HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance No. 22-034 adopting the 2021 Edition of the International Code Council’s ‘family’ of construction codes (I-Codes) and the 2020 Edition of the National Electrical Code
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EXHIBIT A
ARTICLE 3.02 TECHNICAL AND CONSTRUCTION CODES AND STANDARDS
Division 2. Building Code
Sec. 3.02.051 Adopted
The International Building Code, 2021 edition, is herewith adopted…
Sec. 3.02.053 Amendments to the Building Code
The sections of the 2021 International Building Code that are changed, added, or
deleted are as follows:
Section 101.1. Add reference to jurisdiction:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the building code of University
Park, Texas, hereinafter referred to as “this 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 extent of each such
reference. 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 National Electrical Code
shall mean the National Electrical Code as adopted.
Section 101.4.8; add the following:
101.4.8 Electrical. The provisions of the 2020 National Electrical Code shall apply
to the installation of electrical systems, including alterations, repairs, replacement,
equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings, and appurtenances thereto.
Section 103.1 is amended to read as follows:
103.1 Creation of a code enforcement agency. The Community Development
department is hereby created and the person in charge thereof shall be known as the
Building Official
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Section 105.2 is amended as follows:
Section 105.2 Work exempt from permit;
Under sub-title entitled “Building” delete all exemptions except #7 and #11
Building:
#7 Painting, Papering, Tiling, Carpeting, Cabinets, Counter Tops and similar finish
work
#11 Swings and other playground equipment accessory to detached one and two
Family dwellings
Section 105.3.2 is changed to read as follows:
105.3.2 Time limitation of application. An application for a permit for any
proposed work shall be deemed to have been abandoned 60 days after the date of
filing, unless such application has been pursued in good faith... {Remainder of
section unchanged}.
Section 105.5 is changed to read as follows:
105.5 Expiration. Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on the
site authorized by such permit is commenced within 60 days after its issuance, or if
the work authorized on the site by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a
period of 60 days after the time the work is commenced. The community
development director ...{bulk of section unchanged} ... for periods not more than 60
days each. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause
demonstrated. Construction of 10,000 square feet or less in area shall be completed
within 18 months. Construction of a building 10,001 square feet or greater in area
shall be completed within 24 months after the date of issuance of the permit.
Section 105.8 is added to read as follows:
105.8 New permit required. A new permit must be obtained for any construction
which is not completed in the allowable time or extended as provided above. A new
fee shall be required in connection with issuance of a new permit. The new fee shall
be one-half the amount required for the original permit for such work, provided no
changes have been made or will be made in the original plans and specifications for
such work. A new permit must be obtained for any construction which has been
suspended or abandoned for a period of more than 60 days. The permittee shall make
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a new application, resubmit plans for review, and pay a new full permit fee to resume
work.
Section 109.2 is changed to read as follows:
109.2 Schedule of permit fees: Fees charged shall be in accordance with the
approved master fee resolution of the city.
Section 109.3 is amended to read as follows:
109.3 Building permit valuations. Building permit valuation shall include total
market value of the proposed building or improvement, including electrical, gas,
mechanical, plumbing equipment and permanent systems. If, in the opinion of the
Building Official, the valuation is underestimated on the application, the permit shall
be denied, unless the applicant can show detailed estimates to meet the approval of
the community development director. After a permit has been issued, the Building
Official may require a certified valuation for the building or improvement to be
submitted prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
109.4 Investigation Fee. Work without a permit.
109.4 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
made before a permit may be issued for such work.
109.4 Fee. An investigation fee, in addition to the permit fee, shall be collected
whether or not a permit is subsequently issued. The investigation fee in Fee Schedule
shall be equal to the amount of the permit fee required by the master fee resolution
as applicable. The payment of such investigation fee shall not exempt the applicant
from compliance with all other provisions of either this code or the technical codes
nor from penalty prescribed by law.
Section 109.7 is added to read as follows:
109.7 Re-inspection fee. A fee as established by the master fee resolution may be
charged when:
(a) The inspection called for is not ready when the inspector arrives;
(b) No building address or permit card is clearly posted;
(c) City approved plans are not on the job site available to the inspector;
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(d) The building is locked or work otherwise not available for inspection when
called;
(e) The job site is red tagged twice for the same item;
(f) The original red tag has been removed from the job site; or
(g) Failure to maintain erosion control, trash control or tree protection.
Any re-inspection fees assessed shall be paid before any more inspections are
made on that job site
109.8 has been added to read as follows: Unauthorized cover up fee
109.8 Any work concealed without first obtaining the required inspection in
violation of section 110 shall be assessed a fee as established by the city fee
resolution
Section 110.3.6 Lath, gypsum board and gypsum panel product inspection.
Delete this section.
Section 113.1.1 is added to read as follows:
113.1.1. The board of adjustment of the city shall serve as the board of appeals
required by this code.
Section 113.3 is amended to read as follows:
113.3 Qualifications. The board of adjustment may consult with and obtain
testimony and opinions from qualified and experienced professionals in making a
determination on a matter relating to an appeal concerning building construction.
Section 202 is amended to add the definition of Community Development
Director
Community Development Director: The designated authority charged with the
administration and operation of the Community Development Department.
Section 202. The definition of high rise building is amended to read as follows:
HIGH-RISE BUILDING. A building with an occupied floor located more than 55
feet (16,764 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
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Section 202. The definition of ambulatory health care facility is amended as
follows:
Ambulatory Health Care Facility
This group may include but not be limited to the following:
(a) Dialysis centers
(b) Sedation dentistry
(c) Surgery centers
(d) Colonic centers
(e) Psychiatric centers
Section 202 is amended to add the definition of Assisted Living Facilities
ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES. A building or part thereof housing persons, on
a 24 hour basis, who because of age, mental disability, or other reasons, live in a
supervised residential environment which provides personal care services. The
occupants are capable of responding to an emergency situation without physical
assistance from the staff
Section 202 is amended to add the definition of Repair Garage
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
Section 202 is amended to add the definition of Special Inspector
SPECIAL INSPECTOR A qualified person employed or retained by an approved
agency who shall prove to the satisfaction of the Registered Design Professional in
responsible charge and the Building Official as having the competence necessary to
inspect a particular type of construction requiring special inspection
Section 303.1.3 Add sentence to read as follows
303.1.3 Associated with group E occupancies a room or space used for assembly
purposes that is associated with a Group E occupancy is not considered a separate
occupancy, except when applying the assembly requirements of Chapter 10 and 11
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Section 304.1 is amended to add the following to the list of occupancies:
Fire stations
Police stations with detention facilities for 5 or less
Section 307.1.1 is amended to add the following to exception 4:
4. Cleaning establishments... {Language unchanged}…with section 707 or 1-hour
horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with section 711, or both. See also
IFC chapter 21, Dry Cleaning Plant provisions.
Section 403.1, exception 3, is changed to read as follows:
3. The open-air portions of building….(remainder unchanged)
Section 403.3 is amended to delete Exception
Section 403.3.2; change to read as follows:
[F] 403.3.2 Water supply to required fire pumps. In buildings that are more than
420 120 feet (36.5 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 404.5 is amended to delete the exceptions.
Section 404.10; change to read as follows:
Section 404.10 Exit Stairways in an atrium. Where an atrium contains an interior
exit access stairway all the following shall be met:
[Remainder Unchanged]
Section 406.3.3.1 is amended to add item 3 to read as follows:
A fire 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)
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Section 423.5.1; change to read as follows:
423.5.1 Required occupant capacity. The required occupant capacity of the storm
shelter shall include all of the buildings on the site and shall be the greater of the
following:
1.The Total occupant load of the classrooms, vocational rooms and offices in the
Group E occupancy.
2.The occupant load of the largest indoor assembly space that is associated with the
Group E occupancy.
Exceptions:
1. Where a new building is being added on an existing Group E site, and where the
new building is not of sufficient size to accommodate the required occupant capacity
of the storm shelter for all of the buildings on the site, the storm shelter shall at a
minimum accommodate the required occupant capacity for the new building.
2. Where approved by the building official, the required occupant capacity of the
shelter shall be permitted to be reduced by the occupant capacity of any existing
storm shelters on the site.
3. Where approved by the building official, the actual number of occupants for whom
each occupied space, floor or building is designed, although less than those
determined by occupant load calculation, shall be permitted to be used in the
determination of the required design occupant capacity for the storm shelter.
Section 503.1.; add sentence to read as follows:
503.1. General. [Existing Text to remain]
Where a building contains more than one distinct type of construction, the building
shall comply with the most restrictive area, height, and stories, for the lesser type of
construction or be separated by fire walls, except as allowed in Section 510.
Table 506.2; delete footnote i from table
i. The maximum allowable area for a single-story non sprinklered Group U
greenhouse is permitted to be 9000 square feet or the allowable area shall be
permitted to comply with Table C102.1 of Appendix C.
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Section 506.3.1; add sentence to read as follows:
506.3.1 Minimum percentage of perimeter. [Existing Text remains]
In order to be considered as accessible, if not in direct contact with a street or fire
lane, a minimum 10-foot-wide pathway meeting fire department access from the
street or approved fire lane shall be provided.
Section 708.4.2; change sentence to read as follows:
708.4.2 Fire blocks and draftstops in combustible construction. [Body of text
unchanged]
Exceptions:
1. Buildings equipped with an automatic sprinkler system installed throughout
in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, or in accordance with Section
903.3.1.2 provided that sprinkler protection is provided in the space between
the top of the fire partition and the underside of the floor or roof sheathing,
deck or slab above as required for systems complying with Section
903.3.1.1. Portions of buildings containing concealed spaces filled with
noncombustible insulation as permitted for sprinkler omission shall not
apply to this exception for draft stopping. [Remainder unchanged]
Section 718.3; change sentence to read as follows:
718.3 Draft stopping in floors. [Body of text unchanged]
Exceptions: Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. and provided that in combustible construction,
sprinkler protection is provided in the floor space.
Section 718.4; change sentence to read as follows:
718.4 Draft stopping in attics. [Body of text unchanged]
Exceptions: Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and provided that in combustible construction,
sprinkler protection is provided in the attic space.
Section 901.6.1; add Section 901.6.1.1 to read as follows
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 hydrostatically tested for all FDC’s on any
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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
nighttime 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.
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Section 901.6.2 is changed to add the following Paragraphs
901.6.2. 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 community
development director 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 fire protection
system has been returned to service.
Where utilized, standby personnel shall be provided with at least one approved
means for notification of the fire department and their only duty shall be to perform
constant patrols of the protected premises and keep watch for fires.
Section 903.1.1 is amended to read as follows:
903.1.1 Alternative protection. Alternative automatic fire-extinguishing systems
complying with Section 904 shall be permitted instead of in addition to automatic
sprinkler protection where recognized by the applicable standard and or as approved
by the fire code official.
Section 903.1.2 is amended in part, as follows:
903.1.2 Residential sprinkler systems. Unless specifically allowed by this code or
the International Building Code, residential sprinkler systems installed in
accordance with NFP 13D shall not be recognized for the purposes of exception or
reductions, commonly referred to as “trade-offs,” permitted by other requirements
of this code.
In addition, all residential sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13D
must include attic sprinkler protection to be recognized for the purposes of such
trade-offs permitted by other requirements of this code
Section 903.2 is amended to add the following to the end of the paragraph:
903.2 Where required. {Language unchanged} Automatic sprinklers shall not be
installed in elevator machine rooms, elevator machine spaces, and elevator hoist-
ways. 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 is amended to delete the exception.
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Section 903.2.1.1 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.1.1 Group A-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a
fire area containing Group A-1 Occupancies.
Section 903.2.1.2 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.1.2 Group A-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a
fire area containing Group A-2 Occupancies.
Section 903.2.1.3 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.1.3 Group A-3. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a
fire area containing Group A-3 Occupancies.
Section 903.2.1.4 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.1.4 Group A-4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a
fire area containing Group A-4 Occupancies.
Section 903.2.1.5 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.1.5 Group A-5. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a
fire area containing Group A-4 Occupancies.
Section 903.2.2 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.2 Group B. Ambulatory health care facilities. An automatic sprinkler system
shall be provided throughout a fire area containing Group B ambulatory health care
facility Occupancy.
Section 903.2.3 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.3 Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a fire
area containing Group E Occupancies.
Section 903.2.4 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.4 Group F-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a
fire area containing Group F-1 Occupancies.
Section 903.2.7 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.7 Group M. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a fire
area containing Group M Occupancies.
Section 903.2.8 is amended to read as follows:
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903.2.8. Group R. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with
Section 903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area.
All existing Group R Occupancies housing Fraternities and Sororities within the
city limits of University Park shall have an automatic fire sprinkler system installed
throughout within 5 years after April 3, 2007. The sprinkler systems shall be
installed in accordance with the fire code that has been adopted at the time of
permitting for the system. The fire suppression systems shall be installed and in
service no later than January 1, 2013.
Section 903.2.8.1 is added to read as follows:
903.2.8.1 One and Two Family Dwellings and Townhouses. An automatic sprinkler
system shall be installed for one and two family dwellings and townhouses in
accordance with Section 903.3.
Section 903.2.9 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.8 Group S-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all
buildings containing Group S-1 Occupancies.
Section 903.2.9.1 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.9.1 Repair garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided
throughout all buildings used as repair garages in accordance with the International
Building Code.
Section 903.2.9.2 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.9.2 Bulk storage of tires. Buildings and structures with areas for the storage of
tires shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance
with Section 903.3.
Section 903.2.9.4 is added to read as follows:
903.2.9.4 Self-service storage facility. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
installed throughout all self-service storage facilities.
Section 903.2.10 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.10. Group S-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout
buildings classified as enclosed parking garages in accordance with Section 406.4
of the International Building Code or where located beneath other groups.
Section 903.2.10.1 Commercial Parking Garages is amended to read as follows:
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An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings used for
storage of commercial trucks and buses.
Section 903.2.11 is amended to add 903.2.11.1 as follows:
903.2.11.1. Stories and basements without openings. An automatic sprinkler system
shall be installed in every story or basement of all buildings without openings.
Amend Section 903.2.11 to delete 903.2.11.1.2 and 903.2.11.1.3 and amend
903.2.11.3
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 with an
occupant load of 30 or more, other than penthouses in compliance with Section
1510 of the International Building Code, located 55 35 feet (16 764 10 668 mm)
or more above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, measured to the
finished floor.
Exceptions:
1. Open parking structures in compliance with Section 406.5 of the International
Building Code, having no other occupancies above the subject garage.
2. Occupancies in Group F-2.
Amend Section 903.2.11 to add 903.2.11.7, 903.2.11.8, 903.2.11.9 and
903.2.11.10
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 Existing buildings. The owner of any building shall be required to install
an automatic sprinkler system at such time as the owner(s) constructs an addition or
enlargement to the building if the total square footage of such an addition, when
combined with the total square footage of all previous additions and enlargements
to the building completed after April 3, 2007:
(i) Causes the building to exceed 4,000 square feet (371.6 m2) of total floor area,
and
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(ii) Causes the total square footage of all such additions to exceed the original
floor area by more than thirty percent (30%), regardless of fire area, area separation
walls, or fire walls.
Exception: Open parking garages in compliance with Section 406.3 of the
International Building Code.
903.2.11.10. Sprinkler system for new construction. An automatic sprinkler system
shall be installed throughout all buildings. For the purpose of this provision, firewalls
shall not define separate buildings.
Exceptions:
1. Detached Group U occupancies that are 500 square feet or less;
2. Detached Group U occupancies that are greater than 500 square feet, but less than
1,000 square feet, are required to choose from one of the following methods as a
means for additional fire protection:
a. Automatic fire sprinkler system, or
b. Install 5/8" Type X Gypsum Board on all walls and ceilings of the entire
structure.
3. Detached Group U occupancies 1,000 square feet or larger are required to be
furnished with an automatic fire sprinkler system.
4. Covered walkways or open canopies above fuel dispensing pumps, bus stops or
other similar structures intended only for the temporary protection of persons from
inclement weather, but not including patios attached to buildings.
5. Temporary buildings housing construction materials and offices not exceeding 500
square feet for 180 days. Additional time can be granted by the Fire Code Official or
Building Official.
6. Open parking structures in compliance with Section 406.3 of the International
Building Code.
7. Guard houses for commercial and residential development.
8. Gazebos and Ramada’s for residential and public use.
9. Independent restroom buildings associated with golf courses, construction sites,
parks and similar uses.
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Section 903.3.1.1.1 is changed to delete #4 and #6 and 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 . . .
{language 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, and 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 Attached Garages and Attics. Sprinkler protection is required
in attached garages, and in the following attic spaces:
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.
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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 is amended to 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
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system shall be designed with a 10 psi safety factor. Reference section 507.4 for
additional design requirements
Section 903.3.5.1 is amended to read as follows:
903.3.5.1. Connections for automatic fire sprinkler systems. Automatic fire sprinkler
systems in residential structures with more than two individual units and all non-
residential structures shall have a separate connection to the potable water supply.
Installation plans for the underground supply main shall be submitted for review and
approval. The underground supply main shall be installed in accordance with this
code, National Fire Protection Association Standard 24, 2007 Edition, and State Fire
Marshal’s Office guidelines. The size of the connection shall be reviewed and
approved by the University Park Fire Department prior to installation. The water
supply for two individual units and a single-family residence can be installed in
accordance with Section 903.3.5 or this section. The minimum size of a water line
supplying a one and two family residence is 1 1/4 inch diameter. The potable water
supply shall be protected against backflow in accordance with the requirements of
this section and the 2021 International Plumbing Code.
Section 903.3.6 is amended to read as follows:
903.3.6 Fire department connection attachment. All fire department connection
outlets installed for the automatic sprinkler systems that are 1-1/2 inches in diameter
shall be installed with iron pipe threading (IPT). Outlets that are 2-1/2 inches in
diameter shall be American National Fire Hose Connection Screw Threads (NH).
When a reducer is added to a system from a 2-1/2 inch to 1-1/2 inch outlet, the 2-1/2
inch diameter outlet must have NH screw threads and the 1-1/2 inch diameter outlet
shall have IPT threading.
Section 903.4 is amended to read as follows:
All valves controlling the water 903.4 Sprinkler system monitoring and alarms
supply for automatic sprinkler systems, pumps, tanks, water levels and temperatures,
critical air pressures, and water flow switches on all sprinkler systems shall be
electrically supervised.
Exceptions:
1. Jockey-pump control valves that are sealed or locked in the open
position.
2. Control valves to commercial kitchen hoods, paint spray booths or
dip tanks that are sealed or locked in the open position.
21
3. Valves controlling the fuel supply to fire pump engines that are sealed
or locked in the open position.
4. Trim valves to pressure switches in dry, pre-action and deluge
sprinkler systems that are sealed or locked in the open position.
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 is amended to 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 as close as practicable to the fire department connection.
Section 905.2 is changed 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 a high/low
alarm.
Section 905.3; is amended to delete the exception and add Section 905.3.9 and
exception to read as follows:
[F] 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 and semi-automatic dry standpipes are allowed as provided
for in NFPA 14.
2. R-2 occupancies of four stories or less in height having no interior corridors
Section 905.4, change Item 1, 3, 5. and add Item 7. to read as follows:
[F] 1. In every required interior exit stairway, a hose connection shall be provided
for each story above and below grade plane. Hose connections shall be located at
22
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
areas of a building.
Exception: Where floor areas adjacent to an exit passageway are reachable from an
interior exit stairway, hose connection by a ……{No change to rest.}
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 a hose
connection shall be located to serve the roof or at the highest landing of an interior
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 is amended to 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:
[F] 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.
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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% of
the building. When cumulative building remodel or expansion exceeds 50% of the
building must comply within 18 months of permit application.
Section 907.2.1 is changed to read as follows:
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 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 is changed to read as follows:
907.2.3 Group E. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant
notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 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' of 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.)
{Remainder of exceptions unchanged}
24
Section 907.2.11.5 is amended to add a second paragraph after the exceptions,
to read as follows:
In an R-3 structure, the household fire alarm system shall be monitored by an
approved supervising station and be maintained in accordance with NFPA 72.
Section 907.2.12.2 is changed by changing the beginning paragraph to read as
follows:
907.2.12.2 Emergency voice/alarm communication system. The operation of any
automatic fire detector, sprinkler, water-flow device or manual fire alarm box shall
automatically sound an alert tone followed by voice instructions giving approved
information and directions on a general or selective basis to the following terminal
areas on a minimum of the alarming floor, the floor above, and the floor below in
accordance with the building’s fire safety and evacuation plans required by Section
404.
Section 907.2.13, exception 3 is changed 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 is amended to 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 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,
25
Style B provided the distance from the addressable device is within 10 feet of the
suppression system device.
Section 907.6.3; delete all four Exceptions.
Section 907.6.6; add sentence at end of paragraph to read as follows
[F] See 907.6.3 for the required information transmitted to the supervising station.
Section 907.6.6; add section 907.6.6.3 to read as follows
907.6.6.3 Communication requirements. All alarm systems, new or replacement,
shall transmit alarm, supervisory and trouble signals descriptively to the approved
central station, remote supervisory station or proprietary supervising station as
defined in NFPA 72, with the correct device designation and location of addressable
device identification. Alarms shall not be permitted to be transmitted as a General
Alarm or Zone condition.
Section 909.22; add to read as follows:
[F] 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.
[F] 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, mechanical equipment shall
activate and operate at the required performance levels. Smoke detectors shall be
installed in accordance with Section 907.3.
[F] 909.22.1.1 Ventilation systems. Smoke proof enclosure ventilation systems
shall be independent of other building ventilation systems. The equipment, control
26
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.
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
[F] 909.22.1.2 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.
[F] 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:
[F] 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.
27
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 amended to 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:
[F] 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.
[F] 910.3.4.1 Sprinkled 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 system per 910.2
28
[F] 910.3.4.2 Non-sprinkled 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:
[F] 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 manual
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.
Section 910.4.4; change to read as follows:
[F] 910.4.4 Activation. The mechanical smoke removal system shall be activated
by manual controls only automatically by the automatic sprinkler system or by an
approved fire detection system. Individual manual controls shall also be provided.
Exception: Manual only systems per Section 910.2.
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.
Section 913.2.1 is amended to 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 feet in
width and 6 feet 8 inches 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 IFC Section 506.1.
Section 913.4 is amended to add a second paragraph to read as follows:
29
The fire-pump system shall also be supervised for “loss of power,” “phase reversal,”
and “pump running” conditions by supervisory signal on distinct circuits.
Section 1006.2.1 change exception 3 to read as follows;
Section 1006.2.1 Egress based on occupant load and common path of egress travel
distance.
3. Unoccupied rooftop mechanical rooms and penthouses are not required to comply
with the common path of egress travel distance measurement
Section 1006.2.2. Add a new Section 1006.2.2.6 as follows:
1006.2.2.6 Electrical Rooms. For electrical rooms, special exiting requirements
may apply. Reference the electrical code as adopted.
Section 1009.8 is amended to add the following exception 7:
Exceptions:...
7. Buildings regulated under State Law and built in accordance with State
registered plans, including any variances or waivers granted by the State, shall be
deemed to be in compliance with the requirements of Section 1009 and Chapter 11.
Section 1010.2.5; amend exceptions 3 and 4 as follows:
Exceptions: {Text of Exceptions 1 and 2 unchanged}
3. Where a pair of doors serves an occupant load of less than 50 persons in a
Group B, F, M or S occupancy, [remaining text unchanged]
4. Where a pair of doors serves a Group A, B, F, M or S occupancy, [remaining
text unchanged].
Section 1015.8 Window Openings. Revise text as follows
1. Operable windows where the top of the sill of the opening is located more than 75
feet (22 860 mm) 55 feet (16 764 mm) above the finished grade or other surface
below and that are provided with window fall prevention devices that comply with
ASTM F 2006.
Section 1020.2 Construction; add exception 6 to read as follows:
6. In group B occupancies, corridor walls and ceilings need not be of fire-resistive
30
construction within a single tenant space when the space is equipped with
approved automatic smoke-detection within the corridor. The actuation of any
detector shall activate self-annunciating alarms audible in all areas within the
corridor. Smoke detectors shall be connected to an approved automatic fire alarm
system where such system is provided.
Section 1023.2 is amended to add exceptions 3 and 4 to read as follows:
3. In other than occupancy Groups H and I, a maximum of 50 percent of egress
stairways serving one adjacent floor are not required to be enclosed, provided at least
two means of egress are provided from both floors served by the unenclosed
stairways. Any two such interconnected floors shall not be open to other floors.
4. In other than occupancy Groups H and I, interior egress stairways serving only
the first and second stories of a building equipped throughout with an automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 are not required to be
enclosed, provided at least two means of egress are provided from both floors served
by the unenclosed stairways. Such interconnected stories shall not be open to other
stories.
Section 1023.11 is amended to read as follows:
1023.11. Smoke-proof enclosures and pressurized stairways. In buildings required
to comply with Section 403 or 405, each of the exit enclosures serving a story with
a floor service not more than 55 feet (16 764 mm) above the lowest level of fire
department vehicle access or more than 30 feet (9 144 mm) below... {Remaining
language unchanged}
Section 1025.1 is changed to read as follows:
1025.1 General. Approved luminous egress path markings delineating the exit path
shall be provided in buildings of Groups A, B, E, I, M and R-1 having occupied
floors located more than 55 feet (16 764 mm) above the lowest level of fire
department vehicle access in accordance with...
Section 1029.1.1.1 Delete this section. Spaces under grandstands and
bleachers;
Section 1101.1 Scope; add exception to Section 1101.1 as follows:
Exception: Components of projects regulated by and registered with Architectural
Barriers Division of Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation shall be
deemed to be incompliance with the requirements of this chapter.
Section 1203.1; amend to read as follows:
31
1203.1 General. Buildings shall be provided with natural ventilation in
accordance with Section 1203.4, or mechanical ventilation in accordance with the
International Mechanical Code.
