HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance 21554-12-2014 ORDINANCE NO. 21554-12-2014
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FORT WORTH ELECTRICAL CODE, BY
ADOPTING THE 2014 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. 2014 EDITION OF THE NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE ADOPTED.
(a) The Electrical Code of the City of Fort Worth is hereby revised and amended to
conform, with certain exceptions as specified below, to the 2014 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 2014 National Electrical Code
marked as Exhibit "A", is incorporated herein by reference and shall be filed in the Office of the
City Secretary for permanent record and inspection.
(b) This code shall serve as the electrical provisions of the International Residential
Code, as adopted elsewhere.
SECTION 2.
That Section 11-2 of the Code of the City of Fort Worth (1986) is hereby amended to read as
follows:
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Sec. 11-2.Amendments.
(a) An Administrative 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 minimum 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 within 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 in an installation essentially
in compliance with the minimum standards,but not necessarily efficient, convenient, or adequate
for good service or future expansion of electrical use.
(c) Intention. This code is not intended as a design specification nor is it 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.
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,
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raceways and that part of elevator installations consisting of signal systems, fans, electrical
lighting fixtures, illuminated thresholds, feeder conductor and raceways to motor and generator
disconnect switches and controllers and all electrical installations in connection with interlocking
devices, other than on automatic elevators, located within or on public and private buildings and
premises, except as excluded by paragraph (b)below.
3. Registration and licensing 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 in ships, watercraft other than floating buildings, railway rolling stock,
aircraft, or automotive vehicles.
2. Installations underground in mines.
3. The installation and equipment employed by a railway utility in the exercise of its
functions as a utility, and located outdoors or in buildings used exclusively for that
purpose, but the provisions of this code shall apply to installations and equipment
used for light, heat, power, decoration, amusement, and all other purposes located
within or on such buildings or premises.
4. Installations by or for communications agencies in 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 this code shall apply to
installations for heat, decoration, amusement, ventilating equipment, and general
lighting not attached to and power not directly used in connection with installations
for communications, signals, and the transmission of intelligence.
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 within or on
such buildings or premises used by such agency for said purposes, or when such
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 within or on such buildings or premises;
and
b. electrical distribution in Mobile Home or Manufactured Home Parks and
Recreational Vehicle Parks shall be in accordance with Article 110.90 thru
110.92, Article 550.1 and Article 551.1; and
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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 in the manufacturing or testing of electrical equipment or
apparatus, except that this exception shall not include any permanent wiring.
9. Installation in mobile dwelling structures, trailers and other structures designed for
portability.
10. Installation and maintenance of outdoor security lighting and appurtenances to
outdoor security lighting 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 lighting and appurtenances
to outdoor security lighting; 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 Code or its successor;
c. installs the security lighting 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
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 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.
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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 in Section A01. Where, in 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 in this chapter, electrical
systems and equipment lawfully in existence at the time of the adoption of this code may have
their use, maintenance or repair continued if the use, maintenance or repair is in accordance with
the original design, 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 maintained in good repair.
A02.3 Maintenance. Electrical systems, equipment, materials and appurtenances, both
existing and new, and parts thereof shall be maintained in proper operating condition in
accordance with the original design and in a safe, hazard-free condition. Devices or safeguards
that are required by this code shall be maintained in 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 re-inspected.
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.
Minor additions, alterations, renovations and repairs to existing electrical systems and
equipment shall be permitted in the same manner and arrangement as was in 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 governing 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 in 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
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the Code Official, the use or occupancy shall be permitted to be changed and allowed to be
occupied for purposes in 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 judged by the Code
Official to be safe and in 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 in 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.
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 in 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 in this code.
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SECTION A03 -APPROVAL
A03.1 Modifications. Whenever there are practical difficulties involved in 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 in 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 in this code in
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 in 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 jurisdiction.
A03.3.1 Test methods. Test methods shall be as specified in 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.
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
period 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, in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.
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A04.1.1 Unsafe building. Failure to correct an unsafe building as provided for in
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 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 code. Each day or any portion thereof
during which any violation of this code occurs or continues shall be deemed a separate offense
and upon conviction thereof shall be punishable 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 in a dangerous or unsafe
manner shall immediately cease. Such notice shall be in 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 prior to stopping the work. Such work shall not resume until authorized 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 jurisdiction 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
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 in 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 in accordance with this code.
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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 insanitary, or is otherwise dangerous to
human life, the code official shall order in writing that such electrical system or equipment
either be removed or restored to a safe or sanitary condition. A time limit for compliance
with such order shall be specified in 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 it 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 in 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 in 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.
Chapter B
ORGANIZATION AND ENFORCEMENT
SECTION 1301 - ORGANIZATION
1301.1 Code Official. Whenever the tern "code official" is used in this code, it 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 term 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 deputy code officials, other related technical
officers, inspectors, and other employees
1301.3 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 Planning
and Development Inspection Section shall not be engaged in or directly or indirectly connected
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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 in 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 inspector by the city.
B01.5 Liability. The code official charged with the enforcement of this code, acting in
good faith and without malice in 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 in 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
owning, operating or controlling any building or structure for any damages to persons or
property caused by defects, nor shall the code enforcement agency or its parent jurisdiction be
held as assuming any such liability by reason of the inspections authorized by 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 in Sections B02.2 through B02.9.
The code official shall have the power to render interpretations of this code as may be
deemed necessary in order to clarify the application of the provisions of this code. Such
interpretations shall be in 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 in this code, or of
violating accepted engineering practice involving public safety.
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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 with 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 it 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 in 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
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 hinder or interfere with the code official, deputy or
any of the electrical inspectors in 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 Planning and Development Department shall keep
official records of applications received, permits and certificates issued, fees collected, reports of
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inspections, and notices and orders issued. Such records shall be retained in 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 jurisdiction so far as is
required in 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.
Chapter C
PERMITS AND INSPECTIONS
SECTION COI -PERMITS
COLI 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.
A Building Code Ordinance Inspection shall be required to inspect and approve power to
existing mobile homes in 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.
C01.1.1 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 in the same
location.
4. Repair or replacement of electrodes or transformers of the same size and capacity for
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signs or gas tube systems.
