HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance 18358-11-2008ORDINANCE NO 18358-11 2008
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FORT WORTH ELECTRICAL CODE, BY
ADOPTING THE 2008 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE WITH LOCAL
AMENDMENTS AMENDING SECTIONS 11 1 THROUGH 11-4 OF THE
CODE OF THE CITY OF FORT WORTH(1986) 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
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 (1986) is amended to read as follows.
Sec. 11 1 2008 EDITION OF THE NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE ADOPTED
(a) The Electrical Code of the Crty of Fort Worth is hereby revised and amended to
conform, v~nth certain exceptions as specified below to the 2008 edition of the National
Electrical 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 2008 National Electrical Code
marked as Exhibit A is incorporated herein by reference and shall be filed m 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.
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SECTION 2.
That Section 11 2 of the Code of the City of Fort Worth (1986) is hereby amended to read as
follows
Sec. 11 2. Amendments.
(a) Anew Admimstrative Section, Chapters A through F is added to read as follows
ADMINISTRATIVE
Chapter A
Scope
SECTION A01 GENERAL
A01.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the 'Fort Worth Electrical Code, may
be cited as such, and will be referred to herein as 'this code.
A01.2 Purpose.
(a) Practical Safeguarding. The purpose of this Code is to provide mmunum standards
to safeguard life or limb, health, property and public welfare by regulating and controlling the
design, construction, installation, quality of materials, location, operation, and maintenance or
use of electrical systems and equipment, located wrtlun or on public and private buildings and
premises except as excluded by Section A01.3(b) and by regulating and licensing those persons
who will install or maintain such electrical equipment.
(b) Adequacy This code contains provisions considered necessary for safety
Compliance therewith and proper maintenance is expected to result m an installation essentially
m compliance with the mimmum standards, but not necessarily efficient, convement, or adequate
for good service or future expansion of electrical use
(c) Intention. This code is not intended as a design specification nor an instruction
manual for untrained persons.
(d) The purpose of this code is not to create or otherwise establish or designate any
particular class or group of persons who will or should be especially protected or benefitted by
the terms of this code.
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A01.3. Scope.
(a) Covered. This code shall regulate
1 The design, construction, installation, alteration, repairs, relocation, replacement,
addition to, use or maintenance of electrical systems, electrical conductors, electrical equipment,
signaling and communications conductors and equipment, and fiber optic cables and raceways.
2 The installation and alteration of electrical equipment, which shall include electrical
conductors, fittings, devices, signs, sign primaries, fixtures, motors, generators, starters, controls,
raceways and that part of elevator installations consisting of signal systems, fans, electrical
hghtmg fixtures, illuminated thresholds, feeder conductor and raceways to motor and generator
disconnect switches and controllers and all electrical installations m connection with interlocking
devices, other than on automatic elevators, located wrthm or on public and private buildings and
premises, except as excluded by paragraph (b) below
3 Registration and hcensmg of those persons who will install or maintain such electrical
equipment.
4 This code shall be used as the electrical provisions of the Residential Code.
(b) Not Covered. This code does not cover
1 Installations m slops, watercraft other than #loatmg buildings, railway rolling stock,
aircraft, or automotive vehicles.
2. Installations underground m mores.
3 The installation and equipment employed by a railway utility m the exercise of its
functions as a utility and located outdoors or m 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.
4 Installations by or for communications agencies m connection with the operation of
signals or the transmission of intelligence, nor to the employee making such
installation by or for such agencies, but the provisions of tlis code shall apply to
installations for heat, decoration, amusement, ventilating equipment, and general
hghtmg not attached to and power not directly used m connection with installations
for communications, signals, and the transmission of mtelhgence.
5 The installation, alteration or repair of electrical equipment installed by or for an
electrical supply agency for the use of such agency in the generation, transmission,
distribution or metering of electricity when such equipment is located wrthm or on
such buildings or premises used by such agency for said purposes, or when such
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equipment is located on public thoroughfares or legally established or recognized
easements,
however the provisions of this code shall apply to
a. all other electrical installations or equipment used for any other purposes not
specifically excepted herein and located vv~tlun or on such buildings or premises,
and,
b electrical distribution m Mobile Home or Manufactured Home Parks and
Recreational Vehicle Parks shall be m accordance with Article 110 90 thru
110 92, Article 550 1 and Article 551 1 and,
c. service entrance conductors that connect directly to the service equipment
disconnecting means shall be sized as required by this code.
6 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.
7 The installation, alteration, or repair of electrical equipment for the operation of
signals or the transmission of intelligence, or to installations of communications
facilities by or for communications agencies.
8 Any work involved m the manufacturing or testing of electrical equipment or
apparatus, except that this exception shall not include any permanent wiring.
9 Installation m mobile dwelling structures, trailers and other structures designed for
portability
10 Installation and maintenance of outdoor security hghtmg and appurtenances to
outdoor security hghtmg which are owned, operated and maintained by an electric
utility and installed on property owned by the utility or for which a written agreement
is entered into between the utility and the property owner granting to the utility the
right to construct, operate and maintain outdoor security hghtmg and appurtenances
to outdoor security hghtmg; provided that the utility
(a) remains responsible for the safe operations and maintenance of the installation,
(b) adheres to the provisions of the National Electrical Safety Code or its successor
(c) installs the security hghtmg on utility owned facilities, and,
(d) complies with all other applicable ordinances, rules and regulations of the City of
Fort Worth.
11 Installation, maintenance, and removal of outdoor temporary electrical power
facilities that have been approved by the Board which are owned, installed, operated,
and maintained by an electrical utility on property owned by the utility or for which a
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written agreement is entered into between the utility and the property owner granting
the utility the right to install, maintain, operate, and remove the outdoor temporary
electric power facilities or on a dedicated utility easement, and used for the purpose
of providing temporary electric power during the construction of single family
residences, provided that the utility•
(a) remains responsible for the safe operations and maintenance of the installation,
(b) adheres to the provisions of the National Electrical Safety Code or its successor
(c) complies with all other applicable ordinances, rules and regulations of the City of
Fort Worth, and,
(d) terminates service if requested by the Code Official for public safety and health
reasons because a known dangerous condition exists.
A01 4 Severability If a section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this code is
for any reason held to be unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the
remaining portions of this code.
SECTION A02 APPLICABILITY
A02.1 General. The provisions of this code shall apply to all matters affecting or
relating to structures and premises, as set forth m Section A01 Where, m a specific case,
different sections of this code specify different materials, methods of construction or other
requirements, the most restrictive shall govern.
A02.2 Existing installations. Except as otherwise provided for m this chapter electrical
systems and equipment lawfully m existence at the time of the adoption of this code may have
their use, maintenance or repair continued if the use, maintenance or repair is in accordance with
the original design, if no hazard to life, health or property has been created by such electrical
system and equipment, and if the electrical system and equipment are mamtamed m good repair
A02.3 Maintenance. Electrical systems, equipment, materials and appurtenances, both
existing and new and parts thereof shall be mamtamed m proper operating condition m
accordance with the original design and m a safe, hazard free condition. Devices or safeguards
that are required by this code shall be mamtamed m compliance with the code edition under
which installed. The owner or the owner's designated agent shall be responsible for the
maintenance of the electrical systems and equipment. To determine compliance with this
provision, the Code Official shall have the authority to require that the electrical systems and
equipment be reinspected.
A02.4 Additions, alterations and repairs. Additions, alterations, renovations and
repairs to electrical systems shall conform to that required for new electrical systems and
equipment without requiring that the existing electrical systems or equipment comply with all of
the requirements of this code. Additions, alterations, renovations and repairs shall not cause
existing electrical systems or equipment to become unsafe, hazardous or overloaded.
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Minor additions, alterations, renovations and repairs to existing electrical systems and
equipment shall be permitted m the same manner and arrangement as was m the existing system,
provided that such repairs or replacement are not hazardous and are approved.
A02.5 Change of occupancy It shall be unlawful to make a change of occupancy which
will subject the structure or site to any special provision of this code applicable to the new
occupancy without approval of the code official. The code official shall certify that such
structure or site meets the intent of the provisions of law goveriung installations for the proposed
new occupancy and that such change of occupancy does not result in any hazard to the public
health, safety or welfare.
No change shall be made m the use or occupancy of any structure or site unless such
structure or site is made to comply with the requirements of this code. Subject to the approval of
the code official, the use or occupancy shall be permitted to be changed and allowed to be
occupied for purposes m other groups without conforming to all the requirements of this code for
those groups, provided the new or proposed use is less hazardous, based on life and fire risk, than
the existing use.
A02.6 Historic buildings. The provisions of this code relating to the construction,
alteration, repair enlargement, restoration, relocation or moving of buildings or structures shall
not be mandatory for existing buildings or structures identified and classified by the state or local
jurisdiction as historic buildings when such buildings or structures are fudged by the Code
Official to be safe and m the public interest of health, safety and welfare regarding any proposed
construction, alteration, repair enlargement, restoration, relocation or moving of buildings.
Exception Buildings undergoing a change of occupancy
A02.7 Moved buildings. Electrical systems and equipment that are a part of buildings or
structures moved into or within the jurisdiction shall comply with the provisions of this code for
new installations.
EXCEPTIONS The factory installed and inspected systems of•
1 HUD or Texas State approved mobile and manufactured homes.
2. Texas State approved modular homes.
3 Texas State approved industrialized buildings.
A02.8 Referenced codes and standards. The codes referenced herein, when
specifically adopted, along with the standards listed m Chapter F shall be considered part of the
requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each reference. Where differences occur
between provisions of this code and the referenced standards, the provisions of this code shall
apply Whenever amendments have been adopted to the referenced codes and standards, each
reference to said code and standard shall be considered to reference the amendments as well.
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A02.9 Requirements not covered by code. Any requirements necessary for the
strength, stability or proper operation of an existing or proposed electrical system, or for the
public safety health and general welfare, not specifically covered by this code, shall be
determined by the code official.
A02.10 Minimum Building Standards Code. As provided for in Section 7-67 and as
further detailed m Sections 7-87 7 88 7-89 7 90 and 7 91 of the City Code, which is more
specifically known as the Minimum Building Standards Code, those provisions setting minimum
standards that relate to Electrical Code items for buildings and structures shall be considered as
part of this code.
Enforcement of these sections may be performed by other departments or divisions of the
City of Fort Worth. However as provisions of this code, final interpretation, appeals of
interpretation, requests for variances, etc shall be handled as described m this code
SECTION A03 APPROVAL
A03.1 Modifications. Whenever there are practical difficulties involved m carrying out
the provisions of this code, the code official shall have the authority to grant modifications for
individual cases, provided the code official shall first find that special individual reason makes
the strict letter of this code impractical and that the modification is m compliance with the intent
and purpose of this code and does not lessen health, life and fire-safety requirements. The details
of action granting modifications shall be recorded and entered in the files of the inspection
department.
A03.2 Alternative materials, methods, equipment and appliances. The provisions of
this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or to prohibit any method of
construction not specifically prescribed by this code, provided that any such alternative has been
approved by the code official.
The code official may approve any alternate, provided that the proposed design is
satisfactory and complies with the provisions of this code and that the material, method or work
offered is, for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed m this code m
quality strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and safety
A03.3 Required testing. Whenever there is insufficient evidence of compliance with the
provisions of this code, or evidence that a material or method does not conform to the
requirements of this code, or m order to substantiate claims for alternative materials or methods,
the code official shall have the authority to require tests as evidence of compliance to be made at
no expense to the ~unsdiction.
A03.3.1 Test methods. Test methods shall be as specified m this code or by other
recognized test standards. In the absence of recognized and accepted test methods, the code
official shall approve the testing procedures.
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A03.3.2 Testing agency All tests shall be performed by an approved agency
A03.3.3 Test reports. Reports of tests shall be retained by the code official for the
penod required for retention of public records.
A03.4 Material, equipment and appliance reuse. Materials, equipment, appliances and
devices shall not be reused unless such elements have been reconditioned, tested and placed in
good and proper working condition and approved.
SECTION A04 VIOLATIONS
A04 1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to erect,
construct, alter repair remove, demolish or utilize any electrical system or equipment, or cause
same to be done, m conflict with or m violation of any of the provisions of this code.
A04.1 1 Unsafe building. Failure to correct an unsafe building as provided for m
Sections A04 5 C06 4 1 or C06 4.2 shall constitute a violation of this code.
A04.2 Violation penalties. Any person, firm or corporation violating any of the
provisions of this code shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof
shall be pumshable by a fine not to exceed Two Thousand Dollars ($2,000 00) for all violations
involving fire safety or public health and samtation and shall be fined not more than Five
Hundred Dollars ($500 00) for all other violations of this code. Each day or any portion thereof
dunng which any violation of this code occurs or continues shall be deemed a separate offense
and upon conviction thereof shall be pumshable as herein provided.
A04.3 Stop work orders. Upon notice from the code official, work on any electrical
system that is being done contrary to the provisions of this code or m a dangerous or unsafe
manner shall immediately cease. Such notice shall be m writing and shall be given to the owner
of the property or to the owner's agent, or to the person doing the work or causing such work to
be done. Where an emergency exists, the code official shall not be required to give a written
notice pnor to stopping the work. Such work shall not resume until authonzed by the code
official to proceed.
A04.4 Abatement of violation. The imposition of the penalties herein prescribed shall
not preclude the legal officer of the ~unsdiction from instituting appropriate action to prevent
unlawful construction or to restrain, correct or abate a violation, or to prevent illegal occupancy
of a building, structure or premises, or to stop an illegal act, conduct, business or utilization of
the electrical on or about any premises.
A04.5 Unsafe electrical systems or equipment. Any electrical system or equipment
regulated by this code that is unsafe or that constitutes a fire or health hazard, insanitary
condition, or is otherwise dangerous to human life is hereby declared unsafe. Any use of an
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electrical system or equipment regulated by this code constituting a hazard to safety health or
public welfare by reason of improper installation, inadequate maintenance, dilapidation,
obsolescence, fire hazard, disaster damage or abandonment is hereby declared an unsafe use.
Any such unsafe equipment is hereby declared to be a public nuisance and shall be abated by
repair rehabilitation, demolition or removal.
When any electrical system or equipment is maintained m violation of this code, and in
violation of any notice issued pursuant to the provisions of this section, the code official may
institute any appropriate action to prevent, restrain, correct or abate the violation.
All buildings or structures subjected to damage by deterioration or by fire shall be
inspected by the code official, and all unsafe wiring or electrical equipment shall be repaired or
replaced.
Any work covered or concealed without inspection shall be considered to constitute an
unsafe structure. Such consideration as an unsafe structure shall exist every day until the work is
inspected and approved as being in compliance with this code. Inspections will not be performed
until a valid active permit is obtained m accordance with this code.
A04.5.1 Authority to condemn. Whenever the code official determines that any
electrical system or equipment, or portion thereof, regulated by this code has become
hazardous to life, health or property or has become msamtary or is otherwise dangerous to
human life, the code official shall order m writing that such electrical system or equipment
either be removed or restored to a safe or sanitary condition. A time lirriit for compliance
with such order shall be specified m the written notice. No person shall use or maintain
defective electrical after receiving such notice.