Where air infiltration rate in a dwelling unit is less than 5 air changes or less per
hour when tested with a blower door at a pressure 0.2 inch w.c. (50 Pa) in
accordance with Section 402.4.1.2 of the International Energy Conservation
Code, the dwelling unit shall be ventilated by mechanical means in accordance
with Section 403 of the International Mechanical Code.
Section 1404.1.1 is added to read as follows:
1404.1.1 Masonry required. All multifamily buildings shall have a minimum of
eighty per cent (80%) masonry material on the exterior surfaces. All nonresidential
buildings shall have a minimum of ninety per cent (90%) masonry material on the
exterior surfaces. Exterior surfaces shall exclude windows, doors, and other
appurtenances. Masonry must have a minimum thickness of three and one-half
inches (3 1/2") in order to be included in the above percentages.
Table 1505.1 is amended to delete footnote C and replace footnote B with the
following:
b. Non-classified roof coverings shall be permitted on buildings of U occupancies
having not more than 120 square feet of projected roof area. When exceeding 120
square feet of projected roof area, buildings of U occupancies may use non-rated
non-combustible roof coverings.
Section 1505.7 is deleted.
Section 1510.1 is amended to add a sentence to read as follows:
1511.1 General. Materials and methods of applications used for recovering or
replacing an existing roof covering shall comply with the requirements of Chapter
15. All individual replacement shingles or shakes shall be in compliance with the
rating required by Table 1505.1.
Section 1704.2, Special inspections and tests is amended to read as follows:
1704.2 Special inspections and tests. Where application is made to the Building
Official for construction as specified in Section 105, the owner or the owner’s
authorized agent, or the registered design professional in responsible charge, other
than the contractor, shall employ one or more approved agencies to provide special
inspections and tests during construction on the types of work listed under Section
32
1705 and identify the approved agencies to the Building Official. The special
inspector shall not be employed by the contractor. These special inspections and
tests are in addition to the inspections identified by the Building Official that are
identified in Section 110.
Section 1704.2.1, Special inspector qualifications, is amended to read as
follows:
1704.2.1 Special inspector qualifications. Prior to the start of construction and or
upon request, the approved agencies shall provide written documentation to the
registered design professional in responsible charge and the building official
demonstrating the competence and relevant experience or training of the special
inspectors who will perform the special inspections and tests during construction.
[Remainder unchanged]
Section 1704.2.4, Report requirement, is amended to read as follows:
1704.2.4 Report requirement. Approved agencies shall keep records of special
inspections and tests. The approved agency shall submit reports of special
inspections and tests to the Building Official upon request, and to the registered
design professional in responsible charge. Individual inspection reports [Reports]
shall indicate that work inspected or tested was or was not completed in
conformance to approved construction documents. [Remainder unchanged]
Section 1704.2.5.2, Fabricator approval, is amended to read as follows:
1704.2.5.1 Fabricator approval. Special inspections during fabrications required
by Section 1704 are not required where the work is done on the premises of a
fabricator registered and approved to perform such work without special
inspection. Approval shall be based upon review of the fabricator's written
procedural and quality control manuals and periodic auditing of fabrication
practices by an approved agency, or a fabricator that is enrolled in a nationally
accepted inspections program. At completion of fabrication, the acceptable or
approved fabricator shall submit a certificate of compliance to the owner or the
owner’s authorized agent or the registered design professional in responsible
charge, for submittal to the building official as specified in Section 1704.5 stating
that the work was performed in accordance with the approved construction
documents. The certificate of compliance shall also be made available to the
Building Official upon request.
Section 1804.4 is amended to read as follows:
33
1804.4.1 Drainage requirements. Any person, firm, or corporation who builds or
causes to be built any residential dwelling or residential accessory structure shall be
responsible for the execution of the following site grading requirements and drainage
provisions:
(a) The slope of the final grading of soils at the side yard of any residential
dwelling or residential accessory structure shall not exceed a gradient of 5% when
measured from grade at the side property line to a point of intersection with the
elevation of grade at the foundation wall of the structure.
(b) Diversion of surface water shall be contained within the limits of a residential
lot and shall be conveyed by a free, positive, and uninterrupted means to a point of
discharge at the front property line and/or property line adjacent to an alley. Roof
drainage shall be accomplished by use of a roof guttering system connected to a
properly sized subsurface drainage conduit discharging through the curb at the street
or at the property line adjacent to an alley.
(c) If irregular site topography, use of landscaping, or architectural features such
as raised planting beds, retaining walls, fences, or sidewalks prohibit compliance
with provisions of this section, the designer shall provide alternate methods and
means as may be approved by the Building Official to assure that the requirements
of this code are met. The drainage plan must be submitted, reviewed, and approved
prior to issuance of a building permit and the work must be approved prior to final
inspection and occupancy of the structure.
(d) A drainage system capable of removing excess surface water, subsurface
water, and/or excess moisture shall be provided under all pier and beam foundations
exceeding five hundred (500) square feet in area and all basements or below grade
construction. The subsurface water drainage system shall be of a type and design as
provided by the owner’s Registered Professional Engineer. The designer of the pier
and beam foundation system shall include the subsurface drainage system design by
reference in plan notes or details on the foundation plan. All subsurface water
drainage systems shall be designed and installed on private property in such a
manner as to prohibit backflow from surface water by means of grading, check valve,
air gap, or other device as may be approved by the Building Official. The drainage
system design for a basement or below grade construction shall be such that surface
water, subsurface water, and/or moisture is not diverted onto public property or
adjacent properties, provided however, such water may be drained through enclosed
pipe into the city’s storm water drainage system.
Exception: Pier and beam foundation systems and basement or below grade
construction designed and sealed by a registered professional engineer with a design
34
expertise in structural foundation systems may incorporate a design for a foundation
drainage system as deemed appropriate.
(e) All site drainage requirements shall be installed and approved prior to final
approval of the structure and occupancy thereof. The Building official shall inspect
and approve all drainage plans, structures, and work required by this section.
Section 1804.3.2 is added to read as follows:
Maximum impermeable surface. It shall be required as a condition for granting a
permit to build, repair, remodel, enlarge or replace a structure or install additional
features such as swimming pools, drives, patios, etc., which increase impermeable
surface, that the following standards be met and complied with. Impermeable areas
of all lots shall be limited to those specified for the following lot categories:
Lot Category/S.F. of Lot Allowed Impermeable
Surface
Multifamily 63%
Nonresidential lots 90%
**Exception: Permeable Pavers and Permeable Concrete may be used provided
they are:
1. Installed per Manufacturer’s requirements
2. Materials proposed, Manufacturers installation requirements and proposed
location are provided with Submitted Plans
3. City Inspection required for manufacturer’s subsurface requirements
Section 1809.5.1 Frost Protection at required exits; delete this section
Section 2308.4.3 is amended to read as follows:
2308.4.3 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
35
3. The portions of this section which will apply are identified by an engineer in the
construction documents.
Section 2702.5; added to read as follows:
Section 2702.5 Designated Critical Operations Areas (DCOA): In areas within a
facility or site requiring continuous operation for the purpose of public safety,
emergency management, national security or business continuity, the power systems
shall comply with NFPA 70 Article 708.
Section 2901.1 is amended to 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; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
In other than E Occupancies, the minimum number of fixtures in Table 2902.1 may
be lowered, if requested in writing, by the applicant stating reasons for a reduced
number and approved by the Building Official.
Table 2902.1; add footnote g to read as follows:
g. Drinking fountains are not required in M Occupancies with an occupant load of
100 or less, B Occupancies with an occupant load of 25 or less, and for dining and/or
drinking establishments.
Add Section 2902.1.4 to read as follows:
2902.1.4 Additional fixtures for food preparation facilities. In addition to the
fixtures required in this Chapter, all food service facilities shall be provided with
additional fixtures set out in this section.
2902.1.4.1 Hand washing lavatory. At least one hand washing lavatory shall be
provided for use by employees that is accessible from food preparation, food
dispensing and ware washing areas. Additional hand washing lavatories may be
required based on convenience of use by employees.
2902.1.4.2 Service sink. In new or remodeled food service establishments, at least
one service sink or one floor sink shall be provided so that it is conveniently
located for the cleaning of mops or similar wet floor cleaning tool and for the
disposal of mop water and similar liquid waste. The location of the service sink(s)
36
and/or mop sink(s) shall be approved by the county’s health department.
Section 3002.1 Hoist way Enclosure Protection add exceptions to read as
follows:
Exceptions:
1. Elevators wholly located within atriums complying with Section 404 shall not
require Hoist way enclosure protection.
2. Elevators in open or enclosed parking garages that serve only the parking
garage, and complying with Sections 406.5 and 406.6, respectively, shall not
require Hoist way enclosure protection.
Section 3005.4 Machine rooms, control rooms, machinery spaces and control
spaces; Delete exceptions and add two new exceptions to as follows:
Exceptions:
1. Elevator machine rooms, control rooms, machinery spaces and control
spaces completely located within atriums shall not require enclosure protection.
3. Elevator machine rooms, control rooms, machinery spaces and control
spaces in open or enclosed parking garages that serve only the parking
garage, shall not require enclosure protection.
Section 3005.5: Add a new subsection to Section 3005.5.1 as follows:
3005.5.1 Fire Protection in Machine rooms, control rooms, machinery spaces and
control spaces.
3005.5.1.1 Automatic sprinkler system. The building shall be equipped throughout
with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, except as
otherwise permitted by Section 903.3.1.1.1 and as prohibited by Section
3005.5.1.1.1.
3005.5.1.1.1 Prohibited locations. Automatic sprinklers shall not be installed in
machine rooms, elevator machinery spaces, control rooms, control spaces and
elevator hoist ways.
3005.5.1.1.2 Sprinkler system monitoring. The sprinkler system shall have a
sprinkler control valve supervisory switch and water-flow initiating device
37
provided for each floor that is monitored by the building’s fire alarm system.
3005.5.1.2 Water protection. An approved method to prevent water from
infiltrating into the hoistway enclosure from the operation of the automatic
sprinkler system outside the elevator lobby shall be provided.
3005.5.1.3 Omission of Shunt trip. Means for elevator shutdown in accordance
with Section 3005.5 shall not be installed.
Section 3005.8 add Section 3005.8 as follows:
3005.8 Storage. Storage shall not be allowed within the elevator machine room,
control room, machinery spaces and or control spaces. Provide approved signage at
each entry to the above listed locations stating: "No Storage Allowed”.
Section 3006.2, Hoist way opening protection required. Revise text as follows:
5. The building is a high rise and the elevator hoist way is more than 55 feet (16
764 mm) in height. The height of the hoist way shall be measured from the lowest
floor at or above grade to the highest floors served by the hoist way.
Section 3107 is amended to read:
3107 Signs shall be designed, constructed, and maintained in accordance with this
code, Code of Ordinances and elsewhere in chapter 31
Section 3109.1; change to read as follows:
3109.1 General. Swimming pools shall comply with the requirements of sections
3109.2 through 3109.5 and other applicable sections of this code and complying
with applicable state laws.
Section 3303.8; is added to read as follows:
3303.8 Dust and rodent control measures. The work of demolishing any building
shall not be commenced until the required pedestrian protection fences, dust control
procedures, and rat elimination methods are in place. The Building Official may
require the permittee to submit plans and a complete schedule for demolition, rat
elimination, pedestrian protection structures, and dust control measures. Where such
plans and complete schedules are required, no work shall be done until they are
approved by the community development director.
38
Section 3303.8.1 is added to read as follows:
3303.8.1 Dust control. The work of demolishing any building shall not be
commenced until the required dust control procedures are in place. The Building
Official may require the applicant to submit plans and a complete schedule for
demolition and dust control measures. Where such measures are required, no work
shall be done until such plans or schedule, or both, are approved by the Building
Official. All reasonable precautions shall be taken to prevent dust from becoming
airborne at and near the demolition site. The applicant shall provide for the adequate
use of water for dust suppression on the demolition site so as to prevent a public
nuisance, health hazard or safety hazard.
Section 3303.8.2 is added to read as follows:
3303.8.2; Rodent control. For eliminating or controlling rats in a building
scheduled for demolition, the owner or demolition contractor shall be required to
submit a plan to exterminate, bait, trap, poison or fumigate for rats prior to
demolition. Such methods may include “rodent stations” around the property. If
traps are used, they shall be kept set and freshly baited at frequent intervals and
maintained in good working order and shall be inspected daily for a minimum of
seven (7) days immediately prior to the beginning of demolition. If the plan includes
poisoning or fumigating, it must be conducted in a manner approved by the health
officer or any other authorized agency of the city, state, or United States. To the
extent required by state law, all such methods shall be carried out by licensed pest
control operators.
Section 3304.2 is added to read as follows:
3304.2 Site grading. After Demolition and during construction, sites shall be graded
such that surface water shall be contained within the limits of the lot in which the
construction is taking place, and shall be conveyed by a free, uninterrupted means
to point of discharge at the front property line and/or property line adjacent to an
alley. To prevent the runoff of water, mud, or soil onto an adjacent property, public
street, alley, or sidewalk, the Building Official may require various methods such as
silt fencing, regarding, or other erosion protection procedures to be implemented to
prevent such runoff.
Section 3304.2.1 is added to read as follows:
3304.2.1 Removal of structures. Where demolition or removal of any structure is
done, the lot shall be completely cleaned of all structures and appurtenances and
also be properly graded so as to insure proper drainage of the entire lot including
39
proper leveling. Erosion Control must be established. Any exception to this
requirement shall be determined by the community development director.
Section 3305.1, add a sentence to read as follows:
Sanitary facilities shall not be in any required front or side yard setback area.
40
Division 3. Residential Code
Sec. 3.02.101 Adopted
The International Residential Code for One and Two-Family Dwellings, 2021
edition, and amendments (“code”) are herewith adopted by reference. …
Sec. 3.02.103 Amendments
The sections of the code that are changed, added, or deleted are as follows:
Section R101.1, add reference to jurisdiction:
R101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Residential Code for One- and
Two-Family Dwellings of University Park, Texas, and shall be cited as such and will
be referred to herein as “this Code.”
Section R102.4 is changed to read as follows:
R102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes, when specifically adopted,
and standards referenced in this code shall be considered part of the requirements
of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference and as further regulated
in Sections R102.4.1 and R102.4.2. 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 made to NFPA
70 or the Electrical Code shall mean the Electrical Code as adopted.
R103.1 Creation of enforcement agency. The Community Development
Department is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as
the building official.
Section R104.10.1 Flood Hazard areas; delete this section.
Section R105.2 is hereby deleted.
Section R105.3.1.1& R106.1.4; delete these sections.
Section R105.5 is changed to read as follows:
R105.5 Expiration. Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work
authorized by such permit is commenced within 60 days after its issuance, or if the
work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 60 days
after the time the work is commenced. For one- and two-family construction, all
work commenced under a building permit shall be completed within eighteen (18)
41
months. All work commenced under a demolition permit shall be completed within
fourteen (14) days.
The Building Official...{remainder of section unchanged}. No permit shall be
extended more than once. Demolition permits shall not be extended.
Section R105.5.1 is added to read as follows:
R105.5.1. New permits required. A new permit must be obtained for any
construction which is not completed in the allowable time period or extended as
provided above. A new fee shall be required in connection with issuance of a new
permit. The new fee shall be one-half the amount required for the original permit
for such work, provided no changes have been made or will be made in the original
plans and specifications for such work.
A new permit must be obtained for any construction which has been suspended or
abandoned for a period of more than sixty (60) days. The permittee shall make a
new application, resubmit plans for review, and pay a new full permit fee to resume
work.
Section 108.2 is changed to read as follows:
108.2. Schedule of permit fees: Fees charged shall be in accordance with the
approved master fee resolution of the City of University Park.
Section R108.2.1 is added to read as follows:
R108.2.1. Building area. For fee calculation purposes, the building area is the total
floor area of all stories devoted to human occupancy, including halls, stairways,
elevators, and other uses, measured to the outside faces of exterior walls and
includes:
(1) Total area under the roof and enclosed by walls, including garages, carports,
porches, patios, and other roofed, open areas.
Section 108.7 is added to read as follows:
108.7 Re-inspection fee. A fee as established by city council resolution may be
charged when:
1. The inspection called for is not ready when the inspector arrives;
2. No building address or permit card is clearly posted;
3. Approved plans are not on the job site available to the inspector;
42
4. The building is locked or work otherwise not available for inspection when
called;
5. The job site is red tagged twice for the same item;
6. The original red tag has been removed from the job site and/or,
7. Violations exist on the property including failure to maintain erosion control,
trash control or tree protection.
8. Any re-inspection fees assessed shall be paid before any more inspections are
made on that job site.
Section R109.1.3 is changed in part as follows:
R109.1.3. Floodplain inspections. For construction permitted in areas prone to
flooding as established by Table R301.2(1), upon...{bulk of section
unchanged}...construction, the building official may require
submission...{remainder of section unchanged}.
Section R110.1 through R110.5 is hereby deleted.
Section 112.1.1 is added to read as follows:
Section 112.1.1 The Board of Adjustment of the City of University Park shall serve
as the Board of Appeals required by this Code.
Section 112.3 is changed to read as follows:
Section 112.3 Qualifications: The Board of Adjustment may consult with and
obtain opinions and testimony from qualified and experienced professionals in
deciding on appealed matters relating to building construction.
Section R115 is added to read as follows:
Section R115 Building site requirements
R115.1 General. All building sites shall be maintained in such a manner as to be
kept free of construction debris, garbage, trash, or any unsanitary condition.
R115.2 Toilet facilities. During construction, all projects covered by a building
permit shall have sanitation facilities located either in a building or in the rear yard.
Portable toilets shall not be located in any required front or side yard
43
R115.3 Sanitation. All garbage and trash, as those terms are defined in Section
11.101 of the Code of Ordinances, shall be deposited in an approved container or
containers on each residential construction site daily. Such containers shall meet the
requirements of Section 11.101 of the Code of Ordinances and shall be placed for
collection on the construction site adjacent to the alley which serves the site. The
City Council will establish fees for such service by appropriate amendment to the
City’s Master Fee Resolution.
R115.4 Construction debris. During new residential construction or major
residential remodeling, the Building Official may require that a commercial
dumpster or trash container be provided for construction debris, due to the size of
the job or area of the lot. Such dumpster or container shall not be used to discard
garbage or trash as defined in Section 11.101 of the Code of Ordinances, but only
debris generated as a result of the construction materials used for the project. The
dumpster or container must be emptied regularly. The dumpster or container may
not be placed on public right-of-way at any time, including “staging” to replace a
full container with an empty one, which staging shall be performed on private
property, provided however, the Public Works Director may, upon written
application by the builder, grant an exception for a period not to exceed thirty (30)
minutes where the size, topography, or existing trees, of a lot prevent staging
thereon, and provided the builder agrees in writing to be responsible for any damage
caused to public property during such staging.
R115.5 Construction fence. A fence is required around all-residential new
construction sites and major residential remodeling or alteration projects. If, in the
opinion of the Building Official, the proposed remodeling or alteration would not
adversely impact adjoining properties due to construction debris, traffic, or other
associated conditions, the Building Official may waive the requirement of the
construction fence or any portion thereof. The minimum height for a construction
fence shall be six feet (6') and openings therein shall not exceed six (6) square inches.
Gates, when open, shall not obstruct public sidewalks or alleys and shall be locked
when daily activities are shut down. On any construction site where, in the opinion
of the Building Official, a solid fence would ensure the safety of the public, a solid
fence shall be required.
R115.6 Site grading. After Demolition or during Construction, residential sites shall
be graded such that surface water shall be contained within the limits of the lot in
which the construction is taking place, and shall be conveyed by a free, uninterrupted
means to a point of discharge at the front property line and/or property line adjacent
to an alley. In order to prevent the runoff of water, mud, or soil onto an adjacent
property, public street, alley, or sidewalk, the Building Official may require various
44
methods, such as silt fencing, regrading, or other erosion protection procedures, to
be implemented to prevent such runoff.
R115.7 Demolition. Prior to Demolition or Salvage of any Structure item’s 1 thru 3
below must be achieved. Salvage on sites is not allowed until demolition permit has
been issued. The Building Official may require the permittee to submit plans and a
complete schedule for demolition, rat elimination, pedestrian protection structures,
and dust control measures. Where such plans and schedules are required, no work
shall be done until they are approved by the Building Official and the following
methods and procedures are in place:
1. For the purpose of eliminating or controlling rats in a building scheduled for
demolition, the owner or demolition contractor shall be required to submit a plan to
exterminate, bait, trap, poison or fumigate for rats prior to demolition. Such methods
may include “rodent stations” around the property. If traps are used, they shall be
kept set and freshly baited at frequent intervals and maintained in good working
order and shall be inspected daily for a minimum of seven (7) days immediately
prior to the beginning of demolition. If the plan includes poisoning or fumigating,
it must be conducted in a manner approved by the health officer or any other
authorized agency of the City, State, or United States. To the extent required by state
law, all such methods shall be carried out by licensed pest control operators.
2. The work of demolishing any building shall not be commenced until the
required dust control procedures are in place. The Building Official may require the
applicant to submit plans and a complete schedule for demolition and dust control
measures. Where such measures are required, no work shall be done until such plans
or schedule, or both, are approved by the Building Official. All precautions shall be
taken to prevent dust from becoming airborne at and near the demolition site. The
applicant shall provide for the adequate use of water for dust suppression on the
demolition site so as to prevent a public nuisance, health hazard or safety hazard.
3. On any demolition site a construction fence shall be required. The minimum
height for a construction fence shall be six feet (6') and openings therein shall not
exceed six (6) square inches. Gates, when open, shall not obstruct public sidewalks
or alleys and shall be locked when daily activities are shut down. Fences are to be
removed upon demolition final
R115.9 Removal of structures. Where demolition or removal of any Primary
structure is done, the lot shall be completely cleaned of all structures and
appurtenances and also be properly graded so as to ensure proper drainage of the
45
entire lot including proper leveling. Erosion Control must be established. Any
exception to this requirement shall be determined by the Building Official.
R115.10 Jobsite dust and material containment. To prevent dust from being
airborne, a wet saw shall be used when cutting masonry, brick, stone, or concrete.
Measures must be taken to contain blowing trash or building material.
Section R202 is amended to change the definition of “Townhouse” to read as
follows:
TOWNHOUSE. A single-family dwelling unit constructed in a group of three or
more attached units separated by property lines in which each unit extends from
foundation to roof and with a yard or public way on at least two sides.
Table R301.2 (1); fill in as follows:
Delete remainder of table Manual J Design Criteria and footnote N
Section R302.1 delete exceptions.
Section R302.2, Exception; change to read as follows:
GROUND
SNOW
LOAD
WIND DESIGN
SEISMIC
DESIGN
CATEGORYf
A
SUBJECT TO
DAMAGE FROM
WINTER DESIGN
TEMPe
ICE
BARRIER
UNDER-
LAYMENT h
FLOOD
HAZARDSg
AIR
FREEZING
INDEXi
MEAN ANNUAL
TEMPj
SPEEDd
(MPH)
Topographic
Effectsk
Special
Wind
RegionL
Windborne
Debris
Zonem
Weathering a
Frost Line
Depthb
Termitec
5 lb/ft
220
F
No
Loca
l
Cod
e
150
64.9
0 F
115
(3 sec-
gust)/ 76
fastest
mile
No
No
No
Moderate
6”
Very
Heavy
46
Exception: A common two-hour fire-resistance-rated wall assembly, or one-hour
fire-resistance-rated wall assembly when equipped with a sprinkler system...
{remainder unchanged}
Section R302.2.4, Exception 5, is changed to read as follows:
Exceptions:
4. Townhouses separated by a common two-hour fire-resistance-rated wall, or
one-hour fire resistant rated wall when equipped with an automatic sprinkler system,
{remainder unchanged}
Section R302.3; add Exception #3 to read as follows:
Exceptions:
1. {existing language unchanged}
2. {existing language unchanged}
3. Two-family dwelling units that are also divided by a property line through the
structure shall be separated as required for townhouses.
Section R302.5.1; change to read as follows:
R302.5.1 Opening protection. Openings from a private garage directly into a
room used for sleeping purposes shall not be permitted. Other openings between
the garage and residence shall be equipped with solid wood doors not less than 1-
3/8 inches (35 mm) in thickness, solid or honeycomb core steel doors not less than
1-3/8 inches (35 mm) thick, or 20-minute fire-rated doors equipped with a self-
closing device.
Section 302.5.2 is amended in part as follows:
R302.5.2 Duct penetration. Ducts in the garage ... {language unchanged} ... and shall
have no openings into the garage and shall be protected as required by Section
302.11, Item 4.
Section R302.7 is changed to read as follows:
R302.7 Under-stair protection. Enclosed accessible space under stairs shall have
walls, under stair surface and any soffits protected on the enclosed side with 5/8-
inch (15.8 mm) fire-rated gypsum board or one-hour fire-resistive construction.
47
Section R303.3, Exception, is changed to read as follows:
Exception: The glazed areas shall not be required where artificial light and a
mechanical ventilation system, complying with one of the following, are provided.
1. The minimum ventilation rates shall be 50 cfm (24 L/s) for intermittent
ventilation or 20 cfm (10 L/s) for continuous ventilation. Ventilation air from the
space shall be exhausted directly to the outside.
2. Bathrooms that contain only a water closet, a lavatory, or water closet and a
lavatory may be ventilated with an approved mechanical recirculating fan or similar
device designed to remove odors from the air.
Section R313 is added to read as follows:
R313 Fire sprinklers. An approved automatic fire sprinkler system shall be
installed in all new one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.3 of the International Fire Code.
In an R-3 structure, the household fire alarm and smoke detection system shall be
monitored by an approved supervising station and be maintained in accordance
with NFPA 72.
R313.1 Existing Buildings. The owner of any one and two family dwelling or
townhouse shall be required to install an automatic sprinkler system to protect the
existing building and new additions at such time as the owner(s) constructs an
addition or enlargement to the building if the total square footage of such an addition,
when combined with the total square footage of all previous additions and
enlargements to the building after August 1, 2008:
(i) Causes the building to exceed 4,000 square feet (371.6 m2) of total floor area;
and
(ii) The total square footage of all such additions exceeds the *existing under
roof floor area of the building by more than thirty percent (30%), regardless of fire
area, area separation walls, or fire walls.