5. Taping joints.
6. Removal of electrical wiring.
7. Temporary wiring for experimental purposes in suitable experimental laboratories.
8. Electrical wiring, devices, appliances, apparatus or equipment, other than signs,
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 in this
code.
10. Electrical maintenance work, as defined in this code that is performed by an
individual properly authorized to do such work under Section CO2.
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 CO2 - WHOM PERMITS MAY BE ISSUED TO - WHO MAY DO THE
WORK
CO2.1 -Whom permits may be issued to.
CO2.1 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
CO2.1.1, CO2.1.2, CO2.1.3 or CO2.1.4
CO2.1.1. Fort Worth Permit Master Electrician. Permits may be issued to a person
holding a valid, unexpired and unrevoked Fort Worth Permitting Master Electricians License
until January 1, 2016. After January 1, 2016 the City of Fort Worth will only issue permits to
those meeting the requirements of Sections CO2.1.2, CO2.1.3 or CO2.1.4.
CO2.1.2 State of Texas Electrical Contractor. A State of Texas Electrical
Contractor as follows:
a. must be in 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.
CO2.1.3 Homestead owner. Permits may be issued to a property owner who wishes
to do electrical work in a building owned and occupied by him 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.
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CO2.1.4 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 in 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
Permit Master Electrician. The term "to do electrical work" shall be construed to mean work
actually done personally by the owner.
CO2.2 -Who may do the work.
CO2.2 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 in 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.
CO2.2.1. Fort Worth licensees until January 1,2016.
CO2.2.1.1 Master Electrician. A Master Electrician, also referred to as a Permit
Master, may contract for and engage in the business of installing, repairing, or replacing
electrical wiring or equipment of any nature on or in buildings or structures other than signs.
The Master Electrician may 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 in the business, but only wishes to work in 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.
CO2.2.1.2 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 in no case shall a Journeyman Electrician contract for or engage
in the business of electrical work of any nature, nor shall he perform electrical work of any
nature, except under the supervision of either a Master Electrician or a Master Sign
Electrician. A Journeyman Electrician shall be able to lay out work for and to supervise
helper or apprentice electricians, but shall not be able to employ same.
A Journeyman Electrician may perform electrical maintenance work, as defined in
this code.
CO2.2.1.3 Master Sign Electrician. A Master Sign Electrician shall be able to
contract for and engage in the business of manufacturing electrical signs, luminous gas or
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electric discharge signs and luminous gas or electric discharge outline lighting from the
secondary wiring power source or transformer in the sign and to employ and supervise
Journeyman Sign Electricians and Journeyman Electricians in the performance of such work
on such signs and/or outline lighting.
CO2.2.1.4 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.
CO2.2.1.5 Residential Wireman Electrician. A Residential Wireman Electrician
shall be able to do electrical work under the supervision of a Master Electrician in one- and
two-family dwellings only.
CO2.2.1.6 Maintenance Electrician. A Maintenance Electrician shall be able to
perform electrical maintenance work as defined in this code. A maintenance electrician is not
allowed to do installations or alterations.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit:
1. The right of a Master Electrician to perform such electrical maintenance work, or
to limit such work being performed by a Journeyman Electrician under the
supervision, direction, or control of a Master Electrician, or to prohibit a Helper
and/or Apprentice from working under the direct personal and constant
supervision of a Maintenance Electrician.
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 in this
code.
2. The right of a Licensed Mechanical Contractor to perform such electrical
maintenance work or to limit such work being performed by an employee of the
Mechanical Contractor provided that the Mechanical Contractor and the employee
of the Mechanical Contractor are Licensed Maintenance Electricians.
3. The electrical maintenance of heating, ventilating, air conditioning and
refrigeration equipment by a service contractor provided such service contractor
holds a valid Maintenance Electrician License and performs such work only
within the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration equipment.
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
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residence.
CO2.2.1.7 Maintenance Electrician Trainee. A Maintenance Electrician Trainee
shall be able to perform electrical maintenance work, as defined in this code, when employed
by and under the supervision of a Maintenance Electrician who shall be responsible for his
work.
CO2.2.1.8 Residential Maintenance Electrician. A Residential Maintenance
Electrician shall be able to perform electrical maintenance work as defined in this code, and
in accordance with the provisions as described for a Maintenance Electrician under section
CO2.2.1.6, 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 in
the definition of Electrical Maintenance Work.
CO2.2.1.9 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 job site.
CO2.2.2. State of Texas licensees. Individuals in possession of a State of Texas license
may perform work as provided in this section. For work in 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 in italics form in this ordinance, it 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 in connection
with the use of electrical energy in, 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 in manufacturing, installing,
maintaining, extending, connecting or reconnecting an electrical wiring system and its
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appurtenances, apparatus or equipment used in connection with signs, outline lighting, 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
lighting installation.
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 in, 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 its 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 in 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 limited to single family and
multifamily dwellings not exceeding four stories.
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Such work shall be limited to the residential units, their connected private
accessory garages, and common corridors/breezeways serving those units. 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 in 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 in possession of a valid Master Electrician, Master
Sign, Journeyman Electrician or Journeyman Sign license.
On-site supervision shall mean, on the job site at all times electrical or electrical
sign work, as allowed above, is in progress.
CO2.2.3 Homestead owner. A homestead owner shall be able to perform work on his
homestead property as provided for in sections CO2.1.3 and CO2.1.4.
SECTION CO3 -APPLICATION FOR PERNHT
CO3.1 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 in Section CO3.2.
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.
An application for a permit shall be considered as permission from an authorized
representative to inspect the premises.
CO3.2 Plans and specifications. Plans, specifications, engineering calculations,
diagrams, soil investigation reports, special inspection and structural observation programs and
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other data shall constitute the submittal documents and shall be submitted in one or more sets
with each application for a permit. The plans shall indicate all necessary information required,
including but not limited to the following:
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 it 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.
CO3.3 Information on plans and specifications. Plans and specifications shall be
drawn to scale and submitted electronically or upon substantial paper or cloth and shall be of
sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature and extent of the work proposed and show in
detail that it will conform to the provisions of this code and all relevant laws, ordinances, rules
and regulations.
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.
CO3.4 Architect or engineer of record. When it 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 in writing by the owner if the architect or engineer of
record is changed or is unable to continue to perform the duties.