A04.5.2 Authority to order disconnection of utilities. The code official shall have
the authority to order disconnection of any energy source or utility service supplied to a
building, structure or equipment regulated by this code when rt is determined that the
equipment or any portion thereof has become hazardous or insanitary Written notice of such
order to disconnect service and the causes therefor shall be given within 24 hours to the
owner and occupant of such building, structure or premises, provided, however that m cases
of immediate danger to life or property such disconnection shall be made immediately
without such notice. If not notified prior to disconnecting, the owner or occupant of the
building, structure or service systems shall be notified m writing, as soon as practical
thereafter
A04.5.3 Connection after order to disconnect. No person shall make connections
from any energy fuel, power supply or water distribution system or supply energy fuel or
water to any equipment regulated by this code that has been disconnected or ordered to be
disconnected by the code official or the use of which has been ordered to be discontinued by
the code official until the code official authorizes the reconnection and use of such
equipment.
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Chapter B
ORGANIZATION AND ENFORCEMENT
SECTION BO1 ORGANIZATION
BO1 1 Code Official. Whenever the term code official is used m this code, rt shall be
construed to mean the Building Official. The building official shall not be removed from office
except for cause and after full opportunity to be heard on specific and relevant charges. For the
purpose of enforcement, the team code official shall include his authorized representative(s)
B01.2 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction, the
code official shall have the authority to appoint a deputy code official, other related technical
officers, inspectors, and other employees. For the purpose of this code, the regularly authorized
deputy code official shall be the Chief Electrical Inspector
B01.3 Department having jurisdiction. Unless otherwise provided for by law the
office of the code official shall be part of the Planning and Development Department.
B01.4 Restriction of employees. An official or employee connected with the department
of electrical inspection shall not be engaged m or directly or indirectly connected with the
furnishing of labor materials or appliances for the construction, alteration or maintenance of a
building; and such officer or employee shall not engage m any work that conflicts with official
duties or with the interests of the department.
Further no official or employee shall be permitted to work for or be connected with, any
electrical contractor electrical manufacturer or wholesale supply company or do any electrical
work while employed as an electrical inspector by the city
BO1.5 Liability The code official charged with the enforcement of this code, acting m
good faith and without malice m the discharge of the duties required by this code or other
pertinent law or ordinance shall not thereby be rendered personally liable for damages that may
accrue to persons or property as a result of an act or by reason of an act or omission in the
discharge of such duties. A suit brought against the code official or employee because of such
act or omission performed by the code official or employee in the enforcement of any provision
of such codes or other pertinent laws or ordinances implemented through the enforcement of this
code or enforced by the code enforcement agency shall be defended by this jurisdiction until
final termination of such proceedings and any judgment resulting therefrom shall be assumed by
this jurisdiction.
The liability exemption and defense protection provided m this section are not extended
to Third Party Companies, nor their employees.
This code shall not be construed to relieve from or lessen the responsibility of any person
owmng, operating or controlling any building or structure for any damages to persons or
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property caused by defects, nor shall the code enforcement agency or its parent jurisdiction be
held as assuming any such liability by reason of the inspections authorized by this code or any
permits or certificates issued under this code.
SECTION B02 DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE CODE OFFICIAL
B02.1 General. The code official shall enforce all of the provisions of this code and
shall act on any question relative to the installation, alteration, repair maintenance or operation
of all electrical systems, devices and equipment except as otherwise specifically provided for by
statutory requirements or as provided for m Sections B02.2 through B02.9
The code official shall have the power to render interpretations of this code as may be
deemed necessary m order to clarify the application of the provisions of this code. Such
interpretations shall be m conformity with the intent and the purpose of this code.
B02.2 Rule-making authority The code official shall have authority as necessary in the
interest of public health, safety and general welfare to adopt and promulgate rules and
regulations to interpret and implement the provisions of this code to secure the intent thereof and
to designate requirements applicable because of local climatic or other conditions. Such rules
shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for m this code, or of
violating accepted engineering practice involving public safety
B02.3 Applications and permits. The code official shall receive applications and issue
permits for the installation and alteration of electrical systems, inspect the premises for which
such permits have been issued, and enforce compliance with the provisions of this code.
An application for a permit shall be considered as permission from an authorized
representative to inspect the premises to insure compliance v~nth the permit applied for
B02.4 Inspections. The code official shall make all of the required inspections, or shall
accept reports of inspection by approved agencies or individuals. All reports of such inspections
shall be in writing and be certified by a responsible officer of such approved agency or by the
responsible individual. The code official is authorized to require expert opinion, as deemed
necessary to report upon unusual technical issues that arise, at no expense to the jurisdiction.
B02.3 Right •of entry Whenever rt is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the
provisions of this code, or whenever the code official has reasonable cause to believe that there
exists m a building or upon any premises any condition or violation of this code which make the
building or premises unsafe, insanitary dangerous or hazardous, the code official shall have the
authority to enter the building or premises at all reasonable times to inspect the same or to
perform the duties imposed upon the code official by this code. If such building or premises is
occupied, the code official shall present credentials to the occupant and request entry If such
building or premises is unoccupied, the code official shall first make a reasonable effort to locate
the owner or other persons having charge or control of the building or premises and request
entry If entry be refused, the code official shall have recourse to every remedy provided by law
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to secure entry
An application for a permit shall be considered as permission from an authorized
representative to inspect the premises to insure compliance with the permit applied for
When the code official has first obtained a proper inspection warrant or other remedy
provided by law to secure entry no owner occupant or persons having charge, care or control of
any building or premises shall fail or neglect, after proper request is made as herein provided, to
promptly permit entry therein by the code official for the purpose of inspection and examination
pursuant to this code.
It shall be unlawful for any person to lender or interfere with the code official, deputy or
any of the electrical inspectors m the discharge of their duties under this code.
B02.6 Identification. The code official shall carry proper identification when inspecting
structures or premises in the performance of duties under this code.
B02.7 Notices and orders. The code official shall issue all necessary notices or orders to
ensure compliance with this code.
B02.8 Department records. The Plamung and Development Department shall keep
official records of applications received, permits and certificates issued, fees collected, reports of
inspections, and notices and orders issued. Such records shall be retained m the official records
for the period required for the retention of public records.
B02.9 Cooperation of other officials and officers. The code official may request, and
shall receive, the assistance and cooperation of other officials of this ~unsdiction so far as is
required m the discharge of the duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordinance.
SECTION B03 BOARD OF APPEALS
B03 Applications for appeals shall be made to the Construction and Fire Prevention
Board of Appeals. (See the Building Code.) All references to the 'Board shall be deemed to
refer to the Construction and Fire Prevention Board of Appeals.
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Chapter C
PERMITS AND INSPECTIONS
SECTION COl PERMITS
CO1 1 When required. Any owner authorized agent, individual or contractor who
desires to construct, enlarge, alter repair move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building
or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter repair remove, convert or replace any electrical
system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be done,
shall first make application to the code official and obtain the required permit for the work.
A separate permit shall be obtained for each building or structure
Permits shall be issued for electrical fences only upon approval by the Board.
A Building Code Ordinance Inspection shall be required to inspect and approve power to
existing mobile homes m mobile home parks where the name changes on the electric utility
account except when the account is being transferred from an individual to the park's name.
CO1 1.1 Unlawful Wiring. No permit shall be issued for installing, altering,
extending or replacing any electrical wiring or equipment on any building, structure or
premise, if any unlawful electrical wiring or equipment exists on the same premises, until a
permit to correct such conditions is first obtained and all necessary corrections are made.
C01.2 Exempt work. The following work shall be exempt from the requirement for a
permit:
1 Portable motors or other portable appliances energized by means of a cord or cable
having an attachment plug end to be connected to an approved receptacle when that
cord or cable is permitted by this code.
2. Reinstallation of attachment plug receptacles, but not the outlets thereof.
3 Repair or replacement of any overcurrent device of the required capacity m the same
location.
4 Repair or replacement of electrodes or transformers of the same size and capacity for
signs or gas tube systems.
5 Taping~oints.
6 Removal of electrical wiring.
7 Temporary wiring for experimental purposes m suitable experimental laboratories.
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8 Electrical wiring, devices, appliances, apparatus or equipment operating at less than
25 volts and not capable of supplying more than 50 watts of energy
9 Low-energy power control and signal circuits of Classes II and III as defined m this
code.
10 Electrical maintenance work, as defined m this code, that is performed by an
individual properly authorized to do such work under Section C02
Exemption from the permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant
authorization for any work to be done in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws
or ordinances of this jurisdiction.
SECTION C02 WHOM PERMITS MAY BE ISSUED TO WHO MAY DO THE
WORK
C02.1 Whom permits may be issued to.
C02.1 General. No permit shall be issued to any person or contractor to do or cause to
be done any work regulated by this code, except to a person or contractor as listed in Sections
C02.1 1 C02.1.2, C02.1.3 or C02.1 4
C02.1.1 Fort Worth Permit Master Electrician. A person holding a valid,
unexpired and unrevoked Fort Worth Permitting Master Electricians License.
C02.1.2 State of Texas Electrical Contractor A State of Texas Electrical
Contractor as follows
(a) must be m possession of a current and valid State Electrical Contractor's License,
(b) must have a current and active registration with the City of Fort Worth as an
Electrical Contractor
(c) must designate a State of Texas Master Electrician to act as the Master of Record
who must be in possession of a current and valid State of Texas Master
Electrician License.
C02.1.3 Homestead owner Permits may be issued to a property owner who wishes
to do electrical work m a building owned and occupied by loin as his homestead. This
provision only permits the homeowner to work on that part of the electrical system that
occurs after but does not include, the first main breaker behind the electrical meter The
term `to do electrical work" shall be construed to mean work actually done personally by the
owner
C02.1.4 Homestead Master or Journeyman. Permits may be issued to a property
owner who holds a current Master or Journeyman Electrician License who wishes to do
electrical work m a building owned and occupied by him as his homestead. This provision
allows any electrical work on the homestead property that would normally be permitted by a
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Permit Master Electrician. The term `to do electrical work" shall be construed to mean work
actually done personally by the owner
C02.2 Who may do the work.
C02.2 General. It shall be unlawful for any person to do or cause to be done any
electrical work within the City of Fort Worth except as provided m this section. Doing work,
other than what is authorized by this section, is considered a violation by the worker as well as
the Master and/or Contractor
C02.2.1 Fort Worth licensees.
C02.2.1.1 Master Electrician. A Master Electrician, also referred to as a Permit
Master may contract for and engage m the busmess of installing, repairing, or replacing
electrical wiring or equipment of any nature on or m buildings or structures other than signs.
The Master Electrician may employ direct and supervise Journeyman Electricians,
Residential Wireman Electricians, Maintenance Electricians, Residential Maintenance
Electricians, helpers, and apprentice electricians.
Exception The Master Electrician may install, repair or replace the primary
wiring on signs.
A Master Electrician, also referred to as a Non Permit Master who does not wish to
engage m the business, but only vv~shes to work m the trade, shall pay the license fees as
•required for a Master but shall adhere to the provisions of this code as for a Journeyman
Electrician.
C02.2.1.2 Journey Electrician. 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 by the ordinances of the City and under the supervision of a
Master Sign Electrician, but m no case shall a Journeyman Electrician contract for or engage
m the busmess 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 shall not be able to employ same
A Journeyman Electrician may perform electrical maintenance work, as defined m
this code
C02.2.1.3 Master Sign Electrician. A Master Sign Electrician shall be able to
contract for and engage m the busmess of manufacturing electrical signs, luminous gas or
electric discharge signs and luminous gas or electric discharge outline hghtmg from the
secondary wiring power source or transformer m the sign and to employ and supervise
Journeyman Sign Electricians and Journeyman Electricians in the performance of such work
on such signs and/or outline lighting.
15
C02.2.1.4 Journeyman Sign Electrician. 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.
C02.2.1.5 Residential Wireman Electrician. A Residential Wireman Electrician
shall be able to do electrical work under the supervision of a Master Electrician m one and
two-family dwellings only
C02.2.1.6 Maintenance Electrician. A Maintenance Electrician shall be able to
perform electrical maintenance work as defined m this code A maintenance electrician is not
allowed to do installations or alterations.
Nothing m this section shall be construed to hmrt:
1 The right of a Master Electrician to perform such electrical maintenance work, or
to hmrt 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.
This shall not prohibit a service company from doing 'Electrical Maintenance
with individuals possessing a Maintenance License or Residential Maintenance
License on a contract basis, provided the company has a Permit Master
Electrician. All maintenance work as defined herein shall only be performed by
Maintenance Electricians or Residential Maintenance Electricians, as their
licenses permit, or by individuals supervised on the site by such electricians,
unless a Master or Journeyman electrician is on site as required elsewhere m this
code.
2. The right of a Licensed Mechanical Contractor to perform such electrical
maintenance work or to hmrt 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 Electricians.
3 The electrical maintenance of heating, ventilating, air condrtiomng 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 conditiomng, and refrigeration equipment.
4 The electrical maintenance of specialized equipment by a manufacturer of
equipment provided those persons that perform such electrical maintenance work
hold a valid Maintenance Electrician License
5 The right of a homeowner from performing electrical maintenance work on his
residence.
C02.2.1 7 Maintenance Electrician Trainee. A Maintenance Electrician Trainee
shall be able to perform electrical maintenance work, as defined m this code, when employed
16
by and under the supervision of a Maintenance Electrician who shall be responsible for lus
work.
C02.2.1.8 Residential Maintenance Electrician. A Residential Maintenance
Electrician shall be able to perform electrical maintenance work as defined m this code, and
m accordance with the provisions as described for a Maintenance Electrician under section
C02.2 1 6 except that the following restrictions also apply
(1) All work shall be limited to residential properties only specifically one and two-
family dwellings and apartment complexes. This license does not apply to
motels, hotels, assisted living facilities, etc
(2) All work shall be limited to 480 volts or less.
(3) All work shall be limited to the property or properties owned or operated by the
direct employer of the residential maintenance electrician except as described m
the definition of Electrical Maintenance Work.
C02.2.1.9 Helper or Apprentice. 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, a Residential Wireman Electrician, Maintenance Electrician, or a Residential
Maintenance Electrician.
The supervising Master Electrician, Master Sign Electrician, Journeyman Electrician,
Journeyman Sign Electrician, Residential Wireman Electrician, Maintenance Electrician, or
Residential Maintenance Electrician shall be on the fob site.
C02.2.2. State of Texas licensees. Individuals m possession of a State of Texas license
may perform work as provided m this section. For work m the City of Fort Worth, the following
provisions and limitations shall be applicable to State Licensees.
The following definitions provided by the State shall be applicable to these provisions
concerning State Licensees. When the term appears m italics form in this ordinance, rt shall
mean the definitions listed below
Electrical work means any labor or material used in installing, maintaining, or extending
an electrical wiring system and the appurtenances, apparatus, or equipment used m connection
with the use of electrical energy m, on, outside, or attached to a building, residence, structure,
property or premises. The term includes service entrance conductors as defined by the National
Electrical Code.
Electrical sign work means any labor or material used m manufacturing, installing,
maintaining, extending, connecting or reconnecting an electrical wiring system and its
appurtenances, apparatus or equipment used m connection with signs, outline hghtmg, awnings,
signals, light emitting diodes, and the repair of existing outdoor electric discharge lighting. This
also includes the installation of an electrical service integral to an isolated sign and/or outline
hghtmg installation.
17
Electrical maintenance work means the replacement, or repair of existing electrical
appurtenances, apparatus, equipment, machinery or controls used in connection with the use of
electrical energy m, on, outside, or attached to a building, residence, structure, property or
premises. All replacements or repairs must be of the same rating and type as the existing
installation. No improvements may be made that are necessary to comply with applicable codes.
Electrical maintenance work does not include the replacement of any raceways, conductors,
disconnecting means, or service feeder components. It also does not include the installation of
any new electrical appurtenances, apparatus, equipment, machinery or controls beyond the
scope of any existing electrical installation.
