HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance 3616 ORDINANCE NO. 3616
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
NORTH RICHLAND HILLS AMENDING CHAPTER38, ARTICLE
II, OF THE NORTH RICHLAND HILLS CODE OF ORDINANCES
AND ADOPTING THE 2018 EDITION OF THE INTERNATIONAL
FIRE CODE, INCLUDING APPENDICES B, C, D, F, H AND I, OF
SUCH CODE; PROVIDING AMENDMENTS TO THE 2018
INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE; REGULATING AND
GOVERNING THE SAFEGUARDING OF LIFE AND PROPERTY
FROM FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS ARISING FROM THE
STORAGE, HANDLING AND USE OF HAZARDOUS
SUBSTANCES, MATERIALS AND DEVICES, AND FROM
CONDITIONS HAZARDOUS TO LIFE OR PROPERTY IN THE
_OCCUPANCY OF BUILDINGS AND PREMISES IN NORTH
RICHLAND HILLS; PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF
PERMITS FOR HAZARDOUS USES OR OPERATIONS;
PROVIDING A PENALTY; AUTHORIZING PUBLICATION; AND
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the North Richland Hills City Council desires to amend Chapter 38,
Article II, of the North Richland Hills Code of Ordinances, to adopt the
2018 International Fire Code along with Appendices B, C, D, F, H, and
I to such code, with amendments as recommended by the North Central
Texas Council of Governments, in order to better provide for the safety
of residents of the City and their property;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TEXAS:
Section 1: That Section 38-31 of the North Richland Hills Code of Ordinances be
amended to read as follows:
Sec. 38-31. - International Fire Code adopted.
The International Fire Code, 2018 Edition,Volumes I and II, together with Appendices
B, C, D, F, H, and I, of such Code as adopted by the International Code Council, Inc.,
a copy of which is on file in the office of the City Secretary, and amendments to the
2018 International Fire Code as recommended by the North Central Texas Council
of Governments (NCTCOG) and the City Council appointed Construction Code
Board of Appeals (which serves as the City's Technical Code Review Committee),
are hereby adopted as the fire code of the city for regulating and governing the
safeguarding of life and property from fire and explosion hazards arising from the
storage, handling and use of hazardous substances, materials and devices, and from
conditions hazardous to life or property in the occupancy of buildings and premises
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in the city, and providing for the issuance of permits for hazardous uses or operations;
and each and all of the regulations, provisions, conditions and terms of such
International Fire Code, 2018 edition, as amended by the recommended
amendments of the North Central Texas Council of Governments as further amended
by the city, are hereby referred to, adopted and made a part hereof, as if fully set
forth in this section.
Section 2: That Section 38-32 of the North Richland Hills Code of Ordinances
amending the 2018 International Fire Code adopted in Section 38-31, as
recommended by the North Central Texas Council of Governments, be amended
to read as follows:
Sec. 38-32. -Amendments.
Section 101.1; insert, City of North Richland Hills.
Section 102.1; change Section 3 to read as follows:
3. Existing structures, facilities and conditions when required in Chapter 11 or in
specific sections of this code.
Section 105.7; add Section 105.7.26 to read as follows:
105.7.26 Electronic access control systems. Construction permits are required for the
installation or modification of an electronic access control system, as specified in
Chapter 10. A separate construction permit is required for the installation or
modification of a fire alarm system that may be connected to the access control
system. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered a
modification and does not require a permit.
Section 110; replace 110.4 to read as follows, add sections 110.5, 110.5.1, 110.5.2,
110.5.3
110.4 Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall
fail to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter,
repair or do work in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of
the fire code official or of a permit or certificate used under the provision of this code,
shall be guilty of a misdemeanor offense, punishable by a fine of not more than
$2,000.00. Each day that violation continues after due notice has been served shall
be deemed a separate offense.
110.5 Work without a permit. Add section 110.5
110.5.1 Investigation. Whenever work for which a permit is required by this code has
been commenced without first obtaining a permit, a special investigation shall be
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made before a permit may be issued for such work.
110.5.2 Fee. 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 double
the fee determined according to the fee schedules contained in appendix A in the
North Richland Hills code of ordinances, or $500.00 plus the fee determined
according to the fee schedules contained in appendix A in the North Richland Hills
code of ordinances, whichever is greater. This fee shall be charged to the contractor
or homeowner doing all or part of the work and may be appealed to the building
official or fire code official. Continued failure to obtain a permit after having been duly
notified is considered a violation of this article.
110.5.3 Unauthorized cover up fee. Any work concealed without first obtaining the
required inspection shall be assessed a re-inspection fee as established by the city
fee schedule and the work uncovered to the satisfaction of the Fire Code official for
inspection.
Section 112.4; change to read as follows:
Any person who shall continue any work after being ordered to stop shall be deemed
guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not exceeding $2,000.00. Each day that
violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate
offense.
Section 202; amend and add definitions to read as follows:
[B] AMBULATORY CARE FACILITY. Buildings or portions thereof used to provide
medical, surgical, psychiatric, nursing, or similar care on a less than 24-hour basis to
persons who are rendered incapable of self-preservation by the services provided or staff
has accepted responsibility for care recipients already incapable. This group may include
but not be limited to the following:
- Dialysis centers
- Procedures involving sedation
-Sedation dentistry
- Surgery centers
- Colonic centers
- Psychiatric centers
[B] ATRIUM. An opening connecting three or more stories... {remaining text
unchanged]
CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY. A change in the purpose or level of activity within a
building that involves a change in the designated use-type of the building as
• described in Chapter 3 of this code, and the 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
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code, and to obtain compliance with other codes and ordinances of this jurisdiction.
No building or lease space shall be allowed to change use types without meeting all
the requirements of this code.
DEFEND IN PLACE. A method of emergency response that engages building
components and trained staff to provide occupant safety during an emergency.
Emergency response involves remaining in place, relocating within the building, or
both, without evacuating the building.
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.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEM. A fire alarm system shall include but not limited to the
following:
- Manual pull stations at all required exits.
- Notification throughout the entire building.
- Systems installed to monitor a fire sprinkler system shall also be considered
a Fire Alarm System.
FIRE AREA. The aggregate floor area enclosed and bounded by fire walls, fire
barriers, exterior walls or horizontal assemblies of a building. Areas of the building
not provided with surrounding walls shall be included in the fire area if such areas
are included within the horizontal projection of the roof or floor above. For purposes
of determining automatic sprinkler systems required by Section 903, a fire area shall
be determined by the aggregate floor area enclosed and bounded by the exterior
walls of a building and/or the horizontal projection of the roof.
FIRE WATCH. A temporary measure intended to ensure continuous and systematic
surveillance of a building or portion thereof by one or more qualified individuals or
standby personnel when required by the fire code official, for the purposes of
identifying and controlling fire hazards, detecting early signs of unwanted fire, raising
an alarm of fire and notifying the fire department.
FIREWORKS. Any composition or device for the purpose of producing a visible or an
audible effect for entertainment purposes by combustion, deflagration, detonation,
and/or activated by ignition with a match or other heat producing device that meets
the definition of 1.3G fireworks or 1.4G fireworks...(remaining text unchanged]
HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE: add a second paragraph to read as
follows:
Any building classified as a group S Occupancy or Speculative Building exceeding
6,000 sq.ft. that has a clear height in excess of 14 feet, making it possible to be used
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for storage in excess of 12 feet, shall be considered to be high-piled storage. When
a specific product cannot be identified, a fire protection system and life safety
features shall be installed as for Class IV commodities, to the maximum pile height.