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.
CO3.5 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.
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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 in 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.
CO3.6 Expiration of plan review. Applications for which no permit is issued within 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 this jurisdiction to verify compliance with any applicable laws under
their jurisdiction. If the code official finds that the work described in 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 in Section C05 have
been paid, the code official shall issue a permit therefor to the applicant.
Exception: When plan review is performed by a Third Party Organization as
specified in 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.
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 in 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
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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:
L any person until such time as the electrical for which a permit was previously issued
has been completed or is being performed in an efficient manner in a reasonable
length of time.
2. any person who is delinquent in the payment of fees owed the City of Fort Worth.
3. any person who has performed previous jobs 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 in said construction
documents and other data or from preventing building operations being carried on thereunder
when in 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 in 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 permittee shall pay a new full permit fee.
C04.5 Extensions. Any permittee holding an unexpired permit shall have the right to
apply for an extension of the time within which the permittee will commence work under that
permit when work is unable to be commenced within 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
period 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 in error
or on the basis of incorrect information supplied, or in violation of any ordinance or regulation or
any of the provisions of this code.
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C04.7 Administrative hold. Any administrative discrepancy including but not limited
to, delinquency in 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 in 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, it shall be maintained current and in 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 times 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 job, becomes incapacitated or his/her services are terminated prior 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
in 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 C05 -FEES
C05.1 General. Fees shall be assessed in 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 in Table C052.
Any person obtaining a permit application required by this code shall, at the time of
filing, pay a permit and a non-refundable application fee as required by this section for the
installation,relocation or replacement of any of the listed items.
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 districts or county
community colleges.
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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 in the contract packages stating the fee is waived.
5. Work by City 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 in Section C08, the permit fee shall be reduced by multiplying 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.
Table C05.2
Schedule of Fees
Administrative
1. CFPBOA Application Fee
(1st item per address). $200.00
(Each additional item per address) 30.00
2. Permit Application Fee. 25.00
3. Record Change Fee(per record or permit) 25.00
4. Reciprocal Letters 25.00
5. Business Verification Letters. 25.00
6. Temporary Power Letters 33.00
Permit items*
LIGHT OUTLETS,FIXTURES,SWITCHES,RECEPTACLES
Up to 100 $ .41 each
Allover 100 .34 each
FIXED APPLIANCES
Ceiling Fan 1.13
Vent 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
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Air Conditioner-over 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
Ito3hp 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
0 to 10 KW 4.62
Over 10 KW to 20 KW. 7.45
Over 20 KW 14.93
Welders 4.62
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
Electrical Fences 170.00
*When inspections are performed by third party,the permit fee shall be reduced by multiplying 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.
**A Building Code Ordinance Inspection shall be required to inspect and approve power to existing mobile homes in 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.
Other Inspections and Fees
1. Inspections outside of normal business hours(minimum of two hours) $75.00 per hour
2. Reinspection fee assessed under provisions of C07(e) $27.50
3. Inspections for which no fee is specifically indicated
(minimum charge-one-half hour) $38.00 per hour
4. Additional plan review required by changes,additions or revisions
to plans(minimum charge-one-half hour) $38.00 per hour
5. Inspections outside of city limits(commercial) $49.50'per inspector
(residential) . $66.00'total
6.Failing to call for final inspections $27.50
'Or$33.00 per hour,whichever is greater.
C05.3 Investigation fees: Work without a permit.
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C05.3.1 Investigation. Whenever any work for which a permit is required by this
code has been commenced without first obtaining 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 it 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 it is
practical to do so, and if there be an unreasonable delay in obtaining 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 minimum 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 in writing by the original applicant with a
fee as specified in 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.
C05.5 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
request, minus an administration charge of five dollars ($5.00). After the 60 day time limit, no
fee shall be returned.
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Exceptions: 1. When the investigation fee of Section C05.3 has been collected, it
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 in 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 Organization 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 in 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 job site.
C06.1.2 Rough-in inspection shall be made after the roof, framing, fire blocking, fire
stopping, draft stopping and bracing are in 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 in 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.
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.
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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 furnished by the permit
holder.
C06.3.3 Reinspection and testing. Where any work or installation does not pass any
initial 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 made online, in 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 in 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 within a timely
manner or the inability for the inspector to do the inspections at the arranged times will result in
reinspection fees being assessed to the person doing the work.
Exception: If the reinspection fee was for a "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 reinspection.
C06.4.1 Approval Required. Work shall not be done beyond the point indicated in each
successive inspection without first obtaining the approval of the building official. The building
official, upon notification, shall make the requested inspections and shall either indicate that
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
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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 in compliance with this code. Inspections will not be performed until a
valid active permit is obtained in accordance with this code.
C06.5 Inspection card. Work which requires an inspection card as described in 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 reinspection fee may be assessed for each inspection or
reinspection when such portion of work for which inspection is called is not complete or when
corrections called for are not made.
This section is not to be interpreted as requiring reinspection fees the first time a job is
rejected for failure to comply with the requirements of this code, but as controlling the practice
of calling for inspections before the job is ready for such inspection or reinspection.
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 which inspection is requested, or for
deviating from plans requiring the approval of the code official.
To obtain a reinspection, the applicant shall file an application therefor in writing on a
form furnished for that purpose and pay the reinspection fee in accordance with Table C05.2 or
as set forth in the fee schedule adopted by the jurisdiction.
In instances where reinspection 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.
C07.2 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.
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SECTION C08 -THIRD PARTY PLAN REVIEW AND INSPECTION
C08.1 When approved by the Code Official, Third Party Organizations may be permitted
to perform the plan review and/or field inspection provisions of this code. When authorized to
perform services, the Third Party Organization shall comply with the provisions of this section.
C08.2 Plan Review.
C08.2.1 Performance of plan review by a Third Party Organization shall not exempt
or otherwise relieve the owner and/or other parties from the submittal for a permit with the
appropriate plans as prescribed in this code.
C08.2.2 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 in 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.
C08.3 Field Inspections.
C08.3.1 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 is approved and has all required insurance.
C08.3.2 The Code Official shall have a right to make periodic site visits, at his
discretion, to review and inspect the work under construction. Whenever possible, the Code
Official will attempt to coordinate such visits with the Third Party Organization.
