, statuary and other appendages or
structural members that are supported by, attached to, or a part of a building and that
are in deteriorated condition or otherwise unable to sustain the design loads that are
specified in this code are hereby designated as unsafe building appendages.
All such unsafe buildings, structures or appendages are hereby declared to be public
nuisances and shall be abated by repair, rehabilitation, demolition or removal in
accordance with the procedures set forth in this code or such alternate procedures as
may have been or as may be adopted by this jurisdiction. As an alternative, the building
official, or other employee or official of this jurisdiction as designated by the governing
body, may institute any other appropriate action to prevent, restrain, correct or abate the
violation. This may include ordering the disconnection of water and/or electrical utilities.
A vacant structure that is not secured against entry shall be deemed unsafe. Materials
used to secure a structure, which deteriorate or increase in susceptibility to fire hazard
over time, shall be replaced or treated to eliminate the increase of the hazard.
Any work covered or concealed without inspection shall be considered to constitute an
unsafe structure. Such consideration as an unsafe structure shall exist every day until
the work is inspected and approved as being in compliance with this code. Inspections
will not be performed until a valid active permit is obtained in accordance with this code.
115.2 Dangerous Demolition. The Building Official may order the cessation of the
wrecking or demolition of any building or structure within the City when the same is
being accomplished in a reckless or careless manner or in such a manner so as to
endanger life and property. When such work has been ordered stopped by the Building
Official, same shall not be resumed until said official is satisfied that adequate
precautions have been or will be taken for protection for life and property. To continue
such work without the expressed approval of the Building Official shall constitute a
violation of this ordinance, and each day that such work continues shall constitute a
separate offense.
**Section 202; add/replace definitions as follows:
AMBULATORY HEALTH CARE FACILITY. A health care facility that provides
outpatient services to more than five (5) patients that may be temporarily rendered
incapable of self-preservation under an emergency condition with no overnight stays.
This includes, but is not limited to, out-patient surgery centers, dental clinics providing
sedation treatments, dialysis centers, plastic surgery centers and similar occupancies
as determined by the Building Official, that use anesthesia, gas, drugs, or other medical
treatments which may render patients temporarily incapable of taking action for self-
preservation without the assistance of others.
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ATTIC. The space between the ceiling beams of the top story and the roof rafters. The
installation of decking, other than the minimum decking required for equipment access
and maintenance, shall be considered another floor.
HIGH-RISE BUILDING. A building having any floor used for human occupancy located
more than 55 feet (16,764 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle
access.
CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY. A change in the purpose or level of activity within a
building that involves a change in application of the requirements of this code. The
definition shall also apply to usage of the surrounding site and access to and from the
building, structure or site, as necessary to achieve the purpose of this code, and to
obtain compliance with other codes and ordinances of this jurisdiction.
CODE OFFICIAL. Where ever the term code official is used in this code it shall mean
the Building Official.
ELECTRICAL CODE. Electrical Code shall mean NFPA 70, the National Electrical
Code, as adopted by this jurisdiction. For the purpose of this code, all references to
NFPA 70 and/or the ICC Electrical Code shall be assumed to mean the Electrical Code
as defined herein.
ENERGY CODE. Energy Code shall mean the International Energy Code as adopted
by this jurisdiction.
FIRE PREVENTION CODE (FIRE CODE). Fire Prevention Code, or Fire Code, shall
mean the International Fire Code as adopted by this jurisdiction.
FUEL GAS CODE. Fuel Gas code shall mean the International Fuel Gas Code as
adopted by this jurisdiction.
HIGH-RISE BUILDING. A building having any floor used for human occupancy located
more than 55 feet (16 764 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle
access.
MECHANICAL CODE. Mechanical Code shall mean the International Mechanical
Code as adopted by this jurisdiction.
OCCUPIABLE SPACE. A room or enclosed space designed for human occupancy in
which individuals congregate for amusement, educational or similar purposes or in
which occupants are engaged at labor, and which is equipped with means of egress
and light and ventilation facilities meeting the requirements of this code. Any space that
could be assumed to be occupiable shall not be exempt to the requirements of this code
by designing the space without means of egress, light or ventilation.
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PLUMBING CODE. Plumbing Code shall mean the International Plumbing Code in
conjunction with the International Fuel Gas Code as adopted by this jurisdiction.
RESIDENTIAL CODE. Residential Code shall mean the International Residential Code
as adopted by this jurisdiction.
***Section 303.1; change to read as follows:
303.1 Assembly Group A. {1st sentence to remain unchanged}. Assembly areas
which are accessory to Group E occupancies are not required to be separated per
Table 508.3.3; however, are considered Group E occupancies only for the application of
Table 503. {remainder of section to remain unchanged)
**'Section 304.1; add or modify the following to the list of occupancies:
Clinic-outpatient treatment that does not render an occupant(s) unconscious or
incapable of self-preservation (refer to sec. 419)
Fire stations without sleeping areas (fire stations with sleeping areas shall be
considered a B/R-2 mixed occupancy)
Police stations with detention facilities for 5 or less
Professional services (architects, attorneys, engineers, etc., including dentists and
physicians offices that do not conduct activities which may render an occupant(s)
unconscious or incapable of self-preservation. Refer to sec. 419)
**Section 306.2; modify wording follow listing for "Beverages" to read as follows:
Beverages (includes alcoholic beverages)
Section 306.3; delete reference to beverage occupancy
**Section 307.1, item #9 and 11; changed to read as follows:
9. Refrigeration systems where the chemicals involved are in the piping, connected
tanks, or overflow tanks directly connected as part of the operational system.
Extra storage tanks, not directly connected as part of the operational system, are
not considered part of the refrigeration system.
11. Stationary batteries utilized for facility emergency power, uninterrupted power
supply or telecommunication facilities provided that the batteries are provided
with safety venting caps and ventilation is provided in accordance with the
International Mechanical Code and are separated as required by Table 508.2.
** Section 308.2; add a new use under I-1 as follows:
State of Texas, Type A Assisted Living
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~* Section 308.3; change to read as follows and add two (2) new uses under I-2 as
follows:
This occupancy shall include buildings and structures used for medical, surgical,
psychiatric, nursing or custodial care for more than five persons who are not capable of
self-preservation. This group shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
State of Texas, Type B Assisted Living
State of Texas, Special Care Facility
(remainder of section to remain unchanged)
**Section 310.1, Group R-2; amend last paragraph to read as follows:
Congregate living facilities with 16 or fewer occupants are permitted to comply with the
construction requirements for group R-3.
