HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance 24584-12-2020 ORDINANCE NO. 24584-12-2020
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FORT WORTH ELECTRICAL CODE, BY
ADOPTING THE 2020 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE, WITH LOCAL
AMENDMENTS; AMENDING SECTIONS 11-1 THROUGH 11-4 OF THE CODE
OF THE CITY OF FORT WORTH (2015); REGULATING ERECTION,
CONSTRUCTION, ENLARGEMENT, ALTERATION, REPAIR, MOVING,
REMOVAL, DEMOLITION, CONVERSION, EQUIPMENT, DESIGN, QUALITY
OF MATERIALS, USE AND MAINTENANCE OF ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
IN THE CITY OF FORT WORTH, TEXAS; DEFINING CERTAIN TERMS;
ESTABLISHING MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR THE INSTALLATION,
ALTERATION OR REPAIR OF ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS; PROVIDING FOR
THE ISSUANCE OF PERMITS AND THE COLLECTION OF FEES THEREOF;
PROVIDING FOR THE INSPECTION OF SUCH SYSTEMS; REQUIRING AND
REGULATING LICENSES AND REGISTRATIONS FOR ELECTRICIANS AND
PRESCRIBING THE FEES THEREFOR; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE;
PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY CLAUSE;
PROVIDING THAT THIS ORDINANCE SHALL BE CUMULATIVE; PROVIDING FOR
PUBLICATION IN PAMPHLET FORM; PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION IN THE
OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS the Texas Electrical Safety and Licensing Act requires the Texas Department
of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) to adopt the revised National Electrical Code (NEC) as the
electrical code for the State of Texas; and
WHEREAS on June 30, 2020, the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation
published in the Texas Register their intent to adopt the 2020 NEC as the minimum standard for all
electrical work in Texas. Electrical work in Texas started on or after November 1, 2020 must be
installed in accordance with the 2020 NEC; and
WHEREAS adopting the 2020 NEC as the Fort Worth Electrical Code aligns City and State
requirements for electrical work.
NOW,THEREFORE,BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF FORT WORTH,TEXAS:
SECTION 1.
Section 11-1 of the Code of the City of Fort Worth (2015) is amended to read as follows:
Sec. 11-1. 2020 EDITION OF THE NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE ADOPTED.
(a) The Electrical Code of the City of Fort Worth is hereby revised and amended to
conform,with certain exceptions as specified below,to the 2020 edition of the National Electrical
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Code of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and the same as amended is hereby
adopted as the City's Electrical Code. One (1) copy of the 2020 National Electrical Code marked
as Exhibit "A", is incorporated herein by reference and shall be filed in the Office of the City
Secretary for permanent record and inspection.
(b) This code shall serve as the electrical provisions of the International Residential Code,
as adopted elsewhere.
(c) Any Errata corrections published by the National Fire Protection Association for the
2020 National Electrical Code (NFPA70), as they are discovered, are considered as part of this
code.
SECTION 2.
That Section 11-2 of the Code of the City of Fort Worth (2015) is hereby amended to read as
follows:
Sec. 11-2. Amendments.
The 2020 edition of the National Electrical Code is hereby amended as follows:
ARTICLE 100
*Article 100, "Scope", amended to read as follows:
Scope. This article contains only those definitions essential to the application of this Code.
It is not intended to include commonly defined general terms or commonly defined technical terms
from related codes and standards. In general,only those terms that are used in two or more articles
are defined in Article 100. Definition are also found in XXX.2 section of other articles. Unless
otherwise expressly stated,the following words and terms shall,for the purposes of this Code,have
the meanings indicated in this article. The provisions of this article shall also apply to other
definitions listed elsewhere in this Code.
Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words in the
masculine gender include the feminine and neuter;the singular number includes the plural and the
plural,the singular.
Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined
in other City adopted codes, such terms shall have meanings ascribed to them as in those codes.
Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this
section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
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Part I of this article contains definitions intended to apply wherever the terms are used
throughout this code. Part 11 contains definitions applicable to installations and equipment
operating at over 1000 volts, nominal. Part III contains definitions applicable to Hazardous
(Classified)Locations.
*Article 100, Part I; definitions are amended and new definitions are added to read as
follows:
BUILDING.A structure that stands alone or that is separated from adjoining structures by€ifewalls
fire walls as defined by the building code.
BUILDING CODE. Building Code shall mean the International Building Code as adopted by
this jurisdiction.