1 Master Electrician may•
a. On behalf of a Contractor perform all electrical work;
b Provide on-site or general supervision of an electrician or other electrical
workers,
c Serve as Master of Record for registered Electrical Contractor or registered
Electrical Sign Contractor
2. Master Sign Electrician may•
a. On behalf of an Electrical Sign Contractor perform electrical sign work.
Such electrical work shall only include the electrical components of the sign
up to but not including the disconnecting means. When the sign is a stand
alone detached sign, with rts own isolated electrical service, such work may
include the installation of the electrical service
b Provide on-site or general supervision of an electrician or other electrical
workers m the performance of allowable electrical sign work.
c. Serve as Master of Record for registered Electrical Sign Contractor
3 Journeyman Electrician may•
a. Under the general supervision of a Master Electrician, on behalf of an
Electrical Contractor perform electrical work;
b Under the general supervision of a Master Electrician or Master Sign
Electrician, perform electrical sign work,
c Provide on-site supervision of other electrical workers.
4 Journeyman Sign Electrician may•
a. Under the general supervision of a Master Electrician or Master Sign
Electrician, on behalf of an Electrical Sign Contractor perform electrical sign
work,
b Provide on-site supervision of other electrical sign workers.
5 Residential Wireman may•
a. Under the general supervision of a Master Electrician, on behalf of an
Electrical Contractor perform electrical work hmrted to single family and
multifamily dwellings not exceeding four stories.
18
Such work shall be limited to the residential amts, their connected private
accessory garages, and common corridors/breezeways serving those amts. It
does not include public common areas or commercial portions of the structure
or building.
b Provide on-site supervision of other residential electrical workers.
6 Maintenance Electrician may• Under the general supervision of a Master Electrician,
on behalf of an electrical contractor perform electrical maintenance work.
7 On-site supervision. In the performance of electrical work, on-site supervision shall
be provided for any electrical worker not m possession of a valid Master or
Journeyman license.
In the performance of electrical sign work, on-site supervision shall be provided for
any electrical sign worker not m possession of a valid Master Master Sign,
Journeyman or Journeyman Sign license.
On-site supervision shall mean, on the fob site at all times electrical or electrical
sign work, as allowed above, is m progress.
C02.2.3 Homestead owner A homestead owner shall be able to perform work on lus
homestead property as provided for m sections C02.1.3 and C02.1 4
SECTION C03 APPLICATION FOR PERMIT
C03.1 Application. Any person legally entitled to apply for and receive a permit shall
make application on forms provided for that purpose. Every such application shall.
1 Identify and describe the work to be covered by the permit for which application is
made
2 Describe the land on which the proposed work is to be done by address and by legal
description, or similar description, that will readily identify and definitely locate the
proposed building or work.
3 Indicate the use or occupancy for which the proposed work is intended when deemed
necessary
4 Be accompanied by plans, diagrams, computations and specifications and other data as
required m Section C03.2.
5 Be signed by the applicant or an authorized agent of the applicant.
Exception. Applications made verbally by phone by registered individuals
with a valid charge account.
6 Give such other data and information as may be required by the code official.
19
An application for a permit shall be considered as permission from an authorized
representative to inspect the premises.
C03.2 Plans and specifications. Plans, specifications, engineering calculations,
diagrams, soil investigation reports, special inspection and structural observation programs and
other data shall constitute the submittal documents and shall be submitted m one or more sets
with each apphcahon for a permit. The plans shall indicate all necessary information required,
including but not limited to the followmg•
1 Calculated loads.
2. Main and feeder sizes.
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.
When such plans are not prepared by an architect or engineer the code official may
require the applicant submitting such plans or other data to demonstrate that state law does not
require that the plans be prepared by a licensed architect or engineer The code official may
require plans, computations and specifications to be prepared and designed by an engineer or
architect licensed by the state to practice as such even if not required by state law
Exception The code official may waive the submission of plans, calculations,
construction inspection requirements and other data if rt is found that the nature of the
work applied for is such that reviewing of plans is not necessary to obtain compliance
with this code.
C03.3 Information on plans and specifications. Plans and specifications shall be
drawn to scale upon substantial paper or cloth and shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the
location, nature and extent of the work proposed and show m detail that it will conform to the
provisions of this code and all relevant laws, ordinances, rules and regulations.
Plans for building of other than Group R, Division 3 and Group U Occupancies shall
indicate how required structural and fire-resistive integrity will be maintained where penetrations
will be made for electrical and similar systems.
C03.4 Architect or engineer of record. When rt is required that documents be prepared
by an architect or engineer the code official may require the owner to engage and designate on
the permit application an architect or engineer who shall act as the architect or engineer of
record. If the circumstances require, the owner may designate a substitute architect or engineer
of record who shall perform all of the duties required of the original architect or engineer of
record. The code official shall be notified m writing by the owner if the architect or engineer of
record is changed or is unable to continue to perform the duties.
20
The architect or engineer of record shall be responsible for reviewing and coordinating all
submittal documents prepared by others, including deferred submittal items, for compatibility
with the design of the building.
C03.5 Deferred submittals. For the purpose of this section, deferred submittals are
defined as those portions of the design that are not submitted at the time of the application and
that are to be submitted to the code official within a specified period.
Deferral of any submittal items shall have prior approval of the code official. The
architect or engineer of record shall list the deferred submittals on the plans and shall submit the
deferred submittal documents for review by the code official.
Submittal documents for deferred submittal items shall be submitted to the architect or
engineer of record who shall review them and forward them to the code official with a notation
indicating that the deferred submittal documents have been reviewed and that they have been
found to be m general conformance with the design of the building. The deferred submittal
items shall not be installed until their design and submittal documents have been approved by the
code official.
C03.6 Expiration of plan review Applications for which no permit is issued wrtlin 180
days following the date of application shall expire by limitation, and plans and other data
submitted for review may thereafter be returned to the applicant or destroyed by the code
official.
The code official may extend the time for action by the applicant for a period not
exceeding 180 days on request by the applicant showing that circumstances beyond the control
of the applicant have prevented action from being taken. No application shall be extended more
than once. In order to renew action on an application after expiration, the applicant shall
resubmit plans and pay a new plan review fee
SECTION C04 PERMIT ISSUANCE
C04 1 Issuance. The application, plans, specifications, computations and other data filed
by an applicant for a permit shall be reviewed by the code official. Such plans may be reviewed
by other departments of tlis jurisdiction to venfy compliance with any applicable laws under
their ~unsdiction. If the code official finds that the work described m an application for a permit
and the. plans, specifications and other data filed therewith conform to the requirements of this
code and other pertinent laws and ordinances, and that the fees specified m Section COS have
been paid, the code official shall issue a permit therefor to the applicant.
Exception When plan review is performed by a Third Party Orgamzation as
specified m Section C08 the Code Official, at his discretion, may only review what he
deems necessary to insure a quality control of the review already performed.
21
When the code official issues the permit where plans are required, the code official shall
endorse in writing or stamp the plans and specifications APPROVED Such approved plans and
specifications shall not be changed, modified or altered without authorization from the code
official, and all work regulated by this code shall be done m accordance with the approved plans.
The code official may issue a permit for the construction of part of an electrical system
before the entire plans and specifications for the whole building or structure have been submitted
or approved, provided adequate information and detailed statements have been filed complying
with all pertinent requirements of this code. The holder of a partial permit shall proceed without
assurance that the permit for the entire building or structure will be granted.
C04.2 Withholding of permits. The code official is authorized to withhold permits to
any person for the reasons set forth herein upon written notice to such person. The determination
of the code official may be appealed to the Board as provided in Section B03
The code official is authorized to withhold the issuance of electrical permits to
any person until such time as the electrical for which a permit was previously issued
has been completed or is being performed m an efficient manner m a reasonable
length of time.
2. any person who is delinquent m the payment of fees owed the City of Fort Worth.
3 any person who has performed previous fobs which remain in violation of this code.
C04.3 Validity The issuance of a permit or approval of construction documents shall
not be construed to be a permit for or an approval of, any violation of any of the provisions of
this code or of other ordinance of the jurisdiction. No permit presuming to give authority to
violate or cancel the provisions of this code shall be valid.
The issuance of a permit based upon construction documents and other data shall not
prevent the code official from thereafter requiring the correction of errors m said construction
documents and other data or from preventing building operations being carned on thereunder
when m violation of this code or of other ordinances of this jurisdiction.
C04 4 Expiration. Every permit issued by the code official under the provisions of this
code shall expire by limitation and become null and void if the work authorized by such permit is
not commenced within 180 days from the date of such permit, or if the work authorized by such
permit is suspended or abandoned at any time after the work is commenced for a period of 180
days. Before such work can be recommenced, a new permit shall be first obtained and the fee
therefor shall be one-half the amount required for a new permit for such work, provided no
changes have been made or will be made m the original construction documents for such work,
and provided further that such suspension or abandonment has not exceeded one year In order
to renew action on a permit after expiration, the permrtee shall pay a new full permit fee.
22
C04.5 Extensions. Any permittee holding an unexpired permit shall have the nght to
apply for an extension of the time wrthm which the permittee will commence work under that
permit when work is unable to be commenced wrthm the time required by this section for good
and satisfactory reasons. The code official shall extend the time for action by the permittee for a
penod not exceeding 180 days if there is reasonable cause. No permit shall be extended more
than once.
C04.6 Suspension or revocation of permit. The code official may in writing, suspend
or revoke a permit issued under the provisions of this code whenever the permit is issued m error
or on the basis of incorrect information supplied, or m violation of any ordinance or regulation or
any of the provisions of this code
C04 7 Administrative hold. Any administrative discrepancy including but not hmrted
to delinquency m payments, returned checks, failure to pay for reinspection, investigation or
registration fees, and failure to keep registration, insurance or bond up-to-date, may result m a
hold being placed on issuance of permits and performance of inspections of existing permits until
the administrative discrepancy is corrected. For the purpose of this section, the term `up-to-
date shall mean that whenever any of these items is required by this or any other code to obtain
a permit covered by this code, rt shall be maintained current and m effect until the permit is
finaled.
C04.8 Retention of plans. One set of approved plans, specifications and computations
shall be retained by the code official until final approval of the work covered therein. One set of
approved construction documents shall be returned to the applicant, and said set shall be kept on
the site of the building or work at all tunes during which the work authorized thereby is in
progress.
C04.9 Job abandonment. If, after a permit is issued under the provisions hereof, the
applicant abandons the fob, becomes incapacitated or his/her services are terminated pnor to
final inspection and approval thereof by the code official and before the permit has expired, the
applicant or his lawful/legal representative shall immediately notify the office of the code official
m writing. Upon such notification, the code official shall immediately have an inspection made
of the work completed to that time, and may revoke the outstanding permit and require that a
new permit with the payment of fees be obtained before the work is allowed to resume.
SECTION COS FEES
CO5.1 General. Fees shall be assessed m accordance with the provisions of this section
or shall be as set forth in the fee schedule adopted by this jurisdiction.
C05.2 Permit fees. The fee for each permit shall be as set forth m Table C05.2.
Any person obtaining a permit application required by this code shall, at the time of
filing, pay a permit and anon-refundable application fee as required by this section for the
installation, relocation or replacement of any of the listed items.
23
Exceptions. 1 Where the fees for new structures and additions to structures have
been collected on a building permit, the permit fee is not required but the permit
application shall be filed by the person doing the work before work is commenced.
2. Where these fees are being invoiced monthly and the account is past due, a
penalty and/or interest charge as prescribed by the jurisdiction shall be assessed. The
above assessed fee and delinquent payment shall be paid before additional permits will be
issued or additional inspections performed.
3 Buildings or structures owned and occupied by a Federal, State, or County
entity on property owned by the Federal, State, or County entity shall be exempt from the
permit fees. This exception does not apply to public school distracts or county
community colleges.
4 Work by non-City personnel on property under the control of the City of Fort
Worth shall be exempt from the permit fees only if the work is for action under a contract
approved by City Council with notes m the contract packages stating the fee is waived.
5 Work by Crty personnel on property under the control of the City of Fort
Worth shall be exempt from the permit fees only if the application is accompanied by a
copy of the work order for the project.
6 When the project is to be inspected by an approved third party organization as
described m Section C08 the permit fee shall be reduced by rnultiplymg the sum by 25%
(0.25) The resulting amount will be calculated to the penny with no rounding for the
tenth of a penny figure.
Exemption or reduction of the permit fees under this section shall not waive the
requirements to pay a full investigation fee for doing work without a permit as required under
Section C05.3
24
Table C05.2
Schedule of Fees
Administrative
1 CFPBOA Application F
(1st item per address) $i25 00
(Each additional item per address) 30 00
2. Permit Application Fee 22.00
3 Record Change Fee (per record or permit) 22.00
4 Reciprocal Letters 22.00
5 Business Verification Letters. 22.00
6 Temporary Power Letters 33 00
Permit items*
LIGHT OUTLETS, FIXTURES, SWITCHES, RECEPTACLES
Up to 100 $ 41 each
All over 100 .34 each
FIXED APPLIANCES
Ceiling Fan 1 13
V nt Fan 1 13
Smoke Detector 1 13
:Bath Heater 1 13
Disposal 1 13
Compactor 1 13
Dishwasher 1 13
Washing Machine 1 13
Water Heater 2.27
Dryer 2.27
Range 2:27
Air Conditioner 3 to 5 ton 4 62
Air Conditioner 5 ton to
7 1 /2 ton 7 45
Air Conditioner over 7 1/2 ton 14.93
Heating Unit (gas) 2.27
Heating Unit (electric) 77 per KW
MOTORS
1 to 3 hp 2.27
Over 3 to 5 hp 4 62
Over 5 to 7 1 /2 hp 7 45
Over 7 1/2 hp 14 93
TRANSFORMERS, GENERATORS, AND WELDERS
Oto lOKW 462
Over 10 KW to 20 KW 7 45
Over 20 KW 14.93
Welders 4 62
25
SERVICES and SUBPANELS
60 amp to 100 amp 14 93
Over 100 amp to 150 amp 22.05
Over 150 amp 29.88
MISCELLANEOUS
Swimming pools 42.69
Construction pole 22.05
Sign connections, each 7 10
New mobile home hookups* 32.95
Submeters (buildings,
leases, apts. etc.) 15 65
*When spections aze performed by third party the permit fee shall be educed by multiplying the um by 25% (0.25).
The ulting amount will be alculated to the penny with nding for the tenth of penny figure.
A Building Code Ordinance Inspection shall be equired spect and approve power to sting mobile homes mobile home parks where
the name changes the electric utility nt ept when the nt being transferred from an individual to the pazk's name.
Other Inspections and Fees
1 Inspections outside of normal business hours (minimum of two hours)
2. Reinspection fee assessed under provisions of C07 ( )
3 Inspections for which fee is specifically indicated
(minimum charge one-half hour)
4 Additional plan review equired by changes, additions or revisions
to plans (minimum charge one-half hour)
5 Inspections outside of city limits (commercial)
(residential)
6. Failing to call for fmal inspections
Or $33 00 per hour, whichever Beater
$38 00 per hour
$27.50
$38 00 per hour
$38.00 per hour
$49.50 per inspector
$66 00' total
$27.50
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C05.3 Investigation fees. Work without a permit.
C05.3.1 Investigation. Whenever any work for which a permit is required by this
code has been commenced without first obtaimng said permit, a special investigation shall be
made before a permit may be issued for such work.
