HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance 9939.ORDINANCE NO ~~~~=
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AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE ELECTRICAL CODE
OF THE CITY CIF FORT WORTH, BEING AN
ORDINANCE SAFEGUARDING PERSONS AND PROPERTY
AND " PROMOTING THE PUBLIC WELFARE; DEFINING
TERMS; CREATING{ THE OFFICES OF CHIEF
ELECTRICAL INSPECTOR AND ELECTRICAL
INSPECTORS AND PRESCRIBING THEIR RESPECTIVE
DUTIES, RIGHTS AND AUTHORITY; PROVIDING
STANDARDS FOR ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT AND FOR
ITS INSTALLATION AND REQUIRING CONFORMITY
THEREWITH, MAKING IT UNLAWFUL TO UNDERTAKE
THE INSTALLATION OF ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
WITHOUT A PROPER LICENSE TO DO SUCH WORK,
EXCEPT AS OTHERWISE PROVIDED, AND WITHOUT
FIRST OBTAINING A PERMIT THEREF(1R AND
PAYING A FEE AS PROVIDED HEREIN; PROVIDING
FOR INSPECTIONS OF ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS
AND NOTICES; CREATING AN ELECTRICAL BOARD
AND PRESCRIBING ITS DUTIES; REQUIRING
LICENSE FOR ~ MASTER, JOURNEYMAN,
MAINTENANCE, AND RESIDENTIAL WIREMAN
ELECTRICIANS, MASTER SIGN AND JOURNEYMAN
SIGN ELECTRICIANS; PROVIDING FOR TEMPORARY -~_
WORKING PERMITS FOR UNLICENSED ELECTRICAL
WORKERS; PROVIDING FOR EXAMINATIONS OF
APPLICANTS FOR SUCH LICENSES AND
PRESCRIBING ANNUAL LICENSE FEES; PROVIDING
FOR SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF SUCH
LICENSES; REPEALING CHAPTER 11,
"ELECTRICITY," OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF
FORT WORTH, TEXAS (1986); PROVIDING THAT
THIS ORDINANCE IS CUMULATIVE OF ALL
ORDINANCES; PROVIDING A SEVERAHILITY
CLAUSE; PROVIDING A PENALTY FOR THE
VIOLATION HEREOF; PROVIDING A SAVINGS
CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION IN
PAMPHLET FORM; PROVIDING FOR ENGROSSMENT
AND ENROLLMENT; PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION
IN THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER; AND PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, it is deemed necessary to provide minimum
standards for electrical equipment and for the installation,
alteration or repair of any electrical equipment thereof,
within the City to protect end promote public safety, health
and welfare; and
WHEREAS, the present Electrical Code is in need of
amendments in order to protect and promote public safety,
health and welfare under modern conditions; and
WHEREAS, the Electrical Code Revision Committee of the
City of Fort Worth has recommended the adoption of the
provisions of the 1987 National Electrical Code, with certain
amendments; NOW, THEREFORE,
HE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT
WORTH, TEXASs
SECTION 1
1987 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE ADOPTED
The Electrical Code of the City of Fort Worth is hereby
revised to conform to the 1987 National Electrical Code, as
amended hereby, and the same, as amended, is hereby adopted
as the Electrical Code of the City of Fort Worth. Three
copies of the 1987 National Electrical Code, marked "Exhibit
A," are incorporated herein by reference and shall be filed
in the office of the City Secretary for permanent record and
inspection
SECTION 2.
AMENDMENTS
The 1987 National Electrical Code (Exhibit "A") is
hereby amended as shown in Exhibit "H". Three copies of
Exhibit "B" are incorporated herein by reference and shall be
filed in the office of the City Secretary for permanent
record and inspection
SECTION 3
Chapter 11, "ELECTRICITY," of the Code of the City of
Fort Worth, Texas (1986), is hereby repealed in its entirety.
SECTION 4.
This ordinance shall be cumulative of all provisions of
ordinances and of the Code of the City of Fort Worth, Texas
(1986>, except where the provisions of this ordinance are in
direct conflict with the provisions of such ordinances and
such Code, in which event conflicting provisions of such
ordinances and such Code are hereby repealed Ordinance
No. 9160, as amended, is expressly superseded by the terms of
this ordinance.
SECTION 5.
It is hereby declared to be the intention of the City
Council that the sections, paragraphs, sentences, clauses and
phrases of this ordinance 'are severable, and, if any phrase,
clause, sentence, paragraph or section of this ordinance
shall be declared unconstitutional by the-valid judgment or
decree of any court of competent jurisdiction, such
unconstitutionality shall not affect any of the remaining
phrases, clauses, sentences, paragraphs and sections of this
ordinance, since the same would have been enacted by the City
Council without the incorporation in this ordinance of any
such unconstitutional phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph or
section.
SECTION 6.
It shall be unlawful for any person to install, alter or
repair any electrical equipment in the City or cause the same
to be done contrary to or in violation of any of the
provisions of this Code. Any person, firm or corporation who
violates, disobeys, omits, neglects or refuses to comply with
ar who resists the enforcement of any of the provisions of
this Code shall be fined not more than One Thousand Dollars
01,000.00) for each offense Each day that a violation is
permitted to exist shall constitute a separate offense
SECTION 7
All rights and remedies of the City of Fort Worth, Texas,
are expressly saved as to any and all violations of the
provisions of Ordinance No. 9160, as amended, or any other
ordinances affecting electricity, which have accrued at the
time of the effective date of this ordinance; and, as to such
accrued violations and ail pending litigation, both civil and
criminal, whether pending in court or not, under such
ordinances, same shall not be affected by this ordinance but
may be prosecuted until final disposition by the courts.
Electrical permits heretofore issued under existing
ordinances shall be valid for the time being for which they
are issued under the existing Electrical Code, but, upon
expiration thereof, the same shall be void
SECTION 8.
This ordinance constitutes a digest and revision of the
Electrical Code of the City of Fort Worth, as provided in
Section 2, Chapter XXV, and Section 9, Chapter XXVII, of the
Charter of the City of Fort Worth. The City Secretary of the
City of Fort Worth, Texas, is hereby authorized to publish
this ordinance in pamphlet form for general distribution
among the public, and the operative provisions of this
ordinance, as so published, shall be admissible in evidence
in all courts without further proof than the production
thereof, as provided in Chapter XXV, Section 3, of the
Charter of the City of Fart Worth, Texas.
SECTION 9.
The City Secretary of the City of Fort Worth is hereby
directed to engross and enroll this ordinance by copying the
caption, penalty clause and effective date in the minutes of
the City Council and by filing the ordinance in the ordinance
records of the City.
SECTION 30.
The City Secretary of the City of Fort Worth, Texas, is
hereby directed to publish the caption, penalty clause and
effective date of this ordinance for two (2> days in the
official newspaper of the .City of Fort Worth, Texas, as
authorized by Art. 1176b-1, Revised Civil Statutes of Texas
SECTION 11
This ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and
after September 1, 1987, and it is so ordained.
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY:
City Attorney
Date: /f ~~'~Op~~
ADOPTED• ~~~a
EFFECTIVE•
PREFACE
The purpose of this Code is the practical safeguarding of
persons and of buildings, and their contents from hazards
arising from the use of electricity ar light, heat, power,
radio, signalling and for other purposes This Code contains
basic minimum provisions considered necessary for safety.
Compliance therewith and proper maintenance will result in an
installation essentially free from hazard, but not
necessarily efficient, convenient, or adequate for good
service or future expansion of electrical use.
CITY COUNCIL
Hob Bolen, Mayor
Louis J Zapata
William N. Garrison
Russell Lancaster
Hert C. Williams
Garcy W Gilley
Steve Murrin
Virgins Webber
Estill Vance, Jr.
Douglas Harman, City Manager
ELECTRICAL BOARD
1 Ed Parker Place 3
2. Red Withers Place 2
3. Larry Jones Place 3
4. Clyde E. Wills Place 4
5. Robert Ford Place 5
6. Jim Davis Place 6
7. Mike Martin Place 7
8. John Cisneros Place 8
9 Joan Leonard Place 9
James G. Stallcup, Secretary
The following Chapters, Sections and parts of the 1987
National Electrical Code (Exhibit "A"> are hereby amended and
after having been so amended shall be and read as follows:
EXHIBIT "H"
The 1967 National ElectricalCode (Exhibit "A") is hereby
amended a5 follows:.
OUTLINE OF CONTENTS BY PARTS,
CHAPTERS AND SECTIONS
PART 1 -- ADMINISTRATION
Page 1
CHAPTER 1. TITLE AND SCOPE
SEC. 101. TITLE ............... ....................1
102. PURPOSE ....
.
. ........1
103. APPLICATION
TO
EXISTING BUILDINGS
(a) General .. .. ......... . .. 1
(b) Change of Occupancy or Use... ..... 1
(c) Reconnection...... .. 1
(d) Different Parts of a Building ........1
(e) Fire Damage... .. .... ...
. .... 1
(f) Maintenance and
Repair ....... ...... 1
(g) Moved Buildings ....... ..... 1
104. EXCEPTIONS......... ........ .. . .2
CHAPTER 2. ORGANIZATION AND ENFORCEMENT
SEC. 201 CREATION OF OFFICE
(a) General ............. .... ... .3
(b) Qualifications . ........... .... ..3
(c) Deputies .. .... .. .... 3
(d) Condition of Employment..... ..... 3
202. DUTIES
(a) General .. .. ...... .. .. .... 3
(b) Right of Entry .... ..... .. ... 3
(c) Police Power ... ....... .... 3
(d> Records.. ..... ...... .. .3
(e) Administrator .... .......... .. ... ..4
203. SAFE CONDITION
ta) General ........ .. ... ..4
(b) Written Notice....... ... 4
(c) Authority to Disconnect.... ... .... 4
(d) Emergency Power. ..... ..... 4
(e) Power Company Disconnect.... ..... 4
CHAPTER 3. PERMITS AND INSPECTIONS
SEC. 301. WORK REQUIRING PERMITS
(a) General. ..
. .. 5
(b) Persons Qualified
for Permit .. ... ..5
(c) Permits for Existing Structures .. 5
(d) Correct Defective Wiring Permit ..... 5
(e) Permit Expiration . ............ .5
302 PERMIT APPLICATION
(a> General. ................... .. .5
(b> Plans Required..... ... ..... .. ..5
(c) Approval of Changes Required... ... .5
(d) Application Information ........ ... ..b
(e) Condition of Permit........ .... 6
303. SEPARATE PERMITS
(a) General ........................ . ....6
(b) Mobile Homes .................. ......b
(c) Inspection Fees ................ ..... b
(d) Sub-Meters ....
. .............. ......b
304. REVOCATION OF PERMIT PRIVILEGE5..... ....b
305. ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES...... .. .... b
SEC 306 INSPECTION REQUIRED
(a) General. .. ......... b
(b> Unlawful to Conceal.... .... ...6
(c) Authority to Uncover ... b
(d) Inspection Request Required .. .. 6
(e) Notice of Conformity.. ....... . .7
<f) Notice Lo Utility Authorizing
Connection .. .. . 7
(g) Certificate of Approval... .... ...7
(h) Temporary Certificate of Approval 7
(i) Notice of Non-Conformance....... ... 7
307. INSPECTION FEES ................. .. 7
306. INVESTIGATION FEE ........ .......... .. .8
309 DEFINITIONS.. ..... .. ....... .. .. .9
310. ELECTRICAL FENCES .......... ..... .. 9
CHAPTER 4. APPEAL PROCEDURE
SEC. 401. CREATION OF BOARD OF APPEAL. ... . ...10
402. APPEALS TO HOARD OF APPEAL ..... 10
CHAPTER 5. FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
CHAPTER b. FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
CHAPTER 7. FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
PART II -- ELECTRICAL HOARD AND LICENSING
CHAPTER 8. ELECTRICAL 80ARD
SEC 801 CREATION ...... .... ..... .. .12
802 QUORUM. .. .. ............ ......... .12
803 TERM OF OFFICE...... .... 12
804. DISQUALIFICATION .. ..... ... .13
BOS HOARD SECRETARY ........... ..13
806 ABSENCE DISQUALIFICATION....... .. .. ..13
807. BOARD RULES ... ..... .. 13
808 LIABILITY INSURANCE .. .. 13
CHAPTER 9. TESTING PROCEDURE
SEC 901 APPLICATION...... .. .14
902 QUALIFICATION DETERMINATION ..14
903. APPLICATION FEE ...... ........ 14
904 TIME AND PLACE... .. ... ....
...... . 14
905. SUPERVISION OF EXAMINATION ...... ... . 14
906 EXAMINATION FORMS..... .. ..... .. 14
907 EXAMINATION
(a) General....... ..... ........ 14
(b) First Hour and a half. ....... ..14
(c) Second Two and a half Hours.. .. ..14
908 MASTER EXAMINATION ...... ..... 15
909. JOURNEYMAN'EXAMINATION ..... ... ..... .15
MAINTENANCE ELECTRICIAN EXAMINATION .15
RESIDENTIAL WIREMAN ELECTRICIAN EXAM ..15
910 MASTER SIGN EXAMINATION ... ........... IS
(a) First Hour and a half ........... ..15
(b) Second Two and a half Hours .. .. ..15
911. MASTER SIGN EXAMINATION ........... .15
912. JOURNEYMAN SIGN EXAMINATION....... .. 15
913. GRADING OF EXAMINATION .......... ..... ..15
914. NOTIFICATION .................... ..16
915. FAILURE TO PASS........ ........... ..16
916 APPOINTMENT OF EXAMINERS.... 16
CHAPTER 10. LICENSING
SEC. 1001. LICENSING REQUIREMENTS... ... ... ..17
1002. APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS ............... . 17
1003. BOARD APPROVAL... .. .. .... ..
1
• ..iB
1004. EXPERIENCE
AND
REQUIRED QUALIFICATI0NS .18
1005. TEMPORARY WORKING PERMITS ....... ...... 19
1006. WORK PERMITTED
(a) Master Electrician .. ... ........ ..20
(b> Journeyman Electrician......... .. . 20
<c) Master Sign Electrician....... . ..20
<d) Journeyman Sign Electrician....... ..20
te) Temporary Working Permit.......... 20
(f) Helper or Apprentice Electrician .20
(g) Training Licenses., ................ . 20
1007. LICENSING FEES. .................
... .. ..20
1008 EXPIRATION OF LICENSE .. ............... .21
1009. FAILURE TO RENEW PENALTY ............... ..21
1010. FORFEIT OF LICENSE.. ...........
.... .. .21
1011 NULLIFICATION OF EXAMINATION....... .. ..21
1012 REVOCATION OF LECENSES ..... ........... ..21
1013 SUSPENSION OF LICENSE ................. 22
1014. GENERAL PROVISIONS.. . ................... . 22
1015 MAINTENANCE LICENSES.. ..... ........ ..23
1016. ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE WORK ............ ..23
1017. WORK REQUIREMENTS ......... ..... .... ..24
1018. APPLICATION.. ................ .... . 24
1019. LICENSED PERSONNEL ....... .... ....... 25
CHAPTER il. FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
CHAPTER 12. FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
CHAPTER 13. FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
CHAPTER 14 FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
PART III -- STANDARDS FOR THE INSTALLATION
IF ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
CHAPTER 15. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
SEC 1501. GENERAL .. 27
1502 INSTALLATION•OF PRIMA•FACIE COMPLIANCE.. 27
1503. EQUIPMENT PRIMA FACIE COMPLICANCE....... 27
1504. UNUSED EQUIPMENT.. .. ...... ....27
...