ELECTRICAL CODE. Electrical Code shall mean the National Electrical Code as adopted by
this jurisdiction. For the purpose of this code,all references to NFPA 70 shall be assumed to mean
the Electrical Code as defined herein.
ENERGY CODE. Energy Code shall mean the International Energy Conservation Code as
adopted by this jurisdiction.
ENGINEERING SUPERVISION. Supervision by a Qualified State of Texas Licensed
Professional Engineer engaged primarily in the design or maintenance of electrical installations.
FIRE PREVENTION CODE (FIRE CODE). Fire Prevention Code, or Fire Code, shall mean
the International Fire Code as adopted by this jurisdiction.
FUEL GAS CODE. Fuel Gas code shall mean the International Fuel Gas Code as adopted by
this jurisdiction and shall be considered as part of the Plumbing Code. (See Plumbing Code.)
GROUPED (ATTACHED-OUTDOORS) (SAME LOCATION). Where this Code specifies
that disconnects, overcurrent devices or equipment "shall be grouped", the equipment shall not
be separated more than thirty (30) feet and shall be on the same wall facing the same cardinal
orientation or elevation. This includes all service, service equipment, and all service
disconnecting means.
HAZARDOUS LOCATION. (See Article 500.5). The location is not necessarily categorized in
the International Building Code as a high hazard use group classification. The areas consist of
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Class I, Divisions 1 and 2; Class II, Divisions 1 and 2; and Class III, Divisions 1 and 2.
MECHANICAL CODE. Mechanical Code shall mean the International Mechanical Code as
adopted by this jurisdiction.
PLUMBING CODE. Plumbing Code shall mean the International Plumbing Code and the
International Fuel Gas Code as adopted by this jurisdiction. The term "Plumbing Code" applies
to both codes as one combined code.
RESIDENTIAL CODE. Residential Code shall mean the International Residential Code as
adopted by this jurisdiction.
TECHNICAL CODES.The Fort Worth Building,Residential,Plumbing,Mechanical,Electrical,
Sign, and Existing Building codes which regulate the construction, alteration, relocation,
enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal
and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such
buildings or structures.
ARTICLE 110.2
*Article 110.2; amended to read as follows:
110.2 Approval. The conductors and equipment required or permitted by this Code shall be
acceptable only if approved. Approval of equipment may be evident by listing and labeling of
equipment by a Nationally Recognized Testing Lab (NRTL) with a certification mark of that
laboratory or a qualified third party inspection agency approved by the AHJ.
Exception: Unlisted equipment that is relocated to another location within a jurisdiction or is field
modified is subject to the approval by the AHJ. This approval may be by afield evaluation by a
NRTL or qualified third party inspection agency approved by the AHJ.
Informational Note No. 1: See 90.7, Examination of Equipment for Safety, and 110.3,
Examination, Identification, Installation, and Use of Equipment. See definitions of
Approved,Identified, Labeled, and Listed.
Informational Note No. 2: Manufacturer's self-certification of equipment may not
necessarily comply with US product safety standards as certified by a Nationally
Recognized Testing Lab.
Informational Note No. 3: NFPA 790 and 791 provide an example of an approved method
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for qualifying a third party inspection agency.
ARTICLE 110.80
*Articles I10.80; added to read as follows:
110.80 Primary Power Source.The primary power source for all buildings shall be from an electrical utility
provider.Power sources,such as generator power,that supply a service panel for uses without a building,such
as gas compressor sites,shall be regulated by this code.
Exceptions No 1: Alternate, non-generator power sources, including but not limited to fuel cell
powerplants, wind generators, solar panels, etc. are permitted when approved by the code official
and installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and other city codes.
Exception No 2: Temporary generator power is permitted for buildings that are connected to a
normally active utility provider during periods of power outages, such as after a major storm. Any
connection to the building power system shall be in compliance with this code.
Exception No 3: Generator power to buildings as a primary power source shall only be permitted
when approved by the code official. Such approval shall take into consideration all hazards such
as fuel delivery, storage and usage, as well as, noise nuisances, and compliance with all other
applicable codes and ordinances of this city.
Use of alternate power sources, inclusive of generators, shall not be permitted when the proposed
use is in violation of other codes and ordinances of this city.
When permitted, such power source and connection shall be in compliance with this code, the
Building Code and Fire Code. The attachment cable to the building shall be considered to be a
service entrance conductor.
ARTICLE 230.2
*Article 230.2(A); add a "Special Condition" 7 to read as follows:
(7) In supplying electrical service to other than single family dwellings,two or more
laterals or overhead service drops shall be permitted to a building and they shall be grouped
together.