**Section 310.1, Group R-3; amend section to read as follows:
Residential occupancies where the occupants are primarily permanent in nature and not
classified as Group R-1, R-2, R-4 or I, including:
Buildings that do not contain more than two dwelling units.
Adult facilities that provide accommodations for five or fewer persons of any age for less
than 24 hours.
Child care facilities that provide accommodations for five or fewer persons of any age
for less than 24 hours
Congregate living facilities with five or fewer persons.
This use shall also include townhouses where single-family dwelling units are
constructed in a group of three or more attached units in which each unit is located on
an individual lot, extends from foundation to roof, and has open space on at least two
sides.
Adult and child care facilities that are within asingle-family home are permitted to
comply with the International Residential Code.
** Section 403.1; changed to read as follows:
403.1 Applicability. The provisions of this section shall apply to buildings having any
occupied floors located more than 55 feet (16,764 mm) above the lowest level of fire
department vehicle access.
** Section 403.1, exception #3: changed to read as follows:
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 14 of 37
3. Buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5
when used for open air seating; however
accessory uses including but not limited
storage rooms, and similarly enclosed areas.
**Section 403.2, exception #2; delete.
in accordance with Section 303.1,
this exception does not apply tc
to sky boxes, restaurants, stores,
*'~*Section 404.1.1; change definition of "Atrium" as follows:
ATRIUM. An opening connecting three or more stories {Balance remains
unchanged}
***Section 406.1.4; add item #4 to read as follows:
4. A separation is not required between a Group R-2 and U carport provided that
the carport is entirely open on all sides and that the distance between the two is
at least 10 feet (3048 mm).
**'Section 406.6.1; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
This occupancy shall include garages involved in servicing of motor vehicles for items
such as tube changes, inspections, windshield repair or replacement, shocks, minor part
replacement and other such non-major repair.
**Section 421; add new sec. 421 to read as follows:
Section 421 Ambulatory Health Care Occupancies
421.1 Ambulatory Health Care. The requirements of this section shall apply to health
care facilities that do not provide overnight stays that are not otherwise a part of an I-2
Occupancy and provide outpatient services or treatment to more than five (5) patients
that may be temporarily rendered incapable of self-preservation under an emergency
condition. This includes, but is not limited to, out-patient surgery centers, dental clinics
providing sedation treatments, dialysis centers, plastic surgery centers and similar
occupancies, that use anesthesia, gas, drugs, or other medical treatments which may
render patients temporarily incapable of taking action for self-preservation without the
assistance of others. Ambulatory health care occupancies meeting the requirements of
this section may be classified as a B Occupancy.
421.2 Multiple Occupancies. Ambulatory health care facilities which are not a part of
an I-2 Occupancy shall be separated from adjacent occupancies or tenants by
construction having a fire resistance rating of not less than 1 hour and constructed in
accordance with sec 706.5.
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 15 of 37
421.3 Fire Protection. Ambulatory health care facilities shall be protected by an
automatic sprinkler system per Section 903.3.1.1. Only the ambulatory health care
occupancy need be sprinkled when located within mufti-tenant buildings not otherwise
required to be sprinkled by other sections of this code.
421.4 Fire Detection and Alarm Systems. Fire detection and alarm systems shall
meet the requirements of Section 907.2.6.
421.5 Means of Egress. Except as stated below, the means of egress in ambulatory
health care occupancies shalt be in accordance with Chapter 10 for I-2 Occupancies.
421.5.1 Corridor Width. Corridors within ambulatory health care facilities shall meet
the same requirements as found in Section 1016. Corridors in areas requiring bed
movement shall be seventy-two inches wide.
421.5.2 Corridor Construction. Corridors within ambulatory health care centers shall
meet the provisions of Section 407.3.
Exception: Ambulatory health care centers with an occupant load of 10 or less
421.6 Electrical, Plumbing and Mechanical Systems. Electrical, plumbing and
mechanical systems within ambulatory health care centers shall meet the respective
requirements of an I-2 occupancy.
'~**Section 503.1; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
An occupancy, including those on occupied roofs, shall not be located above the story
or height set forth in Table 503 except as modified hereafter. For non-separated mixed
uses, in accordance with Section 302.3.1, no occupancy shalt be located above the
story or height of the most restrictive non-separated occupancy.
**Section 503.1.4 and 503.1.5; added to read as follows:
503.1.4 Yards. When yards are provided for determination of Exterior Wall rating,
Exterior Opening Protection or increase in allowable area calculations, under this code
or any previous code, they shall be maintained clear and unobstructed in accordance
with their original approval, unless permitted to be removed or reduced by this code.
503.1.5 Fire protection systems. Any existing fire extinguishing system or fire alarm
system, whether installed voluntarily or as a requirement of any previous code, shall be
maintained and kept operational as required in the Fire Code. Such systems shall not
be removed unless permitted to be removed or reduced by this code and the Fire Code.
**Section 506.2.2; add a sentence to read as follows:
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 16 of 37
In order to be considered as accessible, if not in direct contact with a street or fire lane,
a minimum 10-foot wide pathway from the street or approved fire lane must be
provided. (See International Fire Code for hose lay measurement pathway
requirements.)
**Section 507.2; delete
~`**Section 508.3; add exception #3 to read as follows:
3. Unless a fire wall is required to separate different construction types, Assembly
uses accessory to Group E do not require the separation of Section 508.3.3.
However, for the purpose of calculating height, area, construction type and ratios
may be considered as separated uses. This non-separation benefit shall not
apply when determining the fire area separations of Chapter 9.
**Section 508.3.2; add additional paragraph to read as follows:
When using this option the most restrictive requirement of all the non-separated
occupancy types shall apply:
i. The occupancy with the most restrictive height, area and permitted
increases shall apply to all occupancies.
ii. When fire protection systems are required by the most restrictive
occupancy, it shall apply to all occupancies.
iii. The occupancy with the most restrictive exit provisions shall apply to all
occupancies.
iv. The occupancy with the most restrictive construction type, fire wall rating,
fire barrier rating, fire partition rating, etc. shall apply to all occupancies.
v. Most restrictive is applicable on an item by item basis. One (1) occupancy
may be most restrictive for sprinklers, while another occupancy is most
restrictive for area and height, while another occupancy is most restrictive
for exits.