Exceptions. 1 This provision shall not apply to emergency work when it
shall be proved to the satisfaction of the code official that such work was urgently
necessary and that rt was not practical to obtain a permit therefore before the
commencement of the work. In all cases, a permit must be obtained as soon as rt is
practical to do so and if there be an unreasonable delay m obtaimng such permit, an
investigation fee as herein provided shall be charged.
2. The investigation fee required shall be charged for work for which an
inspection has been requested and no permit has been obtained.
C05.3.2 Fee. An investigation fee, in addition to the permit fee, shall be collected
whether or not a permit is then or subsequently issued. The investigation fee shall be equal
to the amount of the permit fee required by this code. The mimmum investigation fee shall
be the same as the application fee set forth in Table C05.2 The payment of such
investigation fee shall not exempt any person from compliance with all other provisions of
this code nor from any penalty prescribed by law
Use of the third party plan review or inspection option, will not reduce or lower the
investigation fee required by this section.
The applicant may appeal the amount of an investigation fee to the city council by
filing a written appeal showing the reason why the fee should be lowered. The city council
may upon a finding that the investigation fee is unreasonable based upon the facts presented,
reduce the investigation fee, but in no case may the fee be reduced to less than the actual
investigation costs incurred by the city
C05.4 Change of record. Any request for a record change, or any mistake made by an
applicant that requires a record change, including but not limited to name or address changes,
whether computer or paper record, must be requested m writing by the original applicant with a
fee as specified m Table C05.2.
Exceptions 1 For record changes that affect the permit fee, such as adding
equipment, fixtures or square footage, the code official may require a separate permit for
the extra items with the appropriate fees.
2. The fee will not be required for those applicants meeting exception 5 of
Section C05.2.
CO5.5 Fee Refunds. The Director of Planning and Development or his designee may
authorize the refunding of any fee paid hereunder which was erroneously paid or collected.
Where work for which a permit has been issued does not commence, and a request is made for a
cancellation of such permit within a 60-day time limit, the permit fee may be returned, upon
27
request, minus an admimstration charge of five dollars ($5 00) After the 60 day time limit, no
fee shall be returned.
Exceptions. 1 When the investigation fee of Section C05.3 has been collected, rt
shall not be refunded unless paid by another party
2 No refund will be given for the application fee
SECTION C06 INSPECTIONS
C06.1 General. All electrical systems for which a permit is required by this code shall be
inspected by the code official. No portion of any electrical system shall be concealed until
inspected and approved. Neither the code official nor the jurisdiction shall be liable for expense
entailed in the removal or replacement of material required to permit inspection. The holder of
the permit shall be responsible for the scheduling of such inspections. Electrical systems
regulated by this code shall not be connected to energy supply until authorized by the code
official.
Exceptions 1 The requirements of this section shall not be considered to
prohibit the operation of any equipment installed to replace existing equipment serving an
occupied portion of the building m the event a request for inspection of such equipment
has been filed with the Code Official not more than 72 hours after such replacement work
is completed, and before any portion of such equipment is concealed by any permanent
portion of the building.
2. When approved by the Code Official, the inspection process as required by this
code may be performed by an approved Third Party Orgamzation as specified in Section
C08
C06.1.1 Under ground inspection shall be made after trenches or ditches are
excavated and bedded, piping installed, and before any backfill is put m place. When
excavated soil contains rocks, broken concrete, frozen chunks and other rubble that would
damage or break the piping or cause corrosive action, clean backfill shall be on the fob site.
C06.1.2 Rough-m inspection shall be made after the roof, framing, fire blocking, fire
stopping, draft stopping and bracing are m place and all ducting and other components to be
concealed are complete, and prior to the installation of wall or ceiling membranes.
C06.1.3 Final inspection shall be made after the building is complete, all electrical
systems are m place and properly connected, and the structure is ready for occupancy
Approval as a result of an inspection shall not be construed to be an approval of a
violation of the provisions of this code or of other ordinances of this jurisdiction. Inspections
presuming to give authority to violate or cancel provisions of this code or of other ordinances of
the jurisdiction shall not be valid.
28
C06.2 Other inspections. In addition to the called inspections specified above, the code
official may make or require other inspections of any electrical work to ascertain compliance
with the provisions of this code and other laws which are enforced.
C06.3 Testing. Electrical systems shall be tested when required by the code official. Tests
shall be made by the permit holder and observed by the code official.
C06.3 1 New altered, extended or repaired systems. New electrical systems and
parts of existing systems, which have been altered, extended or repaired, shall be tested when
required by the code official.
C06.3.2 Equipment, material and labor for tests. All equipment, material and
labor required for testing an electrical system or part thereof shall be furmshed by the permit
holder
C06.3.3 Reinspection and testing. Where any work or installation does not pass any
imtial test or inspection, the necessary corrections shall be made to comply with this code.
The work or installation shall then be resubmitted to the code official for inspection and
testing.
C06.4 Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the person doing the work authorized
by a permit to notify the code official that such work is ready for inspection. The code official
may require that every request for inspection be filed at least one working day before such
inspection is desired. Such request may be m writing or by telephone, at the option of the code
-official.
The person doing the work authorized by the permit shall make sure that the work will
stand tests prescribed elsewhere m this code, before giving the above notification.
It shall be the duty of the person requesting inspections required by this code to provide
access to and means for proper inspection of such work. When the work is within a residence
where access is dependent upon the occupant being home, it shall be the duty of the person doing
the work to make arrangements for inspections. Failure to make arrangements wrtlun a timely
manner or the mabihty for the inspector to do the inspections at the arranged times will result m
reinspection fees being assessed to the person doing the work.
Exception. If the reinspection fee was fora `Final Inspection for a residence
where access is dependent upon the occupant, after the fee has been paid by the person
doing the work additional arrangements for the final inspection and penalties for not
receiving such inspection shall fall on the occupant.
This shall not relieve the person doing the work -from having to correct improper
work and such accompanying penalties should the work fail remspection.
C06.4.1 Approval Required. Work shall not be done beyond the point indicated m each
successive inspection without first obtaimng the approval of the building official. The building
official, upon notification, shall make the requested inspections and shall either indicate that
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portion of the construction is satisfactory as completed, or shall notify the permit holder or an
agent of the permit holder wherein the same fails to comply with this code. Any portions that do
not comply shall be corrected and such portion shall not be covered or concealed until authorized
by the building official. There shall be a final inspection and approval of all buildings and
structures when completed and ready for occupancy and use.
C06.4.2 Covered work. Any work covered or concealed without inspection shall be
considered to constitute an unsafe structure and subject to the corrective provisions of Section
A04.5 Such consideration as an unsafe structure shall exist every day until the work is inspected
and approved as being m compliance with this code. Inspections will not be performed until a
valid active permit is obtained m accordance with this code.
C06.5 Inspection card. Work which requires an inspection card as described m the
Building Code shall not be commenced until the permit holder or an agent of the permit holder
shall have posted or otherwise made available an inspection record card such as to allow the code
official to conveniently make the required entries thereon regarding inspection of the work. This
card shall be maintained available by the permit holder until final approval has been granted by
the code official.
C06.6 Reinspections. A remspection fee may be assessed for each inspection or
remspection when such portion of work for which inspection is called is not complete or when
corrections called for are not made.
This section is not to be interpreted as requmng remspection fees the first time a fob is
rejected for failure to comply with the requirements of this code, but as controlling the practice
of calling for inspections before the fob is ready for such inspection or remspection.
Reinspection fees may be assessed when the inspection record card is not posted or
otherwise available on the work site, the approved plans are not readily available to the
inspector for failure to provide access on the date for winch inspection is requested, or for
deviating from plans requiring the approval of the code official.
To obtain a remspection, the applicant shall file an application therefor in wasting on a
form furnished for that purpose and pay the remspection fee m accordance with Table C05.2 or
as set forth m-the fee schedule adopted by the jurisdiction.
In instances where remspection fees have been assessed, no additional inspection of the
work will be performed until the required fees have been paid.
SECTION C07 CONNECTION APPROVAL
C07 1 Energy connections. No person shall make connections from a source of energy
or fuel to any electrical system or equipment regulated by this code and for which a permit is
required until approved by the code official.
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007.2 Temporary connections. The code official shall have the authority to authorize
the temporary connection of the building or system to the utility source for the purpose of testing
electrical systems or for use under a temporary certificate of occupancy
SECTION 008 THIRD PARTY PLAN REVIEW AND INSPECTION
008.1 When approved by the Code Official, Third Party Organizations may be permitted
to perform the plan review and/or field inspection provisions of tins code. When authorized to
perform services, the Third Party Organization shall comply with the provisions of this section.
008.2 Plan Review
008.2.1 Performance of plan review by a Third Party Orgamzahon shall not exempt
or otherwise relieve the owner and/or other parties from the submittal for a permit with the
appropriate plans as prescribed m this code.
008.2.2 Along with the submittal of plans, documents as required by the Code
Official shall also be submitted with the following information.
1 Name of the Third Party Organization and all individuals involved m the plan
review
2. Listing of the plan review results including but not limited to the construction
type, occupancy group occupant load, area calculations, story calculations, height
measurements, and exiting calculations.
3 Other information as required by the Code Official.
008.3 Field Inspections.
008.3.1 Whenever the owner/builder wishes to use a Third Party Organization for
field inspection, he shall submit the appropriate forms to the Code Official for approval
before inspections commence. The Code Official shall review the application to confirm that
the chosen Third Party Organization ns approved and has all required insurance.
008.3.2 The Code Official shall have a right to make periodic site visits, at lus
dnscrehon, to review and inspect the work under construction. Whenever possible, the Code
Official will attempt to coordinate such vnsrts with the Third Party Organization.
008.3.3 The Code Official shall maintain full interpretation authority of all affected
codes as well as the authority to require corrections, including, but not limited to, notices,
stop work orders and/or citations.
008.3.4 The project may proceed with construction only upon approval of the Third
Party Organization after performing the inspections as required by this code or as otherwise
required by the Code Official. If, upon review the Code Official believes that compliance
with all applicable codes has not been achieved, the Code Official shall retain the right to
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require corrections. If corrections are required, the owner/builder and Third Party
Organization may propose methods of correction that do not require uncovering of completed
work. However the Code Official may require uncovering of completed work after
consideration of the extent of the work involved versus the level of compliance needed and
then only as a last resort when the Code Official determines that the proposed methods of
correction will not result m adequate compliance
C08.3.5 The Third Party Organization shall issue to the owner/builder and the Code
Official a formal inspection report for each inspection completed, verifying either that the
work inspected is in compliance with this code or specifically detailing corrections necessary
to bang such work into conformance with said codes and regulations.
C08.3.6 The Third Party Organization shall notify the Code Official if, at any time,
the owner/builder fails to correct construction deficiencies as noted or if the owner/builder
covers work prior to inspection or otherwise hinders the ability of the Third Party
Organization to perform required inspections.
C08.4 Insurance. The Third Party Organization shall obtain and maintain insurance
coverage as prescribed by the Code Official.
C08.5 Indemnification. The Third Party Organization, the builder and the owner shall
execute an indemnification agreement in a form approved by the City Attorney
C08.6 Conflict of Interest. The licensed architect, registered engineer or other
authorized person, entity or corporation who prepared or supervised preparation of the project
plans and/or specifications, along with, the owner builder subcontractor their agents, officers
and employees shall not be associated m any way with the Third Party Organization.
C08.7 Qualifications. The Third Parry Organization shall submit documents, as
required by the Code Official, to show adequate training, knowledge and/or certification in the
fields upon which service is to be rendered. The Code Official shall review the documents along
with proof of required insurance and all required executed agreements. If m compliance, the
Code Official shall approve the Third Party Organization.
If not approved, or if approval is revoked for dust cause by the Code Official, the Third
Party Organization may appeal to the Construction and Fire Prevention Board of Appeals. Just
cause may include but not be limited to violation of any provision of this ordinance, loss or
expiration of required insurance, violation of the conflict of interest provision or any such action
that may result m the questioning of qualifications.
C08.8 Certificate of Occupancy A Certification of Occupancy shall be issued, when
necessary by the Code Official upon completion of all requirements specified above and, upon
completion of all requirements of any other affected department of the City Such completion
shall be determined upon the submittal of all inspection reports by the Third Party Organization
noting that all required construction inspections have been approved and after the Code Official
has performed and approved a final inspection when deemed necessary
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C08.9 Violations. A Third Party person or individual who violates, or assists m the
violation of, this code shall be subject to the penalties as prescribed m Section A04.2.
SECTION C09 SERVICE UTILITIES
C09 1 Utility connection. Connections shall not be made from an energy or power
supply nor shall power be supplied to any electrical system or equipment unless authorized by
the code official.
Exception The utility supplier may reactivate service to single family or duplex
residences where work was performed that does not require a permit, that was not
ordered disconnected by the code official, nor are m a hazardous condition.
C09.2 Utility disconnect. The power company may disconnect service to a premzse
under the following conditions
A. Nan-payment of bill.
B Point of attachment.
C Meter height not correct.
D Meter not wired correctly
E. Termination of service conductors or lateral.
NOTE The power company must notify the code official of their intent to disconnect
power except for non-payment of bill.
The electrical supply agency shall disconnect the electrical service to mobile homes m
mobile home parks or to any building or premises each time such building or premises changes
ownership, is leased, or changes occupancy and rt shall not again supply electricity to such
buildings or premises until authorized to do so by the code official.
Exception. Electrical service need not be disconnected to single-family and
duplex residences, as well as mobile homes m mobile home parks when the service
account is being transferred into the park's name.
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Chapter D
Division I -Fort Worth Licensing
The provisions of Division I shall apply to existing Fort Worth Licensee that maintain a valid
and active license. Effective 2 5-06 no new licenses shall be issued. Renewals of existing
active licenses shall be permitted. Any Fort Worth license that is expired for more than one year
shall not be permitted to be renewed.
Only those individuals that posses an active Permit Master License as of December 1 2005 may
continue to take out permits provided they maintain an active license. Non Permit Masters may
not become Permit Masters.
DO1-SCOPE
DO1.1 General. Every person desiring to be licensed by the City of Fort Worth to
engage m the electrical business or work m a capacity for which a license is required by this code
shall comply with this chapter
Every applicant shall.
Take and pass an examination given by the City's officially designated examining
agency for the grade of license sought.
2. Be the holder of a valid electncian license issued by a reciprocating city hereafter
referred to as a reciprocal license, which license has been valid for one (1) year and is
of a grade equal to that for which the applicant is applying.
Exception. Applicants who obtained their license in a reciprocating city as a
result of having passed an examination given by this City's officially designated or
approved alternate testing agency are exempt from the one year requirement.
or
3 Be the holder of a certificate of examination which states that the applicant has passed
an examination qualifying the applicant for the grade of license for which applying
and which certificate was issued to the applicant by an alternate examining agency
approved by the city m the manner prescribed herein.
D01.2 Grades. There shall be seven (7) grades of licenses. Master Master Sign,
Journeyman, Journeyman Sign, Residential Wireman, Maintenance Electncian and Residential
Maintenance Electricians.
D01.3 Duel Qualification, Dual Licensing. Neither this section nor this chapter shall be
construed to prohibit:
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1 The hcensmg of a Master Electrician as a Master Sign Electrician, provided such
Master Electrician has duly qualified as a Master Sign Electrician,
2 The hcensmg of a Master Sign Electrician as a Master Electrician, provided such
Master Sign Electrician has duly qualified as a Master Electrician,
3 The hcensmg 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
S Any other licensing combination, provided that the hcensmg prerequisites for the
issuance of each such license are duly met.