*Article 230.2(B)(2); amended to read asfollows:
(2) Buildings two-hundred-fifty (250) feet or more in length measured in the most direct
path along the exterior of the building shall be permitted one additional service location
for each 200 linear feet of exterior wall or fraction thereof facing the same cardinal
orientation or elevation. Service locations shall be separated by a minimum of 60 feet.
All meters for each service shall be grouped at the same location.
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ARTICLE 230.42
*Article 230.42(A); add two new paragraphs after item (2) to read as follows:
230.42 Minimum Size and Ampacity.
(A) General. Service-entrance conductors ...
(2) The minimum service-entrance conductor size shall have an ampacity not less than the
maximum load to be served after the application of any adjustment or correction factors.
Service entrance conductors after the utility provider point of delivery or service point shall
be subject to the requirements of this code and shall be sized based upon the overcurrent
protection provided.
When the utility provider service conductors connect directly to the service equipment
disconnecting means, the utility provider's service cables shall be subject to the
requirements of this code and shall be sized based upon the service equipment overcurrent
device.
ARTICLE 230.70
*Article 230.70(A): add a "Special Condition"4 to read as follows:
230.70 General. Means shall be provided to disconnect all ungrounded conductors in a building
or other structure from the service conductors.
(A) Location. The service disconnecting means shall be installed in accordance with 230.70 (A)
(1), (A) (2), (A) (3), and (A) (4).
(4) Special Condition. Where more than one electrical service is installed, all disconnecting
means shall be grouped in the same location in accordance with one of the following:
(1) All inside the building.
(2) All outside and attached to the building
ARTICLE 250.50
*Article 250.50; amended to read as follows:
250.50 Grounded Electrode System. All grounding electrodes as described in 250.52(A)(1)
through(A)(7)that are present at each building or structure served shall be bonded together to
form the grounding electrode system.
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Where a metal underground water pipe, as described in item 250.52(A)(1), is not present, a
method of grounding as specified in 250.52(A)(2)through (4)below shall be used.
Exception: Concrete-encased electrodes of existing buildings or structures shall not be required
to be part of the grounding electrode system where the steel reinforcing bars or rods are not
accessible for use without disturbing the concrete. (For purposes of this provision, "existing
buildings or structures" shall not include concrete foundation(s) permitted as part of any
alteration(s), addition(s), or new foundation(s)).
ARTICLE 250.52
*Article 250.52 (A)(4); amended to add an exception to read as follows:
250.52 Grounding Electrodes.
(A)Electrodes Permitted for Grounding.
(4) Ground Ring. A ground ring encircling the building or structure, in direct contact with the
earth, consisting of at least 6.0 m(20 ft.)of bare copper conductor not smaller than 2 AWG.
Exception: In lieu of encircling the building, two ground rod or pipe electrodes, complying with
item 250.52(A)(5), may be used when separated by at least 20 feet and connected with a minimum
of 2 AWG bare copper conductor at least 30 inches deep.
*Article 250.52(A)(5); amended to read as follows:
(5) Rod and Pipe Electrodes. Rod and pipe electrodes meeting the requirements listed in this
section may be installed for electrical services on the following structures:
(1) Temporary services less than 200 amps.
(2) Separate structures, temporary in nature, temporary being 12 months or less, when
supplied from another building or temporary service pole,with an electrical service
less than 200 amps,and a metal underground water pipe is not present.
(3) Separate structures installed for permanent use, being 12 month or longer, and supplied
from another building or permanent service pole,with an electrical service less than 200
amps, and a metal underground water pipe is not present.
(4) Mobile home pedestals, less than 200 amps.
(5) For supplemental electrode see 250.53(D)(2).
Such rod and pipe electrodes shall not be less than 2.44 m(8 ft.) in length and shall consist of the
following materials.
(a) Grounding electrodes of pipe or conduit shall not be smaller than metric designator 21
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(trade size 3/4) and, where of steel, shall have the outer surface galvanized or otherwise
metal-coated for corrosion protection.
(b) Rod-type grounding electrodes of stainless steel and copper or zinc coated steel shall be
at least 15.87 mm (5/8 in.) in diameter, unless listed.
ARTICLE 310.14(A)(3)
*Article 310.14(A)(3); add a sentence after the first paragraph to read as follows:
310.14 Ampacities for Conductors Rated 0 Volts—2000 Volts.
(3) Temperature Limitations of Conductors.No conductor shall be used in such a manner that
it's operating temperature exceeds that designated for the type of insulated conductor involved.In
no case shall conductors be associated together in such a way, with respect to the type of circuit,
the wiring method, employed or the number of conductors, that the limiting temperature of any
conductor is exceeded. Where NM and NMC other cables, conductors and wiring methods listed
in Chapter 3 are installed in an attic outside the building thermal envelope, the ambient
temperature shall be considered to exceed 140°F.