1505. EMERGENCY EXIT LIGHTING ............... 27
1506. SMOKE DETECTORS .............. ..... 27
1507. FIREWALL$ ........................ .27
........ ... ..
1508 FIRE ALARMS.. .. •• •••••• 27
1509 HEALTH DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS..... .... 27
1510. OUTSIDE LIGHTING ....................... .27
CHAPTER 16. GENERAL WIRING METHODS AND MATERIALS
SEC. 1601. WIRING METHODS .. ........................ 2B
1602 FLEXIBLE CONDUIT . ................. .. 28
1603. ELECTRICAL METALLIC TUBING . ............. 28
1604. EXPOSED RACEWAYS..... .. .............
. ... 28
1605. RACEWAY, ELECTRICAL FURANCE .............. 28
1606 A/C CABLE..... ....................... 28
1607. SUSPENDED CEILING ........................ 28
CHAPTER 17. CONDUCTORS
SEC 1701 GENERAL ................... .......... ..29
1702. ALUMINUM.. ... .... .. 29
1703. TEMPERATURE.LIMITATIONS .............. .29
1704. DAMP LOCATIONS .................... ..29
i?O5. LEAD COVERED .... .. ... ........ 29
1706. UNDERGROUND OVER 600•VOLTS........... 29
1707. CABLE IN ATTIC . ........ ........ ... .29
CHAPTER 18. SERVICE CONDUCTORS
SEC 1801. SERVICE DROPS HEIGHT ................... .30
1802. RELOCATE SERVICE DROPS .............. 30
1803. RELOCATE SERVICE LATERALS .. ............ 30
1804. SERVICE DROP ATTACHMENTS ..... ...... ....30
1805. LOCATION OF ENTRANCE CONDUCTORS ...... .30
1806. ENTRANCE CONDUCTORS INSTALLATION.... 30
1807 SERVICE SIZE... ... ... ... 31
•
1808. SERVICE .....
ENLARGED OR CHANGED 31
1809. NETWORK SERVICES ... .... ........ .... 31
1810 LOCATED INSIDE BUILDING .... .. 31
1811. ENTRANCE INSTALLATION MULTI-OCCUPANCY. .31
1812. MOBILE HOMES ....... ... ............ 32
1813 GROUNDING ELECTRODE CONDUCTORS...........32
1814 SUPPLEMENTARY GROUNDING WITH METAL
WATER PIPE ...............
... ..32
IB15. FOUNDATION GROUNDING.. .. ....... ... 32
1816 SUPPLEMENTARY GROUNDING WITH p4
BARE CONDUCTOR... .... ... ..32
1817. MINIMUM NEUTRAL PERMITTED...,. ........ 32
1818 SERVICE CONDUCTORS ENTERING BUILDINGS .32
CHAPTER 1'9. SERVICE HEADS, MASTS AND METERS
SEC. 1901. LENGTH OF CONDUCTORS AT SERVICE .. 34
1902. SERVICE HEAD HEIGHT ....... ......... .34
1903. SERVICE MAST ....... .. . ., 34
1904 GENERAL METER INSTALLATION ............ ..34
1909 METER SOCKET HEIGHT ..... .......... .. 34
1906. INACCESSIBLE METERS ................... ..34
1407 NUMBER OF SUBDIVISIONS ..... .. .. . 34
1908. LOCATION OF SERVICE HEAD.. ... . . .34
1909. METERS AND BASES .................... 34
CHAPTER 20. OVERCURRENT, BREAKER DEVICES AND CIRCU ITS
SEC 2001. SERVICE EQUIPMENT LOCATION ......... ...35
2002. ACCESSIBILITY.. ... .. ..........
• . .35
2003 TIE-BARS... ...
CIRCUIT BREAKER 35
2004. OVERCURRENT AND BREAKER EQUIPMENT .... .. 35
2005. CLASS ONE CIRCUITS ........ .......... ...35
2006. HEIGHT .. ......................... ... . .35
2007. HIGH LEG...... .................... 35
2008 SPRINKLERS .......................... . .. 35
CHAPTER 21. LIGHTING AND APPLIANCES
SEC. 2101. CEILING BOX INSTALLATION .................36
2102. LIGHTING CIRCUITS.. ................36
......
2103. BRANCH LIGHTING CIRCUITS .................36
2104. GENERAL USE BRANCH CIRCUITS........... .36
2105. GERNEAL APPLIANCE CIRCUITS ............ ..36
2106. RANGE APPLIANCES.. ..
• 36
2107. RESIDENCES
RECEPTACLES IN EXISTING
(a) No. G.F.C.I. Requirement . . 36
(b) G.F.C.I. Requirement..... ..37
(c) G.F.C.I. Requirement............ .. 37
<d) Damaged by Fire.. ..... ......... 37
.
Extensions
(e) New Additions and .37
(f) G..F.C.I. Protected .. ...... ..... 37
SEC. 2108 RECEPTACLES SPECIAL LOCATIONS. 37
2109. MECHANICAL AREAS. ..... ..... .. 97
2110 RECEPTACLES SUNKEN AREA......... ... ..38
2111. HVAC RECEPTACLES............ ... .. .3B
CHAPTER 22. HAZARDOUS AND SPECIAL INSTALLATION
SEC. 2201 OUTSIDE BUILDING WIRING .................39
2202 OUTDOOR INSTALLATIONS.. .. .. ...... ...39
2203 SWIMMING POOL INSTALLATIONS.... .. ..39
METHOD OF GROUNDING POOLS ...............39
2204 .ACCESS DDOR FOR SPA MOTORS.. .. .. ... 42
2205 DISCONNECT FOR SPA MOTORS .:..... ..... 42
CHAPTER 23 TEMPORARY WIRING INSTALLATIONS
SEC. 2301 TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION SITES.. ...... .43
2302. G F C I. REQUIRMENTS. ........ ..... ..43
2303 LARGE AREA G F C.I. REQUIREMENTS........ 43
2304. ASSURED GROUNDING REQUIREMENTS. ... .. 43
2305 CHRISTMA5 TREE. .. .. ........ .. 43
TEMPORARY POLE OVERHEAD ... .............44
TEMPORARY POLE UNDERGROUND.. ... 45
CHAPTER 24. FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
CHAPTER 25 FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
CHAPTER 26 FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
PART IV - FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
PART V - FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
PART VI - FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
PART VII - LEGISLATURE
CHAPTER 90 LEGISLATIVE
SEC 9001 STANDARDS.. ..... .. .. .. ... 48
PART 1 - ADMINISTRATION
CHAPTER 1 - TITLE AND SCOPE
SECTION 101. This ordinance shall be known as the
"Electrical Code," may be cited as such, and will be referred
to herein as "this code."
SECTION 102. The purpose of this Code is to provide
minimum standards to safeguard life or limb, health,property
and public welfare by regulating and controlling the
installation and alteration of electrical equipment, which
shall include electrical conductors, fittings, devices, sign
primaries, fixtures, motors, generators, starters, controls,
raceways and that part of elevator installations consisting of
signal systems, fans, electric lighting fixtures, illuminated
thresholds, feeder conductors and raceways to motor and
generator disconnect switches and controllers and all
electrical installations in connection with interlocking
devices, other than on automatic elevators, located within or
on public and private buildings and premises except as
excluded by Section 104; and by regulating and licensing those
persons who will install or maintain such electrical
equipment.
SECTION 103. ta) GENERAL. On installation where
existing electrical wiring or equipment is altered or added
to, the provisions for new installations will apply
(b) The electricity supply agency shall disconnect the
electrical service to any building or premises except private
residences and duplex apartments each time such building or
premises changes ownership, is leased, or changes occupancy,
and it shall not again supply electricity to such buildings or
premises until authorized to do so by the Electrical
Inspector. The owners or the new occupants of such buildings
or premises shall make application to the Chief Electrical
Inspector for an inspection The Chief Electrical Inspector
shall make the inspection within forty-eight hours, exclusive
of Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, of the time such
application is made or as Soon thereafter as practicable A
twenty dollar ta20 00) fee shall be collected for such
inspections
tc) It shall be unlawful for any person to connect to a
supply of electricity, or to supply electricity to any
electrical equipment for the installation of which a permit is
required, or which has been disconnected or ordered to be
disconnected by the Electrical Inspector, or, except for
private residences, which has been disconnected for any reason
whatsoever, until such connection has been authorized by the
Electrical Inspector.
(d) Electricity shall not be supplied to a part or parts
of buildings or premises unless all of such buildings or
premises have been made to conform with the provisions of this
Code.
<e) All buildings or structures subjected to damage by
deterioration by fire shall be inspected by the Chief
Electrical Inspector, and all unsafe wiring or electrical
equipment shall be repaired or replaced.
tf) If upon inspection an installation is found to be
unsafe by ressan of inadequate maintenance or repair, the
Chief Electrical Inspector may require that the electrical
wiring or equipment be made to conform to the provisions of
this Code.
ig) Except for mobile homes, the provisions of this Code
shall apply to all buildings or structures moved into or built
in the City of Fort Worth Moved buildings must be wired as
new building per latest N E.C. tpermanently installed >
-1-
SECTION 104. The provisions of the Code shall not
apply to:
(a) Installations in mines, ships, railway cars, or to
automotive equipment;
<b) The installation, alteration or repair of electrical
equipment installed by or for an electricity supply agency for
the use of such agency in the generation, transmission,
distribution or metering of electricity when such equipment is
located within or on such buildings or premises used by such
an agency for said purposes, or when such equipment is located
on public thoroughfares; however, the provisions of this Code
shall apply to all other electrical installations or equipment
used for any other purposes not specifitaliy excepted herein
and located within or on such buildings or premises;
(c) Installations by or for communication agencies in
connection with the operation of signals or the transmission
of intelligence, nor to the employees making such
installations by or for such agencies, but the provision of
this Code shall apply to Article 800 of the N.E.C. and to
installations for heat, decoration, amusement, ventilating
equipment, and general lighting not attached to and power not
directly used in connection with installations for
communications, signals, and the transmission of intelligence;
(d) The installations and equipment employed by a railway
utility in the exercise of its functions a5 a utility, and
located outdoors or in buildings used exclusively for that
purpose, but the provisions of this Code shall apply to
installations and equipment used for light, heat, power,
decoration, amusement, and all other purposes located within
or on such buildings or premises;
(e) Special radio equipment used exclusively for radio
transmissions by persons or organizations licensed to operate
by the Federal Communications Commission; however, the
provisions of this Code shall apply to all electrical
equipment used for power supply to radio transmitting
equipment;
(f> The replacement of lamps or the connection of
portable electrical equipment to suitably permanently
installed receptacles;
<g) The installation, alteration, or repair of electrical
equipment for the operation of signals or the transmission of
intelligence, or to installations of communications facilities
Dy or for communications agencies;
(h) Any work involved in the manufacturing or testing of
electrical equipment or apparatus, except that this exemption
shall not include any permanent wiring;
(i) Installation in mobile dwelling structures, trailers
and other structures designed for portability;
(3) The installation, alterations or repair of electrical
equipment, devices, or conductors designed or used for a
voltage of twenty-four (24) volts or less
-2-
CHAPTER 2 - ORGANIZATION AND ENFORCEMENT
SECTION 201. (a) GENERAL. There is herby created
the office of Chief Electrical Inspector. The Chief
Electrical Inspector shall be appointed by the Building
Official.
(b) The Chief Electrical Inspector shall be of good moral
character, shall be possessed of such executive ability as is
requisite for the performance of his duties, and shall have a
thorough knowledge of the standard materials and methods used
in the installation of electrical equipment; shall be well
versed in approved methods of construction for safety to
persons and property, the statutes of the State of Texas
relating to electrical work and any order, rules, and
regulations issued by authority thereof, the National
Electrical Safety Code, and the N.E.C. as approved by the
American Standards Association; shall have had at leave five
years experience as an electrical inspector or in the
installation of electrical equipment, at least two years of
which shall have been in a responsible supervisory capacity;
or in lieu of such experience shall be a graduate in
electrical engineering of an accredited college or university,
and shall have had two years practical electrical experience
(c) The Chief Electrical Inspector may employ assistants
to be electrical inspectors, who shall be designated
Electrical Inspectors, and Clerical Assistants necessary for
the proper conduct of his office and the inspection of
electrical installations as provided for in this Code.
The Chief Electrical Inspector may delegate any of his
powers or duties to any such Electrical Inspectors.
<d) It shall be unlawful for the Chief Electrical
Inspector or any Electrical Inspector, while employed by the
City of Fort Warth, to engage in the business of the sale,
installation, repair or maintenance of electrical equipment,
either directly or indirectly, or to have financial interest
in any concern engaged in such business in the City of Fort
Worth, Texas.
SECTION 202. (a) GENERAL. It shall be the duty of
the Chief Electrical Inspector to enforce the provisions of
this Code He shall, upon proper application by any Master
Electrician licensed by the City, issue permits for the
installation or alteration of electrical equipment, and shall
make inspections of such installations or alterations, as
provided for in this Code.