D01.4 Company Representation. A Master Electrician who wishes to take out permits,
referred to as a Permit Master may represent only one electrical company This electrical
company must be registered wrth the Department of Planning and Development. Proof of
assumed name must be provided.
Licensees that represent the company shall not be simultaneously employed by or work
for more than one business for the purpose of obtaining permits under this code or for the
purpose of doing or supervising work that can only be done by authority of a permit obtained
under the provisions of this code.
Only one licensee for each company will be recognized for the purpose of obtaining
permits. The licensee shall keep the Department of Planning and Development notified of any
change m 1nsJher employment.
SECTION D02 APPLICATION
D02.1 General. All applications for Electrical licenses shall be submitted to the code
official. The applicant shall submit additional documents as required m this section.
D02.2 New licenses. The applicant for a new license shall submit m person the
following:
1 Proof of receiving a passing grade on an examination qualifying the applicant for the
grade of license for which applying from the City's officially designated examining
agency or an approved alternate examining agency
2. Proof of required experience and/or education. (Notarized letters from employers or
W 2 forms of employment.)
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3 Proof of insurance as required by Section D07
4 A check for the first year license fee. If not approved, the check will be returned.
Make checks payable to City of Fort Worth.
Exception 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
5 Valid picture ID (Example. Drivers License, State ID etc.)
D02.3 Reciprocal licenses. The holder of a valid electrical license or certificate of
registration issued by a reciprocating city may apply for the grade of license comparable to that
which the applicant holds or has qualified for elsewhere without taking the written examination
given by the City's officially designated examimng agency
The applicant for a reciprocal license shall submit in person the following:
1 Reciprocal letter from the city where the current license was issued. The date of the
reciprocal letter must be within the effective date of the current home base license
required under item 2 of this subsection. Applicants for reciprocal licensees are
required to keep their home base license current and in good standing.
2 Copy of current license card showing expiration date and a valid picture ID
(Example Drivers License, State ID etc.)
Exception. An applicant holding a current Fort Worth reciprocal
Maintenance Electrician License, issued based upon a City of Dallas home base
license, may renew although Dallas has eliminated the Dallas Maintenance Electrical
License program.
3 Proof of insurance as required by Section D07
4 Certificate of Occupancy for the business address or a photo of place of business
showing company name and address of business.
5 A check for the first year license fee. If not approved, the check will be returned.
Make checks payable to City of Fort Worth.
Exception. Agencies of any Federal, State or local government shall be
exempt from the payment of hcensmg fees m cases where the electrician performing
the work zs an employee of such agency and the work is to be performed on premises
owned or controlled by such agency
D02.4 Approval. Upon receipt of all the appropriate documents and payment of the
appropriate fee, the code official shall review the application. If m compliance with the
requirements of this code, the code official shall issue a license to the applicant of the grade for
which certified.
36
Upon acquiring a Master or Master Sign license, a copy of this code shall be obtained.
If, m the opinion of the code official, all of the requirements are not met, the application
shall be dewed. Appeals concerning the issuance and/or denials of electrical licenses may be
made to the Board.
D02.5 Issuance/Transfer No license shall be issued under the terms of this code to any
other than a natural person.
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 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.
SECTION D03 QUALIFYING EXPERIENCE
D03.1 General. To be qualified, an applicant for a license shall have passed a required
examination administered by the City's officially designated examining agency or hold a
certificate of examination from an approved alternate examining agency or hold a license or
certificate of registration from a reciprocating city and have the minimum qualifications and
experience as listed m this section.
D03.2 MASTER ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
1 Shall have had at least four (4) years experience as a Journeyman Electrician in the
construction mdustry• or
2. Shall be a graduate of a recognized Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training (a
division of the U S Department of Labor) electrical trade school with a four (4) year
curriculum and have had at least two (2) years experience as a Journeyman
Electrician, or
3 Shall have graduated after ma~ormg m electrical engineering from an accredited
college or university which has not less than a four (4) year curnculum and shall have
had at least one (1) year of practical electrical experience.
D03.3 MASTER SIGN ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
1 Shall have had at least three (3) years experience as a Journeyman Sign Electrician m
the installation and/or manufacturing of electrical signs, exclusive of experience
devoted to non-electrical components, or
2. Shall have graduated after ma~ormg 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 (18) months experience of practical electrical sign experience.
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D03.4 JOURNEYMAN ELECTRICIAL LICENSE
1 Shall have had at least four (4) years of electrical installation experience under a
Master Electrician m the electrical construction mdustry• or
2. Shall be a graduate of a recognized Bureau of Apprenticeship and Trammg electrical
trade school with a four (4) year curnculum.
NOTE A Journeyman Electrician may work m the capacity as a Residential Wireman
Electrician, Maintenance Electrician or Residential Maintenance Electrician.
D03.5 JOURNEYMAN SIGN ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
1 Shall have at least three (3) years experience m the installation of electrical sign or
outline lighting equipment, exclusive of experience devoted to non-electrical
components such as enclosures, or
2. Shall have had two (2) years college credit ma~ormg m electrical engineering in an
accredited college or umversity• including completion of that university or college
published curnculum for freshman and sophomore electrical engineering of electrical
engineering ma~or• and shall have had at least eighteen (18) months experience of
practical electrical sign experience.
D03.6 RESIDENTIAL WIREMAN ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
1 Shall have at least two (2) years experience m the installation of electrical equipment
m one and two-family dwellings.
NOTE The residential wireman electrician license restricts the holder of such licenses
to do electrical work m one and two-family dwellings only
D03.7 MAINTENANCE ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
1 Shall have four (4) years experience m maintaining and repairing electrical apparatus
which is already installed. A certificate from an approved two (2) year service
maintenance training school may be deemed the equivalent of two (2) years
experience. Written documentation as to proof of experience and education shall be
required.
Exception. With approval of the code official of the City of Fort Worth, a
Maintenance Electrician Training License may be issued to training school graduates.
D03.8 RESIDENTIAL MAINTENANCE ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
1 Shall have three (3) years experience m maintaining and repairing electrical
apparatus, on residential properties, which are already installed. A certificate from an
approved two (2) year service maintenance training school may be deemed the
38
equivalent of two (2) years experience Written documentation as to proof of
experience and education shall be required.
Exception Unhl July 1 2002, existing residential maintenance electricians
who can show four (4) years experience, or a combination of two (2) years experience
and two (2) years service maintenance training school, may obtain a license without
the taking of the exam.
SECTION D04 EXPIRATION/RENEWAL
D04.1 General Any license issued under the terms of this Code shall expire January 1 of
each year unless the annual fee specified m Table D04 1 is paid. Each license renewal shall be
accompanied with a copy of a current valid picture ID Reciprocal renewals shall also be
accompanied with a copy of a current valid home base license.
(Note: Due to staffing needs the Code Official may at his discretion, install a license renewal program in
which licenses expire at various times throughout the year in lieu of having all licenses expire on January 1 In
order to implement the program the Building Official may assign new expiration dates to existing licenses and
charge apro-rated newal fee.)
Exception. 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 holder of a Master License or Master Sign License who fails to pay the annual fee
due for such license within thirty (30) days after the expiration date shall be required to pay a late
fee as specified m Table D04 1
The holder of a Journeyman License, Journeyman Sign License, Residential Wireman
Licenses, Maintenance License or Residential Maintenance License who fails to pay the annual
fee due for such license wrtlun thirty (30) days after the expiration date shall be required to pay a
late fee as specified in Table D04 1
Any Fort Worth license that is expired for more than one year shall not be permitted to
be renewed.
39
TABLE D04 1
Electrical License Fees
1. Annual license feel,z
Master electrician $120 00
Master sign electrician 120 00
Master late fee 60 00
Journeyman electnc>an 12.00
Journeyman sign electrician 12.00
Residential wireman electrician 12 00
Ma>ntenance electrician 12.00
Residentiah Maintenance electrician 12 00
Late fee 12.00
2. Permit Master change of business $60 00
Annual fee due in full the first day of January ch yeaz Fees will of be pro ated for licenses taken ut during the yeaz
(As taffing and allow the Code Official may allow ewal to be for up to two yeazs with the payment
of pro-rated fee. Due to staffing eds the Code Official may at his discretion, install license ~al program
which licenses xpire at vazious times throughout the yeaz lieu of having all licenses xpire January 1 in rder
to implement the program the Code Official may assign ew xpiration dates to sting licenses and chazge pro-
ed ewal fee.)
Failure to ew within 30 days after xpiration shall ult in penalty fee as specified ction D04 1
SECTION DOS LICENSE SUSPENDED REPEALED OR REVOKED
DO5.1 General. A license or permit may be suspended, repealed or revoked by the Code
Official by reason of the occurrence of one or more of the follow>ng:
1 Adjudication of msanity-
2. Fraud or misrepresentation m obtaining alicense or permit;
3 Violation of a provision of this ordinance, the Residential, Plumbing, Mechanical, or
Building Codes or any other regulatory ordinances of the City applicable to the
installation or alteration of appliances, equipment or systems as set forth m this code,
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 for others,
6 Failure to pay permit fees or the voluntary or involuntary filing of bankruptcy
proceedings by or against the firm, partnership, association, or corporation, and,
7 The sending of six (6) notificat>ons wrtlin a six (6) month period that the license is m
violation of this chapter
D05.2 Work Suspension. Upon suspension or revocation of said Master Electrician or
Master Sign Electrician License, same shall be null and void and no work thereafter may be
performed thereunder
40
D05.3 Board Affirmation. Upon appeal to the Board, the Board may affirm, revise or
modify such suspension or revocation.
SECTION D06 INFORMATION/IDENTIFICATION
D06.1 Information. Each holder of a license issued under the provisions of this Code
shall funish the code official with a written notice of any change of information, including but
not limited to address, telephone number company name, etc
When the change involves moving of the permit Master from one company to another a
fee as specified in Table D04 1 shall be charged.
Each holder of Master Electrician license shall furnish the code official with a written
notice of the address and telephone number of his regular established place of business, and if
actively engaged m the electrical contracting business, a list of Journeyman Electricians and
other electrical workers employed by hum.
D06.2 Identification.
1 Journeyman Electricians, Journeyman Sign Electricians, Residential Wireman
Electricians, Maintenance Electrician and Residential Maintenance Electricians shall carry their
license and a valid picture ID on their person at all times while performing electrical work, and
they shall produce and present such license or permit immediately upon request by an Electrical
Inspector
2. Each licensed Master Electrician and Master Sign Electrician shall have his company
name and lis Electrician license number as follows. E or approved Universal Number
permanently affixed on each front door or fender of each truck or vehicle which said electrician
operates m connection with the installation, alteration or repair of electrical wiring, equipment or
signs within the city m letters and numerals of at least two and one half (2 1/2) inches m 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.
SECTION D07 INSURANCE
D07 1 General. Each Master Electrician and Master Sign Electrician who intend on
taking out permits shall furnish to the code official a certificate of insurance as evidence of the
insurance required.
Exception. A Master Electrician or Master Sign Electrician employed by the
City of Fort Worth shall be exempt from the insurance requirement.
The insurance policy shall have hmrts of liability m the amounts of not less than
$300 000 00 per occurrence for bodily injury including death, and not less than $100 000 00 per
41
occurrence for property damage.
Such insurance policy shall provzde that rt cannot be canceled or amended without at least
thirty (30) days notice to the Crty of Fort Worth.
The certificate of insurance shall clearly state the Master and/or Master Sign Electricians
individual name and license number along with the name of the business and address. The holder
of the certificate shall be City of Fort Worth, Department of Development, 1000 Throckmorton
Street, Fort Worth, Texas 76102.
Division II -State License/Registration
The provisions of Division II shall apply to State of Texas Licensees contracting or performing
electrical work.
DO8 -SCOPE
DO$.1 General. Every person with a State of Texas License desiring to perform
electrical work m the City of Fort Worth shall comply with this chapter
DO8.2 Registration. Every person with a State Electrical Contractor or State Electrical
Sign Contractor License desiring to contract for electrical work m the City of Fort Worth shall
register and pay a registration fee. All applications for registration shall be submitted to the code
official. The applicant shall submit additional documents as required m this section.
D08.2.1 New applications. The applicant for a new registration shall submit m
person the following:
1 Copy of State of Texas Electrical Contractor or State of Texas Electrical Sign
Contractor credentials.
2. Valid picture ID (Example Drivers License, State ID etc.)
3 Copy of current and active State of Texas Master Electrician license or State of Texas
Master Sign Electrician license who will act as Master of Record.
4 A check for the first year registration fee as specified in Table D08.2.1 If not
approved, the check will be returned. Make checks payable to City of Fort Worth.
Exception 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
5 Proof of assumed name or letter of incorporation.
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Table D08.2.1
1 Annual Contractor registration fee
Electrical Contractor $120 00
Electrical Sign Contractor 120 00
Contractor late fee 60 00
2 Change of Master of Record $60 00
D08.2.2 Approval. Upon receipt of all the appropriate documents and payment of
the appropriate fee, the code official shall review the application. If in compliance with the
requirements of this code, the code official shall approve the registration for the category
certified.
Upon acquiring a registration, a copy of this code shall be obtained.
If, m the opinion of the code official, all of the requirements are not met, the
application shall be demed. Appeals concerning the issuance and/or demals of a registration
may be made to the Board.
D08.3 Issuance/Transfer No registration in effect, issued, or renewed under the terms
of this code shall ever be transferred to or used by any other Contractor other than the one to
whom the same is issued. Nor shall a holder of a registration allow his name or registration to be
used by any other person to obtain a permit or to perform work under such registration.
D08.4 Contractor Representation. AState of Texas Master Electrician may only be
assigned to a single Electrical Contractor or Electrical Sign Contractor not both.
A State of Texas Master Sign Electrician may only be assigned to a single Electrical Sign
Contractor
The registered contractor shall keep the Department of Planning and Development
notified of any change mhis/her business information or any change mhis/her Master of Record
assigned to the contracting business.
SECTION D09 EXPIRATION/RENEWAL
D09 1 General Any registration issued under the terms of thus Code shall expire one year
after the date of approval unless the annual fee specified m Table D08.2.1 is paid. Each
registration renewal shall be accompamed with a copy of a current valid picture ID
Exception Agencies of any Federal, State or local government shall be exempt
from the payment of registration 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
43
The holder of a registration who fails to pay the annual fee due for such registration
within thirty (30) days after the expiration date shall be required to pay a late fee as specified in
Table D08.2.1
SECTION D10 REGISTRATION SUSPENDED REPEALED OR REVOKED
D10.1 General. A registration or permit may be suspended, repealed or revoked by the
Code Official by reason of the occurrence of one or more of the following:
1 Adjudication of insanrty•
2 Fraud or misrepresentation m obtaining alicense or permit;
3 Violation of a provision of this ordinance, the Residential, Plumbing, Mechanical, or
Building Codes or any other regulatory ordinances of the City applicable to the
installation or alteration of appliances, equipment or systems as set forth m this code,
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 for others,
6 Failure to pay permit fees or the voluntary or involuntary filing of bankruptcy
proceedings by or against the firm, partnership, association, or corporation, and,
7 The sending of six (6) notifications wrtlun a six (6) month period that the hcense is m
violation of this chapter
8 When the State Contractor license expires or is suspended for any reason.
9 When the State License of the Master of Record expires or is suspended for any
reason.
D10.2 Work Suspension. Upon suspension or revocation of said registration, same shall
be null and void and no work thereafter may be performed thereunder
D10.3 Board Affirmation. Upon appeal to the Board, the Board may affirm, revise or
modify such suspension or revocation.