C08.3.3 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.
C08.3.4 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
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
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then only as a last resort when the Code Official determines that the proposed methods of
correction will not result in 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 bring 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 in any way with the Third Party Organization.
C08.7 Qualifications. The Third Party 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 in compliance, the
Code Official shall approve the Third Party Organization.
If not approved, or if approval is revoked for just 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 in 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.
C08.9 Violations. A Third Party person or individual who violates, or assists in the
violation of, this code shall be subject to the penalties as prescribed in Section A042.
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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 in a hazardous condition.
C09.2 Utility disconnect. The power company may disconnect service to a premise
under the following conditions:
1. Non-payment of bill.
2. Point of attachment.
3. Meter height not correct.
4. Meter not wired correctly.
5. Termination of service conductors or lateral.
NOTE: The power company must notify the 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 in
mobile home parks or to any building or premises each time such building or premises changes
ownership, is leased, or changes occupancy, and it shall not again supply electricity to such
buildings or premises until authorized to do so by the code official.
Exception: Electrical service need not be disconnected to single-family and
duplex residences, as well as mobile homes in mobile home parks when the service
account is being transferred into the park's name.
Chapter D
Division I—Fort Worth Licensing
The provisions of Division I shall apply to existing Fort Worth Licensees 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. All active Fort Worth licenses will expire January 1, 2016
and will not 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.
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DO1 — SCOPE
DOLL General. Every person desiring to be licensed by the City of Fort Worth to
engage in the electrical business or work in a capacity for which a license is required by this code
shall comply with this chapter.
DO1.2 Grades. There shall be seven (7) grades of licenses: Master, Master Sign,
Journeyman, Journeyman Sign, Residential Wireman, Maintenance Electrician and Residential
Maintenance Electricians.
DO1.3 Duel Qualification, Dual Licensing. Neither this section nor this chapter shall be
construed to prohibit:
1. The licensing of a Master Electrician as a Master Sign Electrician, provided such
Master Electrician has duly qualified as a Master Sign Electrician;
2. The licensing of a Master Sign Electrician as a Master Electrician, provided such
Master Sign Electrician has duly qualified as a Master Electrician;
3. The licensing of a Journeyman Electrician as a Journeyman Sign Electrician,
provided such Journeyman Electrician has duly qualified as a Journeyman Sign
Electrician;
4. The licensing of a Journeyman Sign Electrician as a Journeyman Electrician,
provided such Journeyman Sign Electrician has duly qualified as a Journeyman
Electrician; and
5. Any other licensing combination provided that the licensing prerequisites for the
issuance of each such license are duly met.
DO1.4 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 with 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 in his/her 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 in this section.
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D02.2 Issuance/Transfer. No license shall be issued under the terms of this code to any
other than a natural person.
No license in effect, 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 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 in Table D04.1 is paid. All licenses issued under the
terms of this Code will permanently expire on January 1, 2016. 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 a pro-rated renewal 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 not be permitted to be
renewed.
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 within thirty (30) days after the expiration date shall not be permitted to
be renewed.
TABLE D04.1
Electrical License Fees
1. Annual license feel
Master electrician $120.00
Master sign electrician 120.00
- Master late fee 60.00
Journeyman electrician 12.00
Journeyman sign electrician 12.00
Residential wireman electrician 12.00
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Maintenance electrician 12.00
Residential Maintenance electrician 12.00
- Late fee 12.00
2. Permit Master change of business $60.00
' Annual fee is due in full on the first day of January each year.Fees_for licenses that are set to expire after January 1,2016 will be
prorated.
(As staffing and resources allow,the Code Official may allow a renewal to be for up to two years with the payment
of a pro-rated fee.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 Code Official may assign new expiration dates to existing licenses and charge a pro-
rated renewal fee.)
SECTION D05 -LICENSE SUSPENDED,REPEALED OR REVOKED
D05.1 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 following:
1. Adjudication of insanity;
2. Fraud or misrepresentation in obtaining a license 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 in 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 within a six (6) month period that the license is in
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.
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 furnish 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
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notice of the address and telephone number of his regular established place of business, and if
actively engaged in the electrical contracting business, a list of Journeyman Electricians and
other electrical workers employed by him.
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 his Electrician license number or approved Universal Number, permanently affixed on
each front door or fender of each truck or vehicle which said electrician operates in connection
with the installation, alteration or repair of electrical wiring, equipment or signs within the city,
in letters and numerals of at least two and one-half (2 1/2) inches in height. Such name and
number shall be the same for all vehicles so operated by any one Licensed Master Electrician or
any one Licensed Master Sign Electrician. Such name and number shall not be of the magnetic
type.
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 limits of liability in the amounts of not less than
$300,000.00 per occurrence for bodily injury, including death, and not less than $100,000.00 per
occurrence for property damage.
Such insurance policy shall provide that it cannot be canceled or amended without at least
thirty (30) days notice to the City 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.
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D08—SCOPE
D08.1 General. Every person with a State of Texas License desiring to perform
electrical work in the City of Fort Worth shall comply with this chapter.
D08.2 Registration. Every person with a State Electrical Contractor or State Electrical
Sign Contractor License desiring to contract for electrical work in 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 in this section.
D08.2.1 New applications. The applicant for a new registration shall submit in
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.
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, in the opinion of the code official, all of the requirements are not met, the
application shall be denied. Appeals concerning the issuance and/or denials of a registration
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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. A State 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 in his/her business information or any change in his/her Master of Record
assigned to the contracting business.
SECTION D09 -EXPIRATION/RENEWAL
D09.1 General Any registration issued under the terms of this Code shall expire one year
after the date of approval unless the annual fee specified in Table D08.2.1 is paid. Each
registration renewal shall be accompanied 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.
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 D082.1.
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 insanity;
2. Fraud or misrepresentation in obtaining a license 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 in 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,
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7. The sending of six (6) notifications within a six (6) month period that the license is in
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 limited to address, telephone number, company name, etc.
When the change involves the installation of a new Master of Record, a fee as specified
in Table D08.2.1 shall be charged.
D11.2 Identification.