HIGH-RISE BUILDING. A building with an occupied floor located more than 55 feet
above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
REPAIR GARAGE. A building, structure or portion thereof used for servicing or
repairing motor vehicles. This occupancy shall also include garages involved in minor
repair, modification and servicing of motor vehicles for items such as lube changes,
inspections, windshield repair or replacement, shocks, minor part replacement and
other such minor repairs.
SELF-SERVICE STORAGE FACILITY. Real property designed and used for the
purpose of renting or leasing individual storage spaces to customers for the purpose
of storing and removing personal property on a self-service basis.
STANDBY PERSONNEL. Qualified fire service personnel, approved by the Fire
Chief. When utilized, the number required shall be as directed by the fire code official.
Charges for utilization shall be as normally calculated by the jurisdiction.
UPGRADED OR REPLACED FIRE ALARM SYSTEM. A fire alarm system that is
upgraded or replaced includes, but is not limited to the following:
- Replacing one single board or fire alarm control unit component with a newer
model.
- Installing a new fire alarm control unit in addition to or in place of an existing
one.
- Conversion from a horn system to an emergency voice/alarm communication
system.
- Conversion from a conventional system to one that utilizes addressable or
analog devices.
The following are not considered an upgrade or replacement:
- Firmware updates.
- Software updates.
- Replacing boards of the same model with chips utilizing the same or newer
firmware.
Section 307.1.1; change to read as follows:
307.1.1 Prohibited open burning. Open burning that is offensive or objectionable
because of smoke emissions or when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances
make such fires hazardous shall be prohibited.
Exception: {No change.}
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Section 307.2; change to read as follows:
307.2 Permit required. A permit shall be obtained from the fire code official in
accordance with Section 105.6 prior to kindling a fire for recognized silvicultural or
range or wildlife management practices, prevention or control of disease or pests, or
open burning. Application for such approval shall only be presented by and permits
issued to the owner of the land upon which the fire is to be kindled.
Examples of state or local law, or regulations referenced elsewhere in this section
may include but not be limited to the following:
- Texas Commission on Environmental Quality guidelines and/or restrictions.
- State, County, or Local temporary or permanent bans on open burning.
- Local written policies as established by the fire code official.
Section 307.3; change to read as follows:
307.3 Extinguishment authority. When open burning creates or adds to a hazardous
situation, or a required permit for open burning has not been obtained, the fire code
official is authorized to order the extinguishment or the open burning operation. The
fire code official is authorized to order the extinguishment by the permit holder, another
person responsible or the fire department of open burning that creates or adds to a
hazardous or objectionable situation.
Section 307.4; change to read as follows:
307.4 Location. The location for open burning shall not be less than 1000 feet from
any structure, and provisions shall be made to prevent the fire from spreading to within
1000 feet of any structure.
Exceptions: {No change.}
Section 307.4.3, Exceptions: add exception #2 to read as follows:
Exceptions:
2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an approved automatic
sprinkler system.
Section 307.4.4 and 307.4.5; add section 307.4.4 and 307.4.5 to read as follows:
307.4.4 Permanent outdoor firepit. Permanently installed outdoor firepits
for recreational fire purposes shall not be installed within 10 feet of a
structure or combustible material.
Exception: Permanently installed outdoor fireplaces constructed in accordance
with the International Building Code.
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307.4.5 Trench Burns. Trench burns shall be conducted in air curtain trenches and
in accordance with Section 307.2.
Section 307.5; change to read as follows:
307.5 Attendance. Open burning, trench burns, bonfires, recreational fires, and use
of potable outdoor fireplaces shall be constantly attended until the... {remainder of
section unchanged)
Section 308.1.4; change to read as follows:
308.1.4 Open-flame cooking devices. Open-flame cooking devices, charcoal grills
and other similar devices used for cooking shall not be located or used on
combustible balconies, decks, or within 10 feet (3048 mm) of combustible
construction.
Exceptions:
1. One- and two-family dwellings, except that LP-gas containers are limited to a
water capacity not greater than 50 pounds (22.68 kg) [nominal 20 pound (9.08
kg) LP-gas capacity] with an aggregate LP-gas capacity not to exceed 100 lbs
(5 containers).
2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an approved
automatic sprinkler system, except that LP-gas containers are limited to a
water capacity not greater than 50 pounds (22.68 kg) [nominal 20 pound (9.08
kg) LP-gas capacity], with an aggregate LP-gas capacity not to exceed 40 lbs
(2 containers).
3. {No change.}
Section 308.1.6.2, Exception #3; change to read as follows:
Exceptions:
3. Torches or flame-producing devices in accordance with Section 308.1.3.
Section 308.1.6.3; add Section 308.1.6.3 to read as follows:
308.1.6.3 Sky Lanterns. A person shall not release or cause to be released an
untethered unmanned free-floating device containing an open flame or other heat
source, such as but not limited to a sky lantern.
Section 311.5; change to read as follows:
311.5 Placards. The fire code official is authorized to require marking of any vacant
or abandoned buildings or structures determined to be unsafe pursuant to Section
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110 of this code relating to structural or interior hazards, as required by Section
311.5.1 through 311.5.5.
Section 403.3; change Sections 403.2.4 and add Sections 403.2.5 and 403.2.6 to
read as follows:
403.2.4 Crowd managers. Trained crowd managers shall be provided for facilities or
events where 250 or more persons congregate. The minimum number of crowd
managers shall be established at a ratio of one crowd manager to every 250 persons.
Exceptions:
1. The number of crowd managers may be reduced by up to fifty percent when,
in the opinion of the fire code official, the fire protection provided by the facility
and the nature of the event warrant a reduction.
2. Assembly occupancies used exclusively for religious worship with an
occupant load not exceeding 1,000.
a. Exception 2 shall not apply during special performances when the use
of pyrotechnics, flame effects, etc. have been approved by the fire code
official.
403.2.5 Training. Training for crowd managers shall be approved and shall be
based upon a valid job task analysis.
403.2.6 Duties. The duties of crowd managers shall include:
a. An inspection of the area of responsibility to identify and address any egress
barriers.
b. An inspection of the area of responsibility to identify and mitigate any fire
hazards.
c. Ensure compliance with all permit conditions, including those governing
pyrotechnics and other special effects.
d. To direct and assist the event attendees in evacuation during an emergency.
e. Assist emergency response personnel if requested.
f. Other duties outlined by the Fire Code Official.
g. Other duties outlined in the Emergency Plan.
Section 403.5; change Section 403.5 to read as follows:
403.5 Group E Occupancies. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance
with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for Group E occupancies and for
buildings containing both a Group E occupancy and an atrium. A diagram depicting two
evacuation routes shall be posted in a conspicuous location in each classroom. Group E
occupancies shall also comply with Sections 403.5.1 through 403.5.3.
Section 404.2.2; add Number"4.10"to read as follows:
4.10 Fire extinguishing system controls.
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Section 405.4; change Section 405.4 to read as follows:
405.4 Time. The fire code official may require an evacuation drill at any time. Drills shall
be held at unexpected times and under varying conditions to simulate the unusual
conditions that occur in case of fire.
Section 501.4; change to read as follows:
501.4 Timing of installation. When fire apparatus access roads or a water supply for
fire protection is required to be installed for any structure or development, they shall
be installed, tested, and approved prior to the time of which construction has
progressed beyond completion of the foundation of any structure.
Section 503.1.1; add sentence to read as follows:
Except for one- or two-family dwellings, the path of measurement shall be along a
minimum of a ten feet (10') wide unobstructed pathway around the external walls of
the structure.
Section 503.2.1; change to read as follows:
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width
of not less than 24 feet (7315 mm), exclusive of shoulders, except for approved
security gates in accordance with Section 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical
clearance of not less than 14 feet (4267 mm). Fire lanes must be 10' minimum from
building.