Section R315.2.2 Alterations, repairs and additions. Amend to read as follows:
Exception: 2. Installation, alteration, or repairs of all electrically powered
mechanical systems or plumbing appliances.
48
Section 327.1.1; add to read as follows:
Section 327.1.1 Adjacency to Structural Foundation. Depth of the swimming
pool and spa shall maintain a ratio of 1:1 from the nearest building foundation or
footing of a retaining wall.
Exception:
A sealed engineered design drawing of the proposed new structure shall be
submitted for approval.
R401.2 is replaced to read as follows
Foundations for one and two-family dwellings shall be designed to meet one of the
following criteria:
(1) Concrete pier and beam foundation, designed and sealed by a registered Texas
engineer; or
(2) Slab foundation supported by grade beams or piers, designed in accordance
with WRI/CRSI Design of Slab-on-Ground Foundations, designed and sealed by a
registered Texas engineer; or
(3) Post-tensioned foundation, designed in accordance with PTI Design and
Construction of Post-Tensioned Slab-on-Ground Foundations, designed and sealed
by a registered Texas engineer; or
Exception: Piers shall not be required for detached accessory structures unless
existing soil conditions are determined to mandate such design.
(4) The height of the exterior grade beam, on either a slab or a pier and beam
foundation, shall be no higher than the average of the heights of the grade beams of
the residences located on the adjacent properties. In cases where the average height
will not allow for positive drainage of the subject site because of existing
topography, the Building Official may allow no more than twelve inches (12") to be
added to the height of the exterior grade beam to achieve positive drainage,
consistent with the requirements set out under Subsection R401.3.1 below.
(5) In cases where the addition to the height of the exterior grade beam, as
described in (4) above, will not provide for positive drainage of the subject site
because of existing topography, the developer shall submit a drainage plan, prepared
49
and sealed by a Texas Registered Professional Engineer, which will establish the
grading, drainage, grade beam height and minimum finished floor elevations in
compliance with Section R401.3.1. for consideration.
(6) The exposed height of the exterior grade beam shall not exceed twelve inches
(12").
Section R401.3 is replaced with the following:
R401.3 Drainage and control of runoff water. It shall be unlawful and an offense for
any person, firm or corporation to do work or cause work to be accomplished that
diverts, impounds, or otherwise alters the natural flow of surface water drainage in
such a manner that causes damage to property, creates an attractive nuisance, or
causes an unreasonable risk to the public health, safety, or general welfare.
Section R401.3.1 is added to read as follows:
R401.3.1 Drainage requirements. Any person, firm, or corporation who builds or
causes to be built any residential dwelling or residential accessory structure shall be
responsible for the execution of the following site grading requirements and drainage
provisions:
(a) The slope of the final grading of soils at the side yard of any residential
dwelling or residential accessory structure shall not exceed a gradient of 5% when
measured from grade at the side property line to a point of intersection with the
elevation of grade at the foundation wall of the structure.
(b) Diversion of surface water shall be contained within the limits of a residential
lot and shall be conveyed by a free, positive, and uninterrupted means to a point of
discharge at the front property line and/or property line adjacent to an alley. Roof
drainage shall be accomplished by use of a roof guttering system connected to a
properly sized subsurface drainage conduit discharging through the curb at the street
or at the property line adjacent to an alley.
50
(c) If irregular site topography, use of landscaping, or architectural features such
as raised planting beds, retaining walls, fences, or sidewalks prohibit compliance
with provisions of this section, the designer shall provide alternate methods and
means as may be approved by the Building Official to assure that the requirements
of this Code are met. The drainage plan must be submitted, reviewed, and approved
prior to issuance of a building permit and the work must be approved prior to final
inspection and occupancy of the structure.
(d) A drainage system capable of removing excess surface water, subsurface
water, and/or excess moisture shall be provided under all pier and beam foundations
exceeding five hundred (500) square feet in area and all basements or below grade
construction. The subsurface water drainage system shall be of a type and design as
provided by the owner’s Registered Professional Engineer. The design of the pier
and beam foundation system shall include the subsurface drainage system design by
reference in plan notes or details on the foundation plan. All subsurface water
drainage systems shall be designed and installed on private property in such a
manner as to prohibit back flow from surface water by means of grading, check
valve, air gap, or other device as may be approved by the Building Official. The
drainage system design for a basement or below grade construction shall be such
that surface water, subsurface water, and/or moisture is not diverted onto public
property or adjacent properties, provided however, such water may be drained
through enclosed pipe into the City’s storm water drainage system.
Exception: Pier and beam foundation systems and basement or below grade
construction designed and sealed by a registered professional engineer with design
expertise in structural foundation systems may incorporate a design for a foundation
drainage system as deemed appropriate.
(e) All site drainage requirements shall be installed and approved prior to final
approval of the structure and occupancy thereof. The Building Official shall inspect
and approve all drainage plans, structures, and work required by this section.
R401.3.2 Maximum impermeable surface. It shall be required as a condition for
granting a permit to build, repair, remodel, enlarge or replace a structure or install
additional features such as swimming pools, drives, patios, etc., which increase
51
impermeable surface, that the following standards be met. Impermeable areas of all
lots shall be limited to those specified for the following lot categories:
Lot Category/S.F. of Lot Allowed Impermeable Surface
Single-family
0 - 6,000 sq. ft. 3,600 sq. ft.
6,001 - 7,500 sq. ft. 60%
7,501 - 10,000 sq. ft. 52% or 4,500 sq. ft., whichever is
greater
10,001 - 12,000 sq. ft. 48% or 5,200 sq. ft., whichever is
greater
12,001 - 35,000 sq. ft. 40% or 5,760 sq. ft., whichever is
greater
35,001 sq. ft. and greater 35% or 14,000 sq. ft., whichever
is greater
Single-family attached and
two-family
63%
**Exception: Permeable Pavers and Permeable Concrete may be used provided
they are:
1. Installed per Manufacturer’s Instructions
2. Materials proposed, Manufacturers Installation requirements and proposed
location are provided with Submitted Plans
3. City Inspection required for manufacturer’s subsurface requirements
Section R401.4 is changed to read as follows:
52
R401.4 Soil tests: A soil test is required for all new construction of one and two
family dwellings. Tests shall be made by an approved agency using an approved
method.
Sections R401.4.1 and R401.4.2 are hereby deleted.
Section R602.6.1; amend the following:
R602.6.1 Drilling and notching of top plate. When piping or ductwork is placed in
or partly in an exterior wall or interior load-bearing wall, necessitating cutting,
drilling or notching of the top plate by more than 50 percent of its width, a
galvanized metal tie not less than 0.054 inch thick (1.37 mm) (16 Ga) and 1 ½
inches (38) mm 5 inches (127 mm) wide shall be fastened across and to the plate at
each side of the opening with not less than eight 10d (0.148 inch diameter) having
a minimum length of 1 ½ inches (38 mm) at each side or equivalent. Fasteners will
be offset to prevent splitting of the top plate material. The metal tie must extend a
minimum of 6 inches past the opening. See figure R602.6.1. {remainder
unchanged}
53
Figure R602.6.1; delete the figure and insert the following figure:
Add section R703.8.4.1.2 Veneer Ties for Wall Studs; to read as follows:
Section R703.8.4.1.2; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
In stud framed exterior walls, all ties shall be anchored to studs as follows:
1. When studs are 16 in (407 mm) o.c., stud ties shall be spaced no further apart
than 24 in (737 mm) vertically starting approximately 12 in (381 mm) from the
foundation; or
2. When studs are 24 in (610 mm) o.c., stud ties shall be spaced no further apart
than 16 in (483 mm) vertically starting approximately 8 in (254 mm) from the
foundation.
Section R902.1 a second paragraph is added to read as follows:
54
R902.1 Minimum roof class. All roof coverings shall be a minimum Class C. All
individual replacement shingles or shakes shall be a minimum Class C.
Section R908.1 add a sentence to read as follows:
All individual replacement shingles or shakes shall comply with Section R902.1.
Chapter 11 [RE] – Energy Efficiency is deleted in its entirety and replaced
with the following:
N1101.1 Scope. This chapter regulates the energy efficiency for the design and
construction of buildings regulated by this code.
N1101.2 Compliance. Compliance shall be demonstrated by meeting the
requirements of the residential provisions of 2021 International Energy
Conservation Code and recommended amendments.
Section M1305.1.2 is changed to read as follows:
M1305.1.2 Appliances in attics. Attics containing appliances shall be provided . .
.{bulk of paragraph unchanged} . . . all sides of the appliance where access is
required. The clear access opening dimensions shall be a minimum of 20 inches by
30 inches (508 mm by 762 mm), or larger where such dimensions are not large
enough to allow removal of the largest appliance. As a minimum, access to the attic
space shall be provided by one of the following:
1. A permanent stair.
2. A pull down stair with a minimum 300 lb capacity.
3. An access door from an upper floor level.
4. Access Panel may be used in lieu of items 1, 2, and 3 if appliance is serviceable
from access opening and opening is large enough to remove the largest piece of
equipment
Exceptions:
1. The passageway and level service space are not required where the appliance
is capable of being serviced and removed through the required opening.
2. Where the passageway is unobstructed ...[remainder unchanged]
Section M1307.8 is added to read as follows:
55
M1307.7 Gas appliances. No gas-fired appliances or equipment shall be installed
under any stairway or stairway landing.
Section M1411.3 is changed to read as follows:
M1411.3 Condensate disposal. Condensate from all cooling coils or evaporators
shall be conveyed from the drain pan outlet to a sanitary sewer through a trap, by
means of a direct or indirect drain. {Remainder unchanged}
Section M1411.3.1, Items 3 and 4; add text to read as follows:
M1411.3.1 Auxiliary and secondary drain systems. {bulk of paragraph
unchanged}
1. {text unchanged}
2. {text unchanged}
3. An auxiliary drain pan… {bulk of text unchanged}… with Item 1 of this
section. A water level detection device may be installed only with prior approval of
the building official.
4. A water level detection device… {bulk of text unchanged}… overflow rim of
such pan. A water level detection device may be installed only with prior approval
of the building official.
M1411.3.1.1; add text to read as follows:
M1411.3.1.1 Water-level monitoring devices. On down-flow units …{bulk of text
unchanged}… installed in the drain line. A water level detection device may be
installed only with prior approval of the building official.
M1503.6 Makeup Air Required Amend and add exception as follows:
M1503.6 Makeup air required. Where one or more gas, liquid or solid fuel-
burning appliance that is neither direct-vent nor uses a mechanical draft venting
system is located within a dwelling unit’s air barrier, each exhaust system capable
of exhausting in excess of 400 cubic feet per minute (0.19 m3/s) shall be
mechanically or passively provided with makeup air at a rate approximately equal
to the difference between exhaust air rate and 400 cubic feet per minute. Such
makeup air systems shall be equipped with not fewer than one damper complying
with Section M1503.6.2.
Exception: Makeup air is not required for exhaust systems installed for the
56
exclusive purpose of space cooling and intended to be operated only when
windows or other air inlets are open. Where all appliances in the house are of
sealed combustion, power-vent, unvented, or electric, the exhaust hood system
shall be permitted to exhaust up to 600 cubic feet per minute (0.28 m3/s) without
providing makeup air. Exhaust hood systems capable of exhausting in excess of
600 cubic feet per minute (0.28 m3/s) shall be provided with a makeup air at a rate
approximately to the difference between the exhaust air rate and 600 cubic feet per
minute.
Section M2005.2 is changed to read as follows:
M2005.2 Prohibited locations. Fuel-fired water heaters shall not be installed in a
room used as a storage closet. Water heaters located in a bedroom or bathroom
shall be installed in a sealed enclosure so that combustion air will not be taken
from the living space. Access to such enclosure may be from the bedroom or
bathroom when through a solid door, weather-stripped in accordance with the
exterior door air leakage requirements of the International Energy Conservation
Code and equipped with an approved self-closing device. Installation of direct-
vent water heaters within an enclosure is not required.
Section G2406.2, delete exceptions 3 and 4 and add the following paragraph
An unvented gas fired appliance such as a room heater, fire place or space heater
shall not be installed in, or have access to, a room used as a storage closet, sleeping
room, bathroom, a closet or enclosure opening directly into a sleeping room or
bathroom.
Section G2408.3 is hereby deleted.
Section G2415.2.1 is hereby changed to add a second paragraph to read as
follows:
Both ends of each section of medium pressure gas piping shall identify its operating
gas pressure with an approved tag. The tags are to be composed of aluminum or
stainless steel and the following wording shall be stamped into the tag:
“WARNING 1/2 to 5 psi gas pressure Do Not Remove”
Section G2415.2.2 is hereby changed to add an exception to read as follows:
Exception: Corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) shall be a minimum of 1/2"
(18 EDH).
57
Section G2415.12 (404.10) is changed to read as follows:
G2415.12. (404.10) Minimum burial depth. Underground piping systems shall be
installed a minimum depth of 12 inches 18 inches (457 mm) below grade, except as
provided for in Section G2415.10.1.
Section 2415.12.1 is deleted
Section G2417.1 (406.1) is changed to read as follows:
G2417.1. (406.1) General. Prior to acceptance and initial operation, all piping
installations shall be inspected, and pressure tested to determine that the materials,
design, fabrication, and installation practices comply with the requirements of this
code. The permit holder shall make the applicable tests prescribed in Sections
2417.1.1 through 2417.1.5 to determine compliance with the provisions of this code.
The permit holder shall give reasonable advance notice to the building official when
the piping system is ready for testing. The equipment, material, power and labor
necessary for the inspections and test shall be furnished by the permit holder and the
permit holder shall be responsible for determining that the work will withstand the
test pressure prescribed in the following tests.
Section G2417.4 is changed to read as follows:
G2417.4 (406.4) Test pressure measurement. Test pressure shall be measured
with a monometer or with a pressure-measuring device designed and calibrated to
read, record, or indicate a pressure loss caused by leakage during the pressure test
period. The source of pressure shall be isolated before the pressure tests are made.
Mechanical gauges used to measure test pressures shall have a range such that the
highest end of the scale is not greater than five times the test pressure.
Section G2417.4.1; change to read as follows:
G2417.4.1 (406.4.1) Test pressure. The test pressure to be used shall be no less
than 3 psig (20 kPa gauge), or at the discretion of the Code Official, the piping and
valves may be tested at a pressure of at least six (6) inches (152 mm) of mercury,
measured with a manometer or slope gauge. Irrespective of design pressure. Where
the test pressure exceeds 125 psig (862 kPa gauge), the test pressure shall not
exceed a value that produces a hoop stress in the piping greater than 50 percent of
the specified minimum yield strength of the pipe. For tests requiring a pressure of 3
psig, diaphragm gauges shall utilize a dial with a minimum diameter of three and
one half inches (3 ½”), a set hand, 1/10 pound incrementation and pressure range
not to exceed 6 psi for tests requiring a pressure of 3 psig. For tests requiring a
pressure of 10 psig, diaphragm gauges shall utilize a dial with a minimum diameter
of three and one-half inches (3 ½”), a set hand, a minimum of 2/10 pound
58
incrementation and a pressure range not to exceed 20 psi. For welded piping, and
for piping carrying gas at pressures in excess of fourteen (14) inches water column
pressure (3.48 kPa) (1/2 psi) and less than 200 inches of water column pressure
(52.2 kPa) (7.5 psi), the test pressure shall not be less than ten (10) pounds per
square inch (69.6 kPa). For piping carrying gas at a pressure that exceeds 200
inches of water column (52.2 kPa) (7.5 psi), the test pressure shall be not less than
one and one-half times the proposed maximum working pressure.
Diaphragm gauges used for testing must display a current calibration and be in
good working condition. The appropriate test must be applied to the diaphragm
gauge used for testing
Section G2417.4.2 is changed to read as follows:
G2417.4.2 (406.4.2) Test duration. The test duration shall be held for a length of
time satisfactory to the Building Official, but in no case for less than fifteen (15)
minutes. For welded piping, and for piping carrying gas at pressures in excess of
fourteen (14) inches water column pressure (3.48 kPa), the test duration shall be held
for a length of time satisfactory to the Building Official, but in no case for less than
thirty (30) minutes.
Section G2420.1.4 is added to read as follows:
G2420.1.4 Valves in CSST installations. Shutoff valves installed with corrugated
stainless steel (CSST) piping systems shall be supported with an approved
termination fitting, or equivalent support, suitable for the size of the valves, of
adequate strength and quality, and located at intervals so as to prevent or damp out
excessive vibration, but in no case greater than 12 inches from the center of the valve.
Supports shall be installed so as not to interfere with the free expansion and
contraction of the system’s piping, fittings, and valves between anchors. All valves
and supports shall be designed and installed so they will not be disengaged by
movement of the supporting piping.
Section G2420.5.1 (409.5.1) is amended to add text to read as follows:
G2420.5.1 (409.5.1) Located within the same room. The shutoff valve... {bulk of
paragraph unchanged}... in accordance with the appliance manufacturer’s
instructions. A secondary shutoff valve must be installed within 3 feet (914 mm) of
the firebox if appliance shutoff is located in the firebox.
Section G2421.1 is changed in part as follows:
59
G2421.1 (410.1) Pressure regulators. A line pressure regulator shall be ... {bulk of
paragraph unchanged}... approved for outdoor installation. Access to regulators
shall comply with the requirements for access to appliances as specified in Section
M1305.
Exception: A passageway or level service space is not required when the regulator
is capable of being serviced and removed through the required attic opening.
Section G2422.1.2.3 (411.1.3.3) is amended to delete Exception 1 and
Exception 4.
Section G2445.2 add Exception to read as follows:
G2445.2 (621.2) Prohibited use. One or more unvented room heaters shall not be
used as the sole source of comfort heating in a dwelling unit.
Exception: Existing approved unvented room heaters may continue to be used in
dwelling units, in accordance with the code provisions in effect when installed,
when approved by the Building Official unless an unsafe condition is determined
to exist as described in International Fuel Gas Code Section 108.7 of the Fuel Gas
Code.
Section G2448.1.1 is changed to read as follows:
G2448.1.1 (624.1.1) Installation requirements. The requirements for water heaters
relative to access, sizing, relief valves, drain pans and scald protection shall be in
accordance with this Code.
Section P2502.1.1 is added to read as follows:
P2502.1.1 Demolished structures. Sewer services which are a part of buildings or
structures which are demolished, abandoned, or the use thereof discontinued, shall
be capped. All sewer lines for new construction and all relayed, replaced or relocated
sewer lines constituting or involving 50% or more of the total building sewer shall
require a new sewer tap.
Section P2603; add to read as follows:
P2603.3 Protection against corrosion. Metallic piping, except for cast iron, ductile
iron and galvanized steel, shall not be placed in direct contact with steel framing
members, concrete or cinder walls and floors or other masonry. Metallic piping shall
not be placed in direct contact with corrosive soil. Where sheathing is used to prevent
direct contact, the sheathing shall have a thickness of not less than 0.008 inch (8 mil)
(0.203 mm) and the sheathing shall be made of approved material plastic. Where
60
sheathing protects piping that penetrates concrete or masonry walls or floors, the
sheathing shall be installed in a manner that allows movement of the piping within
the sheathing.
Section P2603.5.1 Sewer Depth; change to read as follows:
P2603.5.1 Sewer depth. Building sewers shall be a minimum of 12 inches (304 mm)
below grade.
Section P2604; add to read as follows:
P2604.2.1 Plastic sewer and DWV piping installation. Plastic sewer and DWV
piping installed underground shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer’s installation instructions. Trench width shall be controlled to not
exceed the outside the pipe diameter plus 16 inches or in a trench which has a
controlled width equal to the nominal diameter of the piping multiplied by 1.25 plus
12 inches. The piping shall be bedded in 4 inches of granular fill and then backfilled
compacting the side fill in 6-inch layers on each side of the piping. The compaction
shall be to minimum of 85 percent standard proctor density and extend to a minimum
of 6 inches above the top of the pipe.
Section P2709.1 is changed to add an exception to read as follows:
Exception: Showers designed to comply with ICC/ANSI A117.1.
Section P2709.2 is changed to add an exception to read as follows:
Exception: Showers designed to comply with ICC/ANSI A117.1.
Section P2801.6.1; change to read as follows:
Section P2801.6.1 Pan size and drain. The pan shall be not less than 11/2 inches
(38 mm) in depth and shall be of sufficient size and shape to receive all dripping or
condensate from the tank or water heater. The pan shall be drained by an indirect
waste pipe having a diameter of not less than 3/4 inch (19 mm). Piping for safety
pan drains shall be of those materials listed in Table 605.4.
Multiple pan drains may terminate to a single discharge piping system when
approved by the administrative authority and permitted by the manufactures
installation instructions and installed with those instructions.
Section P2801.7 is amended to add exception #2 to read as follows:
Exceptions:
61
2. Electric Water Heater.
Section P2804.6.1; change to read as follows:
Section P2804.6.1 Requirements for discharge piping. The discharge piping
serving a pressure relief valve, temperature relief valve or combination thereof
shall:
1. Not be directly connected to the drainage system.
2. Discharge through an air gap located in the same room as the water heater.
3. Not be smaller than the diameter of the outlet of the valve served and shall
discharge full size to the air gap.
4. Serve a single relief device and shall not connect to piping serving any other
relief device or equipment.
Exception: Multiple relief devices may be installed to a single T & P
discharge piping system when approved by the administrative authority and
permitted by the manufactures installation instructions and installed with
those instructions.
5. Discharge to an approved location, or to the outdoors.
[remainder unchanged]
Section P2902.5.3; change to read as follows:
P2902.5.3 Lawn irrigation systems. The potable water supply to lawn irrigation
systems shall be protected against backflow by an atmospheric-type vacuum
breaker, a pressure-type vacuum breaker, a double-check assembly or a reduced
pressure principle backflow preventer. A valve shall not be installed downstream
from an atmospheric vacuum breaker. Where chemicals are introduced into the
system, the potable water supply shall be protected against backflow by a reduced
pressure principle backflow preventer.
Section P3001.4 is changed to read as follows:
P3001.4. Protection of sanitary sewer systems
62
All roofs, paved areas, yards, courts, courtyards, subsurface drainage, sump
pumps, or similar areas having rainwater drainage shall discharge to the outside of
the building, or directly to the storm sewer system where required.
Section P3003.9; change to read as follows:
P3003.9. Solvent cementing. Joint surfaces shall be clean and free from moisture.
A purple primer that conforms to ASTM F 656 shall be applied. Solvent cement
not purple in color and conforming to ASTM D 2564, CSA B137.3, CSA B181.2
or CSA B182.1 shall be applied to all joint surfaces. The joint shall be made while
the cement is wet and shall be in accordance with ASTM D 2855. Solvent cement
joints shall be permitted above or below ground.
Exception: A primer is not required where both of the following conditions apply:
1. The solvent cement used is third-party certified as conforming to ASTM D 2564
2. The solvent cement is used only for joining PVC drain, waste, and vent pipe and
fittings not in pressure applications in sizes up to and including 4 inches (102mm)
in diameter.
Section P3111 is deleted.
Section P3112.2 is amended to read as follows
P3112.2 Installation. Traps for island sinks and similar equipment shall be roughed
in above the floor and may be vented by extending the vent as high as possible, but
not less than the drain board height and then returning it downward and connecting
it to the horizontal sink drain immediately downstream from the vertical fixture
drain. The return vent shall be connected to the horizontal drain through a wye-
branch fitting and shall, in addition, be provided with a foot vent taken off the
vertical fixture vent by means of a wye-branch immediately below the floor and
extending to the nearest partition and then through the roof to the open air or may be
connected to other vents at a point not less than six (6) inches (152 mm) above the
flood level rim of the fixtures served. Drainage fittings shall be used on all parts of
the vent below the floor level and a minimum slope of one-quarter (1/4) inch per
foot (20.9 mm/m) back to the drain shall be maintained. The return bend used under
the drain board shall be a one (1) piece fitting or an assembly of a forty-five (45)
degree (0.79 radius), a ninety (90) degree (1.6 radius) and a forty-five (45) degree
(0.79 radius) elbow in the order named. Pipe sizing shall be as elsewhere required in
this Code. The island sink drain, upstream of the return vent, shall serve no other
fixtures. An accessible cleanout shall be installed in the vertical portion of the foot
vent.
63
Division 4. Energy Conservation Code
Sec. 3.02.151 Adopted
The International Energy Conservation Code, 2021 edition, is herewith adopted by
reference. …
Sec. 3.02.153 Amendments
The following sections of the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code are
hereby amended as follows:
2021 IECC (Energy Provisions of the 2021 IRC)
Section 105.2 Required Inspections; Changed numbering and to read as
follows:
R105.2.1 Footing and foundation inspection.
Inspections associated with footings and foundations shall verify compliance with
the code as to R-value, location, thickness, depth of burial and protection of
insulation as required by the code and approved plans and specifications.
R105.2.2 Framing and Air Barrier rough-in inspection.
Inspections at framing and rough-in shall be made before application of interior
finish insulation and shall verify compliance with the code as to: types of insulation
and corresponding R-values and their correct location and proper instillation;
fenestration properties such as U-factor and SHGC and proper instillation; air
leakage controls as required by the code; and approved plans and specifications.
R105.2.3 Insulation and Fenestration rough-in inspection.
Inspections at framing and rough-in shall be made before application of interior
finish and shall verify compliance with the code as to: types of insulation and
corresponding R-values and their correct location and proper installation;
fenestration properties such as U-factor and SHGC and proper installation.
R105.2.34 Plumbing rough-in inspection.
Inspections at plumbing rough-in shall verify compliance as required by the code
and approved plans and specifications as to types of insulation and corresponding R-
values and protection and required controls.
R105.2.45 Mechanical rough-in inspection.
Inspections at mechanical rough-in shall verify compliance as required by the code
and approved plans and specifications as to installed HVAC equipment type and
size, required controls, system insulation and corresponding R-value, system air
leakage control, programmable thermostats, dampers, whole-house ventilation, and
minimum fan efficiency.