ARTICLE 334.10
*Article 334.10; amended to read as follows:
334.10 Uses Permitted. Type NM and Type NMC cables shall be permitted to be used in the
following:
(1) One- and two-family dwellings.
(2) Multifamily dwellings of Types III, IV, and V construction when of wood stud wall
framing, except as prohibited in 334.12. When exceeding three (3) stories, as determined
by the Building Code, an approved automatic sprinkler system is required throughout.
Exceptions: 1. Usage is permitted for multifamily dwellings of any construction type,
with any wall framing material, in buildings not exceeding four (4) stories, as
determined by the Building Code, when provided with an approved automatic
sprinkler system.
2. Usage is permitted for multifamily dwellings of any construction type, with any wall
framing material in buildings not exceeding five (5) stories, as determined by the
Building Code, after the switchboard or panelboard of all individual dwelling units,
when provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
(3) Other structures of Types III, IV, and V construction when of wood stud wall framing,
except as prohibited in 334.12. When exceeding three (3) stories, as determined by the
Building Code, an approved automatic sprinkler system is required throughout.
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Exceptions: 1. Usage is permitted for hotel/motel uses of any construction type, with
any wall framing material, in buildings not exceeding four(4)stories, when provided
with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
2. Usage is permitted in detached one (])story commercial buildings not exceeding
5,000 square feet of any construction type with any wall framing material.
Cables shall be concealed within walls, floors, or ceilings that provide a thermal barrier
of material that has at least a 15-minute finish rating as identified in listings of fire-rated
assemblies.
(4) Cable trays where the cables are identified for the use.
ARTICLE 408.4
*Article 408.4 (A);Amend to read as follows:
404.8 Field Identification Required
(A) Circuit Directory or Circuit Identification. Every circuit and circuit modification shall be
legibly identified as to its clear, evident, and specific purpose or use. The identification shall
include an approved degree of detail that allows each circuit to be distinguished from all others.
Spare positions that contain unused overcurrent devices or switches shall be described accordingly.
The identification shall be included in a circuit directory that is located on the face, inside of,or in
an approved location adjacent and permanently affixed to the panel door in the case of a panelboard
and at each switch or circuit breaker in a switchboard or switchgear.No circuit shall be described
in a manner that depends on transient conditions of occupancy.
ARTICLE 410.118
*Article 410.118; amended to read as follows:
410.118 Access to Other Boxes.Luminaires recessed in ceilings,floors,or walls shall not be used
to access outlet, pull, or junctions boxes or conduit bodies, unless the box or conduit body is an
integral part of the listed luminaire.
Exception: Removable luminaires with a minimum measurement of 559 mm x 559 mm (22 in. x.
22 in) shall be permitted to be used as access to outlet,pull,junction boxes or conduit bodies.
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ARTICLE 422.31 PART III
*Article 422.31(B);Amend to read as follows:
422.31 Disconnection of Permanently Connected Appliances.
(B)Appliances Rated over 300 Volt-Amperes. For permanently connected appliances rated over
300 volt-amperes,-a disconnecting means shall be provided and shall be located within sight from
and readily accessible to the appliance it serves.A branch-circuit switch or circuit breaker shall be
permitted to serve as the disconnecting means where the switch or circuit breaker is within sight
from and is readily accessible to the appliance it serves or is capable of being locked in the open
position in compliance with 110.25 and is readily accessible to the appliance it serves.
Informational Note 1: For appliances employing unit switches, see 422.34.
Informational Note 2:The following means of access considered to constitute readily accessible
when conforming to the additional access requirements of the I-codes
1. A permanent stair
2. A pull down stair with a minimum 300 lb. (136kg)capacity.
3. An access door from an upper floor level
ARTICLE 440.6
*Article 440.6; add a sentence at the end to read as follows:
440.6 Ampacity and Rating. The size of conductors for equipment covered by this article shall be
selected from Table 310.16 through Table 310.19 or calculated in accordance with 310.14 as
applicable. The required ampacity of conductors and rating of equipment shall be determined
according to 440.3(A) and 440.3(B). Branch circuits to AC condensing units 2 tons or larger shall
be a minimum of 10 AWG copper conductors. See also attic temperatures in Articles 310.14(A)(3).