SECTION D11 INFORMATION/IDENTIFICATION
D11 1 Information. Each holder of a registration issued under the provisions of this
Code shall furnish the code official with a written notice of any change of information, including
but not hmrted to address, telephone number company name, etc
When the change involves the installation of a new Master of Record, a fee as specified
m Table D08.2 1 shall be charged.
D 11.2 Identification.
1 Master Electricians, Master Sign Electricians, Journeyman Electricians, Journeyman
Sign Electricians, Residential Wireman Electricians, and Maintenance Electricians shall carry
44
their license and a valid picture ID on their person at all times while performing electrical work,
and they shall produce and present such license or permit immediately upon request by an
Electrical Inspector
2 Each registered Electrical Contractor shall have lis company name and license
number displayed on both sides of each vehicle owned or operated by the business and used m
the conduct of electrical work. Lettering shall be of a contrasting color and at least two inches in
height. The license number shall be preceded by the letters `TECL. Such name and number
shall be the same for all vehicles so operated by the electrical contractor Such name and number
shall not be of the magnetic type.
3 Each registered Electrical Sign Contractor shall have his company name and license
number displayed on both sides of each vehicle owned or operated by the business and used m
the conduct of electrical sign work. Lettering shall be of a contrasting color and at least two
inches in height. The license number shall be preceded by the letters `TSCL. Such name and
number shall be the same for all vehicles so operated by the electrical contractor Such name and
number shall not be of the magnetic type
Chapter E
Approval of Reciprocating Cities
and Examining Agencies
The provisions of this Chapter shall apply to existing Fort Worth Licensees that maintain a valid
and active license. Effective 2 5-06, no new Reciprocating Cities or Examining Agencies shall
be approved.
SECTION E01 RECIPROCATING CITIES
E01.1 General. The Board may list other cities as approved Reciprocating Cities under
the following guidelines
1 The Board shall confirm that the electrician license or certificate of registration issued
by another city is of a grade equal to that license for which the applicant is applying.
2. The Board may adjust the years of training, education, work experience or required
period of experience after the issuance of the license from that city as necessary to
make the license or certificate match the grade of that being applied for
3 The Board may not require the city to test through a specific agency or organization
but will evaluate the test chosen by that city as to rt being equivalent to the testing
standards used by the City of Fort Worth.
45
SECTION E02 EXAMINING AGENCIES
E02.1 Officially Designated Examining Agency The Crty Council may authorize the
Crty Manager to contract with an examination agency to perform examination services for the
licensing of electricians, or the Crty Council may authorize the City Manager to contract with
other cities in the North Texas Region m the form of an Interlocal Cooperation Agreement
allowing the cities as a unit to contract for the services of an examimng agency The selected
agency shall be the City's officially designated examimng agency and shall perform all
examination services requested by the City when issuing electrical licenses.
E02.2 Alternate Examining Agencies. The code official shall be authorized to approve
those examining agencies whose certificates of examination will be accepted by the City m lieu
of the certificate of examination issued by the City's officially designated examimng agency
Such agencies shall be known as alternate examining agencies.
It shall be the responsibility of the Board of the Crty of Fort Worth to review the
qualifications and testing standards of such agencies, and to submit its recommendation to the
code official, provided, however that such recommendation shall be advisory only and the final
decision as to approval of an alternate examining agency and the acceptance of its certificates of
examination shall be vested solely in the code official. The code official shall not approve an
examining agency which does not maintain examination standards at least equal to those
required by this code.
E02.3 Test Application. A person wishing to take a test for a license issued by the City
of Fort Worth shall file a written application with the City's officially designated examining
agency or alternate examining agency Such application shall be completed and filed m
accordance with the procedures prescribed by the examining agency
E02.4 Responsibilities of the Examining Agency Examination fees, dates, times and
places of the examinations, procedures for admimstermg the examinations, grading of the
examinations, examination security and examination site security examination content,
notification of examination results, repeat examinations, and appeal of examination scores, shall
be the sole responsib~lrty of the agency administering the examination.
46
CHAPTER F
REFERENCED STANDARDS
This chapter lists the standards that referenced ions sections of this document. The standards are
listed herein by the promulgating agency of the standard, the standard identification, the effective date and
title, and the section or section of this document that reference the standard. The application of the
referenced standards shall be as specified in Section A02.8.
American National Standards Institute
ANSI 11 West 42nd Street
New Y rk, NY 10036
Standard Referenced
eference ode
umber Title coon umber
221.83-98 Fuel Cell Power Plants. 110 110
International Code Council
~-y 5203 Leesburg Pike, Suite 708
I ~
(v Falls Church, VA 22041
Standard Referenced
eference ode
umber Title coon umber
IBC 2003 International Building Code® 100
IECC 2003 International Energy Conservation CodeT"' 100 100 123
IFGC 2003 International Fuel Gas Code® 100
IMC 2003 International Mechanical Code® 100
IFC 2003 International Fire Code® 100
IPC=2003 International Plumbing Code® 100
IRC=2003 International Residential CodeT"' 100
National Fire Protection Association
NFPA Batterymarch Park
Quincy MA 02269-9101
Standard Referenced
eference ode
umber Title umber
37-98 Installation and of Stationary Combustion Engines and Gas T rbines. 110.109
70-02 National Electrical Code. 100
110-99 Emergency nd Standby Power systems. 110.105
111-O1 Stored Electrical Energy Emergency and Standby Power Systems. 110.105
262-99 Standard Method of T xt for Flame T el and Smoke of Wires and Cables for
Use Air-Handling Spaces 110 108
853-00 Installation of Stationary Fuel Power Plants 110.110
Underwriters Laboratories
UT 333 Pfingsten Road
j~ Northbrook, IL 60062 2096
Standard Referenced
eference ode
umber Title coon umber
2200-98 Stationary Engine Generator Assemblies.. 110.105
47
(b) The remaining Articles of the 2008 NEC are hereby amended as follows
ARTICLE 90
*Article 90, Introduction ,Articles 90.1, 90.2, 90.4 and 90.6 are deleted.
ARTICLE 100
*Article 100, 'Scope ,changed to read as ollows.
Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the
purposes of this code, have the meanings indicated m 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 m this code and are defined
m other City adopted codes, such terms shall have meanings ascribed to them as m those codes.
Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this
sectron, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
Part I of this article contains definitions intended to apply wherever the terms are used
throughout this code. Part II contains definitions applicable only to the parts of articles
specifically covering installations and equipment operating over 600 volts, nominal.
Article 100, Part I, definitions are changed and new def nitions are added to read as
ollows.
APPROVED AGENCY An established and recognized agency regularly engaged in
conducting tests or furnishing inspection services, where the agency has been approved by the
Code Official.
AUTHORITY HAVING JURISDICTION The organization, office, or individual responsible
for approving equipment, material, an installation, or a procedure as specified m Sections BO1 1
B01.2, B01.3 and A02.10
BUILDING CODE. Building Code shall mean the International Building Code as adopted by
this jurisdiction.
48
CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY A change m the purpose or level of activity wrthun a building or
on a site that involves a change in application of the requirements of this code.
Such a change includes, but is not limited to a revision of the use that:
1 would place the occupancy m a different division of the same Group of occupancies
(such as an A l theater to an A 2 restaurant) or
2. would place the occupancy m a different Group of occupancies (such as a B office to M
retail) or
3 would change the character wrthun the same division of the same Group of occupancies
such as
a. a Group B office to a B restaurant with less than 50 occupants) or
b a Group S-1 warehouse to a Group S-1 motor vehicle repair or
c. by adding alcohol consumption to a restaurant that formerly was without alcohol,
or
d. any change m the operation that would have required a different application of
code had the building been built today under the new proposed operation.
The definition shall also apply to the usage of the surrounding site and access to and from the
building, structure or site, as necessary to achieve the purpose of this code, and to obtain
compliance with other codes and ordinances of this ~unsdiction.
CODE OFFICIAL. The officer or other designated authority charged with the administration
and enforcement of this code, or a duly authorized representative. For the purpose of this code,
the Code Official shall be the Building Official, and hus regularly authorized deputy shall be the
Chief Electncal Inspector
ELECTRICAL CODE. Electrical Code shall mean the National Electrical Code as adopted by
this ~unsdiction. For the purpose of this code, all references to NFPA 70 and the ICC Electrical
Code shall be assumed to mean the Electncal Code as defined herein.
ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE WORK. Electncal maintenance work shall mean the
keeping in safe repair of any and all electrical installations, apparatus, equipment and appliances
and the keeping m safe repair of electrical equipment within a building or m or on the premises
where the Maintenance Electrician, or Residential Maintenance Electrician, is regularly
employed on a permanent basis, except as described below for service companies, but does not
include the installation of new and additional electrical work, electrical equipment, electrical
apparatus or appliances.
ENERGY CODE. Energy Code shall mean the International Energy Code as adopted by this
~unsdiction.
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 )
49
HAZARDOUS LOCATION (See Article 500-3) The location is not necessarily categorized
m the International Building Code as a high hazard use group classification.
MECHANICAL CODE. Mechanical Code shall mean the International Mechanical Code as
adopted by this jurisdiction.
PLUMBING
For the purpose of using the International Plumbing Code as adopted, shall mean.
The practice, materials and fixtures utilized m the installation, maintenance,
extension and alteration of all piping, fixtures, plumbing appliances and plumbing
appurtenances, within or adjacent to any structure, m connection with sanitary drainage
or storm drainage facilities, venting systems, and public or private water supply systems.
For the purpose of complying with the Texas State Plumbing License Law shall mean.
All piping, fixtures, appurtenances, and appliances, including disposal systems,
dram or waste pipes, or any combination of these that:
supply recirculate, drain, or eliminate water gas, medical gasses and vacuum,
liquids, and sewage for all personal or domestic purposes in and about buildings where
persons live, work, or assemble; connect the building on its outside with the source of
water gas, or other liquid supply or combinations of these, on the premises, or the water
main on public property and carry waste water or sewage from or within a building to
the sewer service lateral on public property or the disposal or septic terminal that holds
private or domestic sewage.
The installation, repair service, maintenance, alteration, or renovation of all
piping, fixtures, appurtenances, and appliances on premises where persons live, work, or
assemble that supply gas, medical gasses and vacuum, water liquids, or any combination
of these, or dispose of waste water or sewage
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
PLUMBING SYSTEM.
For the purpose of using the International Plumbing Code as adopted, shall mean.
Includes the water supply and distribution pipes, plumbing fixtures and traps,
water-treating or water using equipment; soil, waste and vent pipes, and samtary and
storm sewers and building drams, m addition to their respective connections, devices and
appurtenances wrtlun a structure or premise.
RESIDENTIAL CODE. Residential Code shall mean the International Residential Code as
adopted by this ~unsdiction.
50
STRUCTURE. That which is built or constructed. The defimtion includes but is not hmrted to
buildings, towers, walls, tunnels, canopies, carports, fences, pools, etc.
ARTICLE 110
*Articles 110.90 through 110.92 and 110.100 through 100.123, added to read as follows.
VI. Mobile Home Park and Recreational Vehicle Park Standards
110.90 Mobile Home Park Standards
110.90.1 All electrical wiring, power distribution lines, and telephone lines m a mobile home
park shall be installed underground and m compliance with this code
110.91 Recreational Vehicle Park Standards
110.91.1 Each recreational vehicle park shall contain an electrical wiring system installed
and maintained in compliance with the this code.
110.91.2 All electrical wrong, roam power distribution lines, and telephone lines shall be
installed underground.
110.91.3 Individual electrical connections provided at recreational vehicle spaces shall
include an approved disconnecting device and overcurrent protective equipment.
110.91.4 Recreational Vehicle lots in Recreational Vehicle Parks and m Mobile Home or
Manufactured Home Parks shall be master metered. Power releases shall not be permitted
for individual lots.
110.92. History
Mobile Home Park regulations were first adopted m May 18 1970 (with retroactive provisions),
Ordinance 6293 Recreational Velcle Park regulations were first adopted by Ordinance 6372,
effective October 12, 1970 Under Ordinance 12264 City Code Chapter 21 Mobile Home Parks
was deleted and the provisions moved to the Fire Code Appendix. Such Appendix was
continued through Ordinances 14652, 14688 and 16027
VII. Electrical Requirements from Other Codes
110.100 Penetrations. Penetrations of walls, floors, ceilings and assemblies required to have a
fire-resistive rating, shall be protected m accordance with the Building Code. Where cables,
conductors and raceways penetrate fireblocking or drafstoppmg, such penetrations shall be
51
protected by filling the annular space with an approved fireblockmg material.
110.101 [B] Cutting, notching and boring in wood framing. When permitted by the Building
Code, the cutting, notching and boring of wood framing members shall comply with the
following•
[B] 2308.8.2 Joist notching. Notches on the ends of foists shall not exceed one fourth
the foist depth. Holes bored m foists shall not be wrtlun 2 inches (51 mm) of the top or
bottom of the foist, and the diameter of any such hole shall not exceed one-third the depth of
the foist. Notches in the top or bottom of~oists shall not exceed one-sixth the depth and shall
not be located m the middle third of the span.
[B] 2308:8.2.1 Engineered wood products. Cuts, notches and holes bored in trusses,
laminated veneer lumber glue laminated members or I foists are not permitted unless the
effects of such penetrations are specifically considered m the design of the member
[B] 2308.9 10 Stud cutting and notching. In exterior walls and bearing partitions, any
wood stud is permitted to be cut or notched not to exceed 25 percent of its depth. Cutting or
notching of studs not greater than 40 percent of their depth is permitted m nonbearing
partitions supporting no loads other than the weight of the partition.
[B] 2308.9 11 Bored holes. A hole not greater in diameter than 40 percent of the stud
depth is permitted to be bored m any wood stud. Bored holes not greater than 60 percent of
the depth of the stud are permitted m nonbearing partitions or m any wall where each bored
stud is doubled, provided not more than two such successive doubled studs are so bored. In
no case shall the edge of the bored hole be nearer than 5/8 inch (15.9 mm) to the edge of the
stud. Bored holes shall not be located at the same section of stud as a cut or notch.
110 102. [B] Cutting, notching and boring in steel framing. The cutting, notching and bonng
of steel framing members shall comply with the following:
[B] Cutting, notching and boring holes in structural steel framing. The cutting,
notching and bonng of holes m structural steel framing members shall be as prescribed by
the registered design professional.
[B] Cutting, notching and boring holes in cold-formed steel framing. Flanges and
lips of load-bearing cold-formed steel framing members shall not be cut or notched. Holes m
webs of load bearing cold-formed steel framing members shall be permitted along the
centerline of the web of the framing member and shall not exceed the dimensional
limitations, penetration spacing or minimum hole edge distance as prescribed by the
registered design professional. Cutting, notching and boring holes of steel floor/roof decking
shall be as prescribed by the registered design professional.
[B] Cutting, notching and boring holes in non-structural cold-formed steel wall
framing. Flanges and lips of nonstructural cold-formed steel wall studs shall not be cut or
notched. Holes in webs of nonstructural cold formed steel wall studs shall be permitted along
52
the center line of the web of the framing member shall not exceed 1 5 inches (38 mm) m
width or 4 inches (102 mm) m length, and shall not be spaced less than 24 inches (610 mm)
center to center from another hole or less than 10 inches (254 mm) from the bearing end.
110.103. [FG] 309 1 Grounding. Gas piping shall not be used as a grounding electrode.
[FG] 310 1 [G2411.1] Gas pipe bonding. Each above-ground portion of a gas piping
system that is likely to become energized shall be electrically continuous and bonded to an
effective ground fault current path. Gas piping shall be considered to be bonded where rt is
connected to gas utilization equipment that is connected to the equipment grounding
conductor of the circuit supplying that equipment.