**Table 601; Amend footnote "c" as follows:
c. Except in Group F-1, H, M, and S-1 occupancies, fire protection of structural roof
members, including roof framing and decking, shall not be required where every
part of the roof construction is 20 feet or move above any floor immediately
below. Fire-retardant treated wood members shall be allowed to be used for
such unprotected members.
***Table 602; replace footnote b with the following:
b. Group R-3 and Group U when used as accessory to Group R-3, as applicable in
101.2 shall meet the requirements of the International Residential Code. Group
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 17 of 37
R-2 and Group U carport, as applicable in 406.1.4, exception 4 shall be required
to have afire-resistance rating where fire separation distance is 10 feet or less.
**Section 603.1; add an item 1.4 to read as follows:
1.4. Double stud framing may be used to strengthen metal stud door framing.
*`Section 704.2; change items 1 and 2 to read as follows:
704.2 Projections. (main paragraph to remain unchanged}
A point one-third (1/3) the distance to the property line from an assumed vertical
plane located where unprotected openings are permitted to be twenty-five (25)
percent or more in accordance with Section 704.8.
2. More than twelve (12) inches (305 mm) into areas where unprotected openings
are prohibited.
**Section 704.2.3; changed to read as follows:
704.2.3 Combustible projections. Combustible projections located where unprotected
openings are not permitted or where protected openings are required to be less than
twenty-five (25) percent in accordance with Section 704.8 shall be of at least one-hour
fire-resistive-rated construction, Type IV construction, fire-retardant treated wood, or as
required by Section 1406.3.
Exception: Type V construction shall be allowed for R-3 occupancies.
**Section 704.5 Replace text with the following:
704.5 Fire-resistance ratings. Exterior walls shall be fire-resistance rated in
accordance with Tables 601 and 602. Fire-resistance ratings of all walls required to be
fire rated per Table 601 and/or Table 602 shall be rated for exposure to fire from both
sides.
** 704.8.2; modify section as follows:
704.8.2 First Story. {Modify first sentence to read} In occupancies other than Group
H, unlimited unprotected openings are permitted in the exterior walls of the first story
above grade facing a street that have a fire separation distance of no less than 30 feet
or facing an unoccupied space. {remainder unchanged}.
**Section 705.1; add second paragraph to read as follows:
Fire Walls shall be installed at the time of new construction, shall not wait for tenant
layout locations, and shall be structurally independent as specified below
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 18 of 37
**Section 705.11; change the exception to read as follows:
Exception: For other than hazardous exhaust ducts, penetrations by ducts and air
transfer openings of ... {remainder of exception unchanged}.
**Section 707.14.1; modify exception #4 to read as follows:
4. In other than Group I-3, and buildings having occupied floors located more than
55 feet above the lowest level of fire department access {remainder of exception
unchanged}
**Section 716.5.2; add exception #4 to read as follows:
4. In the duct penetration of the separation between the private garage and its
residence when constructed in accordance with Section 406.1.4, exception #2.
**Section 716.5.3.1; modify exception #2.1 to read as follows:
2.1 Bathroom and toilet room exhaust openings are installed with steel exhaust
subducts, having a wall thickness of at least 0.019 inch (0.48 mm); and
***Section 901.6.1.1 Standpipe Testing; add section to read as follows:
901.6.1.1 Standpipe Testing. Building owners/managers must utilize a licensed fire
protection contractor to test and certify standpipe systems. In addition to the testing and
maintenance requirements of NFPA 25 applying to standpipe systems, the following
additional requirements shall be applied to the testing that is required every 5 years:
1. The piping between the Fire Department Connection (FDC) and the standpipe
shall be hydrostatically tested for all FDC's on any type of standpipe system.
Hydrostatic testing shall also be conducted in accordance with NFPA 25
requirements for the different types of standpipe systems.
2. For any manual (dry or wet) standpipe system not having an automatic water
supply capable of flowing water through the standpipe, the contractor shall connect
hose from a fire hydrant or portable pumping system (as approved by the fire code
official) to each FDC, and flow water through the standpipe system to the roof
outlet to verify that each inlet connection functions properly. There is no required
pressure criteria at the outlet. Verify that check valves function properly and that
there are no closed control valves on the system.
3. Any pressure relief, reducing, or control valves shall be tested in accordance with
the requirements of NFPA 25.
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 19 of 37
4. If the FDC is not already provided with approved caps, the contractor shall install
such caps for all FDC's. Contact the Fire Marshal for additional information.
5. Upon successful completion of standpipe test, the contractor shall place a blue tag
(as per "Texas Administrative Code, Title 28. Insurance, Part I. Texas
Department of Insurance, Chapter 34. State Fire Marshal, Subchapter G. Fire
Sprinkler Rules, 28 TAC § 34.720. Inspection, Test and Maintenance Service
(ITM) Tag") at the bottom of each standpipe riser in the building. An example of
this tag is located at the end of this SOP. The tag shall be check-marked as "Fifth
Year" for Type of ITM, and the note on the back of the tag shall read "5 Year
Standpipe Test" at a minimum.
6. The contractor shall follow the procedures as required by "Texas Administrative
Code, Title 28. Insurance, Part I. Texas Department of Insurance, Chapter 34.
State Fire Marshal, Subchapter G. Fire Sprinkler Rules, 28 TAC" with regard to
Yellow Tags and Red Tags or any deficiencies noted during the testing, including
the required notification of the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (Fire Marshal).
7. Additionally, records of the testing shall be maintained by the owner and
contractor, as required by the State Rules mentioned above and NFPA 25.
8. Standpipe system tests where water will be flowed external to the building shall not
be conducted during freezing conditions or during the day prior to expected night
time freezing conditions.
9. Contact the Fire Marshal for requests to remove existing fire hose from Class II
and III standpipe systems where employees are not trained in the utilization of this
fire fighting equipment. All standpipe hose valves must remain in place and be
provided with an approved cap and chain when approval is given to remove hose
by the fire code official.
(Reason: Increases the reliability of the fire protection system and re-emphasizes
the requirements of NFPA 25.)
** Section 903.1.2; change to read as follows:
903.1.2 Residential systems. Unless specifically allowed by this code, residential
sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13D or NFPA 13R shall not be
recognized for the purposes of exceptions or reductions, commonly referred to as
"trade-offs," permitted by other requirements of this code.
In addition, residential sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13R must
include attic sprinkler protection.