64
Exception: Systems serving multiple dwelling units shall be inspected in
accordance with Section C105.2.4.
R105.2.56 Final inspection.
The building shall have a final inspection and shall not be occupied until approved.
The final inspection shall include verification of the installation of all
required building systems, equipment and controls and their proper operation and
the required number of high-efficacy lamps and fixtures.
Section C102/R102 General; add Section C102.1.2 and R102.1.2 (N1101.4.1) to
read as follows:
C102.1.2 Alternative compliance. A building certified by a national, state, or local
accredited energy efficiency program and determined by the Energy Systems
Laboratory to be in compliance with the energy efficiency requirements of this
section may, at the option of the Code Official, be considered in compliance. The
United States Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star Program certification
of energy code equivalency shall be considered in compliance.
R102.1.2 (N1101.4.1) Alternative compliance. A building certified by a national,
state, or local accredited energy efficiency program and determined by the Energy
Systems Laboratory to be in compliance with the energy efficiency requirements of
this section may, at the option of the Code Official, be considered in compliance.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star Program
certification of energy code equivalency shall be considered in compliance.
Regardless of the program or the path to compliance, each 1- and 2-family dwelling
shall be tested for air and duct leakage as prescribed in Section R402.4.1.2
(N1102.4.1.2) and R403.3.3 (N1103.3.3) respectively.
Section R202 (N1101.6) Definitions; add the following definition:
PROJECTION FACTOR. The ratio of the horizontal depth of the overhang, eave
or permanently attached shading device, divided by the distance measured vertically
from the bottom of the fenestration glazing to the underside of the overhang, eave or
permanently attached shading device.
Section R202 (N1101.6) Definitions; add the following definition:
65
DYNAMIC GLAZING. Any fenestration product that has the fully reversible
ability to change it performance properties, including U-factor, solar heat gain
coefficient (SHGC), or visible transmittance (VT).
Table 402.1.2 Maximum Assembly/Climate Zone items: amend table as follows.
Climate Zone Fenestration
U-Factorf
Ceiling
U-Factor
2 .40 0.26 0.29
3 0.30 0.32 0.26 0.29
Table 402.1.3 Insulation/Climate Zone items: amend table as follows.
Climate Zone Fenestration
U-Factorb,i
Ceiling
R-Value
Wood Frame
Wall R-Value
Slab R-Value
& Depth
2 .40 49 42 13 or 0 + 10 0
3 0.30 0.32 49 42 19 or
13+53ci,
0+15
10ci, 2 ft 0
Section C402.5.2 Dwelling and sleeping unit enclosure testing. Added the
underlined to read as follows
C402.5.2 Dwelling and sleeping unit enclosure testing. The building thermal
envelope shall be tested in accordance with ASTM E779. ANSI/RESNET/ICC 380,
ASTM E1827 or an equivalent method approved by the code official. The measured
air leakage shall not exceed 0.30 cfm/ft2 (1.5 Us m2) of the testing unit enclosure
area at a pressure differential of 0.2 inch water gauge (50 Pa). Where multiple
dwelling units or sleeping units or other occupiable conditioned spaces are contained
within one building thermal envelope, each unit shall be considered an individual
testing unit, and the building air leakage shall be the weighted average of all testing
unit results, weighted by each testing unit's enclosure area. Units shall be tested
separately with an unguarded blower door test as follows:
1. Where buildings have fewer than eight testing units, each testing unit shall be
tested.
2. For buildings with eight or more testing units, the greater of seven units or 20
percent of the testing units in the building shall be tested, including a top floor unit,
a ground floor unit, a middle floor unit, and a unit with the largest testing unit
66
enclosure area. For each tested unit that exceeds the maximum air leakage rate, an
additional two three units shall be tested, including a mixture of testing unit types
and locations.
Section R402.4.1 Building thermal envelope; add section R402.4.1.4 to read as
follows
R402.4.1.4 Sampling options for R2 multifamily dwelling units. For buildings with
eight or more testing units that must be tested as required by R402.4.1.2 or
R402.4.1.3, the greater of seven units or 20 percent of the testing units in the building
shall be tested, including a top floor unit, a ground floor unit, a middle floor unit,
and a unit with the largest testing unit enclosure area. For each tested unit that
exceeds the maximum air leakage rate, an additional three units shall be tested,
including a mixture of testing unit types and locations. Where buildings have fewer
than eight testing units, each testing unit shall be tested.
Section R403.3 Ducts; add section R403.3.8 to read as follows
R403.3.8 Sampling options for R2 multifamily dwelling units. For buildings with
eight or more testing units that must be tested as required by R403.3.5, the greater
of seven units or 20 percent of the testing units in the building shall be tested,
including a top floor unit, a ground floor unit, a middle floor unit, and a unit with the
largest testing unit floor area. For each tested unit that exceeds the maximum duct
leakage rate, an additional three units shall be tested, including a mixture of testing
unit types and locations. Where buildings have fewer than eight testing units, each
testing unit shall be tested.
Section R403.6 Mechanical Ventilation; add section R403.6.4 to read as follows
R403.6.4 Sampling options for R2 multifamily dwelling units. For buildings with
eight or more testing units that must be tested as required by R403.6.3, the greater
of seven units or 20 percent of the testing units in the building shall be tested,
including a top floor unit, a ground floor unit, a middle floor unit, and a unit with
the largest testing unit floor area. For each tested unit that does not meet the
minimum ventilation rate, an additional three units shall be tested, including a
mixture of testing unit types and locations. Where buildings have fewer than eight
testing units, each testing unit shall be tested.
R405.2 Performance-based compliance. Added to underlined to read as
follows.
67
R405.2 Performance-based compliance. Compliance based on total building
performance requires that a proposed design meets all of the following:
1. The requirements of the sections indicated within Table R405.2.
2. The building thermal envelope greater than or equal to levels of efficiency
and solar heat gain coefficients in Table R402.1.1 or R402.1.3 of the 2009
International Energy Conservation Code.
3. An annual energy cost that is less than or equal to the annual energy cost of
the 2021 standard reference design or 8% less than the annual energy cost
of the 2018 standard reference design. Energy prices shall be taken from a
source approved by the code official, such as the Department of Energy,
Energy Information Administration's State Energy Data System Prices and
Expenditures reports. Code officials shall be permitted to require time-of-
use pricing in energy cost calculations.
Exception: The energy use based on source energy expressed in Btu or
Btu per square foot of conditioned floor area shall be permitted to be
substituted for the energy cost. The source energy multiplier for
electricity shall be 3.16. The source energy multiplier for fuels other
than electricity shall be 1.1.
Section R401.2.5 Additional Energy efficiency; deleted in its entirety.
Section R408 ADDITIONAL EFFICIENCY PACKAGE OPTIONS; deleted in
its entirety.
Section R402.4.6 Electrical and Communication outlet boxes. Delete after the
first sentence to read as follows.
R402.4.6 Electrical and communication outlet boxes (air-sealed boxes). Electrical
and communication outlet boxes installed in the building thermal envelope shall be
sealed to limit air leakage between conditioned and unconditioned spaces.
Electrical and communication outlet boxes shall be tested in accordance with
NEMA OS 4 , Requirements for Air-Sealed Boxes for Electrical and
Communication Applications, and shall have an air leakage rate of not greater than
2.0 cubic feet per minute
(0.944 L/s) at a pressure differential of 1.57 psf (75 Pa). Electrical and
communication outlet boxes shall be marked “NEMA OS 4” or “OS 4” in
accordance with NEMA OS 4. Electrical and communication outlet boxes shall be
installed per the manufacturer’s instructions and with any supplied components
required to achieve compliance with NEMA OS 4.
Section R404.2 Interior Lighting Controls; deleted in its entirety.
68
TABLE R406.4 (N1106.4) MAXIMUM ENERGY RATING INDEX; amend to
read as follows:
TABLE R406.4 (N1106.4) 1
MAXIMUM ENERGY RATING INDEX
CLIMATE ZONE ENERGY RATING INDEX
2 52 63
3 52 63
1 This table is effective until August 31, 2022.
TABLE R406.4 (N1106.4) 2
MAXIMUM ENERGY RATING INDEX
CLIMATE ZONE ENERGY RATING INDEX
2 52 59
3 52 59
2 The table is effective from September 1, 2022 to August 31, 2025.
TABLE R406.4 (N1106.4) 3
MAXIMUM ENERGY RATING INDEX
CLIMATE ZONE ENERGY RATING INDEX
2 52 57
3 52 57
3 The table is effective from September 1, 2025 to August 31, 2028.
TABLE R406.4 (N1106.4) 3
MAXIMUM ENERGY RATING INDEX
CLIMATE ZONE ENERGY RATING INDEX
2 52 55
3 52 55
4 This table is effective on or after September 1, 2028.
NOTE : HB 3215 was signed into law by the Governor on June 14, 2021 as
part of the 87th Regular Session Codified in Chapter 388 Texas Building Energy
Performance Standards: §388.003 (i), (j), and (k). HB 3215 now allows a Home
Energy Rating System Index (ex. HERS Index) utilizing ANSI/RESNET/ICC
Standard 301 (as it existed on January 1, 2021) shall be considered in compliance
with State law provided that:
o The home includes compliance with the Mandatory requirements
of 2018 IECC Section R406.2.
o The home includes compliance with Building thermal envelope
provisions of Table R402.1.2 or Table R402.1.4 of the 2018 IECC
69
Division 5. Electrical Code
Sec. 3.02.201 Adopted
The 2020 National Electrical Code is hereby adopted by reference and made part
of this code as a general standard for electrical equipment and the installation
thereof in the city, as set forth herein. A copy of the 2020 National Electrical Code
referred to herein, is on file in the office of the building inspection division for
reference and inspection. References to the “electrical code” shall mean the 2020
National Electrical Code and any amendments legally adopted by the city council
of the city.
Sec. 3.02.202 Amendments
The following sections of the 2020 National Electric Code are amended, added, or
deleted as follows:
Article 80 - General
80-1 Application.
The provisions of this article shall apply to all activity involving the installation,
servicing, repair, replacement, additions, modification, and/or maintenance of
electrical systems, conductors, equipment, fittings, devices, motors, appliances,
fixtures, signs, and all other electrical equipment within or on public or private
buildings and premises.
80-2 Application to existing electrical systems and equipment.
(a) Additions, alterations, or repairs. Additions, alterations, or repairs may be
made to any electrical system and equipment without requiring the existing
electrical system and equipment to comply with all the requirements of this Code,
if the addition, alteration or repair conforms to that required for a new electrical
system and equipment and if that no hazard to life, health, or safety will be created
by such additions, alterations, or repairs. Minor additions, alterations, and repairs
to the existing electrical system and equipment may be made in accordance with
the law in effect at the time the original installation was made, when approved by
the Building Official.
(b) Existing installations. Electrical systems and equipment lawfully in existence
at the time of the adoption of this Code may have their use, maintenance or repair
continued if the use, maintenance or repair is in accordance with the original
design and no hazard to life, health or property has been created by such electrical
system and equipment.
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(c) Change in building occupancy. Electrical systems and equipment which are a
part of any building or structure undergoing a change in use or occupancy, as
defined in the Building Code, shall comply with the requirements of this Code
which are applicable to the new use or occupancy.
(d) Maintenance. All electrical systems and equipment, both existing and new,
and all parts thereof shall be maintained in a proper operating condition in
accordance with the original design and in a safe and hazard free condition. All
devices or safeguards which are required by this Code shall be maintained in
conformance with this Code. The owner or his designated agent shall be responsible
for the maintenance of the electrical system. To determine compliance with this
subsection, the Community Development Director may cause any electrical system
to be re-inspected.
(e) Moved building. Electrical systems and equipment which are a part of
buildings or structures moved into or within the City of University Park shall
comply with the provisions of this Code for new installations.
80-4 Conflicting provisions.
Where, in any specific case, different sections of this Code specify different
materials, methods of construction or other requirements, the most restrictive shall
govern.
80-5 Modifications.
Whenever there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of
this Code, the Building Official may grant modifications for individual cases,
provided he shall first find that a special individual reason makes the strict letter of
this Code impractical and the modification is in conformity with the intent and
purpose of this Code, and that such modification does not lessen health, life, and fire
safety requirements.
80-6 Tests.
(a) Whenever there is insufficient evidence of compliance with any of the
provisions of this Code or evidence that materials or construction do not conform to
the requirements of this Code, the Building Official may require tests as evidence of
compliance to be made at the sole expense of the person providing such materials or
performing such construction.
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(b) Test methods shall be as specified by this Code or by other recognized test
standards. In the absence of recognized and accepted test methods for the proposed
alternate, the Building Official may determine test procedures.
(c) All tests shall be made by an approved agency. Reports of such tests shall be
retained by the Building Official for a period deemed appropriate by the Building
Official
80-7 unsafe electrical systems or equipment.
All electrical systems or equipment regulated by this Code which are unsafe, or
which constitute a fire hazard, or are otherwise dangerous to human life are, for the
purpose of this section, unsafe. Any use of electrical systems or equipment regulated
by this Code 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. All such unsafe
electrical systems or equipment 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 Article 3.03 “Abatement of Dangerous Buildings and
Premises” of the University Park Code of Ordinances or such alternate procedure as
may be adopted by this jurisdiction. As an alternative, the Community Development
Director or other employee or official of the City as designated by the governing
body may institute any other appropriate action to prevent, restrain, correct or abate
the violation.
80-8 Violations.
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to erect, construct, enlarge,
alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert or demolish, equip, use or maintain
any electrical system or equipment or cause or permit the same to be done in
violation of this Code. The issuance or granting of a permit or approval of plans and
specifications or the completion or approval of an inspection shall not be deemed or
construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, any violation of any of the provisions
of this Code. No permit presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the
provisions of this Code shall be valid, except insofar as the work or use which is
authorized is lawful.
9. Article 85 - Organization and Enforcement
85-1 Powers and duties of Building Official
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(a) General. The Building Official is hereby authorized to enforce all the
provisions of this Code. He shall cause a record to be kept of all permits issued and
inspections made.
(b) Deputies. In accordance with prescribed procedures and with the approval of
the appointing authority, the Building Official may appoint a Chief Electrical
Inspector and other related technical officers and inspectors and other employees as
shall be authorized from time to time. Reference to the “Inspector” and “Electrical
Inspector” in this Code shall mean the Chief Electrical Inspector or other Electrical
Inspectors, or the Chief Building Official.
(c) Right of entry. Whenever necessary to make an inspection to enforce any of
the provisions of this Code, or whenever the Building Official or his authorized
representative has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in any building or
upon any premises any condition or violation which makes such building or premises
unsafe, dangerous or hazardous, the Building Official or his authorized
representative may enter such building or premises at all reasonable times to inspect
the same or to perform any duty imposed upon the Building Official by such Codes,
provided that if such building or premises be occupied, he shall first present proper
credentials and request entry. If such building or premises is unoccupied, he shall
first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or other persons having charge or
control of the building or premises and request entry. If entry be refused, the
Building Official or his authorized representative shall have recourse to every
remedy provided by law to secure entry. When the Building Official or his
authorized representative shall have first obtained a proper inspection warrant or
other remedy provided by law to secure entry, no owner or occupant or any other
persons having charge, care or control of any building or premises shall fail or
neglect, after proper request is made as herein provided, to promptly permit entry
therein by the Building Official or his authorized representative for the purpose of
inspection and examination pursuant to this Code.
(d) Notice. When any order or notice is issued pursuant to the provisions of this
Code to any person who cannot be found after a reasonable search, such order or
notice may be served by posting it in a conspicuous place upon the premises
occupied by him or upon the premises where the defects are alleged to exist. Such
posting of the notice shall be considered equivalent to personal service of such order
or notice. An order sent by mail in a sealed envelope with postage prepaid and
directed to the address of the electrical contractor, owner, lessee, or occupant of the
premises shall be equivalent to personal service of such order. Electrical Inspectors
are hereby empowered to attach to the nearest electrical cabinet or equipment
feeding defective or hazardous wiring, any official notice or seal to prevent use of
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electricity in that area, and it shall be unlawful for any other person to place or attach
such seal, or to break, change, destroy, tear, mutilate, cover, or otherwise deface or
injure any such official notice or seal posted by an Electrical Inspector.
(e) Stop orders. Whenever any work is being done contrary to the provisions of
this Code, the Building Official may order the work stopped by notice in writing
served on any persons engaged in the doing or causing such work to be done, and
any such persons shall forthwith stop such work until authorized by the Building
Official to proceed with the work.
(f) Authority to disconnect utilities in emergencies. The Building official or his
authorized representative shall have the authority to disconnect any electric power
or energy service supplied to the building, structure or building service equipment
therein regulated by this Code in case of emergency where necessary to eliminate an
immediate hazard to life or property. The Building Official shall whenever possible
notify the serving utility, the owner and occupant of the building, structure or
building service equipment, in writing, of such disconnection immediately
thereafter.
(g) Authority to condemn electrical system and equipment. When the Building
Official ascertains that any electrical system or equipment regulated in this Code has
become hazardous to life, health, or property, he may order in writing that such
electrical system or equipment either be removed or restored to a safe condition,
whichever is appropriate. The notice shall fix a time limit for compliance with such
order. No person shall use or maintain defective electrical system or equipment after
receiving such notice. When such equipment or installation is to be disconnected, a
written notice of such disconnection and causes therefore shall be given within 24
hours of the order to disconnect to the serving utility, the owner and occupant of
such building, structure or premises. When any electrical system or equipment is
maintained in violation of this Code and in violation of any notice issued pursuant
to the provisions of this section, the Building Official shall institute any appropriate
action to prevent, restrain, correct or abate the violation.
(h) Connection after order to disconnect. No person shall make connections from
any energy or power supply nor supply power to any electrical system or equipment
which has been disconnected or ordered to be disconnected by the Building Official
or the use of which has been ordered to be discontinued by the Building Official
until the Building Official authorizes the reconnection and use of such electrical
system or equipment.
(i) Liability. The Building Official, or his authorized representative charged with
the enforcement of this Code, acting in good faith and without malice in the
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discharge of his duties, shall not thereby render himself personally liable for any
damage that may accrue to persons or property as a result of any act or by reason of
any act or omission in the discharge of his duties. Any suit brought against the
Building Official or employee because of such act or omission performed by him in
the enforcement of any provision of this Code shall be defended by legal counsel
provided by this jurisdiction until final termination of such proceedings. This Code
shall not be construed to relieve from or lessen the responsibility of any person
owning, operating or controlling any building, structure or building service
equipment therein for any damages to persons or property caused by defects, nor
shall the Code enforcement agency or its parent jurisdiction be held as assuming any
such liability by reason of the inspections authorized by the Code or approvals issued
under this Code.
(j) Cooperation of other officials and officers. The Building Official may request,
and shall receive so far as is required in the discharge of his duties, the assistance
and cooperation of other officials of this jurisdiction.
(k) Appeals. Any person, firm or corporation may file an appeal with the Chairman
of the Board of Adjustment for review of any decision of the Building Official,
provided that such appeal is made in writing within (5) days after notification by the
electrical inspector. The Board of Adjustment shall meet within ten (10) days of
receipt of such appeal to hear the appeal and render a decision and findings in writing
to the appellant with a duplicate copy to the Building Official.
85-2 Requirements of electrical contractor.
(a) Registration required. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation
who is not registered as a qualified electrician in the City of University Park to
engage in work regulated by this code. Prior to the approval of any permit to do work
regulated by this code, the applicant for such permit must first register in person with
the Building Inspection Division.
(b) Application for registration. A person, firm, or corporation who desires to
register as an Electrical Contractor’s Master Electrician or Journeyman Electrician
in the City of University Park shall complete the appropriate application and provide
the following information:
(1) A current, electrical license issued by a municipality and accompanied by a
reciprocal letter or evidence of satisfactory performance on master or journeyman
electrician’s certification conducted by the Southern Building Code Conference
International in conjunction with the North Central Texas Council of Governments.
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(2) A form of picture identification.
(3) Business identification to include the business name, business owner(s),
address, and telephone number.
(c) Issuance and term of registration. Upon satisfactory completion of the
requirements of Section 85-2 and payment of applicable fees as specified by the City
of University Park Master Fee Resolution for registration as an Electrical Contractor,
Master Electrician or Journeyman Electrician, the Building official may approve
such registration. An approved registration is valid for a period of not more than one
(1) year and shall terminate at the end of each calendar year.
(d) Transfer of registration. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or
corporation to lend, rent, or transfer an electrical registration issued by the City of
University Park to another other person firm, or corporation for any purpose.
(e) Revocation of registration. An electrical registration issued by the City of
University Park may be revoked by the Building Official for the following;
(1) Falsification of any portion of an application for registration with intent to
defraud.
(2) Any person, firm or corporation who, after being found guilty in municipal
court of violations of this code, is unwilling to make appropriate corrections to the
satisfaction of the Building Official or his designee shall be denied registration as an
Electrical Contractor, Master or Journeyman Electrician.
(3) Transfer of registration as stipulated in Section 85-2(d) of this code.
(f) Notice of revocation of electrical registration. The Building Official shall
provide proper notice in writing to the person, firm or corporation holding a
defective electrical registration of the decision to revoke an electrical registration.
Notice shall be deemed effective on the post date of certified mail and/or acceptance
by hand delivery.
(g) Appeal of revocation. In the event that any person, firm or corporation shall
appeal the decision of the Building Official to revoke an electrical registration, a
request for a public hearing of the matter shall be made in writing to the Chairman
of the Board of Adjustment within five (5) days of receipt of notice of revocation as
specified in Section 85-3(f). The Board of Adjustment shall meet to consider an
appeal of revocation within ten (10) days of receipt of a written request.
(h) False representation as to registration unlawful. It shall be unlawful for any
person, firm, or corporation to represent himself or a business as an electrician or
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electrical contractor in the City of University Park without having first properly
registered with the Building Inspection Division.
(i) Electrical company vehicles to be marked. All electrical contractors vehicles
engaged in doing work in the City of University Park shall have signs permanently
affixed to both sides of the vehicle indicating the company name of the electrical
contractor.
(j) Supervision. The actual work of installing, maintaining, altering, or repairing
of electrical work for which a permit is required by this Code shall have supervision
by a licensed master or journeyman electrician as provided by this Code. In the event
the owner of electrical contracting business is not a licensed master electrician, a
master electrician shall be designated by the owner of such place of business to the
Building Official as the person responsible for, and supervising, the electrical work
done by such electrical contractor. Such designated master electrician shall be the
supervisory electrician for only one (1) electrical contractor within the city at any
one time. Should such supervision not be constantly provided, the Electrical
Inspector may order the work being done by such electrical contractor to be
discontinued until proper supervision and control has been provided and the name
of the new master electrician disclosed to Building Official.
(k) License display. Each holder of a master, journeyman or specialist license shall
carry evidence of proper license on his person at all times while doing electrical
work and shall produce and exhibit same when requested by an Inspector or officer
of the City.
85-3 Exception from licensing and registration.
Persons who are not registered electricians may carry out the following classes of
work:
(a) The replacement of lamps, fuses and the connection of portable devices to
suitable receptacles which have been permanently installed.
(b) The installation, alteration, or repairing of any wiring, devices, or equipment
for signaling, remote control, or the transmission of information, provided such are
inherently power limited and have a maximum nameplate rating not exceeding one
volt-ampere.
(c) The installation, alteration or repair of the electric wiring, devices, appliances
and equipment installed by or for an electrical public service corporation legally
operating in the city when for the use of such corporation in the generation,
transmission, distribution or metering of the electrical energy or for the use of such
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a corporation in the operation of street railways, signals or the transmission of
information.
(d) Any work involved in the manufacture or test of electrical materials, devices,
appliances or apparatus, but not including any installation of wiring other than that
required for testing purposes unless such equipment as complete is approved by the
Electrical Inspector before it is installed or used.
(e) Electrical work done by a property owner in a building owned and occupied
by him and classified as his homestead. Where the electrical work done by property
owner is deemed by the Building Official to be hazardous to persons or property,
and repairable beyond the skills and electrical knowledge of the property owner by
the Building Official, or his authorized representative, the Building Official may
void the permit or validation obtained by the homeowner. In such an event, the
electrical work shall only be completed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor,
registered with the City of University Park.
85-4 Permits.
(a) Permits required. Except as specified in Subsection (c) of this section, no
electrical system regulated by this Code shall be installed, altered, repaired, replaced
or remodeled unless a separate electrical permit for each building or structure has
first been obtained from the Building Official. It shall be unlawful for any person,
firm or corporation who is not registered by the City as an electrical contractor to
secure permits except as provided in Section 85-3. It shall be unlawful for any person
to lend, rent, or transfer an electrical permit, or permit a person without proper
license or registration to do the work, or for any person to make use of any such
permit which is not actually his own, and any such permit obtained or submitted
under these conditions shall be null and void.
(b) Exempt work. An electrical permit shall not be required for the following:
(1) Portable motors or other portable appliances energized by means of a cord or
cable having an attachment plug end to be connected to an approved receptacle when
that cord or cable is permitted by this Code.
(2) Repair or replacement of fixed motors, transformers or fixed approved
appliances of the same type and rating in the same location.
(3) Temporary decorative lighting.
(4) Repair or replacement of current-carrying parts of any switch, contactor or
control device.
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(5) Reinstallation of attachment plug receptacles, but not the outlets therefor.
(6) Repair or replacement of any over current device of the required capacity in
the same location.
(7) Repair or replacement of electrodes or transformers of the same size and
capacity for signs or gas tube systems.
(8) Taping joints.
(9) Removal of electrical wiring.
(10) Temporary wiring for experimental purposes in suitable experimental
laboratories.
(11) Electrical wiring, devices, appliances, apparatus or equipment operating at
less than 25 volts and not capable of supplying more than 50 watts of energy.
(12) Low-energy power, control and signal circuits of Classes II and III as defined
in this Code.
(13) A permit shall not be required for the installation, alteration or repair of
electrical wiring, apparatus or equipment or the generation, transmission,
distribution or metering of electrical energy or in the operation of signals or the
transmission of intelligence by a public or private utility in the exercise of its
function as a serving utility.