(b) The Chief Electrical Inspector shall be authorized
during reasonable hours to enter any building or premises in
the discharge of his official duties, or for the purpose of
making any inspection, reinspection, or test of the clerical
equipment contained therein, or its installation
(c) It shall be unlawful for any person to hinder or
interfere with the Chief Electrical Inspector or any of the
Electrical Inspectors in the discharge of their duties under
this Code. The Chief Electrical Inspector and all Electrical
Inspectors shall have the power to cause the arrest of any
person violating any of the provisions of this Code.
(d) The Chief Electrical Inspector shall keep complete
records of all permits issued, inspections and reinspections
made and other official work performed in accordance with the
provisions of this Code. He shall also keep on file a list of
electrical equipment inspected and certified by Underwriters'
Laboratories, Inc., which list shall be accessible for public
reference during regular office hours.
-3-
(e) The Chief Electrical Inspector shall have complete
jurisdiction for enforcement of this code, the Chief
Electrical Inspector shall be the only administrator and shall
not be superseded. Any discrepancies by any person,
origination, association, official, management, programs,
department, service, commission, agency, utilities, operation,
office, director, or board shall have the right to appeal to
the electrical board and City Council as proscribed here in
Chapter 4.
SECTION 203. (a) GENERAL. As used in this Code,
"safe condition" as applied to electrical installation and
electrical equipment means installations and equipment which,
in the opinion of the Electrical Inspector, can be used in the
service for which the same are intended or likely to be used
with minimum hazard to life, limb, or property
(b) When any electrical equipment is found by the
Electrical Inspector to be dangerous to persons or property,
he shall notify the persons or agent responsible for the
electrical equipment in writing, and such persons shall make
any changes or repair which are required to make such
equipment in safe conditions within ten days or longer period
that may be specified by the Electrical Inspector in such
notice.
(c) When the person has been duly notified and does not
make the required changes or repairs to the electrical
equipment within the period set out in the notice, then the
Electrical Inspector shall have the authority to disconnect or
order the electricity supply agency to disconnect such
electrical equipment and the premises in or upon which the
same is located from the source of electricity.
(d) In case of emergency, where necessary for safety to
persons or property, or where electrical equipment may
interfere with the work of the Fire Department, the Chief
Electrical Inspector shall have the authority, without notice
to anyone, to disconnect immediately or to cause the immediate
disconnection of any electrical equipment from the source of
electrical supply. Only the Chief Electrical Inspector listed
in Section 203 or his deputies have such authority.
(e) The power company may disconnect service to a premise
according to the following conditions
1 Non-payment of bill
2. Point of attachment
3 Meter height not correct
4. Meter not wired correctly
5. Termination of service conductors or lateral
NOTE: The power company must notify the Chief
Electrical Inspector to disconnect power except
for non-payment of bill
-4-
CHAPTER 3 - PERMITS AND INSPECTIONS
SECTION 301. (a) GENERAL. No person shall install
electrical equipment within or on any building, structure, or
premises publicly or privately owned, nor shall any person
make any alteration or addition to any such existing equipment
without having first secured a permit to do such work from the
Chief Electrical Inspector. The Chief Electrical Inspector
shall issue such permits only to Master Electricians licensed
under the provisions of this Code
<b) No permit for construction, installing, altering,
extending, maintaining, repairing, or replacing any electrical
wiring, apparatus, or equipment or any voltage in excess of
twenty-four (24) volts shall be issued to any person other
than a Master Electrician licensed by the City of Fort Worth
No permit for installing, altering, extending, maintaining,
repairing, or replacing remote-control, low-energy power,
low-voltage power, or signal circuits of any voltage shall be
issued to any person other than a Master Electrician licensed
by the City.
(c) No permit shall be issued for installing, altering,
extending, or replacing any electrical wiring or equipment on
any building, structure, or premises, either publicly or
privately owned, within the City, if any unlawful electrical
wiring or equipment exists on the same premises, until a
permit to correct such conditions is first obtained by a
Master Electrician, and ali necessary corrections are made by
an Electrician qualified to do so under the provisions of this
Code.
<d) If a permit to correct defective wiring is issued,
such work shall be started within forty-eight (48) hours of
issuance of the permit and completed without delay
(e) If work, for which an electrical installation permit
is issued, has not been started within six <6) calendar months
from the date of issue of such permit, then such permit shall
be null and void from and after the expiration of Such six (6)
months period. Fees for cancelled permits shall not be
refunded.
SECTION 302. (a) GENERAL Application for a permit
required herein shall describe the work to be done and shall
be made in writing to the Chief Electrical Inspector by the
Master Electrician installing the work.
(b) Pions, specifications, and schedules shall be
required on all electrical work in Group A through I
Occupancies as defined in the Building Code, and on all
electrical work in which the total value of all labor and
materials exceed five thousand dollars 05,000.00). Such
plans shall be signed by a Registered Professional Electrical
Engineer or a Master Electrician.
Master Electricians, Electrical Engineers, Consulting
Engineers, and Architects responsible for electrical design,
shall furnish to the Plan Checking Division a complete set of
electrical plans and specifications for each project. Plans
shall be submitted and approved prior to issuing the Building
permit. The plans shall indicate all necessary information
required, such as
1. Calculated loads
2 Main and feeder size
3. Maximum short Circuit current available at each
point of application of each protective device
used on the project
4. Electrical panel locations and clearances
Any deviation from the approved plans must be approved
by the Chief Electrical Inspector.
<c) No deviation may be made from the installation
described in the permit without the written approval of the
Chief Electrical Inspector.
-5-
(d) Applications for permits shall include the correct
street address and number of premises, the type of occupancy,
the name of the owner or occupants, and the number of square
feet in any occupancy where demand factors or may be based on
square-foot areas.
(e) The issuance of s permit shall not be construed as
approval of plans, specifications, or schedules, or of work
contemplated by such permit.
SECTION 303. (a) A separate permit shall be required
for each separate electrical service or meter installed.
(b> In trailer and mobile home parks, the individual
trailer or mobile home disconnect switches shall not be deemed
separate services.
(c) Inspection fees for each permit shall be charged as
set out in the Fee Schedule.
(d) A fee of ten dollars (E10.00) is required for each
meter used to sub meter buildings, leases, apts., etc.
SECTION 304. No permits shall be issued to any master
Electrician unless and until such Master Electrician shall
have paid all fees for prior permits and inspections issued to
and charged to him.
SECTION 305. The Building Official may make and issue
in writing such administrative regulations in connection with
the filing of applications of permit by telephone, the filing
and recording of applications and permits and the billing and
collecting of inspection and permit fees.
SECTION 306. INSPECTIONS. (a> GENERAL It shall be
unlawful for any person to place in operation any electrical
equipment for which a permit is required and which has not
been inspected and approved by the Chief Electrical Inspector.
<b) It shall be unlawful for any person to conceal any
electrical equipment which has been disapproved or condemned
by the Chief Electrical Inspector unless and until the same
has been so repaired or altered that ft complies with all
provisions of this Code and has thereafter been approved by
the Chief Electrical Inspector.
EXCEPTIONS: When any electrical equipment is to be hidden
from view by the permanent placement of parts of the building
or equipment, the Master Electrician installing the equipment
shall notify the Chief Electrical Inspector and such equipment
shall not be concealed until it has been inspected and
approved by the Chief Electrical Inspector or until
forty-eight (4B) hours, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays, and
holidays, shall have elapsed from the time of such
notification; provided, that on large installations where the
concealment of equipment proceeds continuously, the Master
Electrician installing the electrical equipment shall give the
Electrical Inspector due notice, and inspections shall be made
periodically during the progress of the work.
lc) The Chief Electrical Inspector shall have the
authority to require any person to uncover any wiring or
electrical which has been concealed without the knowledge or
permission of the Electrical Inspector. Exception: The Chief
Electrical Inspector may .permit concealed wiring to be megged
by a registered professional Electrical Engineer.
cd) Upon completion of any installation of electrical
equipment which has been made under a permit issued pursuant
to this Code, it shall be the duty of the Master Electrician
making the installation to notify the Chief Electrical
Inspector who shall inspect the installation within
forty-eight (48) hours, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays, and
holidays, of the time such notice is given.
-b-
te) Where the Chief Electrical Inspector finds the
installation to be in conformity with the provisions of this
Code, he shall issue to the Master Electrician making the
installation a notice of conformance, which shall be placed on
the equipment or premises, authorizing the use of the
installation.
<f) When the Chief Electrical Inspector has issued a
Notice of Conformity, he shall send written notice to the
agency supplying the electric service authorizing connection
of the conforming installation to such service
(g) When the owner or his agent requests a Certificate of
Approval for a conforming installation, the Chief Electrical
Inspector shall issue such a certificate which will accurately
describe the installation and certify its inspection and
approval..
<h) When a certificate of approval is issued authorizing
the connection and use of a temporary installation, such
certificate shall be issued for a specified period as stated
thereon, and shall be revocable by the Chief Electrical
Inspector for good cause.
(i) If, upon inspection, the installation is found not to
conform with the provisions of this Code, the Chief
Electrical Inspector shall issue a notice of nonconformance
and shall notify Lhe Master Electrician making the
installation of the defects which have been found to exist.
All defective work shall be corrected and brought in
conformity with the provisions of this Code within ten (10)
days from the date of the written notices. If the defective
work is not corrected within the said ten t10I days, no
further electrical work will be permitted within or on the
building or premises and the Master Electrician making the
installation will not be issued any other permits to perform
any other electrical work.
The provisions of this section shal] in no way nullify the
Emergency Powers set out in Section 204 of this code.
SECTION 307. Each Master Electrician applying for a
permit shall pay an Inspection-Fee as set out by SCHEDULE
307A. Payment of such fees shall in no way excuse the Master
Electrician from the penalties set forth in this Code
EXCEPTION l: Where the Fee for new structures and
additions to structures have been collected on a building
permit, additional Fees are not required except inspection
fees for turn downs, but the permit application shall be filed
before the work is commenced by the Electrical Contractor
doing the work.
EXCEPTION 2: There will be a twenty dollar ta20 00) fee
for all letters requesting temporary power to a premises
EXCEPTION 3: There will be a ten dollar ta10.00) fee for
all reciprocal letters.
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SCHEDULE 307A -- INSPECTION FEES
Minimum Fee .......................... ... .. E20.00
LIGHT OUTLETS, FIXTURES, SWITCHES,
RECEPTACLE
Up to 100 ... ...................................~ .25 each
All over SOO .............................. ..... .20 each
FIXED APPLIANCES
Vent Fan .... ................................ .
Smoke Dectector ......................... ..
Bath Heater.................. ..................
Disposal .......................................
Dishwasher........ . .................... ........
Compactor.. ..............................
Washing Machine ......................... .......
Water Heater ...... ...................... ......
Dryer ................................... .......
Range ....... .. ..... ...........
Air Conditioner -•3•to•5 ton....... ..... ...
Air Conditioner - over 5 ton to 7 1!2 ton.....
Air Conditioner - over 7 1/2 ton ......... ......
Heating Unit fgas). ......... ..........
Heating Unit felectric) .........................
MOTORS
~ .75
.75
.75
75
.75
.75
.75
1.50
1 50
1.50
3.00
5.00
10.00
1 50
.50 per KW
1 to 3 hp. ................................ ..E 1.50
Over 3 to 5•hp .. .............. ................ 3.00
Over 5 to 7 1/2 hp .............................. 5 00
Over 7 1/2 hp .......................... ........ 10 00
TRANSFORMERS, 13ENERATORS, AND WELDERS
O to 10 KW ..... .. .. ... ...... ....E 3.00
Over 10 KW to•20 KW ..... ...... .............. 5.00
Over 20 KW ....... .. ......... ... ...... ...... 10 00
Welders ..................... ... ............ 3.00
SERVICES
60 amp to 100 amp... ....... ..... ..........E10.00
Over 100 amp to 150•amp ...... ........... .... 15 00
Over 150 amp ...................... ...... 20 00
MISCELLANEOUS
Swimming pools .. .................. .. ........E25.00
Construction pole ............. ........ 15.00
First turndown .. ........... ............. ... 20.00
Successive turndown......... ........ ...... 25 00
Wrong number or locked...... ................. 20 00
Sign connections, each ..... .. ........ 3.00
Failing to call for final inspections ........ 25.00
Where the Master Electrician does not list a count to the
City, a minimum fee of E50.00 will be charged
DELINQUENT ACCOIMlTS. Where these permit fees are being
invoiced monthly and the account is past-due, a fee of E15 00
or ten percent (10%) of the invoice total, whichever is more,
shall be assessed. The above assessed fee shall be paid
before additional permits will be issued or additional
inspections performed.
SECTION 30B. When electrical work requiring a permit
is found to be in progress or completed and no permit has been
issued for such work, an Investigation Fee of double the
amount of the Inspection Fee shall be charged to the Master
Electrician doing all ar part of the work in addition to such
fees as are required by this Code.
-8-
EXCEPTION: No Investigation Fee shall be charged when the
work is performed by a Master Electrician or by a licensed
Journeyman Electrician under the supervision of a licensed
Master Electrician at night, on Saturdays, Sundays ar
holidays, so long as a permit for such work is obtained
between 8:00 o'clock a.m. and 9:00 o'clock a.m. on the first
regular working day after such work has been done
SECTION 309. The following definitions shall apply in
determining Inspection Fees.
ta) APPLIANCES, MACHINES, EQUIPMENT are those items that
contain motors, generators, welders, and controls that are
delivered on the job site as a packaged unit and are prewired
according to the N.E.C
(b) CONTROLS, MOTORS, WELDERS, GENERATORS are separate
items that are required to be connected separately.
(c> SERVICES include temporary and permanent, main or
branch service connection
td) TURNDOWN occurs where a re-inspection is required by
the Electrical Inspector because non-conforming work was found
by the Electrical Inspector in the prior inspection
te> WRONG ADDRESS is that situation where a field
inspection was attempted but not completed because a wrong
address was given by the Master Electrician.