*"`Section 903.2; delete the exception.
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 20 of 37
*'~ Section 903.2.7; changed to read as follows:
903.2.7 Group R. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section
903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R-1, R-2 and R-4 fire area
as specified in Sections 903.2.7.1, 903.2.7.2.
903.2.7.1 Group R-1 and R-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided
throughout buildings with a Group R-1 or R-2 fire area.
Exceptions:
1. Where no portion of the R-1 Occupancy is located higher than the first story, or in
abasement, and contains less than twenty (20) guest rooms.
2. Where no portion of the R-2 Occupancy is located higher than the first story, or in
a basement, and contains less than eight (8) dwelling units.
3. Where no portion of the R-2 Occupancy is located higher than the 2nd story, or in
a basement, and contains four or less dwelling units.
4. Where the R-2 Occupancy is used as a convent, dormitory or monastery and
contains less than twenty (20) occupants.
5. Where the R-2 Occupancy is used as a fraternity or sorority and has an occupant
load of ten (10) or less.
A residential sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 (NFPA
13R) may be permitted in buildings, or portions thereof, of Group R-1 and R-2 in
accordance with the limitations of Section 903.1.2.
*~ Section 903.2.7.2; changed to read as follows:
903.2.7.2 Group R-4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all
buildings with a Group R-4 fire area with five (5) or more occupants.
Exception: An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.2 or Section 903.3.1.3 shall be allowed in Group R-4 facilities in accordance
with the limitations of Section 903.1.2.
**Section 903.2.8.1; change section to read as follows:
903.2.8.1 Repair Garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout
all buildings used as repair garages in accordance with Section 406, as shown:
1. Buildings, including basements, containing a repair garage with a fire area
exceeding 5,000 square feet.
2. Buildings with a repair garage servicing vehicles parked in the basement.
**Section 903.2.8.3; change to read as follows:
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 21 of 37
903.2.8.3. Self-service storage facility. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
installed throughout all self-service storage facilities.
Exception: One-story self-service storage facilities that have no interior corridors, with a
one-hour fire barrier wall installed between every storage compartment.
**Replace section 903.2.10 to read as follows:
[F] 903.2.10 All occupancies except groups R-3 and U. An automatic sprinkler system
shall be installed in the locations set forth in Sections 903.2.10.1 through 903.2.10.1.3
**Section 903.2.10; amend 903.2.10.3 and add 903.2.10.4 and 903.2.10.5 as
follows:
903.2.10.3 Buildings more than 35 feet in height. An automatic sprinkler system
shall be installed throughout buildings with a floor level, other than penthouses in
compliance with Section 1509 of the International Building Code, that is located 35 feet
(10,668 mm) or more above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
Exception:
Open parking structures in compliance with Section 406.3.
903.2.10.4 High-Piled Combustible Storage. For any building with a clear height
exceeding 12 feet (4572 mm), see Chapter 23 to determine if those provisions apply.
903.2.10.5 Spray Booths and Rooms. New and existing spray booths and spraying
rooms shall be protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system.
**Section 903.3.1.1.1; change to read as follows:
903.3.1.1.1 Exempt locations. When approved by the code official, automatic
sprinklers shall not be required in the following rooms or areas where such ... {bulk of
section unchanged} . .because it is damp, of fire-resistance-rated construction or
contains electrical equipment.
1. Any room where the application of water, or flame and water, constitutes a
serious life or fire hazard.
2. Any room or space where sprinklers are considered undesirable because of the
nature of the contents, when approved by the code official.
3. Generator and transformer rooms, under the direct control of a public utility,
separated from the remainder of the building by walls and floor/ceiling or
roof/ceiling assemblies having afire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
**Section 903.3.1.2; change to read as follows:
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 22 of 37
903.3.1.2 NFPA 13R sprinkler systems. Where allowed in buildings of group R, up to
and including four stories in height, automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed
throughout in accordance with NFPA 13R. However, for the purposes of exceptions or
reductions permitted by other requirements of this code, see section 903.1.2.
**Section 903.3.5; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
Water supply as required for such systems shall be provided in conformance with the
supply requirements of the respective standards; however, every fire protection system
shall be designed with a 10 psi safety factor.
**Add Section 903.6.2 to read as follows:
903.6 Spray booths and rooms. New and existing spray booths and spray rooms
shall be protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system in accordance
with IFC Section 1504.
**Section 905.2; change to read as follows:
905.2 Installation standards. Standpipe system shall be installed in accordance with
this section and NFPA 14. Manual dry standpipe systems shall be supervised with a
minimum of 10 psig and a maximum of 40 psig air pressure with ahigh/low alarm.
**Section 905.3.2; delete exceptions #1 and #2.
***Add Section 905.3.8: Building Area.
905.3.8: Building Area. In buildings exceeding 10,000 square feet in area per story,
Class I automatic wet or manual wet standpipes shall be provided where any portion of
the building's interior area is more than 200 feet (60960 mm) of travel, vertically and
horizontally, from the nearest point of fire department vehicle access.
Exception: Automatic dry and semi-automatic dry standpipes are allowed as provided
for in NFPA 14.
**Section 905.4, item #5; change to read as follows:
4. Where the roof has a slope less than four units vertical in 12 units horizontal
(33.3-percent slope), each standpipe shall be provided with atwo-way hose
connection located either ... (remainder of paragraph unchanged) .. .
**Section 905.9; add a second paragraph after the exceptions to read as follows:
Sprinkler and standpipe system water-flow detectors shall be provided for each floor tap
to the sprinkler system and shall cause an alarm upon detection of water flow for more
than 45 seconds. All control valves in the sprinkler and standpipe systems except for
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 23 of 37
fire department hose connection valves shall be electrically supervised to initiate a
supervisory signal at the central station upon tampering.
**Add section 907.1.3 to read as follows:
907.1.3 Design standards. All alarm systems new or replacement serving 50 or more
alarm actuating devices shall be addressable fire detection systems. Alarm systems
serving more than 75 smoke detectors or more than 200 total alarm activating devices
shall be analog intelligent addressable fire detection systems.
Exception: Existing systems need not comply unless the total building remodel or
expansion initiated after the effective date of this code, as adopted, exceeds 30 percent
of the building. When cumulative building remodel or expansion exceeds 50 percent of
the building must comply within 18 months of permit application.