1. Master Electricians, Master Sign Electricians, Journeyman Electricians, Journeyman
Sign Electricians, Residential Wireman Electricians, and 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 registered Electrical Contractor shall have his company name and license
number displayed on both sides of each vehicle owned or operated by the business and used in
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 in
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 F
REFERENCED STANDARDS
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This chapter lists the standards that are referenced in various 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.
Canadian Standards Association
5060 Spectrum Way
Mississauga,Ontario,Canada]LAW 5N6
Standard Referenced
reference in code
number Title section number
ANSI CSA America
FC1-03 Stationary Fuel Cell Power Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
110.110
International Code Council
105203 5203 Leesburg Pike,Suite 708
(v Falls Church,VA 22041
Standard Referenced
reference in code
number Title section number
IBC 2009 International Building Code°. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
IECC 2009 International Energy Conservation Code TM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100,100.123
IFGC 2009 International Fuel Gas Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
IMC 2009 International Mechanical Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
IFC 2009 International Fire Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
IPC 2009 International Plumbing Code° . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
IRC 2009 International Residential Code TM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
National Fire Protection Association
NFPABatterPark
Quincy,MA 0226
Quincy,MA 02269-9101
Standard Referenced
reference in code
number Title section number
37-06 Installation and use of Stationary Combustion Engines and Gas Turbines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110.109
70-14 National Electrical Code. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . 100
110-05 Emergency and Standby Power systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . 110.105
111-05 Stored Electrical Energy Emergency and Standby Power Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110.105
262-07 Standard Method of Text for Flame Travel and Smoke of Wires and Cables for
Use in Air-Handling Spaces. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110.108
85307 Installation of Stationary Fuel Power Plants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110.110
Underwriters Laboratories
UT 333 Pfmgsten Road
L Northbrook,IL 60062-2096
Standard Referenced
reference in code
number Title section number
217-06 Single and Multiple Station Smoke Alarms—with Revisions through May 2007 110.118
924-06 Standard for Safety Emergenty Lighting and Power Equipment 110.119
2200-04 Stationary Engine Generator Assemblies. . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110.105
CH.11 NEC Revision 2014 Ordinance No.21554-12-2014
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(b). The remaining Articles of the 2014 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 follows:
Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the
purposes of this code, have the meanings indicated in this article. The provisions of this article
shall also apply to other definitions listed elsewhere in this code.
Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words in the
masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and
the plural, the singular.
Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined
in other City adopted codes, such terms shall have meanings ascribed to them as in those codes.
Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this
section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
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 1000 volts, nominal.
*Article 100, Part I; definitions are changed and new definitions are added to read as
follows:
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 in Sections BO1.I,
BO 1.2, BO 1.3 and A02.10.
BUILDING CODE. Building Code shall mean the International Building Code as adopted by
this jurisdiction.
CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY. A change in the purpose or level of activity within a building or
on a site that involves a change in application of the requirements of this code.
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Such a change includes, but is not limited to, a revision of the use that:
1. would place the occupancy in a different division of the same Group of occupancies
(such as an A-1 theater to an A-2 restaurant); or,
2. would place the occupancy in a different Group of occupancies (such as a B office to M
retail); or,
3. would change the character within 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 in 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 jurisdiction.
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 his regularly authorized deputies.
ELECTRICAL CODE. Electrical Code shall mean the National Electrical Code as adopted by
this jurisdiction. For the purpose of this code, all references to NFPA 70 and the ICC Electrical
Code shall be assumed to mean the Electrical Code as defined herein.
ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE WORK. Electrical maintenance work shall mean the
keeping in safe repair of any and all electrical installations, apparatus, equipment and appliances
and the keeping in safe repair of electrical equipment within a building or in or on the premises
where the Maintenance Electrician, 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 Conservation Code as
adopted by this jurisdiction.
ENGINEERING SUPERVISION. Supervision by a Qualified State of Texas Licensed
Professional Engineer engaged primarily in the design or maintenance of electrical installations.
FIRE PREVENTION CODE (FIRE CODE). Fire Prevention Code, or Fire Code, shall mean
the International Fire Code as adopted by this jurisdiction.
FUEL GAS CODE. Fuel Gas code shall mean the International Fuel Gas Code as adopted by
this jurisdiction and shall be considered as part of the Plumbing Code. (See Plumbing Code.)
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HAZARDOUS LOCATION. (See Article 500-3). The location is not necessarily categorized
in the International Building Code as a high-hazard use group classification.
INTERSYSTEM BONDING TERMINATION. A device that provides a means for
connecting intersystem bonding conductors for communication systems and other systems such
as metallic gas piping systems to the grounding electrode system. Bonding conductors for other
systems shall not be required to be larger than 6 AWG.
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 in the installation, maintenance,
extension and alteration of all piping, fixtures, plumbing appliances and plumbing
appurtenances, within or adjacent to any structure, in 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,
drain 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 sanitary and
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storm sewers and building drains, in addition to their respective connections, devices and
appurtenances within a structure or premise.
RESIDENDIAL CODE. Residential Code shall mean the International Residential Code as
adopted by this jurisdiction.
STRUCTURE. That which is built or constructed. The definition includes but is not limited to
buildings, towers,walls, tunnels, canopies, carports, fences, pools, etc.
ARTICLE 110
*Article 110.2; change the following to read as follows:
110.2 Approval. The conductors and equipment required or permitted by this Code shall be
acceptable only if approved. Approval of equipment may be evident by listing and labeling of
equipment by a Nationally Recognized Testing Lab (NRTL) with a certification mark of that
laboratory or a qualified third party inspection agency approved by the AHJ.
Exception: Unlisted equipment that is relocated to another location within a jurisdiction or is
field modified is subject to the approval by the AHJ This approval may be by afield evaluation
by a NRTL or qualified third party inspection agency approved by the AHJ.
Informational Note No. 1: See 90.7, Examination of Equipment for Safety, and 110.3,
Examination, Identification, Installation, and Use of Equipment. See definitions of Approved,
Identified, Labeled, and Listed.
Informational Note No. 2: Manufacturer's self-certification of equipment may not necessarily
comply with US product safety standards as certified by a Nationally Recognized Testing Lab.
Informational Note No. 3: NFPA 790 and 791 provide an example of an approved method for
qualifying a third party inspection agency.
*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 in a mobile home
park shall be installed underground and in 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.