Exception: Vertical clearance may be reduced; provided such reduction does not
impair access by fire apparatus and approved signs are installed and maintained
indicating the established vertical clearance when approved.
Section 503.2.2, change to read as follows:
503.2.2Authority. The fire code official shall have the authority to require an increase
in the minimum access widths and vertical clearances where they are inadequate for
fire or rescue operations.
Section 503.2.3; change Section 503.2.3 to read as follows:
503.2.3 Surface. Fire apparatus access roads shall be designed and maintained to
support imposed loads of 80,000 lbs. for fire apparatus and shall be surfaced so as to
provide all-weather driving capabilities.
Section 503.3; change to read as follows:
503.3Marking. Striping, signs, or other markings, when approved by the fire code
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official, shall be provided for fire apparatus access roads to identify such roads or
prohibit the obstruction thereof. Striping, signs and other markings shall be
maintained in a clean and legible condition at all times and be replaced or repaired
when necessary to provide adequate visibility.
1) Striping - Fire apparatus access roads shall be continuously marked by
painted lines of red traffic paint six inches (6") in width to show the boundaries
of the lane. The words "NO PARKING FIRE LANE" or "FIRE LANE NO
PARKING" shall appear in four inch (4") white letters at 25 feet intervals on
the red border markings along both sides of the fire lanes. Where a curb is
available, the striping shall be on the vertical face of the curb.
2) Signs - Signs shall read "NO PARKING FIRE LANE" or "FIRE LANE NO
PARKING" and shall be 12" wide and 18" high. Signs shall be painted on a
white background with letters and borders in red, using not less than 2"
lettering. Signs shall be permanently affixed to a stationary post and the
bottom of the sign shall be six feet, six inches (6 6 ) above finished grade.
Signs shall be spaced not more than fifty feet (50') apart along both sides of
the fire lane. Signs may be installed on permanent buildings or walls or as
approved by the fire code official.
Section 503.4; change to read as follows:
503.4Obstruction of fire apparatus access roads. Fire apparatus access roads shall
not be obstructed in any manner, including the parking of vehicles. The minimum
widths and clearances established in Section 503.2.1 and any area marked as a fire
lane as described in Section 503.3 shall be maintained at all times.
Section 505.1; change to read as follows:
505.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings shall be provided with approved
address identification. The address identification shall be legible and placed in a position
that is visible from the street or road fronting the property. Address identification
characters shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic
numbers or alphabetical letters. Numbers shall not be spelled out. Each character shall
be not less than 6 inches (152.4 mm) high with a minimum stroke width of 1/2 inch (12.7
mm). Where required by the fire code official, address numbers shall be provided in
additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response. Where access is by
means of a private road, buildings do not immediately front a street, and/or the building
cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other sign with approved 6
inch (152.4 mm) height building numerals or addresses and 4 inch (101.6 mm) height
suite/apartment numerals of a color contrasting with the background of the building or
other approved means shall be used to identify the structure. Numerals or addresses
shall be posted on a minimum 20 inch (508 mm) by 30 inch (762 mm) background on
border. Address identification shall be maintained.
Exception: R-3 Single Family occupancies shall have approved numerals of a minimum 3
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1/2 inches (88.9 mm) in height and a color contrasting with the background clearly visible
and legible from the street fronting the property and rear alleyway where such alleyway
exists.
Section 507.4; change to read as follows:
507.4 Water supply test date and information. The water supply test used for hydraulic
calculation of fire protection systems shall be conducted in accordance with NFPA 291
"Recommended Practice for Fire Flow Testing and Marking of Hydrants" and within one
year of sprinkler plan submittal. The fire code official shall be notified prior to the water
supply test. Water supply tests shall be witnessed by the fire code official, as required.
The exact location of the static/residual hydrant and the flow hydrant shall be indicated
on the design drawings. All fire protection plan submittals shall be accompanied by a
hard copy of the water flow test report, or as approved by the fire code official. The report
must indicate the dominant water tank level at the time of the test and the maximum and
minimum operating levels of the tank, as well, or identify applicable water supply
fluctuation. The licensed contractor must then design the fire protection system based on
this fluctuation information, as per the applicable referenced NFPA standard. Reference
Section 903.3.5 for additional design requirements.
Section 507.5.4; change to read as follows:
507.5.4 Obstruction. Unobstructed access to fire hydrants shall be maintained at all
times. Posts, fences, vehicles, growth, trash, storage and other materials or objects shall
not be placed or kept near fire hydrants, fire department inlet connections or fire
protection system control valves in a manner that would prevent such equipment or fire
hydrants from being immediately discernible. The fire department shall not be deterred
or hindered from gaining immediate access to fire protection equipment or fire hydrants.
Section 509.1.2; add new Section 509.1.2 to read as follows:
509.1.2 Sign Requirements. Unless more stringent requirements apply, lettering for signs
required by this section shall have a minimum height of 2 inches (50.8 mm)when located
located outside, or as approved bythe
' in and 4 inches (101.6 mm) whenpp
inside a building
fire code official. The letters shall be of a color that contrasts with the background.
Section 603.3.1, 603.3.2 and 603.3.2.1; change to read as follows:
603.3.1 Fuel oil storage in outside, aboveground tanks. Where connected to a fuel-oil
piping system, the maximum amount of fuel oil storage allowed outside above ground
without additional protection shall be 660 gallons (2498 L). The storage of fuel oil above
ground in quantities exceeding 660 gallons (2498 L) shall comply with NFPA 31 and
Chapter 57.
603.3.2 Fuel oil storage inside buildings. Fuel oil storage inside buildings shall comply
with Sections 603.3.2.1 through 603.3.2.5 or and Chapter 57.
603.3.2.1 Quantity limits. One or more fuel oil storage tanks containing Class II or Ill
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combustible liquid shall be permitted in a building. The aggregate capacity of all tanks
shall not exceed the following:
1. 660 gallons (2498 L) in unsprinklered buildings, where stored in a tank complying
with UL 80, UL 142 or UL 2085 for Class III liquids, and also listed as a double-
wall/secondary containment tank for Class II liquids.
2. 1,320 gallons (4996 L) in buildings equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, where stored in a tank complying with UL 142
or UL 2085 as a double-wall/secondary containment tank.
3. 3,000 gallons (11 356 L) where stored in protected above-ground tanks complying
with UL 2085 and Section 5704.2.9.7 and the room is protected by an automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
Section 807.5.2.2 and 807.5.2.3; change to read as follows:
807.5.2.2 Artwork in Corridors. Artwork and teaching materials shall be limited on the
walls of corridors to not more than 20 percent of the wall area. Such materials shall not
be continuous from floor to ceiling or wall-to-wall. Curtains, draperies, wall hangings,
and other decorative material suspended from the walls or ceilings shall meet the flame
propagation performance
criteria of NFPA 701 in accordance with Section 807 or be noncombustible.
Exception: Corridors protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 shall be limited to 50 percent of the wall area.
807.5.2.3 Artwork in Classrooms. Artwork and teaching materials shall be limited on
walls of classrooms to not more than 50 percent of the specific wall area to which they
are attached._Curtains, draperies, wall hangings and other decorative material
suspended from the walls or ceilings shall meet the flame propagation performance
criteria of NFPA 701 in accordance with Section 807 or be noncombustible.
Section 901.4.3; change to read as follows:
901.4.3 Fire areas. The aggregate floor area enclosed and bounded by fire walls,
fire barriers, exterior walls or horizontal assemblies of a building. Areas of the
building not provided with surrounding walls shall be included in the fire area if such
areas are included within the horizontal projection of the roof or floor above. For
purposes of determining automatic sprinkler systems required by Section 903, a fire
area shall be determined by the aggregate floor area enclosed and bounded by the
exterior walls of a building and/or the horizontal projection of the roof.