ARTICLE 500.8
*Article 500.8(A); amended to read as follows:
500.8 Equipment.
(A) Suitability. Suitability of identified equipment shall be determined by one of the following:
(1) Equipment listing or labeling
(2) Evidence of equipment evaluation from a qualified testing laboratory or inspection agency
concerned with product evaluation
(3) Evidence acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction such as a manufacturer's self-
evaluation or an engineering judgment signed and sealed by a qualified Registered
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Professional Engineer in the State of Texas.
ARTICLE 505.7
*Article 505.7(A); amended to read as follows:
505.7 Special Precaution.
(A) Implementation of Zone Classification System. Classification of areas, engineering and
design,selection of equipment and wiring methods,installation,and inspection shall be performed
by a qualified licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Texas.
ARTICLE 550.1
*Article 550.1; amended to delete 550.1.4 to read as follows:
Site requirements.
550.1.1 Applicability The provisions of this Article apply to the construction and maintenance
of all mobile home and manufactured home parks.
550.1.2 All electrical wiring, power distribution lines, and telephone lines in a mobile home or
manufactured home park shall be installed underground and in compliance with this code.
550.1.3 Street lights. Each internal street shall be provided with street lighting. Light standards
shall have a height and spacing to ensure an average illumination level of not less than 0.2 foot
candles.
ARTICLE 551.1
*Article 551.1; amended to delete 551.1.1.7 to read as follows:
551.1.1 Site requirements. The following provisions shall apply to Recreational Vehicle Parks
and Recreational Vehicle lots that occur in Mobile Home and Manufactured Home Parks.
551.1.1.1 Applicability. The provisions of this Article apply to the construction and
maintenance of all recreational vehicle parks.
551.1.1.2 All electrical wiring, main power distribution lines, and telephone lines shall be
installed underground.
551.1.1.3 Individual electrical connections provided at recreational vehicle spaces shall
include an approved disconnecting device and over current protective equipment.
551.1.1.4 Recreational Vehicle lots in Recreational Vehicle Parks and in Mobile Home or
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Manufactured Home Parks shall be master metered. Power releases shall not be permitted for
individual lots.
551.1.1.5 Street lights. Each internal street shall be provided with street lighting. Light
standards shall have a height and spacing to ensure an average illumination level of not less
than 0.2 foot candles.
551.1.1.6 Service and Auxiliary Buildings. This section shall apply to all service buildings,
recreation buildings, management offices, repair shops, storage areas, sanitary facilities,
laundry facilities, indoor recreation areas, commercial buildings supplying essential goods or
services for park tenants, and other similar buildings in recreational vehicle parks.
Illumination levels shall be maintained, as a minimum, as follows:
a. General seeing tasks: Five (5)foot candles.
b. Laundry room work area: Forty (40)foot candles.
c. Toilet room, in front of mirrors: Forty (40) foot candles.
ARTICLE 600.6
*Article 600.6(A)(1) Exception No. 1 add a sentence to read as follows:
Exception No.]:A disconnect shall not be required for branch circuits(s) or feeder conductor(s)
passing through the sign where not accessible and enclosed in a Chapter 3 listed raceway or
metal jacketed cable identified for the location. The conductor(s)shall not serve the sign body or
sign enclosure where passing through.
* Article 600.6(A)(1) Exception No. 3 added to read as follows:
Exception No.3. A disconnect shall not be required at the point of entry to a sign body, sign
enclosure, or pole for branch circuit conductor(s). The conductors shall be enclosed in a Chapter
3 listed raceway or metal jacketed cable identified for the location. The conductor(s) shall be
routed to a device box which contains the disconnect. A field-applied permanent warning label
that is visible during servicing shall be applied to the raceway at or near the point of entry into
the sign enclosure or sign body. The warning label shall comply with 110.21(B) and state the
following: "Danger. This raceway contains energized conductors. " The marking shall include the
location of the disconnecting means for the energized conductor(s). The disconnecting means shall
be capable of being locked in the open position in accordance with 110.25.
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ARTICLE 600.10
*Article 600.10; amended and expanded to 600.10.1 and 600.10.2 to read as follows:
600.10. Portable or Mobile Signs.
Interior- Shall be those signs that are small in nature, usually hung from hooks in the wall
or ceiling with an electrical cord for plug in or direct connection to an electrical source. These
signs shall not be permitted to be installed in an outside location.
Exterior - Shall be those signs that are set on the exterior, usually but not always in the
parking lot, limited in size as described in the Zoning and Sign Code, some of which may have
wheels installed to permit the towing behind a vehicle.