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110.91.2 All electrical wiring, main 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 in 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 in 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, City Code Chapter 21, Mobile Home Parks
was deleted and the provisions moved to the Fire Code Appendix. Such Appendix was
continued thru Ordinances 14652, 14688, 16027 and 19607.
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 in accordance with the Building Code. Where cables,
conductors and raceways penetrate fireblocking or draftstopping, such penetrations shall be
protected by filling the annular space with an approved fireblocking 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 joists shall not exceed one-fourth
the joist depth. Holes bored in joists shall not be within 2 inches (51 mm) of the top or
bottom of the joist, and the diameter of any such hole shall not exceed one-third the depth of
the joist. Notches in the top or bottom of joists shall not exceed one-sixth the depth and shall
not be located in 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 1-joists are not permitted unless the
effects of such penetrations are specifically considered in 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 in 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 in any wood stud. Bored holes not greater than 60 percent of
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the depth of the stud are permitted in nonbearing partitions or in 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 boring
of steel framing members shall comply with the following:
[B] Cutting, notching and boring holes in structural steel framing. The cutting,
notching and boring of holes in 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 in
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
the center-line of the web of the framing member, shall not exceed 1.5 inches (38 mm) in
width or 4 inches (102 mm) in 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 other than corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) 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 it is connected to gas utilization equipment
that is connected to the equipment grounding conductor of the circuit supplying that
equipment.
Corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) gas piping systems shall be bonded to the electrical
service grounding electrode system at the point where the gas service enters the building.
The bonder jumper shall be not smaller than 6 AWG copper wire or equivalent.
110.104 [1312701.2 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.
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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 in 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 major storm. Any
connection to the building power system shall be in 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 in compliance with this code, the
Building Code and Fire Code. The attachment cable to the building shall be considered to be a
service entrance conductor.
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.
Fuel supply. An on-premises fuel supply, sufficient for not less than 2-hour full-
demand operation of the system, shall be provided.
Exception: Where the system is supplied with pipeline natural gas and is
approved.
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 in 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.
{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.
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[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 in Group A occupancies in accordance with
Section 907.2.1.1.
[F] 604.2.2 Smoke control systems. Standby power shall be provided for smoke
control systems in accordance with Section 909.11.
[F] 604.2.3 Exit signs. Emergency power shall be provided for exit signs in
accordance with Section 1011.5.3
[F] 604.2.4 Means of egress illumination. Emergency power shall be provided for
means of egress illumination in accordance with Section 1006.3.
[F] 604.2.5 and 604.2.6 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] 604.2.7 Horizontal sliding doors. Standby power shall be provided for horizontal
sliding doors in accordance with Section 1008.1.4.3.
[F] 604.2.8 Semiconductor fabrication facilities. Emergency power shall be
provided for semiconductor fabrication facilities in accordance with Section 1803.15.
[F] 604.2.9 Membrane structures. Emergency power shall be provided for exit signs
in temporary tents and membrane structures in accordance with Section 2403.12.6.1.
Standby power shall be provided for auxiliary inflation systems in permanent membrane
structures in accordance with the International Building Code.
[F] 604.2.10 Hazardous materials. Emergency or standby power shall be provided
in occupancies with hazardous materials in accordance with Sections 2704.7 and 2705.1.5.
[F] 604.2.11 Highly toxic and toxic materials. Emergency power shall be provided
for occupancies with highly toxic or toxic materials in accordance with Section 3704.2.2.8
and 3704.3.2.6.
[F] 604.2.12 Organic peroxides. Standby power shall be provided for occupancies
with organic peroxides in accordance with Section 3904.1.11.
[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 communication.
[F] 604.2.14 High-rise buildings. Standby power, light and emergency systems in
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 systems in
underground buildings covered in Chapter 4 of the International Building Code shall comply
with Section 604.2.15.1 and 604.2.15.2.
[F] 604.2.16 Group I-3 occupancies. Power-operated sliding doors or power-
operated locks for swinging doors in Group I-3 occupancies shall be operable by a
manual release mechanism at the door and either emergency power or a remote
mechanical operating release shall be provided
Exception: Emergency power is not required in facilities where provisions for
remote locking and unlocking of occupied rooms in Occupancy Condition 4 are
not required as set forth in the International Building Code.
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[F] 604.2.17 Airport traffic control towers. Standby power shall be provided in
airport traffic control towers more than 65 feet(19 812 mm) in height. Power shall be
provided to the following equipment:
1. Pressurization equipment, mechanical equipment and lighting.
2. Elevator operating equipment.
3. Fire alarm and smoke detection systems.
[F] 604.2.18 Elevators. In buildings and structures where standby power is required
or furnished to operate an elevator, the operation shall be in accordance with Sections
604.2.18.1 through 604.2.18.4
110.106. [131909.11 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
in 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 uninterruptable 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, wiring for
smoke control systems, regardless of voltage, shall be fully enclosed within continuous
raceways.
[F] 909.21 Smokeproof enclosures. Where required by Section 1022.9, a smokeproof
enclosure shall be constructed in accordance with this section. A smokeproof enclosure
shall comply with all requirements of the Building Code. Where access to the roof is
required by this code, such access shall be from the smokeproof enclosure where a
smokeproof enclosure is required.
[F] 909.21.2.2 Standby power. Stair pressurization systems and automatic fire
detection systems shall be powered by an approved standby power system
conforming to Building Code requirements.
110.107. [F] 910.1 Smoke and Heat Vents.
[F] 910.4 Mechanical smoke exhaust.
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[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 in excess of 1,000T (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 not less than 1-hour fire barriers
constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the International Building Code or horizontal
assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 712 of the International Building Code, or
both.
110.108 [M] 602.2.1.1 Wiring in plenums. Combustible electrical or electronic wiring 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 in plenum-rated optical
fiber raceways. Wiring, cable, and raceways addressed in 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 in 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 in 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 in accordance with ANSI/CSA
America FC 1 and shall be installed in 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 a two-wire branch circuit that has a grounded conductor, or
from an isolation transformer with a two-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
inoperative. Such disconnecting means shall be capable of being locked in the off position
and shall be provided with ready access.
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110.112 [M] 301.11 [FG] 301.9 Repair. Defective material or parts shall be replaced or repaired
in such a manner so as to preserve the original approval or listing.