Section 901.6.1; add Section 901.6.1.1 to read as follows:
901.6.1.1 Standpipe Testing. Building owners/managers must maintain and test
standpipe systems as per NFPA 25 requirements. The following additional
requirements shall be applied to the testing that is required every 5 years:
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1. The piping between the Fire Department Connection (FDC) and the standpipe
shall be backflushed or inspected by approved camera when foreign material is
present or when caps are missing, and also 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 tester 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. Confirm that there are
no open hose valves prior to introducing water into a dry standpipe. 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. All hose valves shall be exercised.
4. If the FDC is not already provided with approved caps, the contractor shall install
such caps for all FDC's as required by the fire code official.
5. Upon successful completion of standpipe test, place a blue tag (as per Texas
Administrative Code, Fire Sprinkler Rules for Inspection, Test and Maintenance
Service (ITM) Tag) at the bottom of each standpipe riser in the building. 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 procedures required by Texas Administrative Code Fire Sprinkler Rules 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
code official) shall be followed.
7. Additionally, records of the testing shall be maintained by the owner and
contractor, if applicable, 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 code official for requests to remove existing fire hose from Class II
and III standpipe systems where employees are not trained in the utilization of this
firefighting 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.
Section 901.6.4; add Section 901.6.4 to read as follows:
901.6.4 False Alarms and Nuisance Alarms. False alarms and nuisance alarms shall not
be given, signaled or transmitted or caused or permitted to be given, signaled or
transmitted in any manner.
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Section 901.7; change to read as follows:
901.7 Systems out of service. Where a required fire protection system is out of
service or in the event of an excessive number of activations, the fire department
and the fire code official shall be notified immediately and, where required by the fire
code official, the building shall either be evacuated or an approved fire watch shall
be provided for all occupants left unprotected by the shut down until the fire
protection system has been returned to service. . ..(remaining text unchanged)
Section 903.1.1; change to read as follows:
903.1.1 Alternative protection. Alternative automatic fire-extinguishing systems
complying with Section 904 shall be permitted in addition to automatic sprinkler
protection where recognized by the applicable standard, or as approved by the fire
code official.
Section 903.1.2; add Section 903.1.2 to read as follows:
903.1.2 Unless otherwise approved by the Fire Code Official, the sprinkler risers
shall be located in a separate room directly accessed from the outside. Located in
an approved location on an exterior wall shall be an approved key box for entry into
the riser room. The fire alarm control panel or other approved fire alarm annunciating
panel shall also be located in this room.
Section 903.2; add paragraph to read as follows and delete the exception:
Automatic Sprinklers shall not be installed in elevator machine rooms, elevator
machine spaces, and elevator hoistways when specifically exempted by the fire code
official. Storage shall not be allowed within the elevator machine room. Signage shall
be provided at the entry doors to the elevator machine room indicating "ELEVATOR
MACHINERY - NO STORAGE ALLOWED."
Section 903.2.9; add Section 903.2.9.3 to read as follows:
903.2.9.3 Self-service storage facility. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
installed throughout all self-service storage facilities.
Section 903.2.11; change 903.2.11.3 and add 903.2.11. 7, 903.2.11.8, and 903.2.11.9
as follows:
903.2.11.3 Buildings 35 feet or more in height. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
installed throughout buildings that have one or more stories, other than penthouses in
compliance with Section 1510 of the International Building Code, located 35 feet ( 10 668
mm) or more above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, measured to the
finished floor.
Ordinance No.3616
Page 14 of 31
Exceptions:
1. Open parking structures in compliance with Section 406.5 of the International
Building Code, having no other occupancies above the subject garage.
903.2.11.7 High-Piled Combustible Storage. For any building with a clear height
exceeding 12 feet(4572 mm), see Chapter 32 to determine if those provisions
apply.
903.2.11.8 Spray Booths and Rooms. New and existing spray booths and
spraying rooms shall be protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing
system.
903.2.11.9 Buildings Over 6,000 sq. ft. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed
throughout all buildings with a building area 6,000 sq. ft. or greater and in all existing
buildings that are enlarged to be 6,000 sq. ft. or greater. For the purpose of this
provision, fire walls shall not define separate buildings.
Exception: Open parking garages in compliance with Section 406.5 of the International
Building Code.
Section 903.3.1.1.1; change to read as follows:
903.3.1.1.1 Exempt locations. When approved by the fire code official, automatic
sprinklers shall not be required in the following rooms or areas where such ...{text
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 a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
4. {Delete.}
5. Fire service access Elevator machine rooms, machinery spaces, and
hoistways, other than pits where such sprinklers would not necessitate shunt
trip requirements under any circumstances.
6. {Delete.}
Section 903.3.1.2.3; delete section and replace as follows:
[F] Section 903.3.1.2.3 Attached Garages and Attics. Sprinkler protection is required in
attached garages, and in the following attic spaces:
Ordinance No.3616
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1. Attics that are used or intended for living purposes or storage shall be protected
by an automatic sprinkler system.
2. Where fuel-fired equipment is installed in an unsprinklered attic, not fewer than
one quick-response intermediate temperature sprinkler shall be installed above
the equipment.
3. Attic spaces of buildings that are two or more stories in height above grade plane
or above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
4. Group R-4, Condition 2 occupancy attics not required by Item 1 or 3 to have
sprinklers shall comply with one of the following:
4.1 Provide automatic sprinkler system protection.
4.2. Provide a heat detection system throughout the attic that is arranged to
activate the building fire alarm system.
4.3. Construct the attic using noncombustible materials.
4.4. Construct the attic using fire-retardant-treated wood complying with Section
2303.2 of the International Building Code.
4.5. Fill the attic with noncombustible insulation.
Section 903.3.1.3; change to read as follows:
903.3.1.3 NFPA 13D Sprinkler Systems. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in one-
and two-family dwellings; Group R-3; Group R-4, Condition 1; and townhouses shall be
permitted to be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13D or in accordance with
state law.
Section 903.3.1.4; add to read as follows:
[F] 903.3.1.4 Freeze protection. Freeze protection systems for automatic fire sprinkler
systems shall be in accordance with the requirements of the applicable referenced NFPA
standard and this section.
903.3.1.4.1 Attics. Only dry-pipe, preaction, or listed antifreeze automatic fire sprinkler
systems shall be allowed to protect attic spaces.
Exception: Wet-pipe fire sprinkler systems shall be allowed to protect non-ventilated attic
spaces where:
1. The attic sprinklers are supplied by a separate floor control valve assembly to
allow ease of draining the attic system without impairing sprinklers throughout the
rest of the building, and
2. Adequate heat shall be provided for freeze protection as per the applicable
referenced NFPA standard, and
3. The attic space is a part of the building's thermal, or heat, envelope, such that
insulation is provided at the roof deck, rather than at the ceiling level.
903.3.1.4.2 Heat trace/insulation. Heat trace/insulation shall only be allowed where
approved by the fire code official for small sections of large diameter water-filled pipe.
Section 903.3.5; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
Ordinance No.3616
Page 16 of 31
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. Reference Section 507.4 for
additional design requirements.
Section 903.4; 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 fire department hose connection valves shall be electrically supervised to
initiate a supervisory signal at the central station upon tampering.
Section 903.4.2; add second paragraph to read as follows:
The alarm device required on the exterior of the building shall be a weatherproof
horn/strobe notification appliance with a minimum 75 candela strobe rating, installed
at a location approved by the fire code official.
Section 905.2; change to read as follows:
905.2 Installation standard. Standpipe systems 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; add Section 905.3.9 and exceptions to read as follows:
905.3.9 Buildings Exceeding 10,000 sq. ft. In buildings exceeding 10,000 square feet in
area per story and 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, Class I automatic wet or manual wet standpipes shall be provided.