**Section 907.2.1 change to read as follows:
907.2.1 Group A. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group A
occupancies having an occupant load of 300 or more persons or more than 100
persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge. Portions of Group E
occupancies occupied for assembly purposes shall be provided with a fire alarm system
as required for the Group E occupancy.
** Section 907.2.3; change to read as follows:
907.2.3 Group E. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in group E educational
occupancies. When automatic sprinkler systems or smoke detectors are installed, such
systems or detectors shall be connected to the building fire alarm system. An approved
smoke detection system shall be installed in group E day care occupancies. Unless
separated by a minimum of 100 feet open space, all buildings, whether portable
buildings or the main building, will be considered one building for alarm occupant load
consideration and interconnection of alarm systems.
~`* Section 907.2.3; change exception #1 and add exception #1.1 to read as
follows:
Group E educational and day care occupancies with an occupant load of less
than 50 when provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
1.1. Residential in-home day care with not more than 12 children may use
interconnected single station detectors in all habitable rooms. (For care of more
than five children 2 1/2 or less years of age, see section 907.2.6.)
** Section 907.2.12; change to read as follows:
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 24 of 37
907.2.12 High-rise buildings. Buildings having floors used for human occupancy
located more than 55 feet (16,764 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle
access shall be provided with an automatic fire alarm system and an emergency
voice/alarm communications system in accordance with section 907.2.12.2.
'"* Section 907.2.12, exception #3; change to read as follows:
3. Buildings with an occupancy in group A-5 when used for open air seating;
however, this exception does not apply to accessory uses including, but not
limited to, sky boxes, restaurants and similarly enclosed areas.
~` Add Section 907.6.1 to read as follows:
907.6.1 Installation. All fire alarm systems shall be installed in such a manner that a
failure of any single initiating device or single open in an initiating circuit conductor will
not interfere with the normal operation of other such devices. All initiating circuit
conductors shall be Class "A" wired with a minimum of six feet separation between
supply and return circuit conductors. IDC -Class "A" Style D; SLC -Class "A" Style 6;
NAC -Class "B" Style Y. The IDC from an addressable device used to monitor the
status of a suppression system may be wired Class B, Style B provided the distance
from the addressable device is within 10-feet of the suppression system device.
** Section 907.8.2; change to read as follows:
907.8.2 High-rise buildings. In buildings that have floors located more than 55 feet
(16,764 mm) above the ... (remainder of section unchanged).
** Section 910.1; Amend exception 2 to read as follows:
2. Where areas of buildings are equipped with early suppression fast-response
(ESFR) sprinklers, only manual smoke and heat vents shall be required within
these areas.
***Section 910.2.4; Add Section 910.2.4 Group H, to read as follows:
910.2.4 Group H. Buildings and portions thereof used as a Group H occupancy as
follows:
1. In occupancies classified as Group H-2 or H-3, any of which are more than
15,000 square feet (1394 m2) in single floor area.
Exception: Buildings of noncombustible construction containing only noncombustible
materials.
2. In areas of buildings in Group H used for storing Class 2, 3 and 4 liquid and solid
oxidizers, Class 1 and unclassified detonable organic peroxides, Class 3 and 4
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 25 of 37
unstable (reactive) materials, or Class 2 or 3water-reactive materials as required
for ahigh-hazard commodity classification.
Exception: Buildings of noncombustible construction containing only noncombustible
materials.
***Table 910.3; Change the title of the first row of the table to read as follows:
[F) TABLE 910.3
REQUIREMENTS FOR DRAFT CURTAINS AND SMOKE AND HEAT VENTS
OCCUPANCY DESIGNAT MINIMU MAXIMUM VENT- MAXIMUM MAXIMUM
GROUP AND EDSTORA M AREA AREA SPACING DISTANCE
COMMODITY GE DRAFT FORMED TO- OF TO
CLASSIFICATIO HEIGHT CURTAI BY FLOOR VENT VENTS
N (feet) N DEPTH DRAFT -AREA CENTERS FROM
(feet) CURTAIN RATIO (feet) WALL OR
S DRAFT
(square CURTAINS
feet) (feet)
Group F-1, H - 0.2 ^ Hd 50,000 1:100 120 60
and S-1 but 4
(Balance of
table remains
unchanged)
***Section 910.3.2.2; Add second paragraph to read as follows:
The automatic operating mechanism of the smoke and heat vents shall operate at a
temperature rating at least 100 degrees (F) (approximately 38 degrees Celsius) greater
than the temperature rating of the sprinklers installed.
***Section 913; add section to read as follows:
SECTION 913
FIRE PUMP ROOM
913.1 General. Where provided, fire pumps shall be installed in a room designed and
constructed in accordance with this section, Section 913 of the International Fire Code
and NFPA 20.
When located on the ground level at an exterior wall, the fire pump room shall be
provided with an exterior fire department access door that is not less than 3 ft. in width
and 6 ft. - 8 in. in height, regardless of any interior doors that are provided. A key box
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 26 of 37
shall be provided at this door, as required by Section 506.1 of the International Fire
Code.
Exception: When it is necessary to locate the fire pump room on other levels or not at
an exterior wall, the corridor leading to the fire pump room access from the exterior of
the building shall be provided with equivalent fire resistance as that required for the
pump room, or as approved by the fire code official. Access keys shall be provided in
the key box as required by Section 506.1 of the International Fire Code.
***Section 1004.1.1; Delete exception as follows:
1004.1.1 Areas without fixed seating. The number of occupants shall be computed at
the rate of one occupant per unit of area as prescribed in Table 1004.1.1. For areas
without fixed seating, the occupant load shall not be less than that number determined
by dividing the floor area under consideration by the occupant per unit of area factor
assigned to the occupancy as set forth in Table 1004.1.1. Where an intended use is not
listed in Table 1004.1.1, the building official shall establish a use based on a listed use
that most nearly resembles the intended use.
** Section 1008.1; Delete last sentence of the first paragraph and replace with the
following:
1008.1 Doors. {previous section unchanged} Where additional doors are provided, and
in the opinion of the building official could be assumed by occupants to be for egress
purposes, they shall conform to the requirements of this section.