110.104 [B] 2701.2 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 1 Alternate, non-generator power sources, including but not limited to fuel cell
power plants, wind generators, solar panels, etc are permitted when approved by the code
official and installed m accordance with the provisions of this code and other city codes.
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 mayor storm. Any
connection to the building power system shall be m compliance with this code.
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 m 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
110.105. [F) 604 1 Emergency and standby power Emergency and standby power systems
required by the Building Code or Fire Code shall be installed in accordance with the Building
Code, the Fire Code, NFPA 110 NFPA 111 and this code. Existing installations shall be
maintained in accordance with the original approval.
[F] 604.1.1 Stationary generators. Stationary emergency and standby power
generators required by this code shall be listed in accordance with UL 2200
[B] 2702.1.2 Fuel supply An on-premises fuel supply sufficient for not less than 2
hour full-demand operation of the system, shall be provided.
53
Exception Where the system is supplied with pipeline natural gas and is
approved.
[B] 2702.1.3 Capacity The standby system shall have a capacity and rating that
supplies equipment required to be operational at the same time. The generating capacity is
not required to be sized to operate all of the connected electrical equipment simultaneously if
automatic load-shedding is provided. Unless otherwise specified m this code, the system
shall be equipped with suitable means for automatically starting the generator upon failure of
the normal electrical supply systems. The system shall be at full power within 60 seconds of
such normal service failure.
[B] 2702.1.4 Emergency systems. Emergency systems shall operate within 10 seconds
of failure of the normal power supply and shall be capable of being transferred to the standby
source.
Exception. Exit sign, exit and means of egress illumination are permitted to be
powered by a standby source in buildings of Groups F and S occupancies.
[F] Where required. Emergency and standby power systems shall be provided where
required by Sections 604.2 1 through 604.2.19
[F] 604.2.1 Group A occupancies. Emergency power shall be provided for
emergency voice/alarm communication systems m Group A occupancies m accordance with
Section 907.2 1.2.
[F] 604.2.2 Smoke control systems. Standby power shall be provided for smoke
control systems m accordance with Section 909 11
[F] 604.2.3 Exit signs. Emergency power shall be provided for exit signs m
accordance with Section 1011.5.3
[F] 604.2.4 Means of egress illumination. Emergency power shall be provided for
means of egress illumination m accordance with Section 1006.3
[F] 604.2.5 Accessible means of egress elevators or platform lifts. Standby power
shall be provided for elevators or platform lifts that are part of an accessible means of egress
in accordance with Section 1007 4 or 1007.5 respectively
[F] 604.2.6 Horizontal sliding doors. Standby power shall be provided for horizontal
sliding doors m accordance with Section 1008 1.3.3
[F] 604.2.7 Semiconductor fabrication facilities. Emergency power shall be
provided for semiconductor fabrication facilities in accordance with Section 1803 15
[F] 604.2.8 Membrane structures. Emergency power shall be provided for exit signs
in temporary tents and membrane structures m accordance with Section 2403 12.6 1
Standby power shall be provided for auxiliary inflation systems m permanent membrane
structures in accordance with the International Building Code
[F] 604.2.9 Hazardous materials. Emergency or standby power shall be provided in
occupancies with hazardous materials m accordance with Sections 2704 7 and 2705 1.5
[F] 604.2.10 Highly toxic and toxic materials. Emergency power shall be provided
for occupancies with highly toxic or toxic materials m accordance with Section 3704.2.2.8
54
and 3704.3.2 6
[F] 604.2.11 Organic peroxides. Standby power shall be provided for occupancies
with orgamc peroxides m accordance with Section 3904 1 11
[F] 604.12 Pyrophoric materials. Emergency power shall be provided for
occupancies with silane gas m accordance with Sections 4106.2.3 and 4106 4.3
[F] 604.2.13 Covered mall buildings. Covered mall buildings exceeding 50 000
square feet (4645 m2) shall be provided with standby power systems which are capable of
operating the emergency voice/alarm commumcation.
[F] 604.2.14 High-rise buildings. Standby power light and emergency systems m
high-rise buildings shall comply with the requirements of Sections 604.2.14 1 through
604.2 14.3
[F] 604.2.15 Underground buildings. Emergency and standby power shall be
provided m underground buildings m accordance with Section 405 9 and 405 10
[F] 604.2.16 Group I 3 occupancies. Emergency power shall be provided for doors
m Group I 3 occupancies m accordance with Section 408 4.2.
[F] 604.2.17 Airport traffic control towers. Standby power shall be provided in
airport traffic control towers m accordance with Section 412 1 5
[F] 604.2.18 Elevators. Standby power for elevators shall be provided as set forth m
Section 3003 1
[F] 604.2.19 Smokeproof enclosures. Standby power shall be provided for
smokeproof enclosures as required by Section 909.20
110.106. [B] 909 11 Smoke control systems. Smoke control systems required by the Building
Code or the Fire Code shall be supplied with two sources of power Primary power shall be
the normal building power systems. Secondary power shall be from an approved standby
source complying with this code The standby power source and its transfer switches shall be
in a separate room from the normal power transformers and switch gear and shall be enclosed
m a room constructed of not less than 1 hour fire resistive-rated fire barriers, ventilated
directly to and from the exterior Power distribution from the two sources shall be by
independent routes. Transfer to full standby power shall be automatic and within 60 seconds
of failure of the primary power
[B] 909 11 1 Power sources and power surges. Elements of the smoke management
system relying on volatile memories or the like shall be supplied with unmterruptable power
sources of sufficient duration to span 15-minute primary power interruption. Elements of the
smoke management system susceptible to power surges shall be suitably protected by
conditioners, suppressors or other approved means
[B] 909 12.1 Wiring. In addition to meeting the requirements of this code, all signal
and control wiring for smoke control systems, regardless of voltage, shall be fully enclosed
within continuous raceways.
55
110.107 [F] 910.1 Smoke and Heat Vents.
(F] 910 4 Mechanical smoke exhaust.
(F) 910 4 4 Wiring and control. Wiring for operation and control of smoke exhaust
fans shall be connected ahead of the main disconnect and protected against exposure to
temperatures m excess of 1 000°F (538°C) for a period of not less than 15 minutes. Controls
shall be located so as to be immediately accessible to the fire service from the exterior of the
building and protected against interior fire exposure by fire barriers having a fire resistance
rating not less than 1 hour
110 108 [M] 602.2.1.1 Wiring in plenums. Combustible electrical or electronic wrong methods
and materials, optical fiber cable, and optical fiber raceway exposed within a plenum
regulated by Section 602 of the Mechanical Code shall have a peak optical density not
greater than 0 50 an average optical density not greater than 0 15 and a flame spread not
greater than 5 feet (1524 mm) when tested in accordance with NFPA 262. Only type OFNP
(plenum-rated nonconductive optical fiber cable) shall be installed mplenum-rated optical
fiber raceways. Wiring, cable, and raceways addressed m this section shall be listed and
labeled as plenum rated and shall be installed in accordance with this code.
[M] 602.2.1.4 Combustible electrical equipment. Combustible electrical equipment
exposed within plenums regulated by Section 602 of the Mechanical Code shall have a peak
rate of heat release not greater than 100 kilo-watts (kW), a peak optical density not greater
than 0.50 and an average optical density not greater than 0 15 when tested m accordance
with UL 2043 Combustible electrical equipment shall be listed and labeled.
110.109 [M] 915.2 Engine and gas turbine-powered equipment and appliances. Permanently
installed equipment and appliances powered by internal combustion engines and turbines
shall be installed m accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions, the
Mechanical Code, the Fuel Gas Code and NFPA 37
110.110 [M] 924.1 Stationary fuel cell power plants. Stationary fuel cell power plants having
a power output not exceeding 1 000 kW shall be tested m accordance with ANSI Z21 83 and
shall be installed m accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions and NFPA
853
110 111 [M) 1006.8 Boiler control requirements. The power supply to the electrical control
system for boilers shall be from atwo-wire branch circuit that has a grounded conductor or
from an isolation transformer with atwo-wire secondary Where an isolation transformer is
provided, one conductor of the secondary winding shall be grounded. Control voltage shall
not exceed 150 volts nominal, line to line. Control and limit devices shall interrupt the
ungrounded side of the circuit. A means of manually disconnecting the control circuit shall
be provided and controls shall be arranged so that when deenergized, the burner shall be
56
inoperative Such disconnecting means shall be capable of being locked m the off position
and shall be provided with ready access.
110 112 [M] 301 10 [FG] 301.8 Vibration isolation. Where vibration isolation of equipment
and appliances is employed, an approved means of supplemental restraint shall be used to
accomplish the support and restraint.
110.113 [M] 301 11 [FG] 301.9 Repair Defective material or parts shall be replaced or repaired
m such a manner so as to preserve the original approval or listing.
110114 [M] 301.12 [FG] 30110 Wind resistance. Electrical equipment, appliances and
supports that are exposed to wind shall be designed and m-stalled to resist the wind pressures
determined m accordance with the Building Code
110.115 [M] 301 13 [FG] 301.11 [B] 1612.1 Flood hazard. For structures located in a special
flood-hazard area, electrical systems shall comply with the flood-resistant construction
requirements of the Building Code.
110.116 [B] 1614 1 Seismic resistance. When earthquake loads are applicable m accordance
with the Building Code, electrical system supports shall be designed and installed for the
seismic forces m accordance with the Building Code
110.117 [F] 605.3.1 Equipment and door labeling. Doors into electrical control panel rooms
shall be marked with a plainly visible and legible sign stating ELECTRICAL ROOM or
similar approved wording. The disconnecting means for each service, feeder or branch
circuit originating on a switchboard or panelboard shall be legibly and durably marked to
indicate its purpose unless such purpose is clearly evident.
110 118 [F] 907.2.10 Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms. Listed single and multiple
station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and the
household fire warning equipment provisions of NFPA 72.
[F] 907.2.10.1 Where required. Single or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be
installed m the locations described m Sections 907.2.10 1 1 through 907.2 10 1 4
[F] 907.2.10 1 1 Group R 1 Single or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed
m all of the following locations m Group R 1
1 In sleeping areas.
2 In every room m the path of the means of egress from the sleeping area to the
door leading from the sleeping unit.
3 In each story within the sleeping unit, including basements. For sleeping units
with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a
smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level
provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level.
57
[F] 907.2.10.1.2 Groups R 2, R 3, R-4 and I 1 Single-or multiple-station smoke alarms
shall be mstalled and mamtamed m Groups R 2, R 3 R-4 and I 1 regardless of occupant load
at all of the following locations
1 On the ceiling or wall outside of each separate sleeping area m the immediate
vicinity of bedrooms.
2. In each room used for sleeping purposes.
3 In each story within a dwelling unit, including basements but not including crawl
spaces and umnhabrtable attics. In dwellings or dwelling amts with split levels
and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm
installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that
the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level.
[F] 907.2.10.1.3 Group I 1 Single or multiple station smoke alarms shall be installed
and mamtamed m sleeping areas m occupancies m Group I 1 Single or multiple station
smoke alarms shall not be required where the building is equipped throughout with an
automatic fire detection system m accordance with the Fire Code, Section 907.2 6
[F] 907.2.10.2 Power source. In new construction, required smoke alarms shall receive
their primary power from the building wrong where such wiring is served from a commercial
source and shall be equipped with a battery backup Smoke alarms shall emit a signal when
the batteries are low Wiring shall be permanent and without a disconnecting switch other
than as required for overcurrent protection.
Exception. Smoke alarms are not required to be equipped with battery backup m
Group R 1 where they are connected to an emergency electrical system.
[F] 907.2.10.3 Interconnection. Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be
mstalled within an individual dwelhng amt or sleeping amt m Group R 2, R 3 or R-4 or
within an individual sleeping unit m Group R 1 the smoke alarms shall be interconnected m
such a manner that the activation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms m the individual
amt. The alarm shall be clearly audible in all bedrooms over background noise levels with all
mtervemng doors closed.
Retroactive Smoke Detectors. Regardless of the date of occupancy approved smoke
detectors shall be provided m accordance with the ordinance under which they were
constructed, or the following, whichever is more restrictive.
[B] 3432.1 General. See Section 907 3 and 907.21 of the Fire Code.
Additions, alterations or repairs.
[B] 907.2.10.5 Additions, alterations or repairs to Group R. Existing Group R
occupancies not already provided with single-station smoke alarms shall be provided with
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approved single-station smoke alarms. Installation shall be m accordance with Section
3417.2
Where an addition, alteration or repair to an individual dwelling unit or guestroom m
Group R requires a permit, smoke alarms shall be installed within that individual dwelling
unit or guestroom m accordance with Section 907.2.10 except as provided m Sections
907.2.10 5 1 and 907.2 10.5.2
Exception Repairs to the exterior surfaces of occupancies m Group R.
[B] 907.2.10.5.1 Interconnection. Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be
installed within an individual dwelling umt m Group R 2, R 3 or R-4 or within an individual
sleeping umt m Group R 1 the smoke alarms shall be interconnected m such a manner that
the activation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms m the individual umt. The alarm
shall be clearly audible m all bedrooms over background noise levels with all mtervemng
doors closed.
Exceptions. 1 Interconnection is not required m buildings that are not
undergoing alterations, repairs or construction of any land.
2 Smoke alarms m existing areas are not required to be interconnected where
alterations or repairs do not result in the removal of mtenor wall or ceiling fimshes
exposing the structure, unless there is an attic, crawl space or basement available which
could provide access for interconnection without the removal of interior fimshes.
[B] 907.2.10.5.2 Power source. In Group R occupancies, single station smoke alarms
shall receive their primary power from the building wrong provided that such wrong is
served from a commercial source and shall be equipped with a battery backup Smoke
alarms shall emit a signal when the batteries are low Wiring shall be permanent and vv~thout
a disconnecting switch other than as required for overcurrent protection.
Exception Smoke alarms are permitted to be solely battery operated. in existing
buildings where no construction is taking place m buildings that are not served from a
commercial power source, and m existing areas of buildings undergoing alteration or
repairs that do not result in the removal of interior walls or ceiling fimshes exposing the
structure, unless there is an attic, crawl space or basement available which could provide
access for interconnection without the removal of mtenor fimshes.
110.119 [B] 1011 Exit signs.
[B] 1011.1 Where required. Exits and exit access doors shall be marked by an approved
exit sign readily visible from any direction of egress travel. Access to exits shall be marked
by readily visible exit signs m cases where the exit or the path of egress travel is not
immediately visible to the occupants. Exit sign placement shall be such that no point m an
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exit access corridor is more than 100 feet (30 480 mm) or the listed viewing distance for the
sign, whichever is less, from the nearest visible exit sign.
Exceptions
1 Exrt signs are not required m rooms or areas which require only one exit or exit
access.
2. Main exterior exit doors or gates which obviously and clearly are identifiable as
exits need not have exit signs where approved by the building official.
3 Exrt signs are not required m occupancies m Group U and individual sleeping amts
or dwelling units m Group R 1 R 2 or R 3
4 Exrt signs are not required m sleeping areas m occupancies m Group I 3
5 In occupancies m Groups A-4 and A 5 exit signs are not required on the seating
side of vomrtones or openings into seating areas where exit signs are provided m
the concourse that are readily apparent from the vomrtones. Egress hghtmg is
provided to identify each vomitory or opening within the seating area m an
emergency
[B] 1011.4 Internally illuminated exit signs. Internally illuminated exit signs shall be
listed and labeled and shall be installed m accordance with the manufacturer's instructions
and Sections 1101.5 1 1011.5.3 and 2702 Exrt signs shall be illuminated at all times.