Exceptions:
1. Automatic dry, semi-automatic dry, and manual dry standpipes are allowed as
provided for in NFPA 14 where approved by the fire code official.
2. R-2 occupancies of four stories or less in height having no interior corridors.
Section 905.4, change Item 1, 3, and 5, and add Item 7 to read as follows:
1. In every required exit stairway, a hose connection shall be provided for each story
above and below grade plane. Hose connections shall be located at an
intermediate landing between stories, unless otherwise approved by the fire code
official.
2. {No change.}
3. In every exit passageway, at the entrance from the exit passageway to other
Ordinance No.3616
Page 17 of 31
areas of a building.
Exception: Where floor areas adjacent to an exit passageway are reachable
from an exit stairway hose connection by a {remainder of text unchanged}
4. {No change.}
5. 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 a two-way hose
connection located to serve the roof or at the highest landing of an exit stairway
with stair access to the roof provided in accordance with Section 1011.12.
6. {No change.}
7. When required by this Chapter, standpipe connections shall be placed adjacent to
all required exits to the structure and at two hundred feet (200') intervals along
major corridors thereafter, or as otherwise approved by the fire code official.
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 fire department hose connection valves shall be electrically supervised to
initiate a supervisory signal at the central station upon tampering.
Section 907.1; add Section 907.1.4 to read as follows:
907.1.4 Design Standards. Where a new fire alarm system is installed, the devices shall
be addressable. Fire alarm systems utilizing more than 20 smoke detectors shall have
analog initiating devices.
Section 907.2.1; change to read as follows delete exception:
907.2.1 Group A. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification
system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group A occupancies
having an occupant load of 300 or more persons, or where the occupant load is more
than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge. Group A
occupancies not separated from one another in accordance with Section 707.3. 10 of the
International Building Code shall be considered as a single occupancy for the purposes
of applying this section. Portions of Group E occupancies occupied for assembly
purposes shall be provided with a fire alarm system as required for the Group E
occupancy.
Exception: {No change.}
Activation of fire alarm notification appliances shall:
1. Cause illumination of the means of egress with light of not less than 1 foot-candle
(11 lux) at the walking surface level, and
2. Stop any conflicting or confusing sounds and visual distractions.
Section 907.2.3; change to read as follows:
Ordinance No.3616
Page 18 of 31
907.2.3 Group E. A manual fire alarm system that initiates the occupant notification
signal utilizing an emergency voice/alarm communication system meeting the
requirements of Section 907.5.2.2 and installed in accordance with Section 907.6
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' 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.
Exceptions:
1. {No change.}
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.)
{No change to remainder of exceptions.}
Section 907.2.13, Exception 3; change to read as follows:
3. Open air portions of buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5 in accordance with
Section 303.1 of the International Building Code; however, this exception does not
apply to accessory uses including but not limited to sky boxes, restaurants and
similarly enclosed areas.
Section 907.4.2; add Section 907.4.2.7 to read as follows:
907.4.2.7 Type. Manual alarm initiating devices shall be an approved double
action type.
Section 907.6.1; add Section 907.6.1.1 to read as follows:
907.6.1.1 Wiring 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
signaling line circuits (SLC) shall be installed in such a way that a single open will
not interfere with the operation of any addressable devices (Class A). Outgoing and
return SLC conductors shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 72 requirements
for Class A circuits and shall have a minimum of four feet separation horizontal and
one foot vertical between supply and return circuit conductors. The initiating device
circuit (IDC) from an addressable input (monitor) module may be wired Class B,
provided the distance from the addressable module to the initiating device is ten feet
or less. Minimum fire alarm design shall be a manual pull station ateach exit and
notification throughout.
Ordinance No.3616
Page 19 of 31
Section 907.6.3; delete all four Exceptions.
Section 907.6.6; — add sentence at end of paragraph to read as follows:
See 907.6. For the required information transmitted to the supervising station.
Section 909.22; add to read as follows:
909.22 Stairway or Ramp Pressurization Alternative. Where the building is equipped
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and
the stair pressurization alternative is chosen for compliance with Building Code
requirements for a smokeproof enclosure, interior exit stairways or ramps shall be
pressurized to a minimum of 0.10 inches of water (25 Pa) and a maximum of 0.35 inches
of water (87 Pa) in the shaft relative to the building measured with all interior exit stairway
and ramp doors closed under maximum anticipated conditions of stack effect and wind
effect. Such systems shall comply with Section 909, including the installation of a separate
fire-fighter's smoke control panel as per Section 909.16, and a Smoke Control Permit shall
be required from the fire department as per Section 105.7.
909.22.1 Ventilating equipment. The activation of ventilating equipment for the stair or
ramp pressurization system shall be by smoke detectors installed at each floor level at an
approved location at the entrance to the smoke proof enclosure. When the closing device
for the stairway or ramp shaft and vestibule doors is activated by smoke detection or power
failure, the mechanical equipment shall activate and operate at the required performance
levels. Smoke detectors shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.3.
909.22.1.1 Ventilation Systems. Smoke proof enclosure ventilation systems shall be
independent of other building ventilation systems. The equipment, control wiring, power
wiring and ductwork shall comply with one of the following:
1. Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located exterior to
the building and directly connected to the smoke proof enclosure or connected to
the smoke proof enclosure by ductwork enclosed by not less than 2-hour fire
barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the Building Code or
horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the Building
Code, or both.
2. Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located within the
smoke proof enclosure with intake or exhaust directly from and to the outside or
through ductwork enclosed by not less than 2-hour barriers constructed in
accordance with Section 707 of the Building Code or horizontal assemblies
constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the Building Code, or both.
3. Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located within the
building if separated from the remainder of the building, including other mechanical
equipment, by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with
Section 707 of the Building Code or horizontal assemblies constructed in
accordance with Section 711 of the Building Code, or both.
Exceptions:
1. Control wiring and power wiring utilizing a 2-hour rated cable or cable system.
Ordinance No.3616
Page 20 of 31
2. Where encased with not less than 2 inches (51 mm) of concrete.
3. Control wiring and power wiring protected by a listed electrical circuit protective
systems with a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
909.21.1.2 Standby Power. Mechanical vestibule and stairway and ramp shaft ventilation
systems and automatic fire detection systems shall be provided with standby power in
accordance with Section 2702 of the Building Code.
909.22.1.3 Acceptance and Testing. Before the mechanical equipment is approved, the
system shall be tested in the presence of the fire code official to confirm that the system is
operating in compliance with these requirements.
Section 910.2; change Exception 2. and 3.to read as follows:
2. Only manual smoke and heat removal shall not be required in areas of buildings
equipped with early suppression fast-response (ESFR) sprinklers. Automatic smoke
and heat removal is prohibited.
3. Only manual smoke and heat removal shall not be required in areas of buildings
equipped with control mode special application sprinklers with a response time index of
50(m*S)1/2 or less that are listed to control a fire in stored commodities with 12 or fewer
sprinklers. Automatic smoke and heat removal is prohibited.
Section 910.2; add subsections 910.2.3 with exceptions to read as follows:
910.2.3 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 unstable
(reactive) materials, or Class 2 or 3 water-reactive materials as required for a high-
hazard commodity classification.
Exception: Buildings of noncombustible construction containing only noncombustible
materials.
Section 910.3; add section 910.3.4 to read as follows:
910.3.4 Vent Operation. Smoke and heat vents shall be capable of being operated by
approved automatic and manual means. Automatic operation of smoke and heat vents
shall
conform to the provisions of Sections 910.3.2.1 through 910.3.2.3.
Ordinance No.3616
Page 21 of 31
910.3.4.1 Sprinklered buildings. Where installed in buildings equipped with an approved
automatic sprinkler system, smoke and heat vents shall be designed to operate
automatically.