** Section 1008.1.3.4; delete 1st paragraph and replace with the following:
1008.1.3.4 Access-controlled egress doors. The entrance doors in a means of
egress in all buildings and tenant spaces are permitted to be equipped with approved
entrance and egress access control systems when provided with an approved smoke
detection system installed throughout the building or lease space. Egress access
control systems must be installed in accordance with all of the following criteria and
shall be made retroactive in existing buildings within one year upon the fire marshal's
annual fire inspection; or shall be made retroactive and included in the work of any
subsequent building permits to alter, expand or remodel. An approved smoke detection
system is not required when the building or tenant space is equipped with an automatic
sprinkler system: {Remainder of section is unchanged}
** Section 1008.1.8.3; add the following to the beginning of the first sentence:
1008.1.8.3 Locks and latches. When approved by the building official {remainder of
section unchanged}
** Section 1017.5; change to read as follows:
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 27 of 37
1017.5 Corridor continuity. Fire-resistance-rated corridors shall be continuous from the
point of entry to an exit, and shall not be interrupted by intervening rooms.
(Exception unchanged; add exception #2 to read as follows:)
2. When the corridor is not required to be fire-resistance-rated, it is permitted to
pass through open office/business spaces provided the exit path is clearly
marked through to office/business area to the point of exit.
**Section 1020.1.7; change to read as follows:
1020.1.7 Smokeproof enclosures. In buildings required to comply with Section 403 or
405, each of the exits of a building that serves a storey where the floor surface is
located more than 55 feet (16,764 mm) above the lowest level of fire ... {remainder of
section unchanged}.
*"" Section 1023.3; add sentence to end of paragraph to read as follows:
{paragraph to remain unchanged} Openings shall be provided with a means to restrict
the entry and freezing of precipitation without reducing the required opening area.
Landings, floor levels, and walls adjacent to the required openings shall be
weatherproofed and equipped with a storm drainage system as approved by the
building official.
** Section 1023.4; changed to read as follows:
1023.4 Side yards. The openings required by section 1023.3 adjoining exterior exit
ramps or stairways shall be immediately adjacent to yards, courts or public ways; the
remaining sides are permitted to be enclosed by the exterior walls of the building.
** Section 1023.4.1; add section as follows:
1023.4.1 Any stairway at the end of an open ended corridor that is pulled into the
building shall be considered an exterior stair if in compliance with all of the following
provisions:
1. When using switchback stairs, such that the outside edge of the outside landing
is no more than 5 feet inside the exterior walls as determined by the building
official.
2. When using straight run stairs, individually or in conjunction with a switchback
stair, such that the bottom riser is no more than 5 foot inside the exterior walls as
determined by the building official.
** Section 1025.1; changed to read as follows:
1025.1 General. Occupancies in Group A shall comply with this section.
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 28 of 37
** Section 1026.1; delete exception #1 and #2
**Section 1101.2; add an exception to read as follows:
Exception: Buildings regulated under State Law and built in accordance with State
certified plans, including any variances or waivers granted by the State, shall be
deemed to be in compliance with the requirements of this Chapter.
`Section 1104.4; change exception #2 to read as follows:
2. In Group A, I, R and S occupancies, and Group R occupancies containing two or
less stories, levels that do not contain accessible elements or other spaces
required by Section 1107 or 1108 are not required to be served by an accessible
route from an accessible level.
*'"Section 1109.2.1; change to read as follows:
1109.2.1 Unisex toilet and bathing rooms. In assembly and mercantile occupancies, an
accessible unisex toilet room shall be provided where an aggregate of six or more male
or female water closets are provided. In buildings of mixed occupancy, only those water
closets ... {remainder of section unchanged}.
** Section 1210.2, exception #2; changed to read as follows:
2. Toilet rooms that are accessed only through a private office, not for common or
public use and which have not more than one water closet; provided that walls
around urinals comply with the minimum surrounding material specified by
Section 419.3 of the Plumbing Code.
** Section 1405.2; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
All wood or other products exposed to the weather shall be painted or treated with an
approved treatment, or shall posses a natural or inherent protection method.
**Table 1505.1; replace footnotes b and c with the following:
b. All individual replacement shingles or shakes shall be in compliance with the
rating required by this table.
c. Non-classified roof coverings shall be permitted on buildings of U occupancies
having not more than 120 sq. ft. of projected roof area. When exceeding 120 sq.
ft of projected roof area, buildings of U occupancies may use non-rated non-
combustible roof coverings.
** Section 1505.7; delete.
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 29 of 37
*~` Add sections 1507.8.1.1.1--1507.8.1.1.2:
1507.8.1.1.1 Wood shingle prohibition. It shall be in violation of this chapter to use
any wood shingles as part of the construction material on structures classified as
multifamily (including duplexes) or commercial buildings.
1507.8.1.1.2 All single-family dwellings using wood shingles or shakes shall be factory
pressure treated with a fire-retardant chemical to meet class C fire-resistant
requirements of the National Fire Protection Association.
~`* Section 1507.10.1; add an exception to read as follows:
Exception: Engineered roofs designed to provide adequate drainage after the long-time
deflection from dead loads or designed to support maximum loads, including possible
ponding of water from any source, including snow, due to deflection, may have a design
slope of a minimum of one-eight unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (1-percent slope).
** Section 1510.3; add an item #4 to read as follows:
4. It has not been demonstrated that the roof structure is sufficient to sustain the
weight of the additional dead load of the new roofing.
** Section 1510.4; modify section as follows:
1510.4 Roof recovering. Where the application of a new roof covering creates a
combustible concealed space, the entire existing surface shall be covered with gypsum
board, mineral fiber, glass fiber or other approved materials securely fastened in place.
** Sections 1510.7, 1510.8 and 1510.9; added to read as follows:
1510.7 Maintain existing provisions. When reroofing, or repairing existing roofing, the
installer is required to insure the following items are maintained:
1. Existing roof drains and drainage systems are maintained clear an unobstructed.
When in the opinion of the Building Official the existing drainage system appears
inadequate, the system shall be re-evaluated and when necessary required to
comply with the provisions for new construction.
2. Fire-retardant requirements are maintained.
1510.8 Attic space. Construction of a sloped or flat roof over an existing roof in a
manner that creates an attic or a concealed space shall require the removal of any
existing roofing material, composed of tar, asphalt or roof insulation, from the newly
created attic space.
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 30 of 37
1510.9 Inspections. When a permit is required, a final inspection and approval shall be
obtained from the Building Official when the re-roofing or installation of new roof is
complete.
** Section 1610.2; add a paragraph to read as follows:
Wood retaining walls supporting a surcharge of more than two (2) feet in height shall be
prohibited.