SECTION 310. Permits shall be issued for electrical
fences only upon approval by the Electrical Board
-9-
CHAPTER 4 - APPEAL PROCEDURE
SECTION 401. The Electrical Board shall hear the
appeals of persons aggrieved by orders or decisions made by
the Chief Electrical .Inspector, his assistants, or the
Building Official upon this Code, and shall render a decision
on each appeal.
SECTION 402. APPEAL PROCEDURE. The appellate
procedure shall be as follows
(a) The appeal should be filed with the Secretary of the
Electrical Board of the City of Fort Worth in writing within
fifteen (15) days from the date of the decision or order
appealed from. Such appeal shall be in duplicate, shall refer
to the specific decision or order appealed from and shall
clearly state the appellant's grounds for appeal
Such appeals shall be placed on the agenda of the
Electrical Hoard for hearing. The Board shall notify all
necessary parties of the date and location of the hearing
Parties may appear before the Electrical Board in person, by
agents, or by attorney The Hoard may require such additional
data and tests it deems netessary for adequate decision of the
appeal.
(b) The appellant shall be required to pay a fee of fifty
dollars «50 00) per appeal. The a50 00 fee is non-refundable
(c) The Building Official and Chief Elettrical Inspector
shall transmit to the Electrical Board all records and data in
their possession which are relevant to the appeal
(d) All orders or decisions made pursuant to this Code
which are appealed from shall be stayed pending the final
decision of the Board. However, if the Building Official or
Chief Electrical Inspector certifies to the Board that by
staying such order or decision a hazardous situation to life
or property would exist, then such order or decision shall
remain in full effect pending the final decision of the Board
(e) The Electrical Board shall have the power in all
cases appealed to it to affirm, reverse or modify in whole or
in part the decision or order which is appealed from Na
decision of the Hoard shall vary or be inconsistent with the
terms, provisions and requirements of this Code
(f) The Building Official and Chief Electrical Inspector
shall enforce and execute all legal decisions and orders of
the Electrical Hoard.
(g) The Hoard shall have the power to approve alternate
and new materials, methods and decisions in accordance with
the applicable provisions of this Code. However, the Hoard
shall have no power to limit, amend, modify or change the
provisions of this Code.
-10-
CHAPTER 5 - FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
CHAPTER 6 - FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
CHAPTER 7 - FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
-11-
PART II - ELECTRICAL BOARD AND. LICENSING
CHAPTER 8 - ELECTRICAL BOARD
SECTION 601. There is hereby created an Electrical
Hoard composed of nine members, appointed by the City Manager,
by and with the advise and consent of the City Council, as
follows:
PLACE 1. One Master Electrician who is engaged in the
business of installation of electrical equipment in the City,
is licensed by the City. This place shall be nominated by
the National Electrical Contractor's Association.
PLACE 2. One Master Electrician who is engaged in the
business of installation of electrical equipment in the City,
is licensed by the City. This place shall be nominated by the
Associated Independent Electrical Contractors of America
PLACE 3. One Electrical Engineer registered in the State
of Texas who is not employed by the City of Fort Worth This
place is nominated by The Institute of Electrical and
Electronics Engineers
PLACE 4. One Electrical Contractor who is engaged in the
business of installation of electrical equipment within the
City and who is a Master Electrician licensed by the City.
This place is nominated by independent electrical contractors
who ere not associated with the National Electrical
Contractors Association or the Independent Electrical
Contractors Association
PLACE 5. One Sign Contractor who is engaged in the
business of installing electric signs within the City and who
is a licensed Master Sign Electrician as defined by the
Ordinance of the City of Fort Worth This place is nominated
by the Sign Association
PLACE b. One licensed Journeyman Electrician who is
licensed to engage in the electrical trade in the City of Fort
Worth, and who is actively engaged with the tools of the trade
as a Journeyman Electrician in the trade within the City
PLACE 7 One licensed Journeyman Electrician who is
licensed to engage in the electrical trade in the City of Fort
Worth, and who is actively engaged with the tools of the trade
as a Journeyman Electrician in the trade within the City
PLACE 8 AND 9. Two residents of the City of Fort Worth
above the age of 25 years who are not engaged in any branch of
the construction industry
SECTION. 802. Five members of the Electrical Board
present at any meeting shall constitute a quorum for the
transaction of nny business or the carrying out of any duties,
but any action taken at any meeting shall require the
affirmative vote of at least five members. The Chairman of
any meeting of the Board shall vote. The Chief Electrical
Inspector shall not vote when the Hoard is reviewing appeals
to the technical provisions of the code but may vote on those
matters relating to licensing and during the formulation
process of codes.
SECTION 603. Members appointed to odd-numbered places
shall serve terms expiring October 31, 1987 Members
appointed to even-numbered places shall serve terms which
expire October 31, 19B~. Thereafter, members shall serve
two-year terms. No member shall serve more than three
consecutive two-year terms, and the terms of current members
of the Board shall be counted toward the limit of terms to be
served for purposes of this ordinance. The members shall
serve until their successors are appointed. Alternate members
may be appointed to act in the absence of one or mare regular
members.
-12-
SECTION 804. Employment of the Journeyman Electrician
member of the Board by either of the Master Electrician
members or the Master Sign Electrician member of the Board for
as long as two consecutive months shall automatically
disqualify the Journeyman Electrician from further membership
on the Board, and a successor shall be appointed forthwith to
serve the remainder of the term of such disqualified member
SECTION 805. The Chief Electrical Inspector shall be
Secretary of the Board, and shall keep a record of all
examinations held and applicants examined and the results
thereof, together with any other records as the Board may
direct. The records of the names of each applicant and the
number, date and result of the examinations taken by each
applicant shall be kept permanently Examinations shall be
kept for at least 40 days for applicants to review Review
time of examinations is limited to 30 minutes per applicant
Applicants with a grade of 60 or above shall be eligible to
make an appointment to review examinations
SECTION 806. When a member is absent from three (3)
successive meetings of the Board or misses twenty-five percent
(25%) or more of the meetings of the Hoard in a twelve-month
period, the Secretary of the Hoard shall report this fact to
the City Secretary in writing within ten (10) days of the
third missed meeting Thereafter, such member shall be
subject to removal by the City Cduncil as provided in Section
2 - 82 of the City Code
SECTION 807. The Electrical Board shall have the power
to make and promulgate its own rules governing its meetings
and and proceedings, including selection of a Chairman,
subject to the provisions of this Code
SECTION 808. Each Master Electrician and Master Sign
Electrician taking out permits must have an insurance policy
with limits of liability in the amounts of not less than
(300,000.00 per occurrence for bodily injury, including death,
and not less than X300,00 00 per occurrence for property
damage.
-13-
CHAPTER 9 - TESTING PROCEDURE
SECTION 901. A person wishing to be examined for one
of the grades of electrical licenses issued by the City of
Fort Worth shall file a written application for such
examination with the Secretary of the Hoard at least thirty
days before the date set for examinations. Such application
shall state the grade of license for which he wishes to be
examined, and shall have attached thereto such documentary
information as is required by this Code and the Board.
SECTION 902. The Board shall give written examinations
to those applicants who have satisfied the provisions of
Section 901 to determine whether each applicant is qualified
for the grade of license for which he has applied
SECTION 903. Each applicant for the Master
Electrician's examination and each applicant for the Master
Sign Electrician's examination shall pay an examination fee of
twenty-five dollars (f25 00) to the Secretary of the Hoard;
and each applicant for the Journeyman Electrician's
examination, Maintenance Electrician, and Residential Wireman
Electrician, and each applicant for the Journeyman Sign
Electrician's examination shall pay an examination fee of ten
dollars (f10.00) to the Secretary of the Hoard.
SECTION 904. Examinations may be held in the City Hall
or other facility. Such examinations shall be of four hour
duration and shall be held between the hours of a.m and 5 00
p m., the exact time of such period to be set by the Board
The Secretary shall notify each applicant of the exact time
and location of the examination. The starting time will be
determined by the Board.
SECTION 903. three or more members of the Board shall
be present at all examinations, and shall supervise the
applicants during the entire course of such examination.
SECTION 906. Examination questions shall be typed or
mimeographed, and the answers shall be written in ink by the
applicant
SECTION 907. (a) GENERAL. At least seventy-five
percent (75%) of the total number of questions in each half of
the Master Electrician's examination and the Journeyman
Electrician's examination shall be based upon the N E.C , the
National Electrical Safety Code, and this Code Not more than
twenty-five percent (25%) may be based upon additional
electrical questions.
(b) FIRST 1 1/2 HOURS. The first 1 1/2 hours of the
four-hour Master Electrician's examination period and the
first two hours of the four-hour Journeyman Electrician's
examination period shall each be devoted to questions on this
Code, the N.E.C., and the National Electrical Safety Code, and
other electrical questions of a nature designed to test the
applicant's technical competence and his general overall
knowledge of and familiarity with this Code, the N.E C., and
National Electrical Safety Code During the first 1 1/2-hour
section of such four-hour examination periods, the applicant
shall not be permitted to use any codes, books, tables, or any
other aids whatsoever.
(c) SECOND 2 1/2 HOURS. The second 2 1/2 hours of such
four-hour examination periods shall each be devoted to
problems to determine the spplicant's ability to use this
Code, the N.E.C., the National Electrical Safety Code, and
their associated tables, and other technical information
which, in the opinion of the Board, is necessary for
technical competence. During the second 1 1/2-hour section of
such four=hour examination .period, the applicant will be
permitted to use the N.E C., but shall not use any other books
or materials
-14-
(d) Either part of the examination may be administered
first with a grade of twenty L20) paints to take second part
of examination or second part to be graded.
SECTION 90B. The Master Electrician's examination
shall be based on the N.E.C., the National Electrical Safety
Code, this Code and all amendments thereto, together with any
additional technical problems which, in the opinion of the
Board, will test the applicant's competence.
SECTION 909.. The Journeyman Electrician, Maintenance
Electrician, and Residential Wireman Electrician examination
shall be based on this Code and all amendments thereto, the
N.E.C., the National Electrical Safety Code, and the
additional technical information generally, but shall not be
as extensive or difficult as the Master Electrician's
examination, and the problems to be solved therein shall be
those of the same type and nature as would be likely to be
encountered and would ordinarily be solved by electricians
working under the supervision of a Master Electrician.
SECTION 910. ta> FIRST 1 1/2 HOURS. The first 1 1/2
hours of the Master Sign Electrician's four-hour examination
period and the first 1 1/2 hours of the Journeyman Sign
Electrician's four-hour examination period shall each be
devoted to questions based upon Article 600 of the N.E C and
all provisions of the Sign Code to determine the applicant's
general overall knowledge of and familiarity with such codes
During the first 1 1/2-hour section of such four-hour
examination periods, the applicant shall not be permitted to
use any codes, books, Lables or other aids whatsoever
tb) SECOND 2 1/2 HOURS The second 2 i/2 hours of such
four-hour examination periods shall each be devoted to
problems and/or sketches to determine the applicant's ability
to use Article 600 of the N E.C and the Sign Code, their
associated tables and other technical information which, in
the opinion of the Board, is necessary for technical
competence During the second 2 1/2-hour section of such
four-hour examination period, the applicant will be permitted
to use the N.E.C., the Sign Code, but not any other books or
tables.
SECTION 911. The Master Sign Electrician's examination
shall be based upon the Sign Code and Article 600 of the
N.E.C. and ali respective amendments thereto, together with
any additional technical problems which, in the opinion of the
Board, will test the applicant's competence.
SECTION 912. The Journeyman Sign Electrician's
examination shall be based upon-the Sign Code and Article 600
of the N.E C. and all respective amendments thereto, and
technical information generally, but shall not be as extensive
or difficult as the Master Sign Electrician's examination, and
the problems to be solved therein shall be those of the same
type and nature as would be likely to be encountered and would
ordinarily be solved by sign electricians working under the
supervision of a Master Sign Electrician.
SECTION 913. Each section of each examination shall be
of equal value in determining the final grade. A minimum
grade of seventy percent t70%) shall be required as a passing
grade.
The Electrical Board shall grade all examination papers
and shall certify to the Chief Electrical Inspector the name
of each applicant passing the examination and the grade of
license for which he has qualified. Upon such certification
with notarized letters or W2 forms of employment and the
payment of the fee herein prescribed the applicant shall be
issued a license at the grade for which he has been certified,
which license shall be signed by the Chief Electrical
Inspector.
-15-
SECTION 914. The Electrical Board shall notify an
applicant of his grade within fifteen l15) days after the date
of the examination.
SECTION 913. No applicant for an electrician's license
who fails to pass his first examination shall be examined
again prior to the expiration of two (2) calendar months from
the date of said first examination.
SECTION 916. The Secretary of the Board shall have the
right to appoint graders to assist in administering the
Tarrant County examinations.
-16-
CHAPTER 1'O - LICENSING
SECTION 1001. Every person desiring to be licensed by
the City to engage in the electrical business in a capacity
for which a license is required by this Code shall:
<a) Take an examination given by the Board for the grade
of license sought; or,
(b) Be the holder of a valid electrician's license or
certificate of registration issued by another city which
license or certificate has been valid for one year and is of a
grade equal to that for which he is applying; or,
EXCEPTION: Applicants applying with certificates from
Tarrant County Examining Hoard or Dallas County Examining
Board are exempt from the one year requirement.
(c) He the holder of a certificate of examination which
states he has passed an examination qualifying him for the
grade of license for which he is applying and which
certificate was issued to him by an examining agency approved
by the Hoard; and,
(d) Comply with all other licensing requirements herein.
There shall be six (6) grades of licenses and one (1) grade of
temporary working permit.
SECTION 1002. Either the holder of a valid
electrician's license or certificate of registration issued by
another city or the holder of a certificate of examination
issued by an examining agency approved by the Electrical Board
may apply for the grade of license comparable to that which he
holds or has qualified for elsewhere without taking the
written examination given by the Board Such application
shall be submitted five working days prior to the Board
meeting to the Secretary of the Electrical Board and shall be
accompanied by evidence showing
(a) That the applicant holds either a valid electrician's
license or certificate of registration issued by another city
which is of a grade equal to that license for which he is
applying or a certificate of examination issued by an
examining agency approved by the Hoard which qualifies him for
the grade of license for which he is applying;
<b) That such certificate of examination, electrician's
license or certificate of registration was issued to the
applicant by such examining agency or other city after the
applicant had take and passed a written examination
administered to him by such agency or city;
(c> That the examination and the applicant's passing
performance thereon are equal to those required by the
provisions of the Code; and that the other city from which the
applicant holds a license or certificate of registration
allows holder of electrician's license issued under the
provisions of this Code to receive equivalent licenses from
such city on a reciprocal basis and without written
examination.