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.
Exception: Manual only systems per Section 910.2.
910.3.4.2 Nonsprinklered Buildings. Where installed in buildings not equipped with an
approved automatic sprinkler system, smoke and heat vents shall operate automatically
by actuation of a heat-responsive device rated at between 100°F (56°C) and 220°F
(122°C) above ambient.
Exception: Listed gravity-operated drop out vents.
Section 910.4.3.1; change to read as follows:
910.4.3.1 Makeup Air. Makeup air openings shall be provided within 6 feet (1829 mm) of
the floor level. Operation of makeup air openings shall be automatic. The minimum gross
area of makeup air inlets shall be 8 square feet per 1,000 cubic feet per minute (0.74 m2
per 0.4719 m3/s) of smoke exhaust. Operation and significantly delays activation and/or
capability of the
smoke exhaust system.)
Section 912.2; add Section 912.2.3 to read as follows:
912.2.3 Hydrant Distance. An approved fire hydrant shall be located within 100 feet of the
fire department connection as the fire hose lays along an unobstructed path.
Section 913.2.1; add second paragraph and exception to read as follows:
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 shall be provided
at this door, as required by Section 506.1.
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.
Section 914.3.1.2; change to read as follows:
914.3.1.2 Water Supply to required Fire Pumps. In buildings that are more than 120 feet
Ordinance No.3616
Page 22 of 31
(37 m) in building height, required fire pumps shall be supplied by connections to no fewer
than two water mains located in different streets. Separate supply piping shall be provided
between each connection to the water main and the pumps. Each connection and the
supply piping between the connection and the pumps shall be sized to supply the flow and
pressure required for the pumps to operate.
Exception: {No change to exception.}
Section 1006.2.2.7; Add Section 1006.2.2.7 as follows:
1006.2.2.7 Electrical Rooms. For electrical rooms, special exiting requirements may apply.
Reference the electrical code as adopted.
Section 1009.8; add the following Exception 7:
Exceptions:
7. Buildings regulated under State Law and built in accordance with State registered
plans, including variances or waivers granted by the State, shall be deemed to be in
compliance with the requirements of Section 1009 and chapter 11.
Section 1010.1.9.5 Bolt Locks; amend exceptions 3 and 4 as follows:
Exceptions:
3. Where a pair of doors serves an occupant load of less than 50 persons in a Group
B, F, M or S occupancy. (Remainder unchanged)
4. Where a pair of doors serves a Group A, B, F, M or S occupancy (remainder
unchanged)
Section 1020.1 Construction; add exception 6 to read as follows:
6. In group occupancies,ancies, corridor walls and ceilings need not be of fire-resistive
p
construction within a single tenant space when the space is equipped with approved
automatic smoke-detection within the corridor. The actuation of any detector must
activate self-annunciating alarms audible in all areas within the corridor. Smoke
detectors must be connected to an approved automatic fire alarm system where
such system is provided.
Section 1029.1.1.1 Spaces under grandstands and bleachers; delete this section.
Section 1031.2; change to read as follows:
1031.2 Reliability. Required exit accesses, exits and exit discharges shall be continuously
maintained free from obstructions or impediments to full instant use in the case of fire or
other emergency. An exit or exit passageway shall not be used for any purpose that
interferes with a means of egress.
Ordinance No.3616
Page 23 of 31
Section 1103.3; add sentence to end of paragraph as follows:
Provide emergency signage as required by Section 606.3.
Section 1103.5.1: add sentence to read as follows:
Fire sprinkler system installation shall be completed within 24 months from date of
notification by the fire code official.
Section 1103.5, add Section 1103.5.5 to read as follows:
1103.5.5 Spray Booths and Rooms. Existing spray booths and spray rooms shall be
protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system in accordance with Section
2404.
Section 1103.7; add Section 1103.7.7 and 1103.7.7.1 to read as follows:
1103.7.7 Fire Alarm System Design Standards. Where an existing fire alarm system is
upgraded or replaced, the devices shall be addressable. Fire alarm systems utilizing more
than 20 smoke and/or heat detectors shall have analog initiating devices.
Exception: Existing systems need not comply unless the total building, or fire alarm system,
remodel or expansion exceeds 30% of the building. When cumulative building, or fire
alarm system, remodel or_expansion initiated after the date of original fire alarm panel
installation exceeds 50% of the building, or fire alarm system, the fire alarm system must
comply within 18 months of permit application.
1103.7.7.1 Communication requirements. Refer to Section 907.6.6 for applicable
requirements.
Section 1203; change and add to read as follows:
1203.1.1 {No change.)
1203.1.2 {No change.}
1203.1.3 Emergency power systems and standby power systems shall be installed in
accordance with the International Building Code, NFPA 70, NFPA 110 and NFPA 111.
Existing installations shall be maintained in accordance with the original approval, except
as specified in Chapter 11.
1203.1.4 through 1203.1.9 {No changes to these sections.)
1203.1.10 Critical Operations Power Systems (COPS). For Critical Operations Power
Systems necessary to maintain continuous power supply to facilities or parts of facilities
that require continuous operation for the reasons of public safety, emergency
management, national security, or business continuity, see NFPA 70.
Ordinance No.3616
Page 24 of 31
1203.2 Where Required. Emergency and standby power systems shall be provided where
required by Sections 1203.2.1 through 1203.2.1826 or elsewhere identified in this code or
any other referenced code.
1203.2.1 through 1203.2.3 {No change.}
1203.2.4 Emergency Voice/alarm Communications Systems. Emergency power shall be
provided for emergency voice/alarm communications systems in the following
occupancies, or as specified elsewhere in this code, as required in Section 907.5.2.2.5.
The system shall be capable of powering the required load for a duration of not less than
24 hours, as required in NFPA 72.
- Covered and Open Malls, Section 907.2.19 and 914.2.3
- Group A Occupancies, Sections 907.2.1 and 907.5.2.2.4.
- Special Amusement Buildings, Section 907.2.11
- High-rise Buildings, Section 907.2.12
- Atriums, Section 907.2.13
- Deep Underground Buildings, Section 907.2.18
1203.2.5 through 1203.2.13 {No change.}
1203.2.14 Means of Egress Illumination. Emergency power shall be provided for means
of egress illumination in accordance with Sections 1008.3 and 1104.5.1. (90 minutes)
1203.2.15 Membrane Structures. Emergency power shall be provided for exit signs in
temporary tents and membrane structures in accordance with Section 3103.12.6. (90
minutes) Standby power shall be provided for auxiliary inflation systems in permanent
membrane structures in accordance with Section 2702 of the International Building Code.
(4 hours) Auxiliary inflation systems shall be provided in temporary air-supported and air-
inflated membrane structures in accordance with section 3103.10.4.
1203.2.16 {No change.}
1203.2.17 Smoke Control Systems. Standby power shall be provided for smoke control
systems in the following occupancies, or as specified elsewhere in this code, as required
in Section 909.11:
- Covered Mall Building, International Building Code, Section 402.7
- Atriums, International Building Code, Section 404.7
- Underground Buildings, International Building Code, Section 405.8
- Group 1-3, International Building Code, Section 408.4.2
- Stages, International Building Code, Section 410.2.5
- Special Amusement Buildings (as applicable to Group A's), International Building
Code, Section 411.1
- Smoke Protected Seating, Section 1029.6.2.
1203.2.18 {No change.}
Ordinance No.3616
Page 25 of 31
1203.2.19 Covered and Open Mall Buildings. Emergency power shall be provided in
accordance with Section 907.2.19 and 914.2.3.