110.113 [M] 301.12 [FG] 301.10 Wind resistance. Electrical equipment, appliances and
supports that are exposed to wind shall be designed and in-stalled to resist the wind pressures
determined in accordance with the Building Code.
110.114 [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.
110.115 [B] 1613.1 Seismic resistance. When earthquake loads are applicable in accordance
with the Building Code, electrical system supports shall be designed and installed for the
seismic forces in accordance with the Building Code.
110.116 [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.
110.117 [F] 907.2.11 Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms. Listed single- and multiple-
station smoke alarms complying with UL 217 shall be installed in accordance with Sections
907.2.11.1 through 907.2.11.4 and NFPA 72.
[F] 907.2.11.1 Group R-1. Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in
all of the following locations in Group R-1:
1. In sleeping areas.
2. In every room in 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.
[F] 907.2.11.2 Groups R-2, R-3, R-4 and I-1. Single-or multiple-station smoke alarms
shall be installed and maintained in 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 in the immediate
vicinity of bedrooms.
2. In each room used for sleeping purposes.
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Exception: Single or multiple-station smoke alarms in Group I-1 shall not be
required where smoke detectors are provided in the sleeping rooms as part of an
automatic smoke detection system.
3. In each story within a dwelling unit, including basements but not including crawl
spaces and uninhabitable attics. In dwellings or dwelling 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.
[F] 907.2.11.3 Interconnection. Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be
installed within an individual dwelling unit or sleeping unit in Group R-2, R-3 or R-4, or
within an individual sleeping unit in Group R-1, the smoke alarms shall be interconnected in
such a manner that the activation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms in the individual
unit. The alarm shall be clearly audible in all bedrooms over background noise levels with all
intervening doors closed.
[F] 907.2.11.4 Power source. In new construction, required smoke alarms shall receive
their primary power from the building wiring where such wiring is served from a commercial
source and shall be equipped with a battery backup. Smoke alarms with integral strobes that
are not equipped with battery back-up shall be connected to an emergency electrical system.
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 in
Group R-1 where they are connected to an emergency electrical system.
[F] 907.2.11.4.1 Power source for smoke detectors with integral strobes. In R-1, R-2
and R-4 occupancies, all single station or multiple station smokes detectors with an
integrated visuals strobe shall be powered by an emergency backup power source that will
operate the device, including the strobe, upon AC loss. The backup power sources hall
provide twenty-four (24) hours of normal operating power followed by five (5) minutes of
alarm operating power, or power shall be provided by an emergency generator.
F] 4603.7 Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms. Single-and multiple-station
smoke alarms shall be installed in existing Group R occupancies and in dwellings not
classified as Group R occupancies in accordance with 4603.7.1 through 4603.7.3.
[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 in accordance with Section
3417.2.
Where an addition, alteration or repair to an individual dwelling unit or guestroom in
Group R requires a permit, smoke alarms shall be installed within that individual dwelling
unit or guestroom in accordance with Section 907.2.10, except as provided in Sections
907.2.10.5.1 and 907.2.10.5.2.
Exception: Repairs to the exterior surfaces of occupancies in Group R.
[B] 907.2.10.5.1 Interconnection. Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be
installed within an individual dwelling unit in Group R-2, R-3 or R-4 or within an individual
sleeping unit in Group R-1, the smoke alarms shall be interconnected in such a manner that
the activation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms in the individual unit. The alarm
shall be clearly audible in all bedrooms over background noise levels with all intervening
doors closed.
Exceptions: 1. Interconnection is not required in buildings that are not
undergoing alterations, repairs or construction of any kind.
2. Smoke alarms in existing areas are not required to be interconnected where
alterations or repairs do not result in the removal of interior wall or ceiling finishes
exposing the structure, unless there is an attic, crawl space or basement available which
could provide access for interconnection without the removal of interior finishes.
[B] 907.2.10.5.2 Power source. In Group R occupancies, single-station smoke alarms
shall receive their primary power from the building wiring provided that 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 permitted to be solely battery operated: in existing
buildings where no construction is taking place; in buildings that are not served from a
commercial power source; and in existing areas of buildings undergoing alteration or
repairs that do not result in the removal of interior walls or ceiling finishes exposing the
structure, unless there is an attic, crawl space or basement available which could provide
access for interconnection without the removal of interior finishes.
110.118 [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 in 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 in an
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.
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Exceptions:
1. Exit signs are not required in 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. Exit signs are not required in occupancies in Group U and individual sleeping units
or dwelling units in Group R-1, R-2 or R-3.
4. Exit signs are not required in sleeping areas in occupancies in Group I-3.
5. In occupancies in Groups A-4 and A-5, exit signs are not required on the seating
side of vomitories or openings into seating areas where exit signs are provided in
the concourse that are readily apparent from the vomitories. Egress lighting is
provided to identify each vomitory or opening within the seating area in an
emergency.
[B] 1011.4 Internally illuminated exit signs. Electrically powered and self-luminous
exit signs shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 924 and shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Sections 1011.5.1, 1011.5.3 and Chapter
27. Exit signs shall be illuminated at all times. If photoluminescent exit signs are approved
by Board variance, a charging light shall be installed nearby in accordance with UL 924 that
cannot be manually turned off except with the overcurrent protection device.
[1311011.5 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 5 foot-candles (54 lux).
[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 in 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 in 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.
110.119 [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 in 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 it receives
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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 it receives power from the building
wiring.
110.120 Energy Code. The electrical provision of the Energy Code shall also apply.
ARTICLE 210.52
*Article 210.52(G) (1) Garages: delete the following
(1) Garages. In each attached garage and in each detached garage with electric power at least
one receptacle outlet shall be installed for each car space.
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 in 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 or multiple tenant commercial
buildings, 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 follows:
(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 two-hundred-fifty (250) feet or more in length could have additional service
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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 in excess of 2000 amperes at a supply voltage of
1000 volts or less.
(2) The building loads cannot be met by a single transformer.
(3) By special permission.
ARTICLE 230.42
*Article 230.42(A); add two new paragraphs after item (2) to read as follows:
Service entrance conductors after the utility provider point of delivery or service point shall be
subject to the requirements of this code and shall be sized based upon the overcurrent protection
provided.