Upon receipt of such information the Hoard shall certify
to the Chief Electrital Inspector that the applicant is
qualified for the grade of license for which he is applying.
Upon such certification,~payment of the prescribed license
fees by the applicant a license shall be issued to the
applicant of the grade for which he is!certified. A license
issued under the provisions of this section shall be the
equivalent of a license of Lhe same grade which is issued
under the provisions of this Code.
-17-
SECTION 1003. The Electrical Hoard may list agencies
whose certificates of examination the Board will accept in
lieu of examinations given by the Hoard.
The Board shall determine whether the various grades of
written examination given by the agency are the equivalent of
those given by the Hoard under the provisions of this Code
The Hoard shall further determine whether the standards
required by such agency for the issuance of such a certificate
of examination are equal to the standards required by the
Board for a passing grade on an equivalent examination given
under the provisions of this Code.
The Hoard shall neither approve nor list as being approved
any examining agency which does not maintain examination
standards at least equal to those required by this Code
SECT20N X004. To be qualified, an applicant for a
license shall have passed a required examination, or hold a
certificate of examination from an approved examining agency,
or hold a license or certificate of registration from another
city, and have the following minimum qualifications and
experience:
(a) MASTER ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
(1> Shall have had at least four <4) years
experience as a Journeyman Electrician in the
construction industry; or, shall be a graduate of a
recognized B.A T electrical trade school with a four
(4) year curriculum and have had at least two (2)
years experience as a journeyman electrician
(2) Shall have graduated after majoring in
electrical engineering from an accredited college or
university which has not less than a four (4> year
curriculum end shall have had at least one (1) year
of practical electrical experience
(3) Shall be valid to only one electric company
which may be issued permits under the provisions of
this Code. This electric company must be registered
with the Chief Electrical Inspector. A fee of Fifty
Dollars (ffi50.00) per change of business or company
name shall be charged Proof of assumed name must be
provided.
Upon acquiring a Master Electrician license a copy of
this code shall be obtained
(b) JOURNEYMAN ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
Shall have had at least four (4) years experience in
the electrical construction industry, or shall be a
graduate of a recognized H A.T electrical trade
school with a four (4) year curriculum.
(c) MAINTENANCE ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
Shall have four (4> years experience in maintaining
and repairing electrical apparatus.
EXCEPTION: A training license may be issued by the
Chief Electrical Inspector with proof of two (2)
years experience.
(d) MASTER SIGN ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
Shall have had at least three (3) years experience as
a Journeyman Sign Electrician in the installation
and/or manufacturing of electrical signs, exclusive
of experience devoted to non-electrical components;
or in lieu of such experience shall have graduated
after majoring in electrical engineering from an
accredited college or university which has not less
than a four (4) year curriculum and shall have had at
least eighteen t18) months experience of practical
electrical sign experience
,c_
fe) JOURNEYMAN SIGN ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
Shall have at least three <3) years experience in the
installation of electrical .sign or outline lighting
equipment, exclusive of experience devoted to
non-electrical components such as enclosures; or in
lieu of such experience shall have had two (2) years
college credit majoring fn electrical engineering in
an accredited. college or university; including
completion of that university or College published
curriculum for freshman and sophomore electrical
engineering of electrical engineering major; and
shall have had at least eighteen (18) months
experience of practical electrical sign experience
(f) RESIDENTIAL WIREMEN ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
Shall have at least two (2) years experience in the
installation of electrical equipment in one and two
family dwellings. The residential wireman
electrician licenses restricts the holder of such
licenses to do electrical work in one and two family
dwellings only.
Electrical contractors working .electricians with a
residential wireman electrician license must work
such electricians in one and two family dwelling
sites only Electrical contractors working
electricians in other types of construction will be
subject to a citation as well as the electricians
(g) DUAL QUALIFICATION, DUAL LICENSING
Neither this section nor this chapter shall be
construed to prohibit:
(1) The licensing of a Master Electrician as a
Master Sign Electrician, provided such Master
Electrician has duly qualified as a Master Sign
Electrician;
(2) The licensing of a Master Sign Electrician as a
Master Electrician, provided such Master Sign
Electrician has duly qualified as a Master
Electrician;
(3) The licensing of a Journeyman Electrician as a
Journeyman Sign Electrician, provided such Journeyman
Electrician has duly qualified as a Journeyman Sign
Electrician;
<4) The licensing of a Journeyman Sign Electrician
as a Journeyman electrician, provided such Journeyman
Sign Electrician has duly qualified as a Journeyman
Electrician; and
t5) Any other licensing combination, provided that
the licensing prerequisites for the issuance of each
such license are duly met.
SECTION 1003. TEMPORARY WORKING PERMITS shall be~
issued under the following conditions:
(a) An applicant for a Temporary Working Permit shall
file a written electrical examination application with the
Chief Electrical Inspector ahd'pay the examination fee.
(b) Eligibility to test for any grade of license, other
than Master Electrician or Master Sign Electrician, entitles
the applicant to request a Temporary Working Permit at no
additional fee At the time of request for a Temporary
Working Permit no examination is required.
-19-
SECTION 1006. Only the following licensees shall be
permitted to do the electrical work specified below
(a) A Master Electrician may contract for and engage in
the business of installing, repairing or replacing electrical
wiring or equipment of any nature on or in buildings or
structures other than signs. The Master Electrician may
install, repair or replace the primary wiring on signs and may
employ and supervise Journeyman Electricians, Temporary
Working Permit holders, helpers and apprentice electricians.
(b) A Journeyman Electrician shall be able to perform any
type of electrical work under the supervision of a Master
Electrician, or to perform any type of sign work as outlined
6y the ordinances of the City and under the supervision of a
Master Sign Electrician, but in no case shall a Journeyman
Electrician contract for or engage in the business of
electrical work of any nature, nor shall he perform
electrical work of any nature, except under the supervision
of either a Master Electrician or a Master Sign Electrician
A Journeyman Electrician shall be able to lay out work for and
to supervise helper or apprentice electricians, but he shall
not be able to employ same.
NDTE: A Journeyman Electrician is also qualified as a
Residential Wireman Electrician and Maintenance
Electrician.
(c) A Master Sign Electrician shall be able to contract
for and engage in the business of manufacturing electrical
signs, luminous gas or electric discharge signs and luminous
gas or electric discharge outline lighting from the secondary
wiring power source or transformer in the sign and to employ
and supervise Journeyman Sign Electricians in the performance
of such work on such signs and/or outline lighting.
(d) A Journeyman Sign Electrician shall be able to
perform any type of sign and/or outline lighting work of a
Master Sign Electrician, provided that such work must be
performed under the supervision of a licensed Master Sign
Electrician
<e) A Temporary Working Permit holder may perform work in
the capacity of a Journeyman Electrician, or Maintenance
Electrician or Residential Wireman Electrician so long as the
Temporary Working Permit is valid
(f) A helper or apprentice electrician may perform
electrical work only when the work is laid out for him and
supervised by a Master Electrician, a Master Sign Electrician,
a Journeyman Electrician, a Journeyman Sign Electrician,
Maintenance Electrician, Residential Wireman Electrician, or a
holder of a Temporary Working Permit
The supervising Master Electrician, Master Sign
Electrician, Journeyman Electrician, Journeyman Sign
Electrician or holder of a Temporary Working Permit shall be
on the job site.
(g) Training License See Section 1018-(f).
SECTION 1007. The following shall be required
licensing fees:
(a) The first annual fee shall be paid in advance
Master Electrician License ............... E100 00
Master Sign Electrician License ........ 100 00
Journeyman Electrician License ........... 10 00
Maintenance Electrician License ........ 10.00
Journeyman Sign Electrician license .... 10 00
Residential Wireman Electrician License 10.00
(b) The annual renewal fee shall be payable in full on
the first day of January of each year.
-20-
<c) Journeyman Electricians, Maintenance Electricians,
Journeyman Sign Electricians, Residential Wireman Electrician
or holders of Temporary Working Permits who are not the
holders of valid Master Electrician licenses or valid Master
Sign Electrician licenses shall carry their Journeyman or
Maintenance Electrician licenses or Journeyman Sign
Electrician licenses or Temporary Working Permits on their
persons at all times while performing electrical work, and
they shall produce and present such licenses or permits
immediately upon request by any Electrical Inspector.
(d) Each holder of a license of any grade or of a
Temporary Working Permit shall furnish the Chief Electrical
Inspector with a written notice of his permanent address, and
each holder of a Master Electrician license or Master Sign
Electrician license shall furnish the Chief Electrical
Inspector with a written notice of the address and telephone
number of his regularly established place of business and, if
actively engage in the electrical contracting business or
electrical sign contracting business, a list of Journeyman
Electricians or Journeyman Sign Electricians and other
electrical workers employed by him
(e) Maintenance Electricians must furnish the Chief
Electrical Inspector with a written notice of address and
phone number of employment
SECTION 1008. Any license issued under the terms of
this Code shall expire thirty days after the annual renewal
fee becomes due and payable unless such fee is paid within
such thirty-day period
SECTION 1009. The holder of any grade of license who
fails to pay the annual renewal fee due for such license
within thirty days of the date the same becomes due shall be
required to pay as a renewal fee for such license the same
amount as the fee for the first full year plus one half
SECTION 1010. The holder of a license of any grade who
fails to pay the renewal fee due for such license within one
year after the date such fee becomes due shall forfeit such
license, and the same shall be void from and after the
expiration of such one year period
EXCEPTION: Journeyman Electrician,Journeyman Sign,
Maintenance Electrician, or Residential Wireman Electrician
licenses may be renewed by approval of the Chief Electrical
Inspector with a charge of ten dollars 010.00) per year plus
ten dollars ($10 00) penalty per year Exception applies to
licenses after 30 days grace period
SECTION 1011. Any applicant who passes an examination
for any grade of license and fails to obtain the license for
the grade of license as prescribed herein within a period of
sixty (60) working days of such examination date shall forfeit
his right to obtain such license until he again qualifies
himself by passing another examination or applies for a
license as required herein
SECTION 1012. (a) If, after a permit is issued to a
named licensee under the provisions hereof, said licensee
abandons the Sob, becomes incapacitated or his services are
terminated prior to final inspection and approval by the
Building Official or Chief Electrical Inspector, the permit
holder of the person engaging the services of the Licensee
shall immediately notify the Building Official in writing
Upon such notification, the Building Official or Chief
Electrical Inspector shall immediately have an inspection made
of the work completed to that time, and he may revoke the
outstanding permit and require that a new permit be obtained
before the work is allowed Lo resume.
-21-
(b) A license or permit may be suspended, repealed or
revoked by the Building Official or Chief Electrical Inspector
by reason of the occurrence of one or more of the following
1. Adjudication of insanity;
2 Fraud or misrepresentation in obtaining a
license or permit;
3. Violation of a provision of this ordinance, the
Plumbing, Mechanical, or Building Codes or any
other regulating ordinances of the City
applicable to the installation or alteration of
appliances, equipment or systems as set forth in
this chapter;
4. Conviction of defrauding a person for whom he
has rendered or contracted to render service;
5 Failure to obtain a permit or the attempted
assignment of a permit;
6. The voluntary or involuntary filing of
bankruptcy proceedings by or against the firm,
partnership, association, or corporation, and
7. The sending of six (b) notifications within six
(6) month period that the licensee is in
violation of this chapter
SECTION 1013. (a> Upon suspension or revocation of
said Master Electricians or Master Sign Electricians License,
same shall be null and void and no work thereafter may be
performed thereunder
(b> Upon appeal to the Electrical Hoard, said Hoard may
affirm, revise, or modify such suspension or revocation
SECTION! 1014. (a) All persons who are currently
licensed shall be licensed under this Code, and such licenses
shall expire at the expiration date set out on such licenses
unless renewed as provided in this Code
(b) No license shall be issued under the terms of this
Code to any other than a natural .person
(c) No license in effect, issued, or renewed under the
terms of this Code shall ever be transferred to or used by any
other person other than the one to whom or to which the same
is issued, nor shall a holder of a license allow his name or
license to be used by any other person to obtain a permit or
to perform work under such license.
(d) Journeyman Electricians or holders of Temporary
Working Permits who are not the holders of valid Master
Electricians's licenses shall carry their Journeyman
Electrician's license or Temporary Working Permits on their
persons at all time while performing electrical work, and they
shall produce and present such licenses or permits immediately
upon request by any Electrical Inspector.
(e) Each holder of a license of any grade or of a
Temporary Working Permit shall furnish the Chief Electrical
Inspector with a written notice of his permanent address, and
each holder of Master Electrician's license shall furnish the
Chief Electrical Inspector with a written notice of the
address and telephone number of his regularly established
place of business, and if actively eng-aged in the electrical
contracting business, a list of Journeyman Electricians and
other electrical workers employed by him.
(f> Each licensed Master Electrician and Master Sign
Electrician shall have his company name and his Electrician's
license number as follows: E , or approved Universal
Number, permanently affixed on each front door of each truck
or vehicle which said electrician operates in connection with
the installation, alteration or repair of electrical wiring,
equipment or signs within the city, in letters and numerals of
at least two .and one-half (2 1/2) inches in height Such
name and number shall be the same for all vehicles so operated
by any one Licensed Master Electrician or any one Licensed
Master Sign Electrician. Such name and number shall not be of
the magnetic type.
-22-
(g) This Code shall not be construed to affect the
responsibility or liability of any party owning, operating,
controlling or installing any electrical equipment for damages
to persons or property caused by any defect in such equipment
or in the installation thereof, nor shall either any
Electrical Inspector or the City assume any liability by
reason of the inspection or reinspection authorized in this
chapter or by reason of the certificates of conformance or
nonconformance or by reason of the approval or disapproval of
any equipment authorized in this chapter or by the issuance of
any permits or licenses
lh! The regulations provided in this Code are hereby
declared to be governmental and for the benefit of the general
public. Any numbers of the City Council, any City official or
employee or any member of the Electrical Board charged with
the enforcement of this chapter acting for the City in the
discharge of his duty, shall not thereby render himself
personally liable and he is hereby relieved from all personal
liability for any damage that may accrue to persons or
property as the result of an act required or permitted in the
discharge of his duties Any suit brought against such
official or employee because of such act performed by him in
the enforcement of any provision of this chapter shall be
defended by the Department of Law until the final adjudication
of the proceedings.