1203.2.20 Airport Traffic Control Towers. A standby power system shall be provided in
airport traffic control towers more than 65 ft. in height. Power shall be provided to the
following equipment:
1. Pressurization equipment, mechanical equipment and lighting.
2. Elevator operating equipment.
3. Fire alarm and smoke detection systems.
1203.2.21 Smoke proof Enclosures and Stair Pressurization Alternative. Standby power
shall be provided for smoke proof enclosures, stair pressurization alternative and
associated automatic fire detection systems as required by the International Building Code,
Section 909.20.6.2.
vided for
1203.2.22 Elevator Pressurization.bythe Internatpower shall be ional Building Code, Section 909.21.5.tor
pressurization system as required
1203.2.23 Elimination of Smoke Dampers in Shaft Penetrations. Standby power shall be
provided when eliminating the smoke dampers in ducts penetrating shafts in accordance
with the International Building Code, Section 717.5.3, exception 2.3.
1203.2.24 Common Exhaust Systems for Clothes Dryers. Standby power shall be provided
for common exhaust systems for clothes dryers located in multistory structures in
accordance with the International Mechanical Code, Section 504.10, Item 7.
1203.2.25 Hydrogen Cutoff Rooms. Standby power shall be provided for mechanical
ventilation and gas detection systems of Hydrogen Cutoff Rooms in accordance with the
International Building Code, Section 421.
1203.2.26 Means of Egress Illumination in Existing Buildings. Emergency power shall be
provided for means of egress illumination in accordance with Section 1104.5 when
required by the fire code official. (90 minutes in 1-2, 60 minutes elsewhere.)
1203.3 Through 1203.6 {No change.}
1203.7 Energy Time Duration. Unless a time limit is specified by the fire code official, in
this chapter or elsewhere in this code, or in any other referenced code or standard, the
emergency and standby power system shall be supplied with enough fuel or energy
storage capacity for not less than 2-hour full-demand operation of the system.
Exception: Where the system is supplied with natural gas from a utility provider and is
approved.
Section 2304.1; change to read as follows:
2304.1 Supervision of Dispensing. The dispensing of fuel at motor fuel-dispensing facilities
Ordinance No.3616
Page 26 of 31
shall be in accordance with Section 2204.3. The following:
1. Conducted by a qualified attendant; and/or,
2. Shall be under the supervision of a qualified attendant; and/or
3. Shall be an unattended self-service facility in accordance with Section 2304.3.
At any time the qualified attendant of item Number 1 or 2 above is not present, such
operations shall be considered as an unattended self-service facility and shall also comply
with Section 2304.3.
Section 2401.2; delete this section.
Section 3103.3.1; delete this section.
Table 3206.2, footnote h; change text to read as follows:
h. Where storage areas are protected by either early suppression fast response (ESFR)
sprinkler systems or control mode special application sprinklers with a response time
index of 50 (m • s) 1/2 or less that are listed to control a fire in the stored commodities
with 12 or fewer sprinklers, installed in accordance with NFPA 13, manual smoke and
heat vents or manually activated engineered mechanical smoke exhaust systems shall
be required within these areas.
Table 3206.2, footnote j; add footnote j to row titled 'High Hazard' and `Greater than
300,000'to read as follows:
j. High hazard high-piled storage areas shall not exceed 500,000 square feet. A 2-hour
fire wall constructed in accordance with Section 706 of the International Building Code
shall be used to divide high-piled storage exceeding 500,000 square feet in area.
Section 3310.1; add sentence to end of paragraph to read as follows:
When fire apparatus access roads are required to be installed for any structure or
development, they shall be approved prior to the time at which construction has progressed
beyond completion of the foundation of any structure.
Section 5601.1.3; change to read as follows:
5601.1.3 Fireworks. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling, and use of
fireworks are prohibited.
Exceptions:
1. Only when approved for fireworks displays, storage, and handling of fireworks as
allowed in Section 5604 and 5608.
2. The use of fireworks for approved fireworks displays as allowed in Section 5608.
Ordinance No.3616
Page 27 of 31
Section 5703.6; add a sentence to read as follows:
5703.6 Piping Systems. Piping systems, and their component parts, for flammable and
combustible liquids shall be in accordance with Sections 5703.6.1 through 5703.6.11. An
approved method of secondary containment shall be provided for underground tank and
piping systems.
Section 5704.2.11.4; add a sentence to read as follows:
5704.2.11.4 Leak Prevention. Leak prevention for underground tanks shall comply with
Sections 5704.2.11.4.1 through 5704.2.11.4.3. An approved method of secondary
containment shall be provided for underground tank and piping systems.
Section 5704.2.11.4.2; change to read as follows:
5704.2.11.4.2 Leak Detection. Underground storage tank systems shall be provided with
an approved method of leak detection from any component of the system that is designed
and installed in accordance with NFPA 30 and as specified in Section 5704.2.11.4.3
Section 5704.2.11.4.3; add Section 5704.2.11.4.3 to read as follows:
5704.2.11.4.3 Observation Wells. Approved sampling tubes of a minimum 4 inches in
diameter shall be installed in the backfill material of each underground flammable or
combustible liquid storage tank. The tubes shall extend from a point 12 inches below the
average grade of the excavation to ground level and shall be provided with suitable surface
access caps. Each tank site shall provide a sampling tube at the corners of the excavation
with a minimum of 4 tubes. Sampling tubes shall be placed in the product line excavation
within 10 feet of the tank excavation and one every 50 feet routed along product lines
towards the dispensers, a minimum of two are required.
Section 5707.4; add paragraph to read as follows:
Mobile fueling sites shall be restricted to commercial, industrial, governmental, or
manufacturing, where the parking area having such operations is primarily intended for
employee vehicles. Mobile fueling shall be conducted for fleet fueling or employee vehicles
only, not the general public. Commercial sites shall be restricted to office-type or similar
occupancies that are not primarily intended for use by the public.
Section 6103.2.1; add Section 6103.2.1.8 to read as follows:
6103.2.1.8 Jewelry Repair, Dental Labs and Similar Occupancies. Where natural gas
service is not available, portable LP-Gas containers are allowed to be used to supply
approved torch assemblies or similar appliances. Such containers shall not exceed 20-
pound (9.0 kg) water capacity. Aggregate capacity shall not exceed 60-pound (27.2 kg)
water capacity. Each device shall be separated from other containers by a distance of not
less than 20 feet.
Ordinance No.3616
Page 28 of 31
Section 6104.2, Exception; add an exception 2 to read as follows:
Exceptions:
1. (existing text unchanged)
2. Except as permitted in Sections 308 and 6104.3.2, LP-gas containers are not
permitted in residential areas.
Section 6104.3; add Section 6104.3.3 to read as follows:
6104.3.3 Spas, Pool Heaters, and Other Listed Devices. Where natural gas service is not
available, an LP-gas container is allowed to be used to supply spa and pool heaters or
other listed devices. Such container shall not exceed 250-gallon water capacity per lot.
See Table 6104.3 for location of containers.
Exception: Lots where LP-gas can be off-loaded wholly on the property where the tank is
located may install up to 500 gallon above ground or 1,000 gallon underground approved
containers.
Section 6107.4 and 6109.13; change to read as follows:
6107.4 Protecting Containers from Vehicles. Where exposed to vehicular damage due to
proximity to alleys, driveways or parking areas, LP-gas containers, regulators and piping
shall be protected in accordance with NFPA 58 Section 312.
6109.13 Protection of Containers. LP-gas containers shall be stored within a suitable
enclosure or otherwise protected against tampering. Vehicle impact protection shall be
provided as required by Section 6107.4.
Table B 105.2; change footnote a. to read as follows:
a. The reduced fire-flow shall be not less than 1,500 gallons per minute.