** Section 1612.1; changed to read as follows:
1612.1 General. Within flood hazard areas as established in other City ordinances
Section 1612.3, all new construction of buildings, structures and portions of buildings
and structures, including substantial improvements and restoration of substantial
damage to buildings and structures, shall be designed and constructed to resist the
effects of flood hazards and flood toads in accordance with applicable provisions
adopted by the Department of Public Works. For buildings that are located in more than
one flood hazard area, the provisions associated with the most restrictive flood hazard
area shall apply.
At the discretion of the Director of Public Works, or his authorized representative, any or
all of the provisions of this section may be used.
** Section 1612.3; delete.
~`* Section 1704.14; changed to read as follows:
1704.14 Special inspections for smoke control. Smoke control systems shall be
tested by a special inspector in accordance with this section, Section 909.18, and as
directed by the Fire Chief.
** Section 1803.3.1; add section to read as follows:
1803.3.1 Lot drainage. All lots in which construction has been authorized are subject to
the Clean Water Act and the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
storm water protection program implemented by the Texas Commission of
Environmental Quality (TCEQ). Sites shall be adequately protected against surface
water runoff with appropriate erosion control methods. Protection methods may include,
but are not limited to the use of silt fences, erosion control blankets, or other approved
means. Construction sites are subject to storm water pollution inspections at any time
during normal business hours.
** Section 1802.7; added to read as follows:
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 31 of 37
1802.7 Minimum distance of swimming pools from foundations. Swimming pools
may not be closer to a building foundation than one horizontal foot at finish grade for
every vertical foot of swimming pool depth.
Exception: Systems designed by an engineer registered in the State of Texas.
** Section 1803.7; added to read as follows:
1803.7 Hazards. Whenever the building official determines that any existing excavation
or embankment or fill on private property has become a hazard to life and limb, or
endangers property, or adversely affects the safety, use or stability of a public way or
drainage channel, the owner of the property upon which the excavation or fill is located,
or other person or agent in control of said property, upon receipt of notice in writing from
the building official, shall within the period specified therein repair or eliminate such
excavation or embankment to eliminate the hazard and to be in conformance with the
requirements of this code.
**Add Section 2308.2.3 to read as follows:
2308.2.3 Application to engineered design. When accepted by the Building Official,
any portion of this section is permitted to apply to buildings that are otherwise outside
the limitations of this section provided that:
1. The resulting design will comply with the requirements specified in Chapter 16;
2. The load limitations of various elements of this section are not exceeded; and
3. The portions of this section which will apply are identified by an engineer in the
construction documents.
**Section 2901.1; add a sentence to read as follows:
The provisions of this Chapter are meant to work in coordination with the provisions of
Chapter 4 of the International Plumbing Code. Should any conflicts arise between the
two chapters, the Building Official shall determine which provision applies.
** Section 2902.1; change to read as follows and add subsections:
2902.1 Minimum number of fixtures. Plumbing fixtures shall be provided for the type of
occupancy and in the minimum number as follows:
1. Assembly Occupancies: At least one drinking fountain shall be provided at each
floor level in an approved location.
Exception: A drinking fountain need not be provided in a drinking or dining
establishment.
2. Groups A, B, F, H, I, M and S Occupancies: Buildings or portions thereof where
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 32 of 37
persons are employed shall be provided with at least one water closet for each
sex except as provided for in Section 2902.2.
3. Group E Occupancies: Shall be provided with fixtures as shown in Table 2902.1.
4. Group R Occupancies: Shall be provided with fixtures as shown in Table 2902.1.
It is recommended, but not required, that the minimum number of fixtures provided also
comply with the number shown in Table 2902.1. Types of occupancies not shown in
Table 2902.1 shall be considered individually by the code official. The number of
occupants shall be determined by this code. Occupancy classification shall be
determined in accordance with Chapter 3.
**Section 2902.6; add an exception to read as follows:
2902.6 Finish material. Finish materials shall comply with Section 1210.
~`* Section 2903; add new section to read as follows:
2903 Access to toilet facilities in food service establishments. Food service
establishments that provide for the on-premises consumption of food shall be equipped
with separate toilet facilities for each sex. Access to toilet facilities must be from inside
the food service facility and access may not be through the food preparation area.
** Section 3001.5; added to read as follows:
3001.5 General. The owner shall be responsible for the safe operation and
maintenance of each elevator, dumbwaiter, escalator or moving walk installation and
shall cause periodic inspections, tests and maintenance to be made on such
conveyances.
***Section 3109.1; add a section to read as follows:
3109.1 General. Swimming pools shall comply with the requirements of this section and
other applicable sections of this code. Provisions of this section shall not be deemed to
nullify or lessen any provisions of state law, state code, or other local ordinances.
** Section 3109.3; amend to read as follows:
3109.3 Public Swimming Pools. Public swimming pools shall be completely enclosed
by a fence at least 6 feet in height or a screen enclosure. {remainder of section
unchanged}
** Section 3109.4.1; amend to read as follows:
Barrier height and clearance. The top of the barrier shall be at least 72 inches above
grade measured on the side of the barrier... {remainder of section unchanged
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 33 of 37
** Section 3201.1; add a sentence to read as follows:
Encroachments shall not be allowed without written permission by an authorized
representative of the City of North Richland Hills.
** Section 3202.4; delete.
'~* Section 3406.2; change to read as follows:
3406.2 Certificate of occupancy. A certificate of occupancy shall be issued where it
has been determined that the requirements of this code and other laws for the new
occupancy classification have been met.
** Section 3410.2; change to read as follows:
3410.2 Applicability. Any structure older, or that becomes older, than 50 years in which
there is work ... {remainder of section unchanged} ..."
Section 4: THAT Sections 98-185 (c) and (e) and 98-184(c)of the North Richland
Hills Code of Ordinances be amended to read as follows:
"Sec. 98-185. CONTRACTOR REGISTRATION
(c) The term "contractor" shall be defined as any person or firm performing work for
which a permit is required, and may include but not be limited to framing
carpenters, plumbers, electricians, heating & air conditioning contractors,
concrete, fence, and swimming pool contractors, irrigators, roofers, sign,
propane, backflow testing and fire sprinkler contractors as determined by the
Building Official.
(e) A registration may be revoked by the Building Official for violating any part of this
code or violation of other city ordinances or for any other acts deemed a
detriment to the city or citizens. Registration may be revoked by the Building
Official for due cause. The Construction Board of Appeals may hear revocation
appeals by applicants desiring reinstatement."