(i) Agencies of any federal, state or local government
shall be exempt from the payment of licensing fees in cases
where the electrician performing the work is an employee of
such agency and the work is to be performed on premises owned
or controlled by such agency The exemption shall not void
the requirements of the 1987 N.E.C or this chapter
SECTION 1013. MAINTENANCE ELECTRICIAN
MAINTENANCE ELECTRICIAN LICENSES Personnel regularly or
permanently employed by any person and who performs work in
the confines of the building, in or on the premises, or
outside electrical services or maintenance as a service
business doing "Electrical Maintenance work," as defined in
Section 1016, shall be known as "Maintenance Electricians "
Provided, however, service companies doing only "Electrical
Maintenance" in buildings shall have a Master Electrician.
NOTE: A Maintenance Electricians license shall not permit
the holder of such licenses to enter into business and do
maintenance in dwelling units, buildings, structures,
etc. This requires a Master Electricians license
SECTION 1016. Electrical Maintenance Work shall mean
the keeping in safe repair of any and all electrical
installations, apparatus, equipment and appliances and the
keeping in safe repair of electrical equipment within a
building or in or on the premises where the Maintenance
Electrician, as defined in Section 1015 above, is regularly
employed on a permanent basis, for which work a permit is not
required under the terms and provisions of this code, but does
not include the installation of new and additional electrical
work, electrical equipment, electrical apparatus or
appliances.
-23-
SECTION 1017. (a) It shall be unlawful for any person
to do electrical work, as defined in Section 3016 above,
within the City of Fort Worth, unless such person is a
Maintenance Electrician, licensed under the provisions of this
Chapter, provided, however, that this Charter shall not
prohibit a Journeyman Electrician from working such electrical
maintenance work under the supervision, directions, and
control of a Maintenance Electrician, licensed under the
provisions of the Chapter, without said Journeyman Electrician
having to obtain a license as a Maintenance Electrician;
provided, further, that should the holder of a Journeyman
Electrician's Certificate at any time bring himself within the
definition of a Maintenance Electrician by becoming employed
on a permanent basis and in general as provided for in Section
1015, such Journeyman Electrician shall be required to obtain
a license as a Maintenance Electrician, in addition to his
Journeyman Electricien's Certificate.
(b) Nothing in this Chapter shall be construed to limit
the right of g Master Electrician to perform such electrical
maintenance work, or to limit such work being performed by a
Journeyman Electrician under the supervision, direction, or
control of a Master Electrician, or to prohibit a Helper
and/or Apprentice from working under the direct personal and
constant supervision of a Maintenance Electrician
(c) Nothing in this Chapter shall be construed to limit
the right of a Licensed Mechanical Contractor to perform such
electrical maintenance work or to limit such work being
performed by an employee of the Mechanical Contractor provided
that the Mechanical Contractor and the employee of the
Mechanical Contractor are Licensed Maintenance Electrician
(d) Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to limit
the right of a home owner from performing maintenance work on
his residence or limit the maintenance of heating,
ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration equipment by a
service contractor provided such service contractor holds a
valid Maintenance Electrician License and performs such work
only within the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and
refrigeration equipment.
(e) Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prevent
maintenance of specialized equipment by a manufacturer of the
equipment provided those persons that perform such maintenance
work hold a valid Maintenance .Electrician License
SECTION 1018. (a) An application for a Maintenance
Electrician's license shall be made in writing so stating the
name and address of the applicant and a statement as to the
active and practical experience of the applicant
(b) Those applying for such licenses shall be given a
written examination as to their qualifications only to perform
maintenance work as defined in Section 1016.
(c) The Electrical Board shall grant and issue licenses
applied for to each applicant who shall make a grade of
seventy percent (70%) or better on the examination given him;
provided, that in no case shell a license be granted until
after payment by the applicant of the fee provided for in this
section.
(d) Every holder of a Maintenance Electrician's license
shall notify the Secretary of the Hoard immediately when such
holder makes any Change in his employment, giving in such
notice the name end address of his new employer or the
location where he is to be employed to perform maintenance
electrical work.
(e) Every holder of such Maintenance Electrician's
license shall carry his license upon or about his person while
performing the acts which such license entitles him to
perform.
-24-
<f) Each applicant shall have four years' experience in
the Electrical Maintenance industry to qualify to take the
Maintenance Electrician Examination. A certificate from an
approved two-year service maintenance training school may be
deemed the equivalent of two years of experience. Written
documentary information as to proof of experience and
education shall be required.
EXCEPTION: With approval of the Electrical Board a
Maintenance Electrician Training License may be issued to
training school graduates for the additional two years
experience required.
This training license will allow a person who is employed
by another Maintenance Electrician with a valid license to do
maintenance in the field of his training. The licensed
Maintenance Electrician will be responsible for the trainees'
work.
tg) Each applicant for the Maintenance Electrician
examination shall pay an examination fee of ten dollars
(~10 00) to the Secretary of the Board.
(h) 1. The first annual fee of ten dollars (S10 00)
shall be paid in advance.
2. The annual renewal fee of ten dollars (E10 00)
shall be payable in full on the first day of
January of each year.
(i) For the first year the Maintenance Electrician
License is in effect any applicant with four years' proper
experience in the Electrical Maintenance Industry can obtain a
Maintenance Electrician License by the grandfather clause.
Section 1019. A Person performing electrician work
without being licensed as required by this chapter commits
an offense punishable by a fine of not more than one
thousand dollars ($1,000.00). A Master Electrician or
other person who employs any person to perform electrician
work without being licensed as required by this chapter
commits an offense punishable by a fine of not more than
one thousand dollars ($1,000.00)
-25-
CHAPTER it - FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
CHAPTER 12 - FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
CHAPTER 13 - FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
CHAPTER 14 - FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
-26-
PART III - STANDARDS FOR THE INSTALLATION OF
ELECTRIC EQUIPMENT
CHAPTER 15 - QENERAL REQUIREMENTS
SECTION 1301. All installations of electrical
equipment and wiring made within the City shall be made so
that they will be in safe condition and will conform with the
provisions of this Code, and all applicable Federal and State
laws and regulations
SECTION 1302. (a) If electrical equipment and
installations conform with all applicable regulations set
forth in the N.E.C. and the National Electrical Safety Code,
then such conformity shall be prima facie evidence that such
conformity does not conflict with this Code or any other
Ordinances of the City, or any State or Federal laws or
regulations
(b) All installation of electrical wiring and equipment
shall conform to requirements of Articles 90 through 820 and
the accompanying tables of the 1987 edition of the N.E C
(National Fire Protection Association No. 70-1987) except as
modified by the provisions of this Ordinance All types of
general wiring methods entering enclosures or buildings must
be sized per N.E.C Table 310-•16
(c) Installations of electrical wiring and equipment not
in conformance with the requirements of the 1984 edition of
the N E C. or not in conformance with this Ordinance are not
in a safe condition and are a violation of this Ordinance
SECTION 1303. If electrical equipment or wiring
conforms with all applicable standards of Underwriters
Laboratories, Inc., such conformity shall be prima facie
evidence that such equipment or wiring is in safe condition.
SECTION 1304. All unused electrical equipment within
or on public or private buildings or premises shall be removed
if such equipment, in the opinion of the Electrical Inspector,
constitutes a hazard or danger to life or property.
SECTION 1305. The location and illumination
requirements for emergency exit electrical lighting systems
shall be as required in the Fort Worth Building Code Section
3313 and installed in accordance with the N E.C..
SECTION 1306. The location of smoke detectors shall be
required per Section 1210 of the UBC.
SECTION 1307.
shall be required
<outlets and opening
SECTION 1308.
must be installed
of Texas
The limits of pertaining fire walls
in Section 4301, 4304 (E2 of the UBC
3s).
The requirements of fire alarm systems
per UNIFORM BUILDING CODE, N E C. and State
SECTION 1309. The requirements for exposed conduits in
commercial kitchens must meet the requirements of the
engineering division of the health department of the City of
Fort Worth.
SECTION 1310. Lighting fixtures installed on poles or
premises used on a continuous basis to illuminate parking
areas or for security lighting must be directed away from
adjacent properties.
-27-
CHAPTER ib - GENERAL WIRING METHODS AND MATERIALS
SECTION 1601. All electrical wiring methods used
within or on all buildings hereafter erected and all
alterations in and additions to such wiring in or on buildings
now existing shall be:
ta) Type MI cable.
(b) Approved metal raceway system and/or approved
multioutlet assemblies.
(c) Aluminum sheathed cable systems.
td) Limited use of interlocking armored power cable for
feeder circuits in accessible locations as permitted, provided
the cable is not subject to mechanical injury, the cable is
-1/0 ar larger, and is supported by and securely fastened to a
suitable metal rock or tray which is designed for such purpose
end which is made electrically continuous throughout its
length and properly grounded et the source end.
SPECIAL EXCEPTION:
tl) The provisions of this Section shall apply to
all buildings used as a combination living quarters
and a business, commercial, or industrial
establishment.
(2) The provisions of this section shall not apply
to Group RI apartment houses, Group R3 Occupancies
and Group M same are defined in the Fort Worth
Building Code. The provisions of this section shall
apply to the separate branch service conductors to
individual apartment breaker panels, to occupancies
other than Group R1, Group R3 and to occupancies
where two or more washing machines or drying machines
are located and to mechanical buildings and other
»onresidential occupancies
SECTION 1602. Flexible metal conduit shall be used in
exposed locations where flexibility is required because of
vibration or adjustment needs, and then only in lengths not
greater than needed and in no case shall such sections be
greater than six (b) feet in length except by special
permission.
SECTION 1603, Electrical Metallic Tubing shall not be
installed in the ground or in concrete slabs poured on the
ground
SECTION 1604. Exposed Raceways and cables shall be run
parallel or at right angles to building lines and securely
fastened to structured parts of buildings.
SECTION 1605. A minimum of one and one-fourth inch (1
1/4"> raceway shall be required from a service panel to an
approved load center in each heater closet. Provided, however
that all or a portion of any raceway may be installed in an
attic or in the crawl space between the underfloor and ground,
or in both; however, if the electric furnace is 10 KW or
smaller the raceway size may be reduced.
SECTION 1606. A/C cable shall have the bonding
conductor either copper or aluminum folded aver and around the
outer covering to insure electrical continuity (FPN in a neat
and workman like manner).
SECTION 1607. A/C cable and 3/4" conduit with boxes
tan be supported to the suspended ceiling wires in buildings
without adding extra supports.
-P8-
CHAPTER 17 - CONDUCTORS
SECTION 1701. Where conductor sizes are given in this
Code, they shall be used in accordance with Table 310-ib and
Table 310-31 of the N.E.C.. Note No (3) of the notes to
Table 310-16 through 310-31 shall not apply.
SECTION 1702. Aluminum conductors shall have
connectors of proper size and approved for such connection.
All aluminum connectors, lugs and splice Connections shall be
treated with approved inhibitor for minimum wire size of
No. 8. All conductors of all wire sizes shall be treated with
approved inhibitors that are connected to breakers, lugs and
other approved terminals in service panels, meter sockets,
gutters or junctioe~ boxes. All conductors shall be wire
brushed ar scraped to remove oxide film immediately before
inserting into connectors.
SECTION 1703. (a) Conductors used iri locations which
are exposed to both rain and sun, such as roof tops, shall be
approved for both wet locations and for temperatures of not
less than 75 degrees Centigrade <167 degrees Fahrenheit such
as Type RHW or RH-RW conductors or Type MI cable.
(b) Conductors approved for a minimum of 60 degrees
Centigrade, such as Type TW, shall be Berated to seventy
percent (70%) of normal carrying capacity when used in
locations which are exposed to the sun
SECTION 1704. Conductors approved for dry locations
only, such as Type RH and THHN shall not be installed in
locations which extend to and include wet locations such as
service entrance conductors supplied by outside overhead
service drops
6ECTION 1703. Lead covered conductors shall be
installed in an approved raceway system.
SECTION 1706. Underground conductors other than street
lighting conductors having a voltage greater than 600 volts
between conductors shall be enclosed in an approved raceway
SECTION 1707. Cable in attic
ILLUSTRATION
-29-
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full-deea etalr
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to ftateectoa \ tt attic Aos t-rea feet (1-)
rpalnd er leae. ~recaetlaa •111 M ^.,
rprlrad wlt areead beatiaa 1
peitatiat sad la acw areas/
eealr to attn.
M eeerseet atalr
er 1Mdar se attte
Cwr/ atrlf aAall N ~-- teectL Ms1a er
rpaicd ter eNla eatraeea to attle
et aerttla bola
29 a
CHAPTER 18 - SERVICE CONDUCTORS
SECTION 1801. Outside overhead conductors shall be
installed in such a manner that a minimum clearance is
maintained of not less than twenty-two (22) feet above public
streets.
SECTION 1802. Where alterations or new construction by
the owner of the premises or his agent reduces the clearance
of outside wiring or serve drops below the minimum required by
this Ordinance, or where swimming pools ere constructed under
or in close proximity to such wiring drops, the conductors
shall be relocated to Lhe service landing and service entrance
shall be relocated to provide required clearances at the
expense of the owner.
SECTION 1803. Where alterations or new construction by
the property owner or his agent interferes with or reduces the
minimum protection required for underground conductors or
service lateral, the underground conductors or service
laterals shall be relocated to provide required protection at
the expense of the owner. (Particular attention is called to
underground petroleum storage tanks and swimming pools.)
SECTION 1804. -Racks end insulators shall not be
secured to the surface of roof tops. Where such racks and
insulators cannot be installed at a height great enough to
permit the minimum clearances of conductors as required by
this Code because of the construction of the building, then
additional structures shall be erected as are necessary to
provide such minimum clearance A service drop attachment
shall be installed for each service cable. Each attachment
shall be of sufficient strength to support the cable but shall
not be smaller than a one-half (1/2) inch galvanized steel
eyebolt. The minimum point of attachment to a dwelling unit
is ten (10) feet at the premise and the service drop must be
at least ten (10) feet over the property.