Appendix D; change D103.3 to read as follows:
D103.3 Turning Radius. The minimum turning radius shall be determined by the fire code
official to the minimum inside turning radius shall be a minimum of 25'.
D103.4 Dead Ends; add following:
Exception: A Cul-De-Sac when required on a dead-end fire apparatus access roads
serving single family detached dwellings may have its diameter reduced based on criteria
contained in the Public Works Design Manual.
Ordinance No.3616
Page 29 of 31
Section 3: Appendices B, C, D, F, H and I of the 2018 IFC Code and Commentary, are
adopted as a part of this Ordinance, and are hereby incorporated into this
Ordinance by reference as if fully stated herein, and a copy of each appendix
is on file in the Office of the City Secretary.
Section 4: Any person who violates any of the provisions of this ordinance shall be
deemed guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by fine not exceeding Two
Thousand Dollars ($2,000). Each day any such violation continues after due
notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.
Section 5: This Ordinance shall be cumulative of all provisions of the Code of
Ordinances of the City of North Richland Hills, except where the provisions of
this Ordinance are in direct conflict with the provisions of such ordinances and
such Code, in which event conflicting provisions of such ordinances and such
Code are hereby repealed.
Section 6: It is hereby declared to be the intention of the City Council that the phrases,
clauses, sentences, paragraphs and sections of this Ordinance are severable,
and, if any phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph or section of this Ordinance
shall be declared unconstitutional by the valid judgment or decree of any court
of competent jurisdiction, such unconstitutionality 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 unconstitutional phrase,
clause, sentence, paragraph or section.
Section 7: All rights and remedies of the City of North Richland Hills are expressly saved
as to any and all violations of the provisions of any ordinances in the Code
of Ordinances of the City of North Richland Hills that have accrued at the
time of the effective date of this Ordinance; and, as to such accrued violations
and all pending litigation, both civil and criminal, whether pending in court or
not, under such ordinances, same shall not be affected by this Ordinance but
may be prosecuted until final disposition by the courts.
Section 8: The City Secretary is hereby authorized and directed to cause the publication
of the descriptive caption and penalty clause of this ordinance as provided
by law.
Section 9: This ordinance shall be in full force and effect immediately upon passage
and publication as required by Section 8 herein.
AND IT IS SO ORDAINED.
PASSED AND APPROVED on this 14th day of October, 2019.
Ordinance No.3616
Page 30 of 31
•
CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS,
TEXAS:
By:
Rita Wright Oujes. , M or ro Tern
ATTEST:
(LArj
Alicia Richardson, Cifyr`S cret Py..•'
rl/�ffs'iri lulls• _ �,``
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY:
{
J
Maleshia B. McGinnis, City Attorney
APPROVED AS TO CONTENT:
Stan Tinney, Fire C 'ef
Ordinance No.3616
Page 31 of 31
Star-Telegram
MEDIA
Arlington Citizen-Journal I The Keller Citizen!La Estrella
Mansfield News-Mirror I Star-Telegram Northeast I IN! ‘erford Star-Telegram
star-telegram.com 1808 Throckmorton St.I Ft Worth,Tx.76102-6315
AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION
Account N Ad Number Identification PO Amount Cols Depth
600579 0004423023 CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS ORDINANC ORDINANCE NO.3616 $100.76 1 57.00 Li
Attention: Traci Henderson THE STATE OF TEXAS
CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS County of Tarrant
PO BOX 820609
NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TX 761820609 Before me, a Notary Public in and for
said County and State,this day
personally appeared VICTORIA
CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS RODELA, Bid and Legal Coordinator
ORDINANCE NO.3616 9
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY for the Star-Telegram, published b
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF g p by
NORTH RICHLAND HILLS the Star-Telegram, Inc. at Fort Worth,
AMENDING CHAPTER 38,ARTI-
CLE II, OF THE NORTH RICH- in Tarrant County,Texas; and who,
LAND HILLS CODE OF ORDI-
NANCES AND ADOPTING THE after being duly sworn, did depose
2018 EDITION OF THE INTER- CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS and say that the attached clipping of
NATIONAL FIRE CODE,INCLUD- ORDINANCE NO.3616 Y pP 9
ING APPENDICES B, C, D, F, H AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY an advertisement was published in
AND I,OF SUCH CODE;PROVID- COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
ING AMENDMENTS TO THE NORTH RICHLAND HILLS the above named paper on the listed
2018 INTERNATIONAL FIRE AMENDING CHAPTER 38,ARTI-
CODE;REGULATING AND GOV- CLE II, OF THE NORTH RICH- dates:
ERNING THE SAFEGUARDING LAND HILLS CODE OF ORDI-
OF LIFE AND PROPERTY FROM NANCES AND ADOPTING THE
FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZ- 2018 EDITION OF THE INTER-
ARDS ARISING FROM THE NATIONAL FIRE CODE,INCLUD-
STORAGE,HANDLING AND USE ING APPENDICES B, C, D, F, H
OF HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES, AND I,OF SUCH CODE;PROVID-
MATERIALS AND DEVICES, ING AMENDMENTS TO THE 2 Insertion(s)
AND FROM CONDITIONS HAZ- 2018 INTERNATIONAL FIRE
ARDOUS TO LIFE OR PROPER-
TY IN THE OCCUPANCY OF CODE;REGULATING AND GOV-
ERNING THE SAFEGUARDING
NORTH RI CHLAND HILLS;PRO-
O- Published On:
BUILDINGS AND PREMISES OF LIFE AND PROPERTY FROM October 17,2019,October 18,2019
RI
VIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZ-
PERMITS FOR HAZARDOUS ARDS ARISING FROM THE
USES OR OPERATIONS; PRO- STORAGE,HANDLING AND USE
VIDING A PENALTY; AUTHOR- OF HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES,
!ZING PUBLICATION;AND PRO- MATERIALS AND DEVICES,
VIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. AND FROM CONDITIONS HAZ-
Any person who violates any of the ARDOUS TO LIFE OR PROPER-
provisions of this ordinance TY IN THE OCCUPANCY OF
shall be deemed guilty of a mis- BUILDINGS AND PREMISES IN
demeanor punishable by fine not NORTH RICHLAND HILLS; PRO-
exceeding Two Thousand Dol- VIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF '
lars($2,000).Each day any such PERMITS FOR HAZARDOUS '
violation continues after due USES OR OPERATIONS; PRO-
notice has been served shall be VIDING A PENALTY; AUTHOR-
deemed a separate of- IZING PUBLICATION;AND PRO-
fense. VIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
PASSED AND APPROVED on this Any person who violates an of the
14th day of October,2019. Y
CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS provisions of this ordinance
By:/s/Rita Wright Oujesky._ shall be deemed guilty of a mis-
Rita Wright Oujesky, Mayor Pro demeanor punishable by fine not
y;e0(-la 1'
Tern exceeding Two Thousand Dol-
ATTEST:/s/Alicia Richardson lars($2,000).Each day any such (Principal Clerk)
Alicia Richardson,City Secretary violation continues after due
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LE- notice has been served shall be
GALITY: /s/ Maleshia B. deemed a separate of- SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN TO
McGinnis Tense. BEFORE ME,THIS 18th day of
Maleshia B. McGinnis, City Attor- PASSED AND APPROVED on this Y
ney 14th day of October,2019. O- o•- in the year of 119
CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS
By:/s/Rita Wright Oujesky
Rita Wright Oujesky, Mayor Pro
Tem
ATTEST: D AS TO Richardson �•
Alicia Richardson,City Secretary
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LE-
GALITY: /s/ Maleshia B.
McGinnis
Maleshia B. McGinnis, City Attor- N tay Puhlir,-
ney
4;!4'. ., AMBAR LIZARRAGA
_+ .t LV •' My Notary ID#132031291
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