Exemption from the permit requirements of this Code shall not be deemed to grant
authorization for any work to be done in violation of the provisions of this Code or
any other laws or ordinances.
(c) Application for permit. To obtain a permit, the applicant shall first file an
application therefore in writing on a form furnished by the City agency for that
purpose. Every such application shall:
(1) Identify and describe the work to be covered by the permit for which
application is made.
(2) Describe the land on which the proposed work is to be done by legal
description, street address or similar description that will readily identify and
definitely locate the proposed building or work.
(3) Indicate the use or occupancy for which the proposed work is intended.
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(4) Be accompanied by plans, diagrams, computations and specifications and
other data as required in Subsection (d) of this section.
(5) Be signed by permittee, or his authorized agent.
(6) Give such other data and information as may be required by the Building
Official.
(d) Plans and specifications. With each application for a permit, and where
required by the Building Official for enforcement of any provision of this Code,
plans, specifications and calculations shall be submitted in the quantity deemed
necessary by the Building Official. When deemed necessary by the Building Official
to ensure code compliance, the Building Official may require plans and
specifications to be prepared and designed by an engineer licensed by the State of
Texas. All drawings, specifications and accompanying data involved with the
practice of engineering, such as structural, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, heating
and cooling, fire, life and safety systems, shall comply with state and local laws
governing the practice of engineering as required by Article 3271a, Vernon’s
Annotated Texas Statutes.
(e) Information on plans and specifications. Plans and specifications shall be
drawn to scale upon substantial paper or cloth and shall be of sufficient clarity to
indicate the location, nature and extent of the work proposed and show in detail that
it will conform to the provisions of this Code and all relevant laws, ordinances, rules
and regulations.
(f) Permits issuance. The applications, plans and specifications, and other data,
filed by an applicant for permit may be reviewed by other departments of the City
to determine compliance with any applicable laws under their jurisdiction. If the
work described in an application for a permit and the plans, specifications and other
data filed therewith conforms to the requirements of this Code and other pertinent
laws and ordinances, and the fees specified by the City of University Park Master
Fee Resolution have been paid, the Building Official may issue a permit therefor to
the applicant. When the Building Official issues the permit where plans are required,
he shall endorse in writing or stamp the plans and specifications “APPROVED.”
Such approved plans and specifications shall not be changed, modified or altered
without authorizations from the Building Official, and all work shall be done in
accordance with the approved plans. The Building Official may issue a permit for
the construction of part of an electrical system before the entire plans and
specifications for the whole system have been submitted or approved, provided
adequate information and detailed statements have been filed complying with all
pertinent requirements of this Code. The holder of such permit shall proceed at his
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own risk with assurance that the permit for the entire building, structure or building
service will be granted.
(g) Retention of plans. One set of approved plans and specifications shall be
returned to the applicant and shall be kept on the site of the building or work at all
times during which the work authorized thereby is in progress. One set of approved
plans, specifications and computations shall be retained by the Building Official
until final approval of the work.
(h) Validity of permit. The issuance of a permit or approval of plans and
specifications shall not be construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, any
violation of any of the provisions of this Code, or of any other ordinance of the City,
nor shall the issuance of a permit or approval of plans be construed as representing
or warranting the safety or lack of defects of any electrical work described therein.
No permit presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of these
Codes shall be valid. The issuance of a permit based upon plans, specifications and
other data shall not prevent the Building Official from thereafter requiring the
correction of errors in said plans, specifications and other data, or from preventing
building operations being carried on thereunder when in violation of these Codes or
of any other ordinances of the City.
(i) 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 60 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 60 days or more.
Before such work can be recommenced, a new permit shall be first obtained 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. Any permittee holding an
unexpired permit may apply for an extension of the time within which he may
commence work under that permit when he is unable to commence work within the
time required by this section for good and satisfactory reasons. The Building Official
may extend the time for action by the permittee for a period not exceeding 180 days
upon written request by the permittee showing that circumstances beyond the control
of the permittee have prevented action from being taken. No permit shall be extended
more than once.
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(j) Suspension or revocation. The Building official may, in writing, suspend or
revoke a permit issued under the provisions of this Code whenever the permit is
issued in error or on the basis of incorrect information supplied, or in violation of
any ordinance or regulation of the City.
(k) Fees. Permit fees shall be levied in the amounts specified by the City of
University Park Master Fee Resolution. For fee calculation purposes, the building
area is the total floor area expressed in square feet of all stories devoted to human
occupancy, including halls, stairways, elevators, and other uses measured to the
outside face of exterior walls, except for attached garages, carports, porches, patios
and other like roofed areas shall contribute 1/2 of their total area in square footage
for the purpose of electrical permit fee calculation. The total building area for fee
calculation purposes shall be stated on the application for electrical permit.
85-5 Inspections.
(a) General. All electrical systems and equipment for which a permit is required
by this Code shall be subject to inspection by the Building Official. No portion of
any electrical system intended to be concealed shall be concealed until inspected and
approved. Neither the Building Official nor the City shall be liable for expense
entailed in the removal or replacement of any material necessary to allow inspection.
When the installation of an electrical system and equipment is complete, an
additional and final inspection shall be made. Electrical systems and equipment
regulated by this Code shall not be connected to the energy source until authorized
by the Building Official.
(b) Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the person doing the work authorized
by a permit to schedule required inspections at least one working day before such
inspection is desired. It shall be the duty of the person requesting inspections
required by this Code to provide access to and means for proper inspection of such
work.
(c) Operation of electrical equipment. The requirements of this section shall not
be construed to prohibit the operation of any electrical system or equipment installed
to replace existing equipment. The request for inspection of such equipment must
have been filed with the Building Official not more than 48 hours after such
replacement work is completed and before any portion of such electrical system is
concealed by any permanent portion of the building.
(d) Other inspections. In addition to the called inspections required by this Code,
the Building Official may make or require other inspections of any work to ascertain
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compliance with the provisions of this Code and other laws which are enforced by
the Code enforcement agency.
(e) Reinspections. A reinspection fee may be assessed for each inspection or
reinspection when such portion of work for which inspection is called is not
complete or when required corrections are not made. This provision is not to be
interpreted as requiring reinspection fees the first time a job is rejected for failure to
comply with the requirements of this Code, but as controlling the practice of calling
for inspections before the job is ready for such inspection or reinspection or when
required corrections are not made. Reinspection fees may be assessed when the
approved plans are not readily available to the Inspector, for failure to provide access
on the date for which inspection is requested, or for deviating from plans requiring
the approval of the Building Official. In instances where reinspection fees have been
assessed, no additional inspection of the work will be performed until the required
fees have been paid.
Article 100 Definitions, amend to add the following
General. For the purpose of these provisions, certain terms, phrases, words and their
derivatives shall be construed as specified in this section. Where terms are not
defined, they shall have their ordinarily accepted meanings within the context with
which they are used. Webster’s Third New International Dictionary of the English
Language, Unabridged, 2002, shall be considered as providing ordinarily accepted
meanings.
Approved as to materials, equipment and method of construction. Refers to
approval by the Community Development Director as the result of investigation and
tests conducted by him, or by reason of accepted principles or tests by recognized
authorities, technical or scientific organizations.
Approved Agency. An established and recognized agency regularly engaged in
conducting tests or furnishing inspection services, when such agency has been
approved by the Community Development Director.
Board of Appeals. Shall be the Board of Adjustment as appointed by the City
Council of the City of University Park.
Building Code. The Building Code as adopted by the City of University Park.
Community Development Director The designated authority charged with the
administration and operation of the Community Development Department
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Building Official. The officer charged with the administration and enforcement of
this Code, or his duly authorized representative, and is the authority having
jurisdiction for this Code.
Chief Electrical Inspector or Electrical Inspector. Shall be the person providing
expertise for the Community Development Director in the area of electrical
regulations.
Code Enforcement Agency. The department, division or agency of the City of
University Park charged with the function of Code enforcement and shall be under
the administration and operational control of the Community Development Director.
Electrical Contractor. Any person, firm, or corporation to whom a valid, current
electrical contractor’s registration has been issued by the City of University Park.
Electrical Code. The National Electrical Code promulgated by the National Fire
Protection Association, as adopted by the City of University Park.
Engineering Supervision. Supervision by a Qualified State of Texas Licensed
Professional Engineer engaged primarily in the design or maintenance of electrical
installations.
Firewall. The same as an area separation wall as used in the Building Code.
Intersystem Bonding Termination. A device that provides a means for
connecting intersystem bonding conductors for communication systems and other
systems such as metallic gas piping systems to the grounding electrode system.
Bonding conductors for other systems shall not be larger than 6 AWG.
Journeyman Electrician. A person to whom a valid, current journeyman
electrician’s registration has been issued by the City of University Park.
Master Electrician. A person to whom a valid, current master electrician’s
registration has been issued by the City of University Park.
Multiple Occupancy Building. A building having more than one tenant and may
be of single or mixed use groups as classified by the Building Code.
Occupancy. The purpose for which a building, or part thereof, is used or intended
to be used.
Article 110.2; change the following to read as follows:
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110.2 Approval. The conductors and equipment required or permitted by this
Code shall be acceptable only if approved. Approval of equipment may be evident
by listing and labeling of equipment by a Nationally Recognized Testing Lab
(NRTL) with a certification mark of that laboratory or a qualified third party
inspection agency approved by the AHJ.
Exception: Unlisted equipment that is relocated to another location within a
jurisdiction or is field modified is subject to the approval by the AHJ. This
approval may be by a field evaluation by a NRTL or qualified third party
inspection agency approved by the AHJ.
Manufacturer’s self-certification of any equipment shall not be used as a basis for
approval by the AHJ.
Informational Note No 1: See 90.7, Examination of Equipment for Safety, and
110.3, Examination, Identification, Installation, and Use of Equipment. See
definitions of Approved, Identified, Labeled, and Listed.
Informational Note No. 2: Manufacturer’s self-certification of equipment may not
necessarily comply with U.S. product safety standards as certified by an NRTL.
Informational Note No. 3: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 790 and
791 provide an example of an approved method for qualifying a third-party
inspection agency.
Article 110.5 is amended to add:
Branch circuits utilizing aluminum conductor material shall not be permitted as a
wiring means in the City of University Park.
Minimum size aluminum conductor allowed is 1 AWG
Article 230 “Services” is amended to add the following:
(a) Connection approval. An electrical system or equipment regulated by this
Code for which a permit is required shall not be connected to a source of energy or
power until approved by the Building Official.
(b) Temporary connections. The Building Official may authorize the temporary
connection of the electrical system or equipment to the source of energy or power
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for the purpose of testing the equipment, or for the use under a temporary Certificate
of Occupancy.
(c) Authorized connection. When new electrical meters are installed or existing
electrical meters are to be relocated, the disconnection, connection or reconnection
to the meter shall be made only by authorized employees of the Texas Utilities
Electric Company. Only authorized employees of Texas Utilities Electric Company
shall be permitted to make connection between the customer’s service entrance
conductors and Texas Utilities Electric Company lines.
Article 230.71(A); add the following exception:
Exception: Multi-occupant buildings. Individual service disconnecting means is
limited to six for each occupant. The number of individual disconnects at one
location may exceed six.
Article 240.91; delete the Article.
Article 300.11; add the following exception:
Exception: Ceiling grid support wires may be used for structural supports when
the associated wiring is located in that area, not more than two raceways or cables
supported per wire, with a maximum nominal metric designation 16 (trade size
1/2”).
Article 310.15(B) (7); change to read as follows:
(7) This Article shall not be used in conjunction with 220.82
Article 320.10 Uses permitted.
Type AC cable shall not be permitted as a wiring means in the City of University
Park. (delete the remainder of this section)
Article 334.12. Uses not permitted.
(a) NM, NMC, and NMS. Types NM, NMC, and NMS cables shall not be
permitted as follows:
(11) In non-residential metal frame structures.
Article 410.118 Access to other boxes.
Luminaires recessed in the ceilings, floors, or walls shall not be used to access outlet,
pull, or junction boxes or conduit bodies, unless the box or conduit body is an
integral part of the listed luminaire.
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Exception: removable luminaires with a minimum measurement of 22 in. X 22 in.
shall be permitted to be used as access to outlet, pull, junction boxes or conduit
bodies.
Article 422.31 B: Change the following to read as follows
422.31 B Appliances Rated over 300 Volt-Amperes
(B) Appliances Rated over 300 Volt-Amperes. For permanently connected
appliances rated over 300 volt-amperes, the branch-circuit switch or circuit breaker
shall be permitted to serve as the disconnecting means where the switch or circuit
breaker is within sight from and is readily accessible to the appliance it serves or is
capable of being locked in the open position in accordance with 110.25 and is readily
accessible to the appliance it serves.
Informational Note No. 1: For appliances employing unit switches, see 422.34.
Informational Note No 2: The following means of access are considered to constitute
readily accessible for this code change when conforming to the additional access
requirements of the I Codes:
(1) A permanent stair.
(2) A pull-down stair with a minimum 300 lb. (136 kg) capacity.
(3) An access door from an upper floor level.
Article 500.8 (A) (3) changed to read as follows:
500.8 Equipment.
Articles 500 through 504 require equipment construction and installation that
ensure safe performance under conditions of proper use and maintenance.
Informational Note No. 1: It is important that inspection authorities and users
exercise more than ordinary care with regard to installation and maintenance.
Informational Note No. 2: Since there is no consistent relationship between
explosion properties and ignition temperature, the two are independent
requirements.
Informational Note No. 3: Low ambient conditions require special consideration.
Explosion proof or dust-ignition proof equipment may not be suitable for use at
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temperatures lower than -25°C (-13°F) unless they are identified for low-
temperature service. However, at low ambient temperatures, flammable
concentrations of vapors may not exist in a location classified as Class I, Division
1 at normal ambient temperature.
(A) Suitability. Suitability of identified equipment shall be determined by one of
the following:
(1) Equipment listing or labeling
(2) Evidence of equipment evaluation from a qualified testing laboratory or
inspection agency concerned with product evaluation; or,
(3) Evidence acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction such as a
manufacturer's self-evaluation or an owner's engineering judgment. an engineering
judgment signed and sealed by a qualified Registered licensed Professional
Engineer in the State of Texas.
Informational Note: Additional documentation for equipment may include
certificates demonstrating compliance with applicable equipment standards,
indicating special conditions of use, and other pertinent information.
Article 505.7 (A) changed to read as follows:
505.7 Special Precaution.
Article 505 requires equipment construction and installation that ensures safe
performance under conditions of proper use and maintenance.
Informational Note No. 1: It is important that inspection authorities and users
exercise more than ordinary care with regard to the installation and maintenance of
electrical equipment in hazardous (classified) locations.
Informational Note No. 2: Low ambient conditions require special consideration.
Electrical equipment depending on the protection techniques described by
505.8(A) may not be suitable for use at temperatures lower than -20°C (-4°F)
unless they are identified for use at lower temperatures. However, at low ambient
temperatures, flammable concentrations of vapors may not exist in a location
classified Class I, Zones 0, 1, or 2 at normal ambient temperature.
(A) Implementation of Zone Classification System. Classification of areas,
engineering and design, selection of equipment and wiring methods, installation,
and inspection shall be performed by a qualified licensed Professional Engineer in
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the State of Texas.
Article 695.6 A 1: Change the following to read as follows
695.6 (A) Supply Conductors.
(1) Services and On-Site Power Production Facilities.
Service conductors and conductors supplied by on-site power production facilities
shall be physically routed outside a building(s) and shall be installed as service-
entrance conductors in accordance with 230.6, 230.9, and Parts III and IV of
Article 230. Where supply conductors cannot be physically routed outside of
buildings, the conductors shall be permitted to be routed through the building(s)
where installed in accordance with
230.6(1) or (2).
Article 71.15 A: Change the following to read as follows
710.15 General
710.15(A) Supply Output.
Power supply to premises wiring systems fed by stand-alone or isolated microgrid
power sources shall be permitted to have less capacity than the calculated load.
The capacity of the sum of all sources of the stand-alone supply shall be equal to or
greater than the load posed by the largest single utilization equipment connected to
the system. Calculated general lighting loads shall not be considered as a single
load have adequate capacity to meet the calculated load in accordance with Article
220.
Informational Note: For general-use loads the system capacity can be calculated
using the sum of the capacity of the firm sources, such as generators and ESS
inverters. For specialty loads intended to be powered directly from a variable
source, the capacity can be calculated using the sum of the variable sources, such
as PV or wind inverters, or the combined capacity of both firm and variable
sources
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Division 6. Mechanical Code
Sec. 3.02.251 Adopted
The International Mechanical Code, 2021 edition and amendments, are herewith
adopted by reference. …
Sec. 3.02.252 Interpretation
Any requirements considered necessary for the safety, strength or stability of any
existing or proposed building or structure, or for the safety or health of the occupants
thereof, which varies from the provisions of the 2021 International Mechanical
Code, or any amendments, specifications or revisions thereto, shall be interpreted
and determined by the building official, subject to the right of appeal contained in
any of such codes, if any.
Sec. 3.02.253 Amendments
The sections of the 2021 International Mechanical Code that are changed, added,
or deleted are as follows:
Section 101.1, add reference to jurisdiction:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the International Mechanical Code
of University Park, hereinafter referred to as “this code.”
Section 102.8 is changed to read as follows:
102.8 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced herein
shall be those that are listed in Chapter 15, and such codes, when specifically
adopted, and standards shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to
the prescribed extent of each such reference. Where differences occur between
provisions of this code and the referenced standards, the provisions of this code shall
apply. 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 National Electrical Code as adopted.
Sections 106.1.1 and 106.1.2 are added to read as follows:
106.1.1 Registration of license. It shall be required that any contractor making
application for a mechanical permit be licensed as a mechanical contractor by the
city. To obtain a license as a mechanical contractor, the contractor shall first file an
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application for registration in person, accompanied by a copy of the current state-
issued license of each person employed by the contractor, and pay the appropriate
fee set forth in the master fee resolution of the city.
106.1.2 Homeowner permits. Mechanical work performed by a property owner in a
building owned and occupied by him and classified as his homestead will be
permitted without the need for registration. Where the mechanical work done by
property owner is deemed by the Building Official to be hazardous to persons or
property and repairable beyond the skills and knowledge of the property owner by
the Building Official, or his authorized representative, the Building Official may
void the permit or validation obtained by the homeowner. In such an event, the
mechanical work shall only be completed by a licensed mechanical contractor,
registered by the city.
Section 106.4.3 is changed to read as follows:
106.4.3 Expiration. Every permit issued by the community development director
under the provisions of this code shall expire by limitation and become null and void
if the work authorized by such permit is commenced within 60 days from the date
of such permit, or if the work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned
at any time after the work is commenced for a period of 60 days. Before such work
can be recommenced, a new permit shall be first obtained 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 construction documents for such
work, and provided further that such suspension or abandonment has not exceeded
1 year. Construction of 10,000 square feet or less in area shall be completed within
18 months. Construction of a building 10,001 square feet or greater in area shall be
completed within 24 months after the date of issuance of the permit.
Section 106.5.2, add a reference to fee resolution:
106.5.2 Fee schedule. The fees for mechanical work shall be as indicated in the
following schedule:
The City of University Park, Texas Master Fee Resolution.
Section 106.5.3 Item 2, add refund percentage as follows:
Not more than 80% of the permit fee paid when no work has been done under a
permit issued in accordance with this code.
Section 109.1.2 is added to read as follows:
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109.1.2. The board of adjustment of the city shall serve as the board of appeals
required by the code.
Section 109.2 is deleted.
Section 109.2.1 is changed to read as follows:
109.2.1. Qualifications: The board of adjustment may consult with and obtain
opinions and testimony from qualified and experienced professionals in making a
determination on appealed matters relating to building construction.
Section 304.6 is deleted
Section 306.3 is changed to read as follows:
306.3 Appliances in attics. Attics containing appliances requiring access shall be
provided . . . (bulk of paragraph unchanged) . . . side of the appliance. The clear
access opening dimensions shall be a minimum of 20 inches by 30 inches (508 mm
by 762 mm), or larger where such dimensions are not large enough to allow removal
of the largest appliance. As a minimum, for access to the attic space, provide one of
the following:
1. A permanent stair.
2. A pull down stair.
3. An access door from an upper floor level.
4. Access Panel may be used in lieu of items 1, 2, and 3 if the appliance is capable
of being serviced from the access panel and opening is large enough to remove the
largest piece of equipment
Exceptions:
1. The passageway and level service space are not required where the appliance
is capable of being serviced and removed... (remainder of section unchanged)
Section 306.5 is changed to read as follows:
306.5 Equipment and appliances on roofs or elevated structures. Where equipment
requiring access or appliances are located on an elevated structure or the roof of a
building such that personnel will have to climb higher than 16 feet (4877 mm) above
grade to access, an a permanent interior or exterior means of access shall be
provided. Permanent exterior ladders providing roof access need not extend closer
than 12 feet (2438 mm) to the finish grade or floor level below and shall extend to
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the equipment and appliances' level service space. Such access shall . . . {bulk of
section to read the same} . . . on roofs having a slope greater than 4 units vertical in
12 units horizontal (33-percent slope). ... {bulk of section to read the same}.
Section 306.5.1 is changed to read as follows:
306.5.1 Sloped Roofs. Where appliances, equipment, fans or other components that
require service are installed on a roof having a slope of 3 units vertical in 12 units
horizontal (25-percent slope) or greater and having an edge more than 30 inches (762
mm) above grade at such edge, a catwalk at least 16 inches in width with substantial
cleats spaced not more than 16 inches apart shall be provided from the roof access
to a level platform at the appliance. The level platform shall be provided on each
side of the appliance to which access is required for service, repair or maintenance.
The platform shall be not less than 30 inches (762 mm) in any dimension and shall
be provided with guards. The guards shall extend not less than 42 inches (1067 mm)
above the platform, shall be constructed so as to prevent the passage of a 21-inch-
diameter (533 mm) sphere and shall comply with the loading requirements for
guards specified in the International Building Code.
Section 306.6 and 306.6.1 is added to read as follows:
306.6 Water heaters above ground or floor. When the mezzanine or platform in
which a water heater is installed is more than eight feet (8') (2438 mm) above the
ground or floor level, it shall be made accessible by a stairway or permanent ladder
fastened to the building.
Exception: A maximum 10 gallon water heater (or larger with approval) is capable
of being accessed through a lay-in ceiling and a water heater is installed is not more
than ten (10) feet (3048 mm) above the ground or floor level and may be reached
with a portable ladder.
306.6.1 Whenever the mezzanine or platform is not adequately lighted or access to
a receptacle outlet is not obtainable from the main level, lighting and a receptacle
outlet shall be provided in accordance with Section 306.3.1.
Section 307.2.3 is amended by changing item 2 to read as follows:
2. A separate overflow drain line shall be connected to the drain pan provided with
the equipment. Such overflow drain shall discharge to a conspicuous point of
disposal to alert occupants in the event of a stoppage of the primary drain. The
overflow drain line shall connect to the drain pan at a higher level than the primary
drain connection. However, the conspicuous point shall not create a hazard such as
dripping over a walking surface or other areas so as to create a nuisance.
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Section 403.2.1 is amended to add an item 5 to read as follows:
5. Toilet rooms within private dwellings that contain only a water closet, lavatory
or combination thereof may be ventilated with an approved mechanical recirculating
fan or similar device designed to remove odors from the air.
Section 501.3 is amended to read as follows:
501.3 Exhaust Discharge. The air removed by every mechanical exhaust system
shall be discharged outdoors at a point where it will not cause a public nuisance
and not less than the distances specified in Section 501.3.1. The air shall be
discharged to a location from which it cannot again be readily drawn in by a
ventilating system. Air shall not be exhausted into an attic, crawl space, or be
directed onto walkways.
Exceptions:
1 Whole-house ventilation-type attic fans shall be permitted to discharge into the
attic space of dwelling units having private attics.
2. Commercial cooking recirculating systems.
3. Where installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and where
mechanical or natural ventilation is otherwise provided in accordance with Chapter
4, listed and labeled domestic ductless range hoods shall not be required to
discharge to the outdoors.
4. Toilet room exhaust ducts may terminate in a warehouse or shop area when
infiltration of outside air is present.
Section 504.9.1 is amended to add a sentence at the end of the paragraph to
read as follows:
The size of duct shall not be reduced along its developed length, or at the point of
termination.
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Division 7. Plumbing Code
Sec. 3.02.301 Adopted
The International Plumbing Code, 2021 edition, without appendices, and with
amendments thereto, are herewith adopted by reference. A copy of this code with
approved amendments shall be kept on file in the office of the building inspection
division for reference and inspection.
Sec. 3.02.302 Interpretation
Any requirements considered necessary for the safety, strength or stability of any
existing or proposed building or structure, or for the safety or health of the
occupants thereof, which varies from the provisions of the 2021 International
Plumbing Code, or any amendments, specifications or revisions thereto, shall be
interpreted and determined by the community development director, subject to the
right of appeal contained in any of such codes, if any.
Sec. 3.02.303 Amendments
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2021 International
Plumbing Code are hereby amended as follows:
Table of Contents, Chapter 7, Section 713; change to read as follows:
Section 713 Computerized Engineered Drainage Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-12
Section 102.8; change to read as follows:
102.8 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in
this code shall be those that are listed in Chapter 15 and such codes, when
specifically adopted, and standards shall be considered as part of the requirements
of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference. Where the differences
occur between provisions of this code and the referenced standards, the provisions
of this code shall be the minimum requirements. Whenever amendments have been
adopted to the referenced codes and standards, each reference to said code and
standard shall be considered to reference the adopted amendments. Any reference
to NFPA 70 or the National Electrical Code (NEC) shall mean the Electrical Code
as adopted.
Section 114.1 is added to read as follows:
Section 114.1 The board of adjustment of the city shall serve as the Board of
Appeals.
Section 114.3 is changed to read as follows:
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Qualifications: The board of adjustment may consult with and obtain opinions and
testimony from qualified and experienced professionals in making a determination
on appealed matters relating to building construction.