SECTION 1805. The point of entrance of electrical
service wires on underground services and the point of landing
of electrical service drops on overhead services shall be
designated by the electricity supply agency and approved by
the Chief Electrical Inspector.
SECTION 1806. (a) All electrical service entrance
conductors within or on any and all building hereafter erected
and within or on all existing buildings hereafter altered,
extended, revised, or remodeled, or fn or on which the
electrical wiring is altered, extended, revised, or remodeled
shall be installed in:
1. A rigid metal raceway;
2 Or in electrical metallic tubing;
3. Or a metal enclosed bus duct;
4. Or mineral insulated metal sheathed cable Type
MI of equivalent sizes; and
5. All conductors supplying sub-feeded panels in
apartments must be installed in a raceway system
(conduits).
b. All service entrance and feeder circuit
conductors entering buildings from the utility
or owners power source shall comply with
sections 230-95 of the 1987 N.E.C..
7. Flexible metal conduit (Greenfield) must not be
used as a wiring method to route
service-entrance conductors.
-30-
(b) Such raceways, bus ducts, or MI cable shall extend
from the service head to the service entrance switch or
witches and shall be of sufficient size for the connected
load, but in no case shall such raceways be smaller than
1. For individual occupancies:
SIZE TRADE SIZE
Under 600 square feet............... 1"
600 to 1200 square feet ........... 1 1/4"
Over 1200 square feet .............. 2"
2. For billboards ............... 1" trade size
3. For temporary service on construction
poles .................. 3/4" trade size
4. This section may be varied by Chief Electrical
Inspector
SECTION 1807. Minimum Ampacfty. See Page Number 33.
(a) Residential occupancy with 30 KW furnace: 150 Ampere
(b) -Residential occupancy with 15 KW furnace 175 Ampere
(c) Residential occupancy with 20 KW furnace 200 Ampere
(d> Residentisi occupancy with 25 KW furnace: 225 Ampere
(e) Residential occupancy with 30 KW furnace 250 Ampere
(f) Residential occupancy with 35 KW furnace: 275 Ampere.
NOTE: The above pertains to sub-feeded apartments.
SECTION 1808. When the service is enlarged or changed
residences in existence prior to the adoption of this
Ordinance, the requirements for receptacles shall comply with
Chapter 21 of this Code.
SECTION 1809. Electrical services in the network zone
shall be connected to the underground network system All
permanent installations having more than two (2) two-wire
circuits shall be supplied with a three-wire service All
installations having more than eight (8) two wire circuits or
four <4) three-wire circuits and served from a wye source
shall be connected with a four-wire service.
SECTION 1810. Service entrance conductors shall not be
run at a distance greater than twenty (20) feet within the
hollow spaces of combustible frame buildings, unless provided
with automatic over-current protection at their outer ends
6ECTION 1@I1. On buildings where the electricity
supply agency sets a transformer and extends from their
transformer, a number of connection boxes for customer
convenience or here the electricity supply agency designates a
location for their meters, with approval of the Chief
Electrical Inspector, from these locations, the service
conductors to each individual occupancy shall be run either
(1) under the slab, (2) outside of building, (3) on roof, and
when conductors emerge into occupancy shall extend no more
than twenty (20) feet to service equipment, unless they have
overcurrent protection at their outer end, but in no case can
unfused service tonductors feed through one single occupancy
to another, without single ownership.
-31-
SECTION 1812. Service for mobile homes shall be not
less than one hundred (100) ampere capacity.
SECTION 1813. Grounding electrode conductors shall be
copper.
SECTION 1614. Supplementary grounding when using water
as a grounding electrode will not be required if there is
twenty (20) feet or more of rigid metal piping or copper
piping buried in the earth underneath the foundation steel
SECTION 1813. Where a metal water pipe fs not present
a number four (4) bare copper conductor must be placed in the
foundation. The grounding electrode conductor must be sized
per N.E.C. Table 250-94 based on the largest underground phase
conductor.
SECTION 1816. Supplementary grounding is not required
when a number four (4) bare copper conductor 20 foot in length
is placed in the foundation footing or beam in direct contact
with earth
SECTION 1817. The grounded (neutral) conductor must be
the same size as the underground phase conductors on
service-entrance conductors rated 1/O or smaller This
requirement includes feeders supplying lighting and appliance
panelboards protected by a main overcurrent protection device
SECTION 1818. All service, feeder and branch circuit
conductors entering enclosures or buildings must be sized per
Table. 310-16 of the N.E.C.
-32-
INDIVIDUAL OCCUPANCIES
SIMSLE PHRSE M-WIRE
115E 4-YIRE DEITAt WYE
Individual Occupancy
Orer 1200 square feet 3-150 upere conductors 4-100 aapere conductors
601 to 1200 square feet 3-100 aspere conductors 1-60 aapere conductors
!Ol to 600 square feet 3-60 upere conductors 1-60 upere conductors
Under 100 - Single Phase 2-60 aspere conductors M-60 aapere conductors
Under 100 - 1-hire Delta 1-60 upere conductors
Signboards
Single Phase 2-60 upere conductors
1-Wire Delta 1-60 aspere conductors
Te~porary Service Poles
Single Phase 2-Yire 2-10 upere conductors
Single Phase 3-Wire 3-40 aspere conductors
1-Yire Delta 1-60 upere conductors
• Third phase 60-ampere minimum as required by load
NOTE For 3-phase service between 301 to 600 volts
line-to-line, all conductors shall be a minimum of 60-ampere
capacity
EXCEPTION The provisions of this Chapter shall not apply to
residences in existence prior to adoption of this Ordinance
and equipment shall comply with the N E C. Where no hazard
would be presen t, the Chief Electrical Inspector may vary the
above requirements
-33-
LOCATION 0- SLRViCE RLAD
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34 a
CHAPTER 19 - SERVICE HEADS, MASTS AND METERS
SECTION 1901. Not less than three (3> feet of each
conductor shall be left at the service head for connection to
the service drop.
SECTION 1902. Where service heads cannot be installed
at least ten (10) feet six (6) inches above the ground or
platform and service drops cannot be installed at least ten
(10) feet above the ground or platform on account of the
structural form of the building, and additional structure
shall be erected to afford the necessary height. This
structure shall be of sufficient strength to support the
attached service drops end shall be of metal protected from
corrosion by cadmium, tin, zinc, or equal coating on all
surfaces. In no case shai2 this structure be of inferior
strength to two-inch trade size heavy wall rigid steel conduit
or three-inch by on-fourth inch angle iron.
SECTION 1903. Where the service mast pierces the roof,
the roof shall be reinforced by a two-inch by six-inch timber
secured underneath end adjacent to the roof structure through
the center of which the mast shall pass.
SECTION 1904. All facilities for the installation of
meters shall meet the metering requirements as set out by the
electricity supply agency and be approved by the Chief
Electrical Inspector. The electricity supply agency shall
mail all such requirements together with all changes to all
Master Electricians listed with the Chief Electrical
Inspector.
SECTION 1905. Ali sealed type meter sockets shall be
.installed not less than four (4) feet and not more than six
(b) feet, from the center of such sockets to the finished
grade level of the ground or of the floor.
When a building or structure is served underground and
because the construction of the building or structure is such
that the minimum four-foot height cannot be met, then the
minimum height from the center of the meter socket to the
finished grade level of the ground or of the floor may be
reduced to three (3) feet upon approval of the Chief
Electrical Inspector.
SECTION 1906. Where meters originally installed in
accessible places satisfactory to the electricity supply
agency are rendered inaccessible by virtue of alterations or
new construction by the owner of the premises or his agent,
such meters shall be reinstalled in accordance with the
provisions of this Code at the expense of the owner
SECTION 1907. One to six switches or circuit breakers
shall be permitted to be installed for each meter per 230-71
and 230-72 of 1987 N.E.C
SECTION 1908 Location of Service Head
ILLUSTRATION
SECTION 1909. All meters and bases damaged by wind or
fallen trees etc., must be inspected by the Electrical
Inspection Department before power is reconnected by the
utility company
-34-
CHAPTER 20 - OVERCURRENT, BREAKER DEVICES AND CIRCUITS
SECTION 2001. Service entrance switches or any service
equipment shall not be installed within a bathroom, toilet
room, closet, or cabinet. Such equipment may be installed in
utility rooms, machinery rooms, or storage rooms, provided
such installation is accessible and is in compliance with the
requirements of this Code. Overcurrent devices shall not be
installed or located within a clothes closet, cabinet, toilet
room, bathroom, or near easily ignitable material
Overcurrent devices shall be readily accessible.
SECTION 2002. Service switches, meters, overcurrent
devices, and all other service equipment shall be so installed
that there shall be sufficient clearance to permit ready
access to such equipment, and in no case shall this clearance
be less than the following amount: from a point one (1) foot
on each side and one (1) foot above the highest point of such
equipment down to the finished grade, the Clearance shall
extend straight out for a distance of four t4) feet. In the
case of switchboards requiring access to the rear side, a
clearance of four (4> feet shall be maintained both in back
and front of such switchboards. Service equipment other than
switchboards may have less than one (1) foot clearance to
blank walls and blank ceilings, provided that a clearance of
four (4) feet is maintained directly in front of such
equipment. Where overcurrent protection devices shall be
rendered unaccessible by pull down stairways, ladders, or
ladders fastened to walls, etc. An approved stairway will be
required.
SECTION 2003. Tie-bars used to connect circuit
breakers together shall be of a type designed for and approved
for such purpose. Nails, wires, and similar improvisions
shall not be used in lieu of approved bars.
SECTION 2004. Devices intended to break current shall
have an interrupting capacity sufficient for the voltage
employed and for the current which must be interrupted, and
for service disconnecting means and service overcurrent
protective devices, and shall be capable of interrupting
safely a current of not less than ten thousand amperes at the
rated voltage when connected to the underground network.
SECTION 2003. (a) Class One circuits, as defined by
the N.E.C , shall be installed in properly supported and
grounded rigid conduit, electrical metallic tubing, or Type IM
cable.
(b> All areas where electrical conduit is installed
within twenty (20) feet of gasoline feeder lines shall be
classified as Class One, Division Two, as defined by the
N.E.C..
SECTION 2006. The height above the floor to the center
of lighting and appliance branch circuit panel boards shall
not be less than four (4) feet or more than six (6) feet.
SECTION 2007. The high leg of 120/240 Volt 3 phase 4
wire service shall not be terminated in the same panel board
with single phase lighting and power.
6ECTION 2008. Where sprinkler heads are installed over
or around service equipment with the voltage 150 volt or less
to ground, the enclosures shall be of the weatherproof Lype or
shielded.
Rooms with service equipment with supply voltage more than
150 volts to ground shall not have sprinkler heads installed.
-35-
CHAPTER 21 - LIGHTING AND APPLIANCES
SECTION 2101. Ceiling boxes installed for lighting
fixtures or lampholders shall not be scabbed to the side of a
ceiling joist or any other structural member of a building
Such ceiling boxes shall be supported by headers designed for
and approved for the purpose by structural members of the
building centered over the box, or by two-inch by four-inch
wood headers. If wood headers are used, boxes shall be
secured to them by screws protected from rust and corrosion
and approved for the purpose.
SECTION 2102. Not more than four <4) heavy-duty lamp
holders shall be connected to a 20-ampere lighting circuit.
6ECTION 2103. Not more then three (3) heavy-duty lamp
holders shall be connected to a 15-ampere branch lighting
circuit
SECTION 2104. (a) Not more than eight (e)
current-consuming outlets shall be connected to a 15-ampere
general use branch circuit.
(b) Not more than ten (10) current-consuming outlets
shall be connected to a 20-ampere general use branch circuit
i
(c) Conductors run around and by the bathtub area must be
installed below bathtub or protected by an approved raceway
SECTION 2105. (a) Any electrical appliance rated at
six (6> amperes or more shall be supplied by a separate
individual circuit
(b) Not more than four (4) current-consuming outlets
shall be connected to a 20-ampere appliance circuit
SECTION 2106. ta) Conductors supplying outlets for
ranges of other than the built-in type shall be of sufficient
size for the range connected, but in no case shall they be
smaller than number six for phase wires and number eight for
neutrals
tb) Conductors supplying built-on type ranges shall be of
sufficient size for the range connected, but in no case shall
they be smaller than number .six (b) for phase wires and number
eight (8) for neutrals when supplying ranges of eight and
three-fourths KW or larger rating Conductors supplying
built-in type ranges or parts of ranges rated at from five (5)
KW to less than eight end three-fourths KW shall not be
smaller than number eight <8) for phase wires and number ten
(!0) for neutrals Conductors supplying built-in type ranges
or parts of ranges of less than five <5) KW rating shall be
not smaller than number ten (10) for both phase wires and
neutrals.
SECTION 2107. When a service panel, meter base or
service drop is enlarged or altered in an existing residence
or an existing residence is declared sub standard, receptacles
shall be required as follows
(a) Each room shall have a minimum of one duplex
receptacle for every twenty (20) linear feet measured around
the wall apace of the room The linear measurement shall not
include doors and windows that reach to the floor.
NOTE: At least two receptacle outlets shall be
installed by the kitchen sink for portable
appliances One outlet on each side
-36-
(b) Ground fault circuit interrupters shall not be
required to be installed in kitchens, bathrooms, garages,
basements or outside. If any part of the service drop or
service panel or meter base is enlarged or altered for the
purpose of adding new heavy duty appliances (such as window
air conditioning units, ranges and dryers.)
EXCEPTION: Heavy duty appliances do not intlude
central heating or central air conditioning.
G.F.C.I. shall be required for new or existing
installations.
Where new receptacles are added in the kitchen, bathroom,
gahage,basement, or outside, the installation shall meet the
requirements of the N E C., and G.F.C I.(s) shall be installed
as required by the N.E.C. for those receptacles
(c) In residences that are being reworked which require
only minor repair to meet F H.A. and minimum housing codes,
and do not require a complete rewire, the ground-fault
circuit interrupters will not be required to be installed in
bathrooms, garages, basements, outside, or around kitchen
sinks. However, if such receptacles are existing on the
premises, they shall be protected by the addition of
G F.C.I.s.