[B] 1011.5 Externally illuminated exit signs.
[B] 1011.5.2 Exit sign illumination. The face of an exit sign illuminated from an
external source shall have an intensity of not less than Sfoot-candles (541ux)
[B] 1011.5.3 Power source. Exit signs shall be illuminated at all times. To ensure
continued illumination for a duration of not less than 90 minutes m case of primary power
loss, the illumination means shall be connected to an emergency power system provided from
storage batteries, unit equipment or an on-site generator The installation of the emergency
power system shall be m accordance with Section 2702
Exception. Approved exit sign illumination means that provide continuous
illumination independent of external power sources for a duration of not less than 90
minutes, in case of primary power loss, are not required to be connected to an
emergency electrical system.
110.120 [M] 510.2.1.1 Woodworking (or cabinet) shop. Where more than three fixed or table
mounted pieces of dust producing equipment exists, each fixed or table mounted piece shall be
connected to a dust collection system, m accordance with this sections 510 and 511 of the
Mechanical Code, and interconnected such that the dust collection is automatically activated
whenever the equipment is on.
110.121 [M] 301 14 Rodent proofing. Buildings or structures and the walls enclosing habitable
or occupiable rooms and spaces m which persons live, sleep or work, or in which feed, food
or foodstuffs are stored, prepared, processed, served or sold, shall be constructed to protect
against the entrance of rodents in accordance with the Building Code.
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110122 [M] 804.3.8 Mechanical draft systems for manually fired appliances and
fireplaces. A mechanical draft system shall be permitted to be used with manually fired
appliances and fireplaces where such system complies with all of the following requirements
1 The mechanical draft device shall be listed and installed m accordance with the
manufacturer's installation instructions.
2 A device shall be installed that produces visible and audible warning upon failure of the
mechanical draft device or loss of electrical power at any time that the mechanical draft
device is turned on. This device shall be equipped with a battery backup if rt receives
power from the building wiring.
3 A smoke detector shall be installed in the room with the appliance or fireplace. This
device shall be equipped with a battery backup if rt receives power from the building
wiring.
110.123 Energy Code. The electrical provision of the Energy Code shall also apply
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ARTICLE 220.88
*Article 220.88, add an interpretation to read as follows.
[This specification may apply to restaurants regarding new occupancy new buildings, change of
occupancy m existing buildings, or upgrading existing buildings to new electrical load
requirements.]
ARTICLE 230.2
*Article 230.2(A), add a Special Condition 7 to read as follows
(7) In supplying electrical service to multifamily dwellings, two or more laterals or
overhead service drops shall be permitted to a building when either of the following conditions
are met:
a. The building has more than six individual gang meters and all meters are grouped at
the same location. (For the purpose of this provision, grouped at the same location
shall mean not more than 30 feet separation on the same wall) or
b The utility provider cannot meet building loads with a single transformer
*Article 230.2(B), changed to read as ollows.
(B) Special Occupancies. By special permission, additional services shall be permitted for
either of the following.
(1) Multiple-occupancy buildings where there is no available space for service equipment
accessible to all occupants.
(2) Buildings three-hundred-fifty (350) feet or more m length could have additional service
locations with not less than one-hundred-seventy five (175) feet of separation between
utility points of delivery or service point.
Article 230.2(C), changed to read as follows
(C) Capacity Requirements. Additional services shall be permitted under any of the
following•
(1) Where the capacity requirements are m excess of 2000 amperes at a supply voltage of
600 volts or less.
(2) The building loads cannot be met by a single transformer
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(3) By special permission.
ARTICLE 230.42
Article 230.42~A) add two new paragraphs aver item (2) to read as ollows.
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 230.71
*Article 230.71 (A) add a sentence at the end of the first para~ph, ollowed by an
exception to read as follows.
Multi family dwelling units with meter banks exceeding six meters with disconnects supplied
from one lateral shall have a main disconnecting means with over current protection.
Exception. For multi-occupant buildings, individual service disconnecting means is
limited to six for each occupant. The number of individual disconnects at one
location may exceed six. More than one lateral and tap can may be installed at a
service location, but each tap can will be limited to six individual disconnecting
means in compliance with 230 40 exceptions 1 & 2
ARTICLE 250.50
Article 250 50 changed 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.
Where a metal underground water pipe, as described m item 250 52(A)(1), is not present, a
method of grounding as specified m 250.52(A)(2) through (4) below shall be used.
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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
ARTICLE 250.52
*Article 250.52 (A) (4) changed to add an exception to read as follows.
(4) Ground Ring. Aground ring encircling the building or structure, m 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)(S), 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 250.52L)(S), changed to read as follows.
(5) Rod and Pipe Electrodes. Rod and pipe electrodes meeting the requirements listed m this
section may be installed for electrical services on the following structures
(a) Temporary services 200 amps or less.
(b) Separate structures, temporary in nature, temporary being 12 months or less, when
supplied from another building or temporary service pole, with an electrical service
200 amps or less, and a metal underground water pipe is not present.
(c) Separate structures installed for permanent use, being 12 month or longer and supplied
from another building or permanent service pole, with an electrical service 200 amps or
less, and a metal underground water pipe is not present.
(d) Mobile home pedestals, 200 amps or less.
(e) 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.
(remainder of article unchanged)
ARTICLE 300.11
Article 300.11 L (1), changed to read and the exception deleted as follows.
(1) Fire-Rated Assemblies. Wiring located vv~tlun the cavity of a fire-rated floor-ceiling or
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roof-ceiling assembly shall not be secured to or supported by the ceiling assembly including
the ceiling support wires unless tested as part of a fire-rated assembly An independent means of
secure support {text unchanged} are part of the fire-rated design.
*Article 300.11(A)(2) and exception, changed to read as follows.
(2) Non-Fire-Rated Assemblies. Wiring located within the cavity of a non-fire rated floor
ceiling or roof-ceiling assembly shall not be secured to or supported by the ceiling assembly
including the ceiling support vv~res unless authorized by and installed in accordance with, the
ceiling system manufacturer's instructions. An independent means of secure support shall be
provided.
Exception. From the last point of independent support or base for connections
within an accessible ceiling to luminaires) (lighting fixture(s)) or equipment, branch
circuit or fixture whip wiring shall be allowed to be supported by the ceiling support
wires
ARTICLE 310 10
*Article 310.10, add a sentence to read as ollows.
Where NM, NMC NMS and other cables, conductors and wiring methods listed m Chapter 3
are installed m an attic that is exposed to outside temperatures, the ambient temperature shall
be considered to exceed 140°F
ARTICLE 310.15
*Article 310.15(B)(6), 120/240-Volt, 3-Wire, Single-Phase Dwelling Services and
Feeders , add a sentence to read as follows.
This Section shall not be used m conjunction with Section 220 82
ARTICLE 33410
*Article 334.10, changed to read as follows.
334.10 Uses Permitted. Type NM, Type NMC and Type NMS 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
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framing, except as prohibited m 334 12. When exceeding three (3) stories, as determined
by the Building Code, an approved automatic sprinkler system (Fire Code Section
903.3 1 1 or 903 3 1.2) 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 (Fire Code Section 903 3 1 1 or 903 3 1 2) throughout.
2 Usage is permitted for multifamily dwellings of any construction type, with
any wall framing material in buildings not exceeding five (S) 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 (Fire Code Section 903 3 1 1) throughout.
(3) Other structures of Types III, IV and V construction when of wood stud wall framing,
except as prohibited m 334 12. When exceeding three (3) stones, as determined by the
Building Code, an approved automatic sprinkler system (Fire Code Section 903.3 1 1 or
903.3 1.2) is required throughout.
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 (Fire Code Section
903 3 1 1 or 903 3 1 2) throughout.
2 Usage is permitted in detached one (1) story commercial buildings not
exceeding S 000 square feet of any construction type with any wall framing
material.
Cables shall be concealed wrtlun walls, floors, or ceilings that provide a thermal bamer
of material that has at least a 15-minute fimsh rating as identified m hstmgs of fire rated
assemblies.
(4) Cable where the cables are identified for the use.
ARTICLE 440.6
*Article 440.6, add a sentence to read as follows.
Branch circuits to AC condensing units shall be a minimum of 10 AWG copper conductors See
also attic temperatures in Articles 31010
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ARTICLE 500.8
Article 500.8~A), changed to read as follows.
(A) Suitability Suitability of identified equipment shall be determined by any of the follovv~ng•
(1) Equipment hshng 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 ~unsdiction such as a manufacturer's self
evaluation or an engmeenng judgment signed and sealed by a qualified Registered
Professional Engineer
ARTICLE 505.7
*Article SOS. 7~A , chaffed to read as ollows.
(A) Implementation of Zone Classification System. Classification of areas, engmeenng and
design, selection of equipment and wrong methods, installation, and inspection shall be
performed by a qualified Registered Professional Engineer
ARTICLE 550.1
*Amend Article SS0.1 by adding Articles SS0.1.1, SS0.1.2, SS0.1.3 and SS0.1.4 to read as
ollows.
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 m compliance with this code.
550.1.3 Street lights. Each internal street shall be provided with street hghhng. Light standards
shall have a height and spacing to ensure an average illumination level of not less than 0.2 foot
candles.
550 1 4 History Mobile Home Park regulations were first adopted m May 18 1970 (with
retroactive provisions), Ordinance 6293 Recreational Vehicle Park regulations were first
adopted by Ordinance 6372, effective October 12, 1970 Under Ordinance 12264 Crty Code
67
Chapter 21 Mobile Home Parks was deleted and the provisions moved to the Fire Code
Appendix. Such Appendix was continued thru Ordinances 14652, 14688 and 16027
ARTICLE 551.1
Amend Article SSl. l ~ adding Articles 551.1.1, SSl. 1.2, SSI.1.3, 551.1.4, 551.1.5,
551.1.6 and SS1.1.7 to read as follows.
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 Applicability The provisions of tlis Article apply to the construction and
maintenance of all recreational vehicle parks.
551.1.2 All electrical wiring, main power distribution hues, and telephone lines shall be
installed underground.
551.1.3 Individual electrical connections provided at recreational vehicle spaces shall
include an approved disconnecting device and over current protective equipment.
551.1.4 Recreational Vehicle lots m Recreational Vehicle Parks and in Mobile Home or
Manufactured Home Parks shall be master metered. Power releases shall not be permitted
for individual lots.
551 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 1.6 Service and Auxiliary Buildings. Tlis 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 m recreational vehicle parks.
Illumination levels shall be maintained, as a mimmum, as follows
a. General seeing tasks. Five (5) foot candles.
b Laundry room work area. Forty (40) foot candles.
c. Toilet room, m front of mirrors. Forty (40) foot candles.
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551.1 7 History .Mobile Home Park regulations were first adopted m May 18 1970 (vv~th
retroactive provisions) Ordinance 6293 Recreational Vehicle Park regulations were first
adopted by Ordinance 6372, effective October 12, 1970 Under Ordinance 12264 City Code
Chapter 21 Mobile Home Parks was deleted and the provisions moved to the Fire Code
Appendix. Such Appendix was continued through Ordinances 14652, 14688 and 16027
ARTICLE 600.10
*Article 600.10 changed 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 m the
wall or ceiling with an electrical cord for plug m or direct connection to an electrical source
These signs shall not be permitted to be installed m an outside location.
Exterior Shall be those signs that are set on the exterior usually but not always m the
parking lot, hmrted m size as described m 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 movable
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 m wet or damp locations shall comply
with 600 10 1(C)(1) and (C)(2)
(1) Cords. All cords shall be humor hard service or hard service types as designated m
Table 400 4 and have an equipment grounding conductor
(2) Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter Portable or mobile signs shall be provided
with factory installed 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 m the power-supply cord within 12 m. (300 mm) of the attachment
plug.
(D) Dry Location. Portable or mobile signs in dry locations shall meet the following.
(1) Cords shall be SP 2, SPE 2, SPT 2, or heavier as designated in Table 400 4
(2) The cord shall not exceed 15 ft (4 5 m) m length.
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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 rt removed.
(B) Signs shall be adequately secured to prevent overturning by wind.
ARTICLE 600.21
Article 600.21 LE), changed to read as follows.
(E) Attic and Soffit Locations. Ballasts, transformers, and electronic power supplies shall be
permitted to be located m attics and soffits, provided there is an access door at least 900mm by
562 Smm (36 m. by 22 /2 m.) and a passageway of at least 900mm (3 ft) high by 600mm (2 ft)
wide with a suitable permanent walkway at least 600mm (2 ft) wide extending from the point of
entry to each component. At least one hghhng outlet containing a switch or controlled by a wall
switch shall be installed in such spaces. At least one point of control shall be at the usual point
of entry to these spaces. The lighting outlet shall be provided at or near the equipment requiring
servicing.
ARTICLE 680.25
*Article 680.25(a), changed to read as follows.
(A) Wiring Methods. Feeders shall be installed m rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal
conduit, hquidtight flexible nonmetallic conduit, rigid polyvinyl chloride conduit, or reinforced
thermosetting resin conduit. Electrical metallic tubing shall be permitted where installed on or
wrtlun a building, or nonmetallic-sheathed cable and SE cable shall be permitted where installed
within or on the building served, and electrical nonmetallic tubing shall be permitted where
installed within a building. Aluminum conduits shall not be permitted m the pool area where
subject to corrosion.
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SECTION 3.
That Section 11 3 of the Code of the City of Fort Worth (1986), 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 (1986), affecting Electrical Code provisions, as amended, and shall not repeal
any of the provisions of such ordinances, except m those instances where provisions of such
ordinances are m direct conflict with the provisions of this ordinance.
SECTION 4
That Section 11-4 of the Code of the City of Fort Worth (1986), as amended, is hereby added to
read as follows
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 pumshable 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 pumshable as herein provided.
SECTION 5.
This article shall be cumulative of all provisions of ordinances of the Code of the Crty of
Fort Worth, Texas (1986), affecting Electrical Code provisions, as amended, and shall not repeal
any of the provisions of such ordinances, except m those instances where provisions of such
ordinances are m direct conflict with the provisions of this ordinance.
SECTION 6.
It is hereby declared to be the intention of the Crty 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
71
enacted by the Crty Council without the incorporation nn 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 dunng 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 Crty of Fort Worth, Texas are expressly saved as to any and
all violations of the prevnous Electrical Code, or any other ordinances affecting construction and
fire safety which have accrued at the tame of the effectnve date of this ordinance and, as to such
accrued violations and all pending litigation, both cnvnl and criminal, whether pending nn court or
not, under such ordinances, same shall not be affected by this ordinance but may be prosecuted
antral final disposition by the courts.
SECTION 9
A copy of the 2008 National Electrical Code, together wrath the local amendments
contained in thus ordinance, shall be filed m the office of the Crty Secretary for permanent record
and inspection.
SECTION 10.
The Department of Plannnng and Development of the Crty of Fort Worth, Texas, ns hereby
authorized to publish this ordinance nn pamphlet form for general distribution among the public,
and the operative provisions of this ordinance as so published shall be admissible m evidence m
all courts without further proof than the production thereof, as provided m 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, ns hereby directed to pubinsh the caption and
Sections 1 7 9 11 and 12 of thus ordnnance for two (2) days nn the official newspaper of the City
72
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 December 28, 2008
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY
By.
~~~~~
Assistant City Attorney
Adopted. November 1.1, 2008
Effective December 28, 2008
io-is-os
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