600.10.1. Interior
(A) Support. Portable or mobile signs shall be adequately supported and readily moveable
without the use of tools.
(B) Attachment Plug. An attachment plug shall be provided for each portable or mobile sign
(C) Wet or Damp Location. Portable or mobile signs in wet or damp locations shall comply
with 600.10 (C)(1) and(C)(2)
(1) Cords.All cords shall be junior hard-service or hard-service types as designated in
Table 400.4 and have an equipment grounding conductor.
(2) Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter. The manufacturer of portable or mobile signs
shall provide listed ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel. The
ground-fault circuit-interrupter shall be an integral part of the attachment plug or shall be
located in the power-supply cord within 300mm(12in.)of the attachment plug.
(D) Dry Location. Portable or mobile signs in dry locations shall meet the following:
(1) Cords shall be SP-2, SPPE-2, SPT-2, or heavier, as designated in Table 400.1
(2) The cord shall not exceed 4.5 m(15Ft) in length
600.10.2. Exterior.
(A)Exterior portable or mobile signs shall not be illuminated by any electrical source. Those
signs equipped with an electrical cord shall have it removed.
(B)Signs shall be adequately secured to prevent overturning by wind.
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ARTICLE 696—ELECTRIFIED FENCES
*add new article with subsection as follows:
696.1 Scope
This article applies to the installation and maintenance of electrified fences containing more than
two energized strands and having a minimum height of more than twenty four (24) inches
measured from grade to the highest strand.
Exception No 1. Battery-charged fences regulated under state law (Local government code section
250.009) shall not require compliance with this section.
696.2 Definitions
Protective Barrier. Permanent fence or wall that restricts direct access to the energized portions
of an electrified fence. Permanent shall mean not being able to be removed, lifted or relocated
without the use of a tool or equipment.
Electrified Fence. A fence energized with an electrical current.
Secure Area. The area bounded by the electrified fence.
696.3 Permits Required. An electrical permit is required for the installation,repair,and alteration
of electrified fences. A separate permit is required for the installation of a protective barrier.
Exceptions:
1. The repair and replacement of electrified fence conductive strands, and posts or poles for
electrified fence systems.
2. Electrified fences installed on agriculturally zoned property as defined in the Fort Worth Zoning
Code.
696.3.1 Plan Submittal. Electrical permit applications for electrified fences shall include
two complete sets of the following:
1. Site plan showing the location of the protective barrier and the electrified fence on
the property in relationship to property lines,walkways and exiting buildings.
2. Fence details showing both the electrified fence and protective barrier, including
all gates.
3. Electrical details showing the equipment, wiring diagrams, grounding, and other
information to insure compliance with the Fort Worth Electrical Code.
4. Energizer Output Certification Form as prescribed in section 696.8.
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696.4 Fee. At the time of permit application, an electrical permit fee of one hundred seventy
dollars ($170.00) shall be paid.
696.5. Location Restrictions.Electrified fences shall not be installed at the following locations:
a. Within five (5) feet of a building exit.
b. Within thirty (30)feet of a hazardous material storage or handling areas.
c. On roof tops or within buildings.
d. All residential uses
696.6 Electrified Fence Height. Electrified fences shall be restricted to a maximum height of two
(2)feet above the height of the protective barrier.
696.7 Electrical Equipment Standards. Electrical equipment, wiring, and grounding
shall comply with the provisions of this Code and the following standards:
1. The energizer output shall comply with section 22.108 of the International
Electrotechnical Commission(IEC)60335-2-76 Standard.
2. Energizers shall provide pulsed power.
3. AC current shall not be used to energize any electrified fence.
4. The energizer shall be powered by a DC battery not to exceed 12 volts.A trickle charger
and solar panels may be used to recharge the battery but shall not directly energize the
fence.
5. All ground system cables shall be properly insulated.
6. The electrified fence grounding system shall not be connected to any plumbing
systems.
7. Each energizer shall be connected to its own ground system and shall not be connected
to any other grounding system.
696.8 Energizer Output Certification. The applicant shall sign a form provided by the City of
Fort Worth certifying that the electrified fence energizer output characteristics comply with section
22.108 of the IEC 6335-2-76 International Standard.
696.9 Protective Barrier. The perimeter of the secure area shall be protected by an additional
non-electrified fence meeting the following standards:
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1. The protective barrier shall be a permanent fence or wall at least six(6) feet in height
above the adjacent grade, subject to the limitations of the City of Fort Worth Zoning
Ordinance
2. Openings in the protective barrier shall not allow for the passage of a two (2) inch
sphere. The maximum vertical clearance between grade and the bottom of the
protective barrier shall be two (2) inch.