"Sec. 98-184. Certificate of occupancy.
(c) In order to further compel compliance with this article, the building official may
order that no utility services be provided, and/or order the disconnection of utility
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 34 of 37
services (including electricity) to a building or portion thereof, which is used,
occupied or reoccupied without a valid certificate of occupancy or in violation of a
current certificate of occupancy. In the event that a leased portion of any building
is in violation of this article, the utilities provided to the entire building may be
discontinued upon order of the building official until the violation is abated.
However, in the event that the portion of the leased portion of the building which
is in violation of the code is separately metered for utility, then the building
official's order to stop ~ utilities shall apply only to that utility provided to the
portion of the building in violation of this article. The utility provider shall give full
force and effect to the order of the building official."
Section 5: THAT Section 98-199 of the North Richland Hills Code of Ordinances is
hereby repealed.
Section 6: THAT Section 98-495 (a)(3) of the North Richland Hills Code of Ordinances
be amended to read as follows:
"Sec. 98-495 Duties and Powers
(a)
(3) Hear and decide appeals of orders in cases brought under Division
1 of this Article."
Section 7: THAT the fees established by Appendix A of the North Richland Hills
Code of Ordinances for Chapter 98 are hereby amended by amending
item 6 of Table 2 thereof to read as follows:
"6. Fences (wrought iron-per lot or tract $18.00
Section 8: THAT the fees established by Appendix A of the North Richland Hills
Code of Ordinances for Chapter 98 are hereby amended by amending
item Table 3 thereof to read as follows:
"TABLE 3
MECHANICAL FEES
TABLE INSET:
Monetary Value of Proposed Work Fee
$0.00-$1, 500.00 35.57
1,501.00-3,000 41.50
3, 001.00-5, 000 47.44
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 35 of 37
5,001.00-50,000 59.29 for the first $5,000 plus a multiplier of
0.0102 for amount over $5
000
50,001.00-100,000.00 ,
518.29 for the first $50,000 plus a
multiplier of 0.0102 for amount over $50
000
100,001.00-500,000 ,
1,028.29 for the first $100,000 plus a
multiplier of 0.0065 for amount over
$100, 000
500,001.00-or more $3,628.29 for the first $500,000 plus a
multiplier of 0.0035 for amount over $500,000"
Section 9: It is hereby declared to be the intention of the City Council that the
sections, paragraphs, sentences, clauses and phrases of this ordinance
are severable and, if any phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph or section
of this ordinance shall be declared unconstitutional or otherwise invalid by
the final judgment or decree of any court of competent jurisdiction, such
invalidity shall not affect any of the remaining phrases, clauses,
sentences, paragraphs and sections of this ordinance, since the same
would have been enacted by the city council without the incorporation in
this ordinance of any such invalid phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph or
section.
Section 10: Any person, firm or corporation violating any provision of this ordinance
shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon final conviction thereof
fined in an amount not to exceed Two Thousand Dollars ($2,000.00).
Each day any such violation shall be allowed to continue shall constitute a
separate violation and punishable hereunder.
Section 11: The City Secretary is hereby authorized and directed to cause the
publication of the descriptive caption and penalty clauses of this ordinance
as provided by law.
Section 12: This ordinance shall become effective immediately upon passage.
AND IT IS SO ORDAINED.
PASSED AND ADOPTED on June 23, 2008
~~~au~umu~e~ui[nun C
~'~Q` .,.yam` ~ By
' ~ y
City Secretary
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 36 of 37
APP E S T ORM AND LEGALITY:
Geo ge A. tap es, City Attorney
APPROVED..A~ O CONTENT:
~~~
/~ . ~j
John Pitstick, Planning & Development Director
Ordinance No. 3000
Page 37 of 37
INVOICE
Star - Telegram
400 W. 7TH STREET
FORT WORTH, TX 76102
(817) 390 -7761
Federal Tax ID 22- 3148254
Bill To:
CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS /SE
PO BOX 820609
NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TX 76182-
CITY OF
I Hills
,.nces,
2006
Build-
of such
- epealing
nd con-
a penalty; authoriz-
ing publication and
establishing an ef-
fective date.
Any person, firm or
corporation violating
any provision of this
ordinance shall be
deemed guilty of a
misdemeanor and
upon final conviction
thereof fined in an
amount not to ex-
ceed Two Thousand
Dollars ($2,000 :00).
Each day any such
violation shall be
THE STATE: allowed to continue
shall constitute a
County of T- separate violation
and punishable
hereunder.
Passed and Approved
Before me , on this 23rd day of
Tale Telegram , June, 2008.
9 p /s /Oscar Trevino
O Trd attached clip ATTEST: vino Mayor
(817) 390 - /s /Patricia Hutson
Patricia Hutson - City
5ecretaryy
R
,APPOVED AS TO
FORM AND LEGAL -
rry:
/s /Geor a Staples
SU13SCRIBEI George Staples - City
Attor
LLS I3580
1
Draft Only
Customer ID: CIT13
Invoice Number: 299343281
Invoice Date:
Terms:
Due Date:
PO Number:
Order Number:
Sales Rep:
Description:
Publication Dates:
58 58 LINE
Net Amount:
8/10/2008
Net due in 21 days
8/31/2008
29934328
073
CITY OF NORTH RI
8/9/2008 - 8/10/2008
$0.00
$0.00
said County and State, this day personally appeared Deborah Baylor, Bid and Legal Coordinator for the Star -
Iram, Inc. at Fort Worth, in Tarrant County, Texas; and who, after being duly sworn, did depose and say that the
was published in the above named paper on the listed dates: BIDS & LEGAL DEPT. STAR TELEGRAM
Signed �� \1�111111111111////�
��� ugRf ii
ORE ME, THIS Tuesday, August 12, 8. D `� �0(PRY PU9 / 4 , ' O 2 i
Notary Public
i �
/ ��' /iii / 81 9.2p10 •����`��\
llll llllllN l `
Thank You For Your Payment
--------------------------------------- - - - - --
Remit To: Star - Telegram Customer ID:
P.O. BOX 901051 Customer Name:
FORT WORTH, TX 76101 -2051 Invoice Number:
Invoice Amount:
PO Number:
Amount Enclosed:
CIT 13
CITY OF NORTH RICHLAN
299343281
$0.00