NOTE: A service change or 50% remodel requires GFCI
protected receptacles to be installed in the
bathroom except as mentioned in Section 2107
(b). ~ Receptacles within six (6) feet of the
kitchen sink 5ha11 be GFCI protected
(d) If residence is damaged 50 percent by fire, it shall
be rewired to comply with the N.E C .
(e) In addition or extensions to existing residences, the
number and location of receptacles shall comply with the
N.E.C..
(f) All 120 volt, 15 or 20 amp receptacles installed
within 6 feet of the kitchen sink must be GFCI protected
Receptacles located in fixed appliances or receptacles used to
supply fixed appliances are exempted from this requirement
Receptacles located in lighting fixtures that ere installed
within 6 feet of the kitchen sink must be GFCI protected
EXCEPTION: The Chief Electrical Inspector may vary the
requirements of this Section if an inspection reveals that no
hazard would result.
6ECTI0N 2108. In all occupancies, receptacles shall be
installed in compliance with this code and any national code
incorporated by reference herein; provided, however, that in
all areas in which electrical signs or similar devices are
likely to be placed behind and on wall areas over work repair
benches or behind bars or serving counters, not less than
one (1> duplex receptacle shall be installed for each six (b)
linear feet or fraction thereof measured around the wall space
of the room. In all such areas, at the ceiling line duplex
receptacles shall be installed in sufficient number that no
point on any such ceiling shall be at distance greater than
ten (10) feet from at least one receptacle.
SECTION 2109. The Mechanical areas in all types of
occupancies shall be adequately lighted. The areas in attics
and under floors where warm air furnaces are installed shall
have a permanent lighting fixture at or near the furnace,
controlled by a switch located at the required passageway
opening.
-37-
SECTION 2110. Areas in living rooms, dens and family
rooms that are constructed below regular floor level,. such as
sunken conversation pits, shall contain receptacles the same
as required for wall spaces.
SECTION 2111. All roof-mounted HVAC units grouped for
a multi-occupancy structure must have a 120 volt receptacle
outlet located within 25 feet of each unit. This receptacle
can be supplied by the management (house) circuit or each
receptacle outlet must be supplied by the service of each
tenant.
-36-
CHAPTER 22 - HAZARDOUS AND SPECIAL INSTALLATION
SECTION 2201. All electrical wiring installed on the
outside surface of any building within the Corporate City
limits, including private residences, shall be:
1. Run in an approved and properly grounded metal
raceway;
2. Or Type MI cable.
SECTION 2202. (a) Conduits, boxes and other
enclosures designed to be used exposed to the weather when
properly equipped with gaskets and covers shall be so equipped
with approved gaskets and covers when so used Tape or other
improvisations shall not be used in lieu of approved gaskets
(b) Equipment installed out-of-doors shall be approved
for the location.
SECTION 2203. ta) All swimming pools and diving
platforms or other pool structures over twelve (12) feet in
height shall be located at lease ten (10) feet from the
nearest utility easement, alley or property, end if any
overhead wiring shall be in existence over a proposed swimming
pool site, the owner who proposes to construct such swimming
pool shall make arrangements with the appropriate electricity
supply agency for the relocation of such overhead wiring
before a permit will be issued for the construction of such
swimming pool
<b) Underground wiring shall not be permitted under the
pool or under the area extending five (5) feet horizontally
from the inside wall of the pool
(c) Electrical equipment must be installed at least
five (5) feet from the waters edge of pool.
(d> Should the pool or deck be poured prior to inspection
either the concrete must be removed to inspect steel or be
megged by a registered professional electrical engineer
(e) Method of Grounding Swimming Pool
METHOD OF GROUNDING A SWIMMING POOL
The requirement for grounding of a swimming pool in the City
of Fort Worth is as follows:
As per diagram above, start the ground wire at the deck
box and go all the way around the pool, keeping the
conductor inside the pool walls. Ground each metal object
and leave loops out to ground the deck steel as per
diagram. The ground wire will continue all the way around
the pool and return to the deck box and shall be connected
to the same bolt.
-39-
LI-[ WARD QAIR
OR RLIM-ORCIIIG
YA?LR S1.ID6 ~~} rSTLLL
l_'~ ~/ D E C K IC LADDER
~ SKIN?dR
CUTTER DRAIN
DIVING
BOARD
~' REIN-ORCIMG
DECK 1 ~ SlLLL
RO1 ~ V'tJ LICRi
~~ YALE 0 / TOOL
GROUND
CIJIIO'S
~~
DECK ~
39 a
Where the deck steel or reinforcing is the mesh type a
split bolt type connector shall be used to assure the
grounding of this mesh
The above system of grounding will enable the pool
contractor to excavate the pool, install rebar for pool
and pour the bottom of pool before electrician has to
ground. This should give everyone time to accomplish the
grounding and call for Inspection before the Gunite is
applied
See Section 2203 for clearances of service and components
elements.
-40-
~.~x
i
40 a
1. The minimum distance from
pool to property line is five
(5) feet.
2. No electrical equipment shall
be placed within five (5)
feet of water's edge without
approval.
3 Receptacles shall be located
at least ten (10) feet from
the water's edge
Receptacles located within
twenty (20) feet of the
water's edge shall be
protected by a ground-fault
circuit-interrupter.
4. Lighting fixtures and
lighting outlets located not
"less than five (5) feet nor
more than sixteen (16) feet,
measured horizontally form
the water's edge, shall be
protected by a ground=fault
circuit interrupter installed
in the branch circuit.
5 Pool underwater lights shall
be an ground-fault
circuit-interrupter
6. Underground conductors shall
be at least five (5) feet
from water's edge. Overhead
conductors shall be at least
ten (10> feet from water's
edge.
7. Five (5) foot utility
easement from property line
8. "All swimming pools and
diving platforms shall be
located at least ten (10)
feet from the nearest utility
easement or alley. and if any
overhead wiring shall be in
existence over a proposed
swimming pool site, the owner
who proposed to construct
such swimming pool shall make
arrangements with the
appropriate electricity
supply agency for the
relocation of such overhead
wiring before a permit will
be issued for the
construction of such swimming
pool
-41-
SECTION 2204. Access door must be provided for hot
tubs, spas and hydromassage bathtubs to provide access to
wiring methods and motors.
6ECTION 2203. A cord and plug can be used as a
disconnecting means for the recirculating pump motor in a
hydromassage bathtub
-42-
CHAPTER 23 - TEMPORARY WIRING INSTALLATIONS
SECTION 2301. All temporary construction sites shall
be installed as per following diagrams. The distonnects on
the poles shall be either an approved enclosure, or an
epproved disconnecting means feeding receptacles under the
disconnect. Weatherproof enclosure shall be used to mount
devices. All receptacles shall be wired to meet N E C
requirements and all grounding conductors shall be green. The
green grounding conductor shall be connected to all the
devices. Grounding through metal conduit shall not be
allowed
SECTION 2302. All employees using power from all 120
volt single phase 15 and 20 ampere receptacles on construction
sites shall furnish their own ground-fault circuit
interrupters, connected to cords receiving energy from the
temporary pole to protect them from electrical shock or
6.F.C.I. breakers must be installed at the temporary pole.
SECTION 2303. Ail apartment construction sites that
cover a large area and all large construction sites, such as
regional shopping centers and high-rise buildings shall use
either the methods set out in Sections 2301 and 2302 and/or an
assured grounding procedure.
SECTION 2304. Where a written procedure is
continuously enforced by a designated individual at the
construction site to indicate that equipment grounding
conductors for 120 volt, single phase, 15 and 20 ampere
receptacles, flexible cord sets, and equipment connected by
cord and plus are installed and maintained in accordance with
requirements. The procedure shall include electrical
continuity tests of all required equipment, grounding
conductors and their connections. Those test shall be
conducted as follows This can be done by letter or approved
by Area Inspector.
(a) Fixed receptacles shall be tested where there is
evidence of damage.
<b) Flexible cord sets (extension cords) shall be tested
before use on the construction site All flexible cord sets
shall be tested where there is evidence of damage
(c) Equipment connected by cord and plug shall be
tested: (1) before first use on construction site; (2) where
there is evidence of damage; (3) after any repairs; and (4) at
intervals not exceeding three (3) months
SECTION 2305. Temporary lighting and power
installation, such as that erected on vacant lots used for the
sale and displays of Christmas trees during the Christmas
Holiday Season, shall meet clearance requirements and all
other requirements of this Code.
In the event that employees desire to use power equipment
on these locations, they shall provide their own G F.C.I
protection.
-43-
TEMPORARY SERVICE POLE - OVERHEAD SECONDARY
NOTES:
1. Temporary service pole
provided and installed by
customer. Pole must provide
sufficient height for the
service drop to meet minimum
clearances.
2. Service pole must. be within
100 ft of nearest
distribution pole for 100
ampere Service entrance and
less. Reduced distance may
be required for larger
services or to maintain
minimum clearances
3. Service drop (conductors,
service grips and service
connectors) owned and
installed by utility company
4. Service entrance conductors
provided and installed by
customer 30" minimum or
conductors to extend outside
service head for connection
to service drop Minimum #8
copper or #6 aluminum
conductor to be N E C
approved. Phase
conductors--black
insulation. Neutral
conductors--white insulation
or bare.
5. Service head and raceway
provided and installed by
Master Electrician to protect
service entrance conductors.
Two conduit straps minimum
6 Service attachment and meter
socket provided by utility
company and installed by
Master Electrician, except
service attachment installed
by utility company on wood
pole.
7. Meter provided and installed
by utility company
B. Weatherproof service switch
(or breakers) and receptacles
provided and installed by
Master Electrician Minimum
switch capacity of 60 amperes
is required
9 Customer's grounding
conductor #6 copper minimum
(N.E.C. 250-91) to approved
electrode (N.E.C. 250-81)
utility company will check
tustamer ground before
installing electric service
30. All other materials provided
and installed by Master
Electrician.
-44-
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44 a
TEMPORARY SERVICE POLE - UNDERGROUND SECONDARY
NOTES:
1. Temporary service pedestal
located in utility easement
2. Opening. in side of utility
company's temporary service
pedestal for entrance of
service conductors
Connections to be made by
utility company.
3. Customer's temporary service
pole to be located within 10
feet or less of temporary
service pedestal. Location
must be such that the service
cable will not be driven over
or walked over.
4 Customer's service cable, q8
copper or pb aluminum
minimum, to be of heavy duty
power cord or other approved
cable assembly and to be long
enough to connect to utility
company temporary service
pedestal. Liquidtight
flexible metal conduit with
two to three single
conductors may be used.
5. One inch threaded conduit
fitting with lock washers
and suitable cable grip is
necessary for connecting to
the temporary service
pedestal. Conductors to
extend 18 inches beyond
conduit fitting for
connection to source
b Customer's conduit bushing or
fitting to protect service
cable.
7. Customer's raceway.
8 Meter socket provided by
utility company and installed
by Master Electrician.
9. Meter provided and installed
by utility company.
10 Weatherproof service switch
(or breakers) and receptacles
provided and installed by
Master Electrician Minimum
switch capacity of 60 amperes
is required.
il. Customer's grounding
conductor Nb copper minimum
<N.E.C. 250-41) to approved
electrode tN.E.C. 250-81)
utility company will check
customer ground before
installing electric service
-45-
45 a
CHAPTER 24 - FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
CHAPTER 25 - FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
CHAPTER 26 - FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
-46-
PART IV - FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
PART V - FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
PART VI - FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
-47-
PART VII - LEGISLATURE
CHAPTER 90 - LEGISLATIVE
SECTION 9001. If electrical equipment and installation
comply with the standards set forth in the 1987 Edition of the
N.E.C. and the 1987 Edition of the National Electrical Safety
Code, and amendments thereto, then it shall be prima facie
evidence that such electrical equipment and installations are
in safe conditions.
-48-
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~U~p~t~7RA'riuN .q REFERENCE SUBJECT ORDINANCE ADOPTING 1987 PAGE
~EN8325/87 NUMBER
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE AND
1
f 1
G-7209
AMENDMENTS THERETO. o
_
RECOMMENDATION
.It is ree,ommended that the City Council adopt the attached ordinance
(constituti~ig the 1987 National Electrical Code with local amendments and
supplements.) as the Electrical Code of the City of fort Worth.
Attached i s the proposed ordi fiance adopting the 1987 National Electrical Code.
This i s i n keeping with the policy of regularly updati ny the Building Codes of
the City of Fort Worth.
Chapter 11 of the Code of the City of Fort Worth, Texas (1986) would be repealed
in its entirety.
The Electrical Board has approved four major amendments. These amendments and
supplements have been made a part of the ordinance and are listed below:
1. Chapter 4, Section 402(b). The appellant shall be required to pay a fee
of fifty ($50.00) dollars per appeal. The fee of $50.00 is
non-refundable.
2. Chapter 10, Section 1004(f). An additional electrical examination t o be
known as Residential Wireman Electrician will increase the existing five
(5) grades of licenses to six (6) grades.
3. Chapter 1, Section 2107. Classifying CFCI protected outlets in dwelling
units for the protection of personnel.
4. Chapter 3, Section 307. Increased fees of existing construction permits
to be competitive with cities in the Metroplex.
In addition tb these major amendments and supplements, many other changes and
additions have been included in the proposed ordinance.
A public hearing was held by the Electrical Board of Appeals on July 30, 1987.
No one appeared in opposition to the proposed ordinance, therefore, the
Electrical Board of the City of Fort Worth recommended its adoption.
APPROVED BY,
DAI/sf CITY COUNCIL
ggqq
attachment AU6 ~5 1987
~~
SUBMITTED FOR I Ht
CITY MANAGER'S DISPOSITION BY COUNCIL. qty S6CZ0t q~i~EESSED BY
OFFICE BY ^ APPROVED City Of FOrt Oxtb, Texas
ORIGINATING C OTHER (DESCRIBE)
DEPARTMENT HEAD: Lester Pay a CITY SECRETARY
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION O Adapted Ordinance No DATE
CONTACT J. $tallcU 7030 .