Exception: At rolling gates, the maximum vertical clearance between grade and the
bottom of the protective barrier shall be four(4) inches.
3. The protective barrier shall be separated from the electrified fence by a minimum of
six(6) inches and a maximum of twelve (12)inches.
Exception: Conductive stands installed at gates installed in protective barriers shall be
separated from the gate by a maximum of twelve (12) inches.
696.10 Warning Signs. Electrified fences shall be clearly marked with warning signs. The
warning signs shall be placed on the protective barrier at each entrance to the secure area and at
intervals not to exceed thirty (30) feet along the entire perimeter of the fence line. Warning signs
shall be located not less than five(5) feet above the adjacent walking surface.
696.10.1 Graphics. Warning signs shall be printed on both sides in both English and
Spanish with the following text: "WARNING ELECTRIC FENCE" and contain the
international symbol for electrical shock hazard. Signs shall be reflective with a minimum
2 inch letter height, minimum stroke of%z inch and have a contrasting background.
696.11 Key Switch. A Fort Worth Fire Department permitted and approved key switch shall be
installed to provide secure access to the electrical power disconnect switch by public safety
personnel. The key switch shall be located at the main entry point to the property in a location
approved by the Fire Official.
696.12 Commercial Business Hours of Activation. An electrified fence shall not be energized
during the hours of normal business operation. However, where businesses are operating
continuously on a twenty four (24) hour basis the conductors of an electrified fence shall not be
energized unless all authorized persons within or entering the secure area have been informed of
the electrified fence location.
696.13 Registration. Electrified fences permitted and installed after the effective date of this
ordinance must be registered through the City of Fort Worth Planning and Development
Department. The registration must be renewed annually from the date of permit issuance. The
following information must be provided at the time of registration application:
CH.11 NEC Revision 2020 Ordinance No.24584-12-2020
Page 16 of 20
1. Business Name
2. Address of Property
3. Contact Person/Representative
4. Address and phone number of contact person
Furthermore, an applicant for renewal must provide a notarized statement from a registered
electrician or fence contractor specializing in the installation of electrified fences,certifying that the
electrified fence and equipment is currently operating in conformance with the provisions of this
Code.
696.13.1 Registration Renewal Fee. An annual registration renewal fee of$120 shall be
charged for the registration of electrified fences.
696.13.2 Barrier Fence Inspection. As part of the registration renewal process,a Building
Ordinance Inspection shall be scheduled and approved verifying the integrity of the
Protective Barrier.
ARTICLE 710.15
Article 710.1 S(A); delete informational note and amend to read as follows:
710.15(A)Supply Output. Power supply to premises wiring systems fed by stand-alone or isolated
microgrid power sources shall have adequate capacity to meet calculated load in accordance with
Article 220.
SECTION 3.
That Section 11-3 of the Code of the City of Fort Worth (2015), as amended, is hereby amended
to read as follows:
Sec. 11-3 Effect of Conflict with Other Ordinances.
This chapter shall be cumulative of all provisions of ordinances of the Code of the City of
Fort Worth, Texas (2015), affecting Electrical Code provisions, as amended, and shall not repeal
any of the provisions of such ordinances, except in those instances where provisions of such
ordinances are in direct conflict with the provisions of this ordinance.
SECTION 4.
That Section 11-4 of the Code of the City of Fort Worth (2015), as amended, is hereby added to
read as follows:
CH.11 NEC Revision 2020 Ordinance No.24584-12-2020
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Sec. 11-4 Penalty for violation.
Any person, firm, or corporation violating any of the provisions of this ordinance shall be
deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punishable by a fine not to
exceed Two Thousand Dollars($2,000.00)for all violations involving fire safety,or public health
and sanitation and shall be fined not more than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) for all other
violations of this ordinance. Each day or any portion thereof during which any violation of this
ordinance occurs or continues shall be deemed a separate offense and upon conviction thereof shall
be punishable as herein provided.
SECTION 5.
This article shall be cumulative of all provisions of ordinances of the Code of the City of Fort Worth, Texas
(2015), affecting Electrical Code provisions, as amended, and shall not repeal any of the provisions of such
ordinances, except in those instances where provisions of such ordinances are in direct conflict with the
provisions of this ordinance.
SECTION 6.