When the utility provider service conductors connect directly to the service equipment
disconnecting means, the utility provider's service cables shall be subject to the requirements of
this code and shall be sized based upon the service equipment overcurrent device.
ARTICLE 230.70
*Article 230.70 (A): add a"Special Condition" 4 to read as follows
_(4) Where more than one electrical service is installed on a multi-occupant building all
disconnecting means shall be installed in one location either inside or outside of the building.
ARTICLE 230.71
*Article 230.71(A); add a sentence at the end of the first paragraph,followed by an
exception to read as follows:
Multifamily dwelling units or multiple tenant commercial buildings 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
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location may exceed six. More than one lateral and tap can maybe installed at a
service location, but each tap can will be limited to six individual disconnecting
means in compliance with 230.40, exceptions I & 2.
ARTICLE 240.91
*Article 240.91; changed to delete the article.
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 in item 250.52(A)(1), is not present, a
method of grounding as specified in 250.52(A)(2) through (4)below shall be used.
Exception: Concrete-encased electrodes of existing buildings or structures shall not be
required to be part of the grounding electrode system where the steel reinforcing bars or
rods are not accessible for use without disturbing the concrete.
ARTICLE 250.52
*Article 250.52 (A)(4); changed to add an exception to read as follows:
(4) Ground Ring. A ground ring encircling the building or structure, in direct contact with the
earth, consisting of at least 6.0 m (20 ft.) of bare copper conductor not smaller than 2 AWG.
Exception: In lieu of encircling the building, two ground rod or pipe electrodes, complying
with item 250.52(A)(5), may be used when separated by at least 20 feet and connected with a
minimum of 2 AWG bare copper conductor at least 30 inches deep.
*Article 250.52(A)(5); changed to read as follows:
(5) Rod and Pipe Electrodes. Rod and pipe electrodes meeting the requirements listed in this
section may be installed for electrical services on the following structures:
(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
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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(A)(1); changed to read and the exception deleted as follows:
(1) Fire-Rated Assemblies. Wiring located within the cavity of a fire-rated floor-ceiling or
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 wires 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 luminaire(s) (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 follows:
Where NM,NMC,NMS and other cables, conductors and wiring methods listed in Chapter 3
are installed in an attic that is exposed to outside temperatures, the ambient temperature shall
be considered to exceed 140°F.
ARTICLE 310.15
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*Article 310.15(B)(7), "120/240-Volt,3-Wire, Single-Phase Dwelling Services and
Feeders"; add a sentence to read as follows:
This Section shall not be used in conjunction with Section 220.82.
ARTICLE 334.10
*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
framing, except as prohibited in 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 (5) stories, as
determined by the Building Code, after the switchboard or panelboard of all
individual dwelling units, when provided with an approved automatic sprinkler
system (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 in 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
903.3.12)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.LI or 903.3.1.2) throughout.
2. Usage is permitted in detached one (1) story commercial buildings not
exceeding 5,000 square feet of any construction type with any wall framing
material.
Cables shall be concealed within walls, floors, or ceilings that provide a thermal barrier
of material that has at least a 15-minute finish rating as identified in listings of fire-rated
assemblies.
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(4) Cable trays 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 2 tons or larger shall be a minimum of 10 AWG copper
conductors. See also attic temperatures in Articles 310.10.
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 following:
(1) Equipment listing or labeling
(2) Evidence of equipment evaluation from a qualified testing laboratory or inspection
agency concerned with product evaluation
(3) Evidence acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction such as a manufacturer's self-
evaluation or an engineering judgment signed and sealed by a qualified Registered
Professional Engineer.
ARTICLE 505.7
*Article 505.7(A); changed to read as follows:
(A) Implementation of Zone Classification System. Classification of areas, engineering and
design, selection of equipment and wiring methods, installation, and inspection shall be
performed by a qualified Registered Professional Engineer in the State of Texas.
ARTICLE 517.30
*Amend Article 517.30 (G) to read as follows and by adding Articles 517.30 (H):
(G) Coordination. Overcurrent protective devices serving the equipment branch of the essential
electrical system shall be coordinated for the period of time that a fault's duration extends
beyond 0.1 second.
Exception No. 1: Between transformer primary and secondary overcurrent protective devices,
where only one overcurrent protective device or set of overcurrent protective devices exists on
the transformer secondary.
Exception No. 2: Between overcurrent protective devices of the same size (ampere rating) in
series.
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Informational Note: The terms coordination and coordinated as used in this section do not cover
the full range of overcurrent conditions.
(H) Selective Coordination. Overcurrent protective devices serving the life safety, and critical
branches of the essential electrical system shall be selectively coordinated with all supply-side
overcurrent protective devices.
Exception No. 1: Between transformer primary and secondary overcurrent protective devices,
where only one overcurrent protective device or set of overcurrent protective
devices exists on the transformer secondary.
Exception No. 2: Between overcurrent protective devices of the same size (ampere rating) in
series.
Informational Note: The terms coordination and coordinated as used in this section do not cover
the full range of overcurrent conditions.
ARTICLE 550.1
*Amend Article 550.1 by adding Articles 550.1.1, 550.1.2, 550.1.3 and 550.1.4 to read as
follows:
Site requirements.
550.1.1 Applicability The provisions of this Article apply to the construction and maintenance
of all mobile home and manufactured home parks.
550.1.2 All electrical wiring, power distribution lines, and telephone lines in a mobile home or
manufactured home park shall be installed underground and in compliance with this code.
550.1.3 Street lights. Each internal street shall be provided with street lighting. Light standards
shall have a height and spacing to ensure an average illumination level of not less than 0.2 foot
candles.
550.1.4 History Mobile Home Park regulations were first adopted in 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, City Code
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 551.1 by adding Articles 551.1.1, 551.1.2, 551.1.3, 551.1.4, 551.1.5,
551.1.6 and 551.1.7 to read as follows:
Site requirements.
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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 this Article apply to the construction and
maintenance of all recreational vehicle parks.
551.1.2 All electrical wiring, main power distribution lines, 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 in 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. This section shall apply to all service buildings,
recreation buildings, management offices, repair shops, storage areas, sanitary facilities,
laundry facilities, indoor recreation areas, commercial buildings supplying essential goods or
services