Section 305.4.1; change to read as follows:
305.4.1 Sewer depth. Building sewers that connect to private sewage disposal
systems shall be a minimum of [number] inches (mm) below finished grade at the
point of septic tank connection. Building sewers shall be a minimum of 12 inches
(304 mm) below grade.
Section 305.7; change to read as follows:
305.7 Protection of components of plumbing system. Components of a plumbing
system installed within 3 feet along alleyways, driveways, parking garages or other
locations in a manner in which they could be exposed to damage shall be recessed
into the wall or otherwise protected in an approved manner.
Section 306.2.4; added to read as follows:
306.2.4 Plastic sewer and DWV piping installation. Plastic sewer and DWV
piping installed underground shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer’s installation instructions. Trench width shall be controlled to not
exceed the outside the pipe diameter plus 16 inches or in a trench which has a
controlled width equal to the nominal diameter of the diameter of the piping
multiplied by 1.25 plus 12 inches. The piping shall be bedded in 4 inches of granular
fill and then backfilled compacting the side fill in 6-inch layers on each side of the
piping. The compaction shall be to minimum of 85 percent standard proctor density
and extend to a minimum of 6 inches above the top of the pipe.
Sections 312.10.1 and 312.10.2; change to read as follows:
312.10.1 Inspections. Annual inspections shall be made of all backflow prevention
assemblies and air gaps to determine whether they are operable. In the absence of
local provisions, the owner is responsible to ensure that testing is performed.
312.10.2 Testing. Reduced pressure principle backflow preventer assemblies,
double check-valve assemblies, pressure vacuum breaker assemblies, reduced
pressure detector fire protection backflow prevention assemblies, double check
detector fire protection backflow prevention assemblies, hose connection backflow
preventers, and spill-proof vacuum breakers shall be tested at the time of
96
installation, immediately after repairs or relocation and at least annually. The testing
procedure shall be performed in accordance with applicable local provisions. In the
absence of local provisions, the owner is responsible to ensure that testing is done
in accordance with one of the following standards:{list of standards unchanged}
Section 401.1; add a sentence to read as follows:
The provisions of this Chapter are meant to work in coordination with the
provisions of the Building Code. Should any conflicts arise between the two
chapters, the Code Official shall determine which provision applies.
Section 413.4; change to read as follows:
413.4 Required location for floor drains Public laundries and central washing
facilities. Floor drains shall be installed in the following areas:
1. In public laundries and in the central washing facilities of multiple family
dwellings, the rooms containing automatic clothes washers shall be provided
with floor drains located to readily drain the entire floor area. Such drains
shall have a minimum outlet of not less than 3 inches (76 mm) in diameter.
2. Commercial kitchens. In lieu of floor drains in commercial kitchens, the Code
Official may accept floor sinks.
3. Public restrooms.
Section 421; add Section 421.7 to read as follows:
421.7 Test for shower receptors. Shower receptors shall be tested for water tightness
by filling with water to the level of the rough threshold. The drain shall be plugged
in a manner so that both sides of pans shall be subjected to the test at the point where
it is clamped to the drain.
Section 502.6; add Section 502.6 and 502.6.1 to read as follows:
502.6 Water heaters above ground or floor. When the attic, roof, mezzanine or
platform in which a water heater is installed is more than eight (8) feet (2438 mm)
above the ground or floor level, it shall be made accessible by a stairway or
permanent ladder fastened to the building.
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Exception: A max 10 gallon water heater (or larger with approval) is capable of
being accessed through a lay-in ceiling and a water heater is installed is not more
than ten (10) feet (3048 mm) above the ground or floor level and may be reached
with a portable ladder.
502.6.1 Illumination and convenience outlet. Whenever the mezzanine or platform
is not adequately lighted or access to a receptacle outlet is not obtainable from the
main level, lighting and a receptacle outlet shall be provided in accordance with
Section 502.1
Section 604.4; add Section 604.4.1 to read as follows:
604.4.1 State maximum flow rate. Where the State mandated maximum flow rate is
more restrictive than those of this section, the State flow rate shall take precedence.
Section 606.1; delete items #4 and #5.
Section 606.2; Delete #2
606.2 Location of shutoff valves. Shutoff valves shall be installed in the following
locations:
1. on the fixture supply to each plumbing fixture other than bathtubs and showers
in one- and two-family residential occupancies, and other than in individual sleeping
units that are provided with unit shutoff valves in hotels, motels, boarding houses
and similar occupancies
2. Deleted.
3. on the water supply pipe to each appliance or mechanical equipment.
Section 608.1; change to read as follows:
608.1 General. A potable water supply system shall be designed, installed and
maintained in such a manner so as to prevent contamination from non-potable
liquids, solids or gases being introduced into the potable water supply through cross-
connections or any other piping connections to the system. Backflow preventer
applications shall conform to applicable local regulations, Table 608.1, and as
specifically stated in Sections 608.2 through 608.16.10.
Section 608.17.5; change to read as follows:
608.17.5 Connections to lawn irrigation systems. The potable water supply to lawn
irrigation systems shall be protected against backflow by an atmospheric-type
vacuum breaker, a pressure-type vacuum breaker, a double-check assembly or a
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reduced pressure principle backflow preventer. A valve shall not be installed
downstream from an atmospheric vacuum breaker. Where chemicals are introduced
into the system, the potable water supply shall be protected against backflow by a
reduced pressure principle backflow preventer.
Section 608.18; change to read as follows:
608.18 Protection of individual water supplies. An individual water supply shall be
located and constructed so as to be safeguarded against contamination in accordance
with applicable local regulations. In the absence of other local regulations,
installation shall be in accordance with Sections 608.17.1 through 608.17.8.
Section 610.1; add exception to read as follows:
Exception: With prior approval the Code Official may wave this requirement when
deemed unnecessary by the Code Official.
Section 704.5; added to read as follows:
704.5 Single stack fittings. Single stack fittings with internal baffle, PVC schedule
40 or cast-iron single stack shall be designed by a registered engineer and comply
to a national recognized standard.
Section 712.4.3; add Section 712.4.3 to read as follows:
712.4.3 Dual pump system. All sumps shall be automatically discharged and, when
in any “public use” occupancy where the sump serves more than 10 fixture units,
shall be provided with dual pumps or ejectors arranged to function independently
in case of overload or mechanical failure. For storm drainage sumps and pumping
systems, see Section 1113.
Section 713, 713.1; change to read as follows:
SECTION 713
ENGINEERED COMPUTERIZED DRAINAGE DESIGN
713.1 Design of drainage system. The sizing, design and layout of the drainage
system shall be permitted to be designed by a registered engineer using approved
computer design methods.
Section 903.1.1; change to read as follows:
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903.1 Roof extension 903.1.1 Roof extension unprotected. Open vent pipes that
extend through a roof shall terminate not less than six (6) inches (152 mm) above
the roof. Where a roof is to be used for assembly or as a promenade, observation
deck, sunbathing deck or similar purposes, open vent pipes shall terminate not less
than 7 feet (2134 mm) above the roof.
Section 1106.1; change to read as follows:
1106.1 General. The size of the vertical conductors and leaders, building storm
drains, building storm sewers, and any horizontal branches of such drains or sewers
shall be based on six inches (6") per hour rainfall rate.
Section 1109; delete this section.
Section 1202.1; delete Exception 1and 2.
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Division 8. Fuel Gas Code
Sec. 3.02.351 Adopted
The International Fuel Gas Code, 2021 edition, and amendments are herewith
adopted by reference. A copy of this code with approved amendments hereinafter
set out shall be kept on file in the office of the building inspection division for
reference and inspection.
Sec. 3.02.352 Interpretation
Any requirements considered necessary for the safety, strength or stability of any
existing or proposed building or structure, or for the safety or health of the occupants
thereof, which varies from the provisions of the 2021 International Fuel Gas Code,
or any amendments, specifications or revisions thereto, shall be interpreted and
determined by the Building Official, subject to the right of appeal contained in any
of such codes, if any.
Sec. 3.02.353 Amendments
The sections of the 2021 International Fuel Gas Code that are changed, added, or
deleted are as follows:
Section 102.2 is amended to add an exception to read as follows:
Exception: Existing dwelling units shall comply with Section 621.2.
Section 102.8 is amended to read as follows:
102.8 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this
code shall be those that are listed in Chapter 8 and such codes, when specifically
adopted, and standards shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to
the prescribed extent of each such reference. Where differences occur between
provisions of this code and the referenced standards, the provisions of this code shall
apply. 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 306.3 is amended in part as follows:
306.3 Appliances in attics. Attics containing appliances requiring access shall be
provided. … (bulk of paragraph unchanged) … side of the appliance. The clear
access opening dimensions shall be a minimum of 20 inches by 30 inches (508 mm
by 762 mm), and or larger where such dimensions are not large enough to allow
101
removal of the largest appliance. As a minimum, for access to the attic space, provide
one of the following:
1. A permanent stair.
2. A pull down stair.
3. An access door from an upper floor level.
4. Access Panel may be used in lieu of items 1, 2, and 3 if the appliance is capable
of being serviced from the access panel and opening is large enough to remove the
largest piece of equipment
Exceptions:
1. The passageway and level service space are not required where the appliance
is capable of being serviced and removed through the required opening.
2. Where the passageway is not less than ... (bulk of section to read the same)
Section 306.5 is amended in part as follows:
[M] 306.5 Equipment and appliances on roofs or elevated structures. Where
equipment requiring access or appliances are located on an elevated structure or
the roof of a building such that personnel will have to climb higher than 16 feet
(4877 mm) above grade to access, an a permanent interior or exterior means of
access shall be provided. Permanent exterior ladders providing roof access need
not extend closer than 12 feet (2438 mm) to the finish grade or floor level below
and shall extend to the equipment and appliances' level service space. Such access
shall . . . {bulk of section to read the same}. . . on roofs having a slope greater than
4 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33-percent slope). ... {bulk of section to read
the same}.
Section 306.5.1 is amended to read as follows:
[M] 306.5.1 Sloped roofs. Where appliances, equipment, fans or other components
that require service are installed on a roof having a slope of 3 units vertical in 12
units horizontal (25-percent slope) or greater and having an edge more than 30
inches (762 mm) above grade at such edge, a catwalk at least 16 inches in width
with substantial cleats spaced not more than 16 inches apart shall be provided from
the roof access to a level platform at the appliance. The level platform shall be
provided on each side of the appliance to which access is required for service,
repair or maintenance. The platform shall be not less than 30 inches (762 mm) in
any dimension and shall be provided with guards. The guards shall extend not less
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than 42 inches (1067 mm) above the platform, shall be constructed so as to prevent
the passage of a 21-inch-diameter (533 mm) sphere and shall comply with the
loading requirements for guards specified in the International Building Code.
Section 306 add Section 306.7 with exception and subsection 306.7.1 to read as
follows:
306.7 Water heaters above ground or floor. When the attic, roof, mezzanine or
platform in which a water heater is installed is more than eight feet (8') (2438 mm)
above the ground or floor level, it shall be made accessible by a stairway or
permanent ladder fastened to the building.
Exception: A max 10 gallon water heater (or larger with approval) is capable of
being accessed through a lay-in ceiling and a water heater is installed is not more
than ten feet (10') (3048 mm) above the ground or floor level and may be reached
with a portable ladder.
306.7.1. Whenever the mezzanine or platform is not adequately lighted or access to
a receptacle outlet is not obtainable from the main level, lighting and a receptacle
outlet shall be provided in accordance with Section 306.3.1.
Section 401.5 is amended to add a second paragraph to read as follows:
Both ends of each section of medium pressure corrugated stainless steel tubing
(CSST) shall identify its operating gas pressure with an approved tag. The tags are
to be composed of aluminum or stainless steel and the following wording shall be
stamped into the tag:
“WARNING 1/2 to 5 psi gas pressure Do Not Remove”
Section 401.5.1, add a section to read as follows:
The use of corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) is subject to the following
procedure:
(a) Community development department approval is required before installation;
(b) Letter verifying pressure from Gas Company;
(c) No hybrid systems allowed;
(d) Steel casings on all drop and risers;
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(e) Letter from manufacturer’s representative verifying that product has been
installed in accordance with specifications.
Section 402.3 is amended to add an exception to read as follows:
Exception: Corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) shall be a minimum of 1/2" (18
EHD).
Section 404.12 is amended to read as follows:
404.12 Minimum burial depth. Underground piping systems shall be installed a
minimum depth of 18 inches (305 458 mm) top of pipe below grade.
Section 404.12.1 is deleted.
Section 406.1 is amended to read as follows:
406.1 General. Prior to acceptance and initial operation, all piping installations shall
be inspected and pressure tested to determine that the materials, design, fabrication,
and installation practices comply with the requirements of this code. The permit
holder shall make the applicable tests prescribed in Sections 406.1.1 through 406.1.5
to determine compliance with the provisions of this code. The permit holder shall
give reasonable advance notice to the code official when the piping system is ready
for testing. The equipment, material, power and labor necessary for the inspections
and test shall be furnished by the permit holder and the permit holder shall be
responsible for determining that the work will withstand the test pressure prescribed
in the following tests.
Section 406.4 is amended to read as follows:
406.4 Test pressure measurement. Test pressure shall be measured with a
monometer or with a pressure-measuring device designed and calibrated to read,
record, or indicate a pressure loss caused by leakage during the pressure test
period. The source of pressure shall be isolated before the pressure tests are made.
Mechanical gauges used to measure test pressures shall have a range such that the
highest end of the scale is not greater than five times the test pressure. Spring type
gauges do not meet the requirement of a calibrated gauge.
Section 406.4.1 is amended to read as follows:
406.4.1 Test pressure. The test pressure to be used shall be no less than 1 1/2
times the proposed maximum working pressure, but no less than 3 3 psig (20 kPa
gauge), or at the discretion of the Code Official, the piping and valves may be
tested at a pressure of at least six inches (152 mm) of mercury, measured with a
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manometer or slope gauge. Irrespective of design pressure. Where the test pressure
exceeds 125 psig (862 kPa gauge), the test pressure shall not exceed a value that
produces a hoop stress in the piping greater than 50 percent of the specified
minimum yield strength of the pipe. For tests requiring a pressure of 3 psig,,
diaphragm gauges shall utilize a dial with a minimum diameter of three and one
half inches (3 ½”), a set hand, 1/10 pound incrementation and pressure range not to
exceed 6 psi for tests requiring a pressure of 3 psig. For tests requiring a pressure
of 10 psig, diaphragm gauges shall utilize a dial with a minimum diameter of three
and one-half inches (3 ½”), a set hand, a minimum of 2/10 pound incrementation
and a pressure range not to exceed 20 psi. For welded piping, and for piping
carrying gas at pressures in excess of fourteen (14) inches water column pressure
(3.48 kPa) (1/2 psi) and less than 200 inches of water column pressure (52.2 kPa)
(7.5 psi), the test pressure shall not be less than ten (10) pounds per square inch
(69.6 kPa). For piping carrying gas at a pressure that exceeds 200 inches of water
column (52.2 kPa) (7.5 psi), the test pressure shall be not less than one and one-
half times the proposed maximum working pressure.
Diaphragm gauges used for testing must display a current calibration and be in
good working condition. The appropriate test must be applied to the diaphragm
gauge used for testing.
Section 406.4.2 is amended in part as follows:
406.4.2 Test duration. Test duration shall be held for a length of time satisfactory to
the Code Official, but in no case for less than fifteen (15) minutes. For welded
piping, and for piping carrying gas at pressures in excess of fourteen (14) inches
water column pressure (3.48 kPa), the test duration shall be held for a length of time
satisfactory to the Code Official, but in no case for less than thirty (30) minutes.
(Delete remainder of section.)
Section 409.1.4 is amended to read as follows:
409.1.4 Valves in CSST installations. Shutoff valves installed with corrugated
stainless steel (CSST) piping systems shall be supported with an approved
termination fitting, or equivalent support, suitable for the size of the valves, of
adequate strength and quality, and located at intervals so as to prevent or damp out
excessive vibration but in no case greater than 12 inches from the center of the valve.
Supports shall be installed so as not to interfere with the free expansion and
contraction of the system’s piping, fittings, and valves between anchors. All valves
and supports shall be designed and installed so they will not be disengaged by
movement of the supporting piping:
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Section 410.1 is amended to add a second paragraph and exception to read as
follows:
Access to regulators shall comply with the requirements for access to appliances as
specified in Section 306,
Exception: A passageway or level service space is not required when the regulator
is capable of being serviced and removed through the required attic opening.
Section 614.4 is amended to add a sentence as follows:
The size of duct shall not be reduced along its developed length or at the point of
termination.
Section 621.2 is amended to read as follows:
621.2 Prohibited use. One or more unvented room heaters shall not be used as the
sole source of comfort heating in a dwelling unit.
Exception: Existing approved unvented heaters may continue to be used in dwelling
units, in accordance with the code provisions in effect when installed, when
approved by the Code Official unless an unsafe condition is determined to exist as
described in Section 108.7.
Section 621.4 is amended to read as follows:
An unvented gas fired appliance such as a room heater, fireplace or space heater
shall not be installed in, or have access to, a room used as a storage closet, sleeping
room, bathroom, a closet or enclosure opening directly into a sleeping room or
bathroom.
Division 9. International Existing Building Code
Sec. 3.02.361 Adopted
The International Existing Building Code, 2021 edition, and amendments are
herewith adopted by reference. A copy of this code with approved amendments
hereinafter set out shall be kept on file in the office of the building inspection
division for reference and inspection.
Sec. 3.02.352 Interpretation
Any requirements considered necessary for the safety, strength or stability of any
existing or proposed building or structure, or for the safety or health of the occupants
thereof, which varies from the provisions of the 2021 International Existing
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Building, or any amendments, specifications or revisions thereto, shall be interpreted
and determined by the Building Official, subject to the right of appeal contained in
any of such codes, if any.
Sec. 3.02.353 Amendments
The sections of the 2021 International Existing Building Code that are changed,
added, or deleted are as follows:
Section 102.4; change to read as follows:
[A] 102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes, when specifically
adopted, and standards referenced in this code shall be considered part of the
requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference and as
further regulated in Sections 102.4.1 and 102.4.2.
Section 202; amend definition of Existing Building as follows:
Existing Building - A building, structure, or space with an approved final
inspection issued under a code edition which is at least 2 published code editions
preceding the currently adopted building code; a building, structure or space that is
undergoing a change of occupancy or use. erected prior to the date of adoption of
the appropriate code, or one for which a legal building permit has been issued.
Section 202; amend definition of Existing Structure as follows:
Existing Structure- A building, structure, or space, with an approved final
inspection issued under a code edition which is at least 2 published code editions
preceding the currently adopted building code; a building, structure or space that is
undergoing a change of occupancy or use. erected prior to the date of adoption of
the appropriate code, or one for which a legal building permit has been issued.
Section 306.1; add exceptions to read as follows:
Exceptions:
1. Components of projects regulated by and registered with Architectural
Barriers Division of Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation shall be
deemed to be in compliance with the requirements of this chapter.
2. If the cost of the project is less than $50K, it must comply with ICC A117.1,
or it shall be reviewed and inspected to the Texas Accessibility Standards by a
Registered Accessibility Specialist.
Section 306.2; add exception to read as follows:
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Exception: Projects subject to the Texas Accessibility Standards as adopted by
the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation are exempt from this section.
Projects with a valuation of less than $50,000.00 (which are subject to the Texas
Accessibility Standards) may be accepted as equivalent to this section where
reviewed and inspected to the Texas Accessibility Standards by a Texas
Department of Licensing and Regulation Registered Accessibility Specialist when
a plan review report and a compliant inspection report are provided to the building
code official.
Section 306.5.1; add to read as follows:
306.5.1 Complete change of occupancy. Where an entire building undergoes a
change of occupancy, it shall comply with Section 305.4.1 and shall have all of the
following accessible features:
1. Not fewer than one accessible building entrance.
2. Not fewer than one accessible route from an accessible building entrance to
primary function areas.
3. Signage complying with Section 1111 of the International Building Code.
4. Accessible parking, where parking is being provided.
5. Not fewer than one accessible passenger loading zone, where loading zones are
provided.
6. Not fewer than one accessible route connecting accessible parking and
accessible passenger loading
zones to an accessible entrance.
7. At least one accessible family or assisted use toilet room shall be provided in
accordance with Chapter 11 of the International Building Code.
Where it is technically infeasible to comply with the new construction standards
for any of these requirements for a change of group or occupancy, Items 1 through
6 shall conform to the requirements to the maximum extent technically feasible.
Exception: The accessible features listed in Items 1 through 6 are not required for
an accessible route to Type B units.
Section 406.1; add a code reference to read as follows:
406.1 Material. Existing electrical wiring and equipment undergoing repair shall
be allowed to be repaired or replaced with like material, in accordance with the
requirements of NFPA 70.
108
Section 503.16; add exception to read as follows:
Exception: Compliance with the Texas Accessibility Standards is not considered
equivalent compliance for the purpose of enforcement of this code section.
Section 504.1.2; change to read as follows:
504.1.2 Existing fire escapes. Existing fire escapes shall continue to be accepted as
a component in the means of egress in existing buildings only. Existing fire
escapes shall be permitted to be repaired or replaced.
Section 504.1.3; delete entire section:
504.1.3 New fire escapes. New fire escapes for existing buildings shall be permitted
only where exterior stairways cannot be utilized due to lot lines limiting stairway
size or due to the sidewalks, alleys or roads at grade level. New fire escapes shall
not incorporate ladders or access by windows.
Section 702.4; add exception 2 to read as follows:
2. Operable windows with openings that are provided with window fall
prevention devices that comply with ASTM F2090.
Section 702.7; add a code reference to read as follows:
702.7 Materials and methods. All new work shall comply with the materials and
methods requirements in the International Building Code, International Energy
Conservation Code, International Mechanical Code, National Electrical Code,
and International Plumbing Code, as applicable, that specify material standards,
detail of installation and connection, joints, penetrations, and continuity of any
element, component, or system in the building.
Section 802.5.1; change to read as follows:
802.5.1 Minimum requirement. Every portion of a floor, such as a balcony or a
loading dock, open-sided walking surfaces, including mezzanines, equipment
platforms, aisles, stairs, ramps, and landings that is more than 30 inches (762 mm)
above the floor or grade below and is not provided with guards, or those in which
109
the existing guards are judged to be in danger of collapsing, shall be provided with
guards.
Section 803.1; add sentence to read as follows:
For the purpose of fire sprinkler protection and fire alarm requirements included
in this section, the work area shall be extended to include at least the entire tenant
space or spaces bounded by walls capable of resisting the passage of smoke
containing the subject work area, and if the work area includes a corridor,
hallway, or other exit access, then such corridor, hallway, or other exit access
shall be protected in its entirety on that particular floor level.
Section 803.2.6; change exception to read as follows:
Exception: Supervision is not required where the Fire Code does not require such
for new construction. for the following:
1. Underground gate valve with roadway boxes.
2. Halogenated extinguishing systems.
3. Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems.
4. Dry- and wet-chemical extinguishing systems.
5. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13R where
a common supply main is used to supply both domestic and automatic sprinkler
systems and a separate shutoff valve for the automatic sprinkler system is not
provided.
Section 803.3; change section to read as follows:
803.3 Standpipes. Refer to Section 1103.6 of the Fire Code for retroactive
standpipe requirements.
804.2; delete Exception #1 as follows:
Exceptions: 1. Where the work area and the means of egress serving it complies
with NFPA101.
2. [Remain unchanged
Section 804.2; Remove Exception #1
Exception 1.Where the work area and the means of egress serving it complies
with NFPA101.
Section 804.4.1.2; change to read as follows:
110
804.4.1.2 Fire Escapes required. For other than Group I-2, where more than one
exit is required, an existing or newly constructed fire escape complying with
section 805.3.1.2.1 shall be accepted as providing one of the required means of
egress
Section 804.4.1.2.1; change to read as follows:
804.4.1.2.1 Fire Escape access and details - …
1. [Remain unchanged]
2. Access to a new fire escape shall be through a door...
3. Newly constructed fire escapes shall be permitted only where exterior
stairways cannot be utilized because of lot lines limiting the stairway size or
because of the sidewalks, alleys, or roads at grade level.
4. [Remain unchanged]
5. In all buildings of Group E occupancy up to and including the 12th grade,
buildings of Group I occupancy, rooming boarding houses, and childcare centers,
ladders of any type are prohibited on fire escapes used as a required means of
egress.
Section 804.6.2 Transoms Add language as follows:
804.6.2 Transoms. In all buildings of Group B, E, I-1, I-2, R-1 and R-2
occupancies, ….[Remainder unchanged]
Section 904.1; add sentence to read as follows:
For the purpose of fire sprinkler protection and fire alarm requirements included in
this section, the work area shall be extended to include at least the entire tenant
space or spaces bounded by walls containing the subject work area, and if the work
area includes a corridor, hallway, or other exit access, then such corridor, hallway,
or other exit access shall be protected in its entirety on that particular floor level.
904.1.1 High-rise buildings. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in
work areas of where the high-rise buildings has a sufficient municipal water
supply for the design and installation of an automatic sprinkler system at the
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site.
Section 1011.2.1: change to read as follows:
1011.2.1 Fire sprinkler system. Where a change in occupancy classification
occurs or where there is a change of occupancy within a space where there is a
different fire protection system threshold requirement in Chapter 9 of the
International Building Code that requires an automatic fire sprinkler system to be
provided based on the new occupancy in accordance with Chapter 9 of the
International Building Code. The installation of the automatic sprinkler system
shall be required within the area of the change of occupancy and areas of the
building not separated horizontally and vertically from the change of occupancy by
one of the following:
1. Nonrated permanent partition and horizontal assemblies.
2. Fire partition.
3. Smoke partition.
4. Smoke barrier.
5. Fire barrier, as required by Section 707 of the IBC.
6. Fire wall, as required by Section 706 of the IBC.
Exceptions: [Remain unchanged.]
Section 1102.2.1; add to read as follows:
1102.2.1 Fire Separations. Where fire separations are utilized to allow additions
without exceeding the allowable area provisions of Chapter 5 of the IBC for either
the existing building or the new addition, the decreased clear space where the two
buildings adjoin shall be accounted for in such calculation relative to the allowable
frontage increase.
Section 1301.3.2; change to read as follows:
1301.3.2 Compliance with other codes. Buildings that are evaluated in
accordance with this section shall comply with the International Fire Code. and
International Property Maintenance Code.
Section 1509; delete Section 1509.1 through 1509.5 and add Section 1509.1 to
read as follows:
1509.1 When required. An approved water supply for fire protection, either
112
temporary or permanent, shall be made available as soon as combustible material
arrives on the site. The water supply design and the timing of the water supply
installation relative to building construction shall comply with the adopted Fire
Code.
113
Division 10 Swimming Pool And Spa Code
Sec. 3.02.451 Adopted
The International Swimming Pool And Spa Code, 2021 edition, and amendments
are herewith adopted by reference. A copy of this code with approved amendments
hereinafter set out shall be kept on file in the office of the building inspection
division for reference and inspection.
Sec. 3.02.452 Interpretation
Any requirements considered necessary for the safety, strength or stability of any
existing or proposed building or structure, or for the safety or health of the occupants
thereof, which varies from the provisions of the 2021 International Swimming Pool
And Spa Code, or any amendments, specifications or revisions thereto, shall be
interpreted and determined by the Building Official, subject to the right of appeal
contained in any of such codes, if any.
Sec. 3.02.453 Amendments
The sections of the 2021 International Swimming Pool And Spa Code that are
changed, added, or deleted are as follows:
Section 102.9; Change to read as follows:
Section 102.9 Other laws. The provisions of this code shall not be deemed to
nullify any provisions of local, state or federal law, to include but not limited to:
1. Texas Department of State Health Services (TDSHS); Standards for Public
Pools and Spas;
§285.181 through §285.208, (TDSHS rules do not apply to pools serving one- and
two-family dwellings or townhouses).
2. Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR); 2012 Texas
Accessibility Standards (TAS), TAS provide the scoping and technical
requirements for accessibility for Swimming Pool, wading pools and spas
and shall comply with 2012 TAS, Section 242. (TAS rules do not apply to
pools serving one- and two-family dwellings or townhouses).
Exception: Elements regulated under Texas Department of Licensing and
Regulation (TDLR) and built in accordance with TDLR approved plans, including
any variances or waivers granted by the TDLR, shall be deemed to be in
compliance with the requirements of this Chapter.
Section 113.4 Violation penalties; Changed to read as follows:
114
113.4 Violation penalties. Any person 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, or repair a pool or spa in violation of the approved construction documents or
directive of the code official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the
provisions of this code shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of
not more than two thousand dollars. Each day that a violation continues after due
notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.
Section 305; Change to read as follows:
305.1 General.
The provisions of this section shall apply to the design of barriers for restricting
entry into areas having pools and spas. In only one-and two-family dwellings and
townhouses, where spas or hot tubs are equipped with a lockable safety cover
complying with ASTM F1346 and swimming pools are equipped with a powered
safety cover that complies with ASTM F1346, the areas where those spas, hot tubs
or pools are located shall not be required to comply with Sections 305.2 through
305.7.
Section 305.2.1 Barrier height and clearaances #1 Change to read as follows;
1. The top of the barrier shall be not less than 72 inches above grade where
measured on the side of the barrier that faces away from the aquatic vessel
(pool). Remainder unchanged………
Add subsection 305.2.7.1; to read as follows:
305.2.7.1 Chain link fencing prohibited. Chain link fencing is not permitted as a
barrier in public pools built after January 1, 1994.
Section 305.4 structure wall as a barrier; Changes as follows:
305.4 Structure wall as a barrier. Where a wall of a dwelling or structure of a
one- and two-family dwelling or townhouse or its accessory structure serves as part
of a barrier and where doors or windows provide direct access to the pool or spa
through that wall, one of the following shall be required:
1. Remainder Unchanged
2. Remainder Unchanged
3. Remainder Unchanged
4. Remainder unchanged
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5. Remainder unchanged
6. Remainder unchanged
Section 305.6; Change to read as follows:
305.6 Natural barriers used in a one- and two-family dwelling or townhouse. In the
case where the pool or spa area abuts the edge of a lake or other natural body of
water, public access is not permitted or allowed along the shoreline, and required
barriers extend to and beyond the water’s edge a minimum of eighteen (18) inches,
a barrier is not required between the natural body of water shoreline and the pool
or spa.
Section 307.1.4 Accessibility; Add exception to Section to 307.1.4 as follows:
Exception: Components of projects regulated by and registered with Architectural
Barriers Division of Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation shall be
deemed to be in compliance with the requirements of this chapter.
Section 307.2.2.2. Adjacency to Structural Foundation. Depth of the swimming
pool and spa shall maintain a ratio of 1:1 from the nearest building foundation or
footing of a retaining wall.
Exception:
A sealed engineered design drawing of the proposed new structure shall be
submitted for approval.
Section 310; Change to read as follows:
310.1 General. Suction entrapment avoidance for pools and spas shall be provided
in accordance with APSP 7 (ANSI/PHTA/ICC 7) or for public swimming pools in
accordance with State of Texas Rules for Public Swimming Pools and Spas, Title
25 TAC Chapter 265 Subchapter L, Rule §265.190.
[Remainder unchanged]
Section 402.12; Change to read as follows:
402.12 Water envelopes. The minimum diving water envelopes shall be in
accordance with Table 402.12 Texas department of State Health services,
Administrative Code Title 25, Chapter 265, Section 186 (e) and Figure: 25 TAC
256.186 (e) (6). (Delete Table 402.12 and Figure 402.12)
ADD: Figure: 25 TAC §265.186 (e) (6)
Maximum Diving Board Height Over Water ¾ Meter 1 Meter 3 Meters
Max. Diving Board Length 12 ft. 16 ft. 16 ft.
Minimum Diving Board Overhang 2 ft. 6 in. 5 ft. 5 ft.
116
D1 Minimum 8 ft. 6 in. 11 ft. 2 in. 12 ft. 2 in.
D2 Minimum 9 ft. 10 ft. 10 in. 11 ft. 10 in.
D3 Minimum 4 ft. 6 ft. 6 ft.
L1 Minimum 4 ft. 5 ft. 5 ft.
L2 Minimum 12 ft. 16 ft. 5 in. 19 ft. 9 in.
L3 Minimum 14 ft. 10 in. 13 ft. 2 in. 13 ft. 11 in.
L4 Minimum 30 ft. 10 in. 34 ft. 7 in. 38 ft. 8 in.
L5 Minimum 8 ft. 10 ft. 13 ft.
H Minimum 16 ft. 16 ft. 16 ft.
From Plummet to Pool Wall at Side 9 ft. 10 ft. 11 ft. 6 in.
From Plummet to Adjacent Plummet 10 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft.
Section 411.2.1 & 411.2.2; Change to read as follows:
411.2.1 Tread dimensions and area. Treads shall have a minimum
unobstructed horizontal depth (i.e., horizontal run) of 12 inches and a minimum
width of 20 inches. not be less than 24 inches (607mm) at the leading edge. Treads
shall have an unobstructed surface area of not less than 240 square inches
(154838mm2) and an unobstructed horizontal depth of not less than10 inches (254
mm) at the center line.
411.2.2 Risers. Risers for steps shall have a maximum uniform height of 10
inches, with the bottom riser height allowed to taper to zero except for the bottom
DD2 D1
Pt A
11
L1 L2 L3 Typical L4
1
10 Max Slope 30º
2’6” Min.
R 6’6”Typical 4’6” Min
H (Overhead
Obstruction or Ceiling)
4’Min.
10’
(1 Meter)
L5
4’Min
4’Min
Pt. B Pt. C
117
riser, shall have a uniform height of not greater than 12 inches (305 mm) measured
at the center line. The bottom riser height is allowed to vary to the floor.
Section 411.5.1 & 411.5.2; Change to read as follows:
411.5.1 Swim outs. Swim outs, located in either the deep or shallow area of a pool,
shall comply with all of the following:
1. Unchanged
2. Unchanged
3. Unchanged
4. The leading edge shall be visibly set apart and provided with a horizontal
solid or broken stripe at least 1 inch wide on the top surface along the front
leading edge of each step. This stripe shall be plainly visible to persons on the
pool deck. The stripe shall be a contrasting color to the background on which it
is applied, and the color shall be permanent in nature and shall be a slip-resistant
surface.
411.5.2 Underwater seats and benches. Underwater seats and benches, whether
used alone or in conjunction with pool stairs, shall comply with all of the
following:
1. Unchanged
2. Unchanged
3. Unchanged
4. Unchanged
5. The leading edge shall be visually set apart and provided with a horizontal
solid or broken stripe at least 1 inch wide on the top surface along the front
leading edge of each step. This stripe shall be plainly visible to persons on the
pool deck. The stripe shall be a contrasting color to the background on which it
is applied, and the color shall be permanent in nature and shall be a slip-resistant
surface.
6. Unchanged
7. Unchanged
Section 610.5.1; Change to read:
610.5.1 Uniform height of 9 10 inches. Except for the bottom riser, risers at the
centerline shall have a maximum uniform height of 9 10 inches (229 254 mm). The
bottom riser height shall be permitted to vary from the other risers.
118
Section 804 Diving Water Envelopes; Change to read as follows:
Section 804.1 General. The minimum diving water envelopes shall be in
accordance with Table 804.1 and Figure 804.1, or the manufacturer’s
specifications, whichever is greater. Negative construction tolerances shall not be
applied to the dimensions of the minimum diving water envelopes given in Table
804.1.
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Division 11. FIRE CODE
Sec. 3.02.451 Adopted
The 2021 International Fire Code, (IFC), is hereby amended as follows, including
Appendices B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, and N (the “Code”) is herewith
adopted by reference as the Fire Code of the City of University Park, Texas. A
copy of the Code, with approved appendices and amendments, shall be kept on file
in the office of the Fire Marshal for reference and inspection.
Sec. 3.02.452 Enforcement
The International Fire Code, 2021 edition, will be enforced by the Division of Fire
Prevention of the University Park Fire Department through its Fire Marshal and other
authorized representatives.
Sec. 3.02.453 Amendments
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2021 International Fire
Code (IFC) are hereby amended as follows
Section 101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Fire Code of The City
of University Park, Texas, hereinafter referred to as “this code.”
Section 102.1 # 3 is changed to read as follows:
102.1. Construction and design provisions.
3. Existing structures, facilities and conditions when required by Chapter 11 or in
specific sections of this Code.
Section 102.4 is changed to read as follows:
102.4 Application of other codes. The design and construction of new structures
shall comply with this Code, and other codes as applicable. Repairs, alterations,
and additions to existing structures shall comply with this Code and the
International Building Code. This Code shall apply to new and existing one- and
two-family dwellings. The provisions of this Code apply to buildings built under
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the International Residential Code (IRC) and the International Building Code
(IBC).
Section 102.7.2 is changed to read as follows:
102.7.2 Provisions in referenced codes and standards. 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. The
latest or the most recent standard shall be used in the fire code.”(5) Section 103.1
shall read as follows:
103.1 General. The Fire Prevention Division is established within the jurisdiction
under the direction of the Fire Chief. The function of the division shall be the
implementation, administration, and enforcement of the provisions of this Code.
Section 103.1.1 is added to read as follows:
Section 103.1.1. Department of fire prevention personnel and police. The Fire
Chief and members of the department’s Fire Prevention Division shall have the
power to issue citations for violations of this Code. When requested to do so by the
Fire Chief, the Police Chief is authorized to assign such available police officers as
necessary to assist the Fire Department in enforcing the provisions of this Code.
Section 103.2 shall read as follows:
103.2 Appointment. The Fire Marshal in charge of the Division of Fire Prevention
shall be appointed by the Fire Chief of the jurisdiction and function as the fire code
official for the jurisdiction; the Fire Marshal shall not be removed from the office
except for cause and after full opportunity to be heard on specific and relevant
charges by and before the appointing authority.
Section 103.3 shall read as follows:
103.3 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction
and with the concurrence of the appointing authority, the Fire Chief shall have the
authority to appoint an Assistant Fire Marshal, other related technical officers,
inspectors and other employees. Such employees shall have the powers delegated by
the fire code official.
Section 105.6.25; add to read as follows:
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105.7.19. Electronic access control systems. Construction permits are required to
install or modify 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 107.3; delete this section in its entirety:
Section 112.4 shall be modified to read as follows:
112.4 Violation; penalties. It is the intent of this department to achieve compliance
by the traditional means of inspection, notification, granting of reasonable time to
comply and re-inspection. Persons who violate a provision of this Code or fail to
comply after all reasonable means to gain compliance have failed with any of the
requirements thereof or who 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 provisions of this Code shall be guilty of a misdemeanor,
punishable by a fine of not more than the sum of two thousand dollars ($2,000.00)
for each offense. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served
shall be deemed a separate offense.
Section 202 Definitions are amended, changed, or added to read as follows:
[B] Ambulatory Health 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}.
CHIEF OF THE BUREAU OF FIRE PREVENTION shall be the Fire Chief of
the City of University Park or the Chief’s authorized representatives.
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CITY shall be held to mean the City of University Park, Texas.
CORPORATE COUNSEL shall be held to mean the City Attorney for the City of
University Park.
[B] DEFEND IN PLACE. A method of emergency response that engages the
building components and trained staff to provide occupant safety during an
emergency. Emergency response involved remaining in place, relocating, within the
building, or both without evacuating the building.
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.” When
utilized, qualifications and number of personnel required shall be determined by the
fire chief or their designee. Charges for utilization shall be as normally calculated
by the jurisdiction.
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 as set forth herein.
FLEET VEHICLE shall be held to mean a motor vehicle which is one of a group
of motor vehicles, owned or operated as a unit and used in the ongoing course of
business.
High Piled Combustible storage: add a second paragraph to read as follows:
Any building classified as a group S or speculative building exceeding 6000 sq. ft.
that has a clear height in excess of 14 feet, making it possible to be used for storage
in excess of 12 feet, shall be considered to be high-piled storage. When a specific
product cannot be identified, fire protection systems and life safety features shall be
installed as for class IV commodities, to the maximum height.
HIGH RISE BUILDING. A building with an occupied floor located more than 55
feet above the lowest level of fire department access.
REPAIR GARAGE. A building or portion thereof used for servicing or repairing
motor vehicle. 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 or
other such repair.
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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 or their designee. When utilized, qualifications and number of personnel
required shall be determined by the fire chief or their designee 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 changed to read as follows:
307.1.1 Prohibited Open Burning. Open burning is not permitted in the City of
University Park.”
Section 307.3 is changed to read as follows:
307.3 The fire code official is authorized to order the extinguishment by the property
owner; another responsible party, or the fire department, of any burning that creates
or adds to a hazardous or objectionable situation.
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Section 307.4, delete exception #2;
Section 307.4.1, delete
Section 307.4.3, add exception #2 to read as follows:
Exceptions:
1. Portable outdoor fireplaces used at one and two family
dwellings.
2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an
approved automatic sprinkler system.
Section 307.4.4 is added to read as follows:
307.4.4 Permanent Outdoor Fire pits. Permanently installed outdoor fire pits 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 Residential Code or International Building Code.
Section 307.5; changed to read as follows:
307.5 Attendance. Open burning, recreational fires and use of portable outdoor
fireplaces must be constantly attended until the… {Remainder of section unchanged}
Section 308.1.4 is changed to read as follows:
308.1.4 Open-flame cooking devices. Open flame cooking devices such as
hibachis, gas-fired grills, charcoal grills, outdoor fireplaces and other similar devices
used for cooking, heating or any other purpose, shall not be located or operated on
any combustible balcony, deck, or within 10 feet (3048 mm) of any 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
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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. {...remainder of text unchanged...}
Section 308.1.6.2, Exception number 3 is changed to read as follows:
Exceptions:
{text unchanged}
3. Torches or flame-producing devices in accordance with Section
308.1.3
Section 308.1.6.3: change to read as follows;
308.1.6.3 Sky Lanterns. A person shall not release or cause to be released an
unmanned free floating device containing an open flame or other heat source, such
as, but not limited to a sky lantern.
Section 311.5 is changed 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
110 of this Code relating to structural or interior hazards. Such marking shall be as
required by Sections 311.5.1 through 311.5.5.
Section 403.5; change Section 403.5 to read as follows:
403.5 Group E Occupancies. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan, prepared
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.
403.11.2.1 PUBLIC SAFETY PLANNING FOR SPECIAL EVENTS.
(a) A “Special Event” shall be defined as an indoor and/or outdoor gathering
of persons that may have an adverse impact on the public safety services
in the City of University Park, Texas by:
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i. diminished access to buildings, structures, fire hydrants, fire
apparatus, or access roads;
ii. utilizing emergency medical services of the UPFD in a manner that
would not ordinarily exist; or
iii. any other reason determined by the UPFD as to necessitate
personnel or equipment that is not customarily and regularly
provided by UPFD to its citizens in the normal course of its daily
operations.
(b) Should a Special Event occur, UPFD reserves the right to require a safety
plan for such a Special Event (hereafter the “Safety Plan”). The Safety
Plan may be required in an approved form and manner as directed by the
UPFD, submitted no later than 72 hours before the Special Event.
(c) ….
(d) Given the adverse impact on public safety, and as a condition to receiving
a permit for a Special Event, the applicant shall be required to provide the
following scheduled emergency medical service support, based on the
number of anticipated participants and spectators at the Special Event:
MINIMUM NUMBER OF EMERGENCY MEDICAL SUPPORT REQUIRED
Type of Emergency
Medical Personnel or
Vehicle Required
1 –
6,000
Participants/
Spectators
6,001 –
10,000
Participants/
Spectators
10,001 –
25,000
Participants/
Spectators
25,001 –
50,000
Participants/
Spectators
Over 50,000
Participant/
Spectators
EMS Personnel
(including required
staffing of associated
MICU Ambulance)
0 4 6 8 10
EMS Supervisor(s) 0 1 1 1 1
MICU Ambulance(s) 0 0 0 1 1
Special Event Safety
Plan Required No Yes Yes Yes Yes
Letter of
Authorization
Required
No Yes Yes Yes Yes
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i. The term “MICU” shall mean that form of equipment and associated
personnel as required under Texas or federal law, and as regulated
by the appropriate governing agency(s) (i.e. The Texas Department
of State Health Services or the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency).
ii. The term “Letter of Authorization” shall be all any required
permission or grant of authority from UPFD, as permitted under
Texas law, to any provider of emergency medical services within
the City of University Park, Texas. UPFD reserves the discretion to
approve and set the terms of any Letter of Authorization.
iii. All emergency medical service personnel, equipment, and
apparatus used under this Ordinance shall fully comply with all
provisions of Texas law, all qualification and all certification
standards under Texas law, including but not limited to the Texas
Health and Safety Code, the Texas Insurance Code, the
administrative regulations promulgated by the Texas Department of
State Health Services, Texas Department of Public Safety, the Texas
Department of Insurance, or any other applicable state agency. This
includes any and all Letter(s) of Authorization required from the
UPFD. Should non-compliance with any such law or regulation
occur or arise, or should notice of a third-party claim or complaint
arise from EMS services provided under this Agreement or the
Letter of Authorization, all notified parties shall thereafter be
required to notify UPFD within three business days of any
respective notice or any non-compliance
(e) UPFD reserves the right to increase the scheduled emergency medical
service support outlined above for a Special Event if:
i. any alcoholic beverage is sold, served, or otherwise made available
at the Special Event;
ii. special need(s) for increased emergency medical services are
created by the topography or size of the Special Event location,
weather conditions at the Special Event, or the time of day during
which the Special Event is conducted;
iii. the Special Event requires street closures or rerouting of vehicular
or pedestrian traffic that may affect emergency access to the Special
Event;
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iv. the Special Event involves specific activities that create a higher risk
of illness or injury to persons participating in or attending the event,
including but not limited to sporting or athletic events, events
involving motor vehicles, or marathons; or
iv. the history of the particular Special Event indicates that a greater
number of emergency medical personnel or emergency medical
vehicles are required to protect the public health, safety, and
welfare.
(f) Should a patient or patients require emergency medical treatment at a
Special Event, any EMS provider acting under a granted Letter of
Authorization or any physician of an applicant, the following shall control
medical treatment and transportation of such a patient(s):
i. Unless otherwise agreed or unless an immediate emergency exists
requiring transportation for a patient, UPFD shall be the primary
transporting agency. UPFD shall rely on the applicant’s EMS
provider’s medical judgment of ALS-certified personnel under
protocol established and governing immediate transport of patients
for immediate or imminent emergencies.
ii. Provider shall be permitted to treat and transport athletic players,
officials, or personnel under the care of any licensed physicians of
the applicant for a Special Event in manner and to a location
designated by the licensed physician(s) so long as the applicant’s
licensed physician(s) both assumes care of the patient and
accompanies the patient to the transport destination.
iii. Applicant and its EMS provider shall notify UPFD’s 911 dispatch
of any event that simultaneously requires treatment of five or more
patients or requires transportation of two or more patients
Section 404.2.2; add Number 4.10 to read as follows:
Add “4.10 Fire extinguishing system controls.
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.
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Exceptions:
1. {No change}
2. {No change}
3. Notification of teacher/staff having supervision of light or
sound sensitive students/occupants, such as those on the autism
spectrum, for the protection of those students/occupants, shall be allowed
prior to conducting a drill.
Section 501.4 is added to read as follows:
501.4 Timing of installation. When emergency 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 development has progressed beyond
completion of the foundation of any structure.
Section 503.1.1, add the following sentence to the end of the first paragraph:
503.1.1 … 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 503.1.4 added to read:
503.1.4 Fire Lane Approval. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, the
emergency apparatus access roads required by this section shall be designated on a
site plan and a minimum of two sets of plans shall be submitted to the Fire Marshal
for approval.
In Section 503.1.5, add the following:
503.1.5 Existing Fire Lanes. … Any fire lane that has been established prior to
passage of the ordinance from which this article is derived and designated by the
Fire Marshal or that has been established by a separate ordinance shall be a fire lane
for all intents and purposes and shall be maintained as required by this Code.
Section 503.1.6 is added to read as follows:
Section 503.1.6. Maintenance Generally. The fire code official shall report any
negligent surface conditions, markings, or signs to the owner or person in control of
property upon which a fire lane exists and shall issue instructions for repair. It shall
be unlawful for the owner or person in control of property upon which a fire lane
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has been designated or exists to fail to maintain the surface of the fire lane in good
condition, free of potholes and other unapproved obstructions. It shall be unlawful
for the owner or person in control of property on which a fire lane has been
designated or exists to fail to maintain any marking of the fire lane as required by
this Code in a condition which is not clearly legible.
Section 503.2.1 is changed to read as follows:
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width
of not less than 20 feet (7315mm), except for approved security gates in accordance
with Section 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 14 feet
(4267 mm).
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 is changed to read as follows:
503.2.2 Authority. 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 or where necessary to meet the public safety
objectives of the jurisdiction.
Section 503.2.3; change Section 503.2.3 to read as follows:
503.2.3 Surface. Emergency access roads shall be designed and maintained to
support imposed loads of 85,000 pounds for fire apparatus and shall be surfaced so
as to provide all-weather driving capabilities.
Section 503.2.4 shall be amended to read as follows:
503.2.4 Turning Radius. The turning radius of a fire department access road shall
be a minimum inside turning radius of twenty-five feet (25') and a minimum outside
turning radius of fifty feet (50').
Section 503.3 shall be changed to read as follows:
503.3 Marking. Striping, signs, or other markings, when approved by the fire code
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.
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(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 Chief.
Section 503.4 is changed to read as follows:
503.4 Obstruction 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. The
operator of a premises shall maintain, free of obstruction, all fire lanes on his
premises. No person may mark, post or otherwise identify a non-fire lane private
vehicular passageway as a fire lane or in such a manner as tends to create confusion
as to whether the passageway is a fire lane. Any unauthorized vehicle on a fire lane
is:
(1) Subject to removal by the operator of the premises, with the expense of removal
and storage to be borne by the registered owner of the vehicle,
(2) Subject to citation, as well as removal, by the fire marshal or a police officer, and
(3) Prima facie evidence that the person in whose name the vehicle is registered is
guilty of a violation of the parking provisions of this section.
Section 505.1 change to read as follows:
505.1 Address identification. Approved numerals of a minimum 6” height and of a
color contrasting with the background designating the address shall be placed on all
new and existing buildings or structures in a position as to be plainly visible and
legible from the street or road fronting the property and from all rear alleyways /
access. Where buildings do not immediately front a street, approved 6 inches height
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building numerals or addresses and 3-inch height suite / apartment numerals of a
color contrasting with the background of the building shall be placed on all new and
existing buildings or structures. Numerals or addresses shall be posted on a
minimum 20 inches by 30 inches background on border. Address numbers shall be
Arabic numerals or alphabet letters. The minimum stroke width shall be 0.5 inches.
Where access is by means of a private road and the building cannot be viewed from
the public way, a monument, pole or other sign or means shall be used to identify
the structure.
Exception: R-3 Single Family occupancies shall have approved numerals of a
minimum 3 ½ inches 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 is changed 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. Water supply tests shall
be completed by City of University Park Infrastructure Maintenance personnel or
their designee, as required. The exact location of the static/residual hydrant and the
flow hydrant shall be indicated on the design drawings. 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.
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Section 507.5.7 shall be added to read as follows:
507.5.7 Fire Department Connection. The fire department connection for a
sprinkler and/or a standpipe connection shall be within twenty-five feet (25') of a
dedicated street or fire apparatus access road or approved by the fire code official.
Section 509.1.2; add 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 two (2) inches
when located inside a building and four (4) inches when located outside, or as
approved by the fire code official. The letters shall be of a color that contrasts with
the background.
Section 605.4 through 605.4.2.2; change to read as follows:
605.4 Fuel Oil Storage Systems. Fuel oil storage systems shall be installed and
maintained in accordance with this code. Tanks and fuel oil-piping systems shall be
in accordance with chapter 13 of the international Mechanical Code and Chapter 57.
605.4.1 Fuel-oil storage in outside, above ground 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.
605.4.1.1 Approval. Outdoor fuel oil storage tanks shall be in accordance with UL
142 or UL 2085, and also listed as double wall/secondary containment tanks.
605.4.2 Fuel oil storage inside buildings. Fuel oil storage tanks shall comply with
Sections 605.4.2.2 through 605.4.2.8 and Chapter 57
605.4.2.1 Approval indoor fuel oil storage tanks shall be in accordance with UL 80
UL142 or UL2085
605.4.2.2 Quantity Limits. One or more fuel oil storage tanks containing Class II or
III 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 stores in a tank
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complying with UL 80, UL 142, or UP 2085 and also listed as a double wall
secondary containment tank for class II liquids.
2. 1320 gallons (4996 L) in buildings equipped with automatic sprinkler system
in accordance with section 903.3.1.1, where stored in tank complying with UL
142 or UL 2085. The tank shall be listed as a secondary containment tank, and
the secondary containment shall be monitored visually or automatically.
3. 3000 gallons (11356 L) in buildings equipped with an automatic sprinkler
system in accordance with section 903.3.1.1 where stored in protected above
ground tanks complying with UL 2085 and section 5704.2.9.7. The tank shall
be listed as a secondary containment tank, as required by UL 2085, and the
secondary containment shall be monitored visually or automatically.
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 807.5.5.2 and 807.5.5.3; change to read as follows:
807.5.5.2 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.
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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.
807.5.5.3 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.
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:
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 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. There are
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
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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
about 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 nighttime 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 is added to read as follows:
901.6.4 False Alarm 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.
Section 901.7 is changed 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. {Remainder unchanged}
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Section 903.1.1 Alternative protection, is changed 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 approved by the fire code
official.
Section 903.1.2 add of the following second paragraph:
903.1.2 Residential Sprinkler Systems. …
Unless specifically allowed by this Code or the International Building Code,
residential sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13D or 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, all
residential sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13D or 13R must
include attic sprinkler protection to be recognized for the purposes of such trade-offs
permitted by other requirements of this Code.
Add the following to Section 903.2; add a paragraph to read as follows and
delete the exception
903.2 Where required. (Language unchanged…) Automatic Sprinklers shall not be
installed in elevator machine rooms, elevator machine spaces, and elevator hoist-
ways, other thank pits where such sprinklers would not necessitate shunt trip
requirements under any circumstances. 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 903.2.1.1 is changed to read as follows:
903.2.1.1 Group A-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout
a fire area containing Group A-1 Occupancies.
Section 903.2.1.2 is changed to read as follows:
903.2.1.2 Group A-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout
a fire area containing Group A-2 Occupancies.
Section 903.2.1.3 is changed to read as follow:
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903.2.1.3 Group A-3. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout
a fire area containing Group A-3 Occupancies.
Section 903.2.1.4 is changed to read as follows:
903.2.1.4 Group A-4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout
a fire area containing Group A-4 Occupancies.
Section 903.2.1.5 is changed to read as follows:
903.2.1.5 Group A-5. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout
a fire area containing Group A-5 Occupancies.
Section 903.2.2 is changed to read as follows:
903.2.2. Ambulatory health care facilities. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
provided throughout a fire area containing Group B ambulatory health care facility
occupancy.
Section 903.2.3 is changed to read as follows:
903.2.3 Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all
Group E Occupancies.”
Section 903.2.4 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.4 Group F-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all
buildings containing Group F-1 Occupancies.
Section 903.2.7 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.7 Group M. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout
buildings containing Group M Occupancies.”
Section 903.2.8 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.8 Group R. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1 shall be provided throughout all buildings in a Group R fire area.”
Section 903.2.9 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.9 Group S-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all
buildings containing Group S-1 Occupancies.
Section 903.2.9.1 is amended to read as follows:
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903.2.9.1 Repair Garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided
throughout all buildings used as repair garages in accordance with the International
Building Code
Section 903.2.9.2 is amended to read as follows:
903.2.9.2 Bulk Storage of Tires. Buildings and structures with areas for the storage
of tires shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
Section 903.2.9.3 is added 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 903.2.10 is amended to read:
903.2.10 Group S-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout
buildings classified as enclosed parking garages in accordance with Section 406.4
of the International Building Code or where located beneath other groups.
Section 903.2.10.1 is amended to read:
903.2.10.1. Commercial parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
provided throughout buildings used for storage of commercial trucks or buses.
Section 903.2.11.1 is amended as follows
903.2.11.1. Stories without openings. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
installed in every story or basement of all buildings without openings.
Section 903.2.11.3 is changed to read as follows;
903.2.11.3 Buildings over 35 feet in height. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
installed throughout buildings with a floor level, other than penthouses in
compliance with Section 1510 of the International Building Code, which 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 406.5 of the International
Building Code, having no other occupancies above the subject garage.
Section 903.2.11.7 is added to read as follows:
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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.
Section 903.2.11.8 is added to read as follows:
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.
Section 903.2.11.9 is added as follows:
903.2.11.9 Sprinkler system for new construction. An automatic sprinkler system
shall be installed throughout all buildings. For the purpose of this provision, firewalls
shall not define separate buildings.
Exceptions:
1. Detached Group U occupancies that are 500 square feet or less;
2. Detached Group U occupancies that are greater than 500 square feet, but less than
1,000 square feet, are required to choose from one of the following methods as a
means for additional fire protection:
a. Automatic fire sprinkler system, or
b. Install 5/8” Type X Gypsum Board on all walls and ceilings of the entire structure.
3. Detached Group U occupancies 1,000 square feet or larger are required to be
furnished with an automatic fire sprinkler system.
4. Covered walkways or open canopies above fuel dispensing pumps, bus stops or
other similar structures intended only for the temporary protection of persons from
inclement weather, but not including patios attached to buildings.
5. Temporary buildings housing construction materials and offices not exceeding
500 square feet for 180 days. Additional time can be granted by the Fire Code
Official or Community Development Manager.
6. Open parking structures in compliance with Section 406.3 of the International
Building Code.
7. Guard houses for commercial and residential development.
8. Gazebos and ramadas for residential and public use.
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9. Independent restroom buildings associated with golf courses, construction sites,
parks, and similar uses.
Section 903.2.11.10 is added as follows:
903.2.11.10 Existing Buildings. The owner of any building shall be required to
install an automatic sprinkler system at such time as the owner(s) constructs an
addition or enlargement to the building if the total square footage of such an addition,
when combined with the total square footage of all previous additions and
enlargements to the building completed after April 3, 2007:
1. Causes the building to exceed 4,000 square feet (371.6 m2) of total floor area;
and,
2. The total square footage of all such additions and enlargements exceeds the
original floor area of the building by more than thirty percent (30%), regardless of
fire area, area separation walls, or fire walls.
Exception: Open parking garages in compliance with Section 406.3 of the
International Building Code.
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, where approved by the fire 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. Rooms or areas that are of noncombustible construction with wholly
noncombustible contents.
5. Fire service access Elevator machine rooms, and 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 Attached Garages and Attics. Sprinkler protection is required
in attached garages, and in the following attic spaces:
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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:
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, pre-action, 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
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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 903.3.1.5 add as follows:
903.3.1.5. Installation. Automatic sprinklers and standpipe systems shall be
installed with the following:
1. A single underground supply and point for the Fire Department Connection (FDC)
shall be provided for all buildings.
2. All inspector’s test, ball drips, and main drains shall be piped directly to the
outside of the building.
3. Fire pumps shall be equipped with a properly sized test header.
4. Underground piping shall have a 10 feet minimum separation from all other
utilities and placed in a separate trench. Underground piping within 5 feet of the
building may be combined with other utilities for the entrance to the building.
5. Porches and balconies shall be fire-sprinkled on all Group R-2 and R-3
occupancies.
6. A minimum of 4 feet of pipe between the check valve and inside the wall of the
FDC.
Section 903.3.5 change to 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. Reference section 507.4 for
additional design requirements.
Section 903.3.5.1 is amended to read as follows:
903.3.5.1. Connections for Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems. Automatic fire
sprinkler systems in residential structures and all nonresidential structures shall have
a separate connection to the potable water supply. Installation plans for the
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underground supply main shall be submitted for review and approval. The
underground supply main shall be installed in accordance with this Code, National
Fire Protection Association Standard 24, and State Fire Marshal’s Office guidelines.
The size of the connection shall be reviewed and approved by the University Park
Fire Department prior to installation. The minimum size of a water line supplying a
one- and two-family residence is 1-1/4 inches diameter. The potable water supply
shall be protected against backflow in accordance with the requirements of this
section and the International Plumbing Code.
Section 903.3.7, add the following section:
903.3.8 Fire Department Connection Attachment. Fire department connections
must be installed in accordance with section 912 (IFC). All fire department
connection outlets installed for the automatic sprinkler systems that are 1-1/2 inches
in diameter shall be installed with iron pipe threading (IPT). Outlets that are 2-1/2
inches in diameter shall be American National Fire Hose Connection Screw Threads
(NH). When a reducer is added to a system from a 2-1/2 inch to 1-1/2 inches outlet,
the 2-1/2 inch diameter outlet must have NH screw threads and the 1-1/2 inch
diameter outlet shall have IPT threading.
Section 903.4, delete exception 1, and add a second paragraph to 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 as close as practical to the fire department connection.
Section 905.2 is changed 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
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with a minimum of 10 psig and a maximum of 40 psig air pressure with a high/low
alarm.
Section 905.3. Add Section 905.3.9 and exception to read as follows:
905.3.9 Building area. 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
Exception:
1. Automatic dry, semi-automatic dry, and manual dry standpipes are allowed as
provided for in NFPA 14 and approved by the 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 areas of a building.
Exception: Where floor areas adjacent to an exit passageway are
reachable from an exit stairway hose connection by a {No change to
rest.}
4. {No change.}
5. Where the roof has a slope of less than four units vertical to 12 units
horizontal (33.3 percent slope), each standpipe shall be provided
with a two-way a hose connection shall be located to serve the roof
or at the highest landing of an interior 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 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 905.8 change to read as follows:
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905.8 Dry Standpipes. Dry standpipes shall not be installed.
Exception: Where subject to freezing and in accordance with NFPA 14.
Additionally, manual dry standpipes systems shall be supervised with a minimum of
10 PSIG and a maximum of 40 PSIG air pressure with high/low Supervisory alarm.
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 906.1(1); delete exception 3 as follows:
3.In storage areas of Group S occupancies where forklift, powered
industrial truck or powered cart operators are the primary occupants,
fixed extinguishers, as specified in NFPA 10, shall not be required
where in accordance with all of the following:
1.1 Use of vehicle-mounted extinguishers shall be
approved by the fire code official.
1.2 Each vehicle shall be equipped with a 10-pound,
40A:80B:C extinguisher affixed to the vehicle using
a mounting bracket approved by the extinguisher
manufacturer or the fire code official for vehicular
use.
1.3 Not less than two spare extinguishers of equal or
greater rating shall be available onsite to replace a
discharged extinguisher.
1.4 Vehicle operators shall be trained in the proper
operation, use and inspection of extinguishers.
1.5 Inspections of vehicle-mounted extinguishers shall be
performed daily.
Section 907.1; add Section 907.1.4 Design Standards 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.
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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% of
the building. When cumulative building remodel or expansion exceeds 50% 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 that activates the occupant
notification system in accordance with new Section 907.5 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. 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.
Exceptions: {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:
907.2.3 Group E. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant
notification system 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.
Section 907.2.3 change exception 1 and add exception 1.1 to read as follows:
Exceptions:
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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.)
Section 907.2.10; change to read as follows:
907.2.10 Group S. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant
notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group S
public- and self-storage occupancies three stories or greater in height for interior
corridors and interior common areas. Visible notification appliances are not required
within storage units.
Exception: {No change.}
Section 907.2.11.5 add a second paragraph to read as follows:
In an R-3 structure, the household fire alarm and smoke detection system shall be
monitored by an approved supervising station and be maintained in accordance with
NFPA 72.
Section 907.2.12.2 is changed by changing the beginning paragraph to read as
follows:
907.2.12.2 Emergency voice/alarm communication system. The operation of
any automatic fire detector, sprinkler, water-flow device or manual fire alarm box
shall automatically sound an alert tone followed by voice instructions giving
approved information and directions on a general or selective basis to the
following terminal areas on a minimum of the alarming floor, the floor above, and
the floor below in accordance with the building’s fire safety and evacuation plans
required by Section 404.
Section 907.2.13 Change Exception 3 to read as follows:
3. Open air portions of buildings with occupancy in Group A-5 in accordance with
Section 303.1 of the International Building Code; this exception does not apply to
accessory uses but not limited to sky boxes, restaurants and similarly enclosed areas.
Section 907.4.2.7 add to read as follows:
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907.4.2.7 Type. Manual alarm initiating devices shall be an approved double action
type.
Section 907.6.1.1 Add 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
horizontally and one foot vertically between supply and return circuit conductors.
The initiating device circuit (IDC) from a signaling line circuit interface device may
be wired Class B, provided the distance from the interface device to the initiating
device is ten feet or less.
Section 907.6.3; delete all four exceptions.
Section 907.6.6 add sentence to end of paragraph and delete all three
exceptions;
See 907.6.3 for the required information transmitted to the supervising station.
Exceptions: {Delete}
Section 907.6.6; add section 907.6.6.3 to read as follows
907.6.6.3 Communication requirements. All alarm systems, new or replacement,
shall transmit alarm, supervisory and trouble signals descriptively to the approved
central station, remote supervisory station or proprietary supervising station as
defined in NFPA 72, with the correct device designation and location of addressable
device identification. Alarms shall not be permitted to be transmitted as a General
Alarm or Zone condition.
Section 910.2; change Exception 2. Add 3 to read as follows:
2. Only manual smoke and heat removal shall 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 be required in areas of buildings
equipped with control mode special application sprinklers with a response time
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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.
Sections 910.2.3 and 910.2.4; add to read as follows;
910.2.3 Group H. Buildings and portions thereof used as 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.
Exceptions:
1. 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.
910.2.4 Exit access travel distance increase. Buildings and portions thereof used
as Group F-1 or S-1 occupancy where the maximum exit access travel distance is
increased in accordance with Section 1017.3.2
Add section 910.3.4 to read as follows:
[F] 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.
[F] 910.3.4.1 Sprinkled 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 system per 910.2
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[F] 910.3.4.2 Non-sprinkled 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.
Section 910.4.4; change to read as follows:
[F] 910.4.4 Activation. The mechanical smoke removal system shall be activated
by manual controls only automatically by the automatic sprinkler system or by an
approved fire detection system. Individual manual controls shall also be provided.
Exception: Manual only systems per Section 910.2.
Section 912.2.3 Add 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 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
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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 913.4; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
The fire-pump system shall also be supervised for “loss of power,” “phase reversal”
and “pump running” conditions by supervisory signal on distinct circuits.
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 (128 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 1006.2.1; Change exception #3 to read as follows:
1006.2.1 Egress based on occupant load and common path of egress travel
distance. Two exits or exit doorways from any space shall be provided where the
design occupant load or the common path of egress travel distance exceeds the
values listed in Table 1006.2.1. The cumulative occupant load from adjacent rooms,
areas or space shall be determined in accordance with Section 1004.2.
Exceptions:
{No change.}
{No change.}
Unoccupied rooftop mechanical rooms and penthouses are not required to comply
with the common path of egress travel distance measurement.
Section 1009.8; add the following exception 7:
Exceptions :
{previous exceptions unchanged}
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7. Buildings regulated under State Law and built in accordance with State registered
plans, including any variances or waivers granted by the State, shall be deemed to
follow the requirements of Section 1009 and Chapter 11.
Section 1010.2.5; change Exceptions #3 and 4 to read as follows:
Exceptions:
1. 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}
2. Where a pair of doors serves a Group A, B, F, M or S occupancy {Remainder
unchanged}
Section 1020.2; add exception 6 to read as follows:
Exceptions:
6. In unsprinklered Group B office buildings, corridor walls and ceilings need not be
of fire-resistive construction within office spaces of a single tenant when the space is
equipped with an approved automatic fire alarm system with corridor smoke detection.
The actuation of any detector shall activate alarms audible in all areas served by the
corridor. The smoke-detection system shall be connected to the building’s fire alarm
system where such a system is provided.
Section 1030.1.1.1; add Exception #4 to read as follows.
Exceptions:
1. through 3. {No change.}
4. Where alternate means or methods are submitted to and approved by the Building
and Fire Officials.
Section 1032.2 change to read as follows:
1031.2 Reliability. Required exit accesses, exits or exit discharges shall be
continuously maintained free from obstructions or impediments to full instant use in
the case of fire or another emergency. An exit or exit passageway shall not be used
for any purpose that interferes with a means of egress.
Section 1103.3; add sentence to end of paragraph as follows:
Provide emergency signage as required by Section 604.4.
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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 1103.5.6; add to read as follows:
1103.5.6 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 Section 2404.
Section 1103.7.7; add to read as follows:
1103.7.8 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 Emergency and Standby Power Systems; change and add to read
as follows:
1203.1.1 {No change.} 1203.1.2 {No change.}
1203.1.3 Installation. 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 {No change.}
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1203.1.5 Load Duration. Emergency power systems and standby power systems
shall be designed to provide the required power for a minimum duration of 2 hours
without being refueled or recharged, unless specified otherwise in this code.
Exception: Where the system is supplied with natural gas from a utility provider
and is approved.
1203.1.6 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.
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 907.2.20 and 914.2
Group A Occupancies, Sections 907.2.1 and 907.5.2.2
Special Amusement Areas, Section 907.2.12 and 914.7
High-rise Buildings, Section 907.2.13 and 914.3
Atriums, Section 907.2.14 and 914.4
Deep Underground Buildings, Section 907.2.19 and 914.5
1203.2.5 through 1203.2.14 {No change.}
1203.2.15 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)
1203.2.16 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
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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.
1203.2.17 {No change.}
1203.2.18 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 I-3, International Building Code, Section 408.4.2
Stages, International Building Code, Section 410
Special Amusement Areas (as applicable to Group A’s), International Building
Code, Section 411 Smoke Protected Seating, Section 1030.6.2
1203.2.19 {No change.}
1203.2.20 Covered and Open Mall Buildings. Emergency power shall be provided
in accordance with Section 907.2.20 and 914.2.
1203.2.21 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:
Pressurization equipment, mechanical equipment, and lighting.
Elevator operating equipment.
Fire alarm and smoke detection systems.
1203.2.22 Smokeproof Enclosures and Stair Pressurization Alternative.
Standby power shall be provided for smokeproof enclosures, stair pressurization
alternative and associated automatic fire detection systems as required by the
International Building Code, Section 909.20.7.2.
1203.2.23 Elevator Pressurization. Standby power shall be provided for elevator
pressurization system as required by the International Building Code, Section
909.21.5.
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1203.2.24 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.
1203.2.25 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 504.11,
Item 7.
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 I-2, 60 minutes elsewhere.)
1203.3 through 1203.6 {No change.}
Section 2304.1 change to read as follows:
2304.1 Supervision of dispensing. The dispensing of fuel at motor fuel-dispensing
facilities shall be in accordance with 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.
Any time the qualified attendant of item #1 or #2 above is not present, such
operations shall be considered as an unattended self-service facility in accordance
with Section 2304.3.
Section 2401.2; delete this section in its entirety
Section 3103.3.1; delete this section in its entirety
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.
158
Table 3206.2; 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 3311.1; change to read as follows:
3311.1 Required access. Approved vehicle access for firefighting and emergency
response shall be provided to all construction or demolition sites. Vehicle access
shall be provided to within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of temporary or permanent fire
department connections. Vehicle access shall be provided by either temporary or
permanent roads, capable of supporting vehicle loading under all weather conditions.
Vehicle access shall be maintained until permanent fire apparatus access roads are
available. When fire apparatus access roads are required to be installed for any
structure or development, access shall be approved prior to the time which
construction has progressed beyond completion of the foundation of any structure.
Whenever the connection is not visible to approaching fire apparatus, the fire
department connection shall be indicated by an approved sign.
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, the 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. {Delete remainder of text.}
Section 5703.6; add a sentence to the end of the paragraph as follows:
An approved method of secondary containment shall be provided for underground tank
and piping systems.
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Section 5704.2.9.6.1 is changed to read as follows:
The storage of Class I and II liquids in aboveground tanks is prohibited in residential
areas within University Park.
Section 5704.2.11.5 change 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 5704.2.11.5.3. 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 5704.2.11.5.3; add Section 5704.2.11.5.3 to read as follows:
5704.2.11.4.3 Observation wells. Approved sampling tubes a minimum of 6 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 sump 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 public. Commercial sites shall be restricted to office-
type or similar occupancies that are not primarily intended for use by the public.
Section 6103.2.1.8 add 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
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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 not less than 20 feet.
Section 6104.2; add exception number 2 to read as follows:
Exceptions:
1. {Existing exception unchanged}
2. Except as permitted in 308 and 61043.3, LP-gas containers are not permitted in
residential areas.
Section 6104.3.3 add 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 can be off loaded wholly on the property where the tank
is located; owner may install 500 gallons above ground or 1,000 gallons in an
underground approved container.
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 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.
{Delete the exception}
{Appendix B Fire-Flow Requirements for Buildings amendments}
Table B105.2; change footnote a. to read as follows:
a. The reduced fire-flow shall be not less than 1,500 gallons per minute.
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{Appendix D Fire Apparatus Access Roads amendments amendments}
Section D102.1; change to read as follows:
D102.1 Access and loading. Facilities, buildings, or portions of buildings
hereafter constructed shall be accessible to fire department apparatus by way of an
approved fire apparatus access road with an asphalt, concrete or other approved
driving surface capable of supporting the imposed load of fire apparatus weighing
up to 85,000 pounds (556 kg).
Section D103.4; change to read as follows:
D103.4 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet (45
720 mm) shall be provided with width and turnaround provisions in accordance with
Table D103.4.
TABLE D103.4
REQUIREMENTS FOR DEAD-END FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS
LENGTH
(feet)
WIDTH
(feet) TURNAROUNDS REQUIRED
0–150 24 None required
151–500 24
120-foot Hammerhead, 60-foot “Y” or 96-
foot diameter cul-de-sac in accordance with
Figure D103.1
501–750 26
120-foot Hammerhead, 60-foot “Y” or 96-
foot diameter cul-de-sac in accordance with
Figure D103.1
Over 750 Special approval required
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
162
Section D103.5; change Item 1 to read as follows:
D103.5 Fire apparatus access road gates. Gates securing the fire apparatus access
roads shall comply with all the following criteria:
1. Where a single gate is provided, the gate width shall be not less than 24 feet
(7315.2 mm). Where a fire apparatus road consists of a divided roadway, the gate
width shall be not less than 12 feet (3658 mm).
Section D103.6; change to read as follows:
D103.6 Signs. Marking. Striping, signs, or other markings, when approved by the
fire code 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.
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.
Signs – Signs shall read “NO PARKING FIRE LANE” or "FIRE LANE NO
PARKING” and shall be 12” wide and 18” high (See Figure D103.6). Signs shall
have red letters on a white reflective background, 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 Chief.
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FIGURE D103.6
FIRE LANE SIGNS
Section D103.6.1 and D103.6.2; delete sections:
Section D104.3; change to read as follows:
D104.3 Remoteness. Where two fire apparatus access roads are required, they shall
be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one half of the length of the
maximum overall diagonal dimension of the lot or area to be served, measured in a
straight line between accesses, or as approved by the fire code official.
Section D105.3; change to read as follows:
D105.3 Proximity to building. Unless otherwise approved by the fire code official,
one or more of the required access routes meeting this condition shall be located not
less than 15 feet (4572 mm) and not greater than 30 feet (9144 mm) from the building
and shall be positioned parallel to one entire side of the building. The side of the
building on which the aerial fire apparatus access road is positioned shall be
approved by the fire code official.
Section D106.3; change to read as follows:
D106.3 Remoteness. Where two fire apparatus access roads are required, they
shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one-half of the length of the
maximum overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served,
measured in a straight line between accesses, or as approved by the fire code
official.
Section D107.2; change to read as follows:
164
D107.2 Remoteness. Where two fire apparatus access roads are required, they shall
be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one-half of the length of the
maximum overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served,
measured in a straight line between accesses, or as approved by the fire code
official.
{Appendix L Requirements For Fire Fighter Air Replenishment Systems
amendments}
Section L101.1; change to read as follows:
Section L101.1 Scope. Fire fighter air replenishment systems (FARS) shall be
provided in accordance with this appendix in new buildings when any of the
following conditions occur:
1. Any new building 5 or more stories in height.
2. Any new building with 2 or more floors below grade.
3. Any new building 500,000 square feet or more in size.
Each stairwell shall have a supply riser. SCBA fill panels shall be located on odd
numbered floors commencing at the first level in the primary stairwell and on even
numbered floors commencing at level 2 in the remaining stairwells. Fill panels in
buildings over 500,000 square feet shall be located adjacent to each standpipe
connection.
Section L104.13.1; delete this section in its entirety.
Section L104.14; add paragraph to read as follows:
The external mobile air connection shall be located with approved separation from
the Fire Department Connection (FDC) to allow functionality of both devices by
first responders; shall be visible from and within 50 ft. of a fire apparatus access
road along an unobstructed path; and shall be located in an approved signed,
secured cabinet.
Amend Chapter 80 Referenced Standards:
Amend NFPA 13 D, 2012 Edition:
1. Delete Section 8.3.2 and 8.3.4.
2. Amend Section 10.2.1 to read as follows:
10.2.1 Number of Design Sprinklers. The number of design sprinklers under flat,
smooth, horizontal ceilings shall include all sprinklers within a compartment, up to
a maximum of two sprinklers that require the greatest hydraulic demand. When the
compartment exceeds two sprinkler heads for coverage in accordance with this
standard, the total amount of heads to be designed shall not exceed four sprinklers.
165