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 void, ineffective, or unconstitutional by
the valid judgment or decree of any court of competent jurisdiction,such voidness,ineffectiveness,
or 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 void,ineffective,or unconstitutional phrase,clause,
sentence,paragraph, or section.
SECTION 7.
Any person, firm, or corporation violating any of the provisions of this ordinance shall be
deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punishable by a fine not to
exceed Two Thousand Dollars($2,000.00)for all violations involving fire safety,or public health
and sanitation and shall be fined not more than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) for all other
violations of this ordinance. Each day or any portion thereof during which any violation of this
ordinance occurs or continues shall be deemed a separate offense and upon conviction thereof shall
be punishable as herein provided.
SECTION 8.
All rights and remedies of the City of Fort Worth, Texas are expressly saved as to any and
all violations of the previous Electrical Code, or any other ordinances affecting construction and
fire safety, which have accrued at the time of the effective date of this ordinance: and, as to such
accrued violations and all pending litigation, both civil and criminal, whether pending in court or
not, under such ordinances, same shall not be affected by this ordinance but may be prosecuted
until final disposition by the courts.
CH.11 NEC Revision 2020 Ordinance No.24584-12-2020
Page 18 of 20
SECTION 9.
A copy of the 2020 National Electrical Code,together with the local amendments contained
in this ordinance, shall be filed in the office of the City Secretary for permanent record and
inspection.
SECTION 10.
The Department of Development Services 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 Fort Worth,Texas.
SECTION 11.
The City Secretary of the City of Fort Worth, is hereby directed to publish the caption and
Sections 1, 7, 9, 11 and 12 of this ordinance for two (2) days in the official newspaper of the City
of Fort Worth, Texas as authorized by Section 2, Chapter XXV of the Charter of the City of Fort
Worth, Texas and by Section 52.013 (a)of the Texas Local Government Code.
SECTION 12.
This ordinance shall take effect upon January 1, 2021.
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY:
Mellhda Ranfos
foi Ronald P.Go,rales(Dec 18. Old 10..
Melinda Ramos, Sr.Assistant City Attorney Mary Kayser, City Secretary
ADOPTED: December 15, 2020
EFFECTIVE: January 1, 2021 RT t
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.TEXT
CH.11 NEC Revision 2020 Ordinance No.24584-12-2020
Page 19 of 20
City of Fort Worth, Texas
Mayor and Council Communication
DATE: 12/15/20 M&C FILE NUMBER: M&C 20-0921
LOG NAME: 062020 NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE
SUBJECT
(ALL)Adopt Ordinance Adopting the 2020 National Electrical Code with City of Fort Worth Electrical Amendments to be Effective January 1,2021
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the City Council adopt the ordinance amending the Fort Worth Electrical Code to adopt the 2020 National Electrical Code,
with local amendments,to be effective January 1,2021.
DISCUSSION:
The Texas Electrical Safety and Licensing Act requires the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation(TDLR)to adopt the National Electrical
Code(NEC)as the electrical code for the State of Texas.The NFPA 70(NEC)is revised and updated every three(3)years.The State of Texas
adopts this revised NEC code every three(3)years as required by The Texas Electrical Safety and Licensing Act.On June 30,2020,the Texas
Commission of Licensing and Regulation published in the Texas Register their intent to adopt the 2020 NEC as the minimum standard for all
electrical work in Texas.The effective date for the State will be November 1,2020(delayed from the proposed date of September 1,2020 due to
COVID-19). Electrical work in Texas started on or after November 1,2020 must be installed in accordance with the 2020 NEC.Adopting the 2020
NEC as the Fort Worth Electrical Code aligns City and State requirements for electrical work.
The Construction and Fire Prevention Board of Appeals reviewed the approval and adoption of the 2020 NEC and the local amendments at its
meeting on November 12,2020.The local electrical industry,the Development Advisory Committee and TEXO have been notified with no
opposing comments. The 2020 National Electrical Code continues the practice of recognizing new technologies and providing new devices for
the safe installation of electrical systems.The City of Fort Worth local amendments are based on the amendments recommended for regional
adoption by the North Central Texas Council of Governments and our local practices.
There is no fee increase proposed in this ordinance.
A Form 1295 is not required because:This M&C does not request approval of a contract with a business entity.
FISCAL INFORMATION/CERTIFICATION:
The Director of Finance certifies that approval of this recommendation will have no material effect on City funds.
Submitted for City Manager's Office by: Dana Burghdoff 8018
Originating Business Unit Head: D.J.Harrell 8032
Additional Information Contact: Allison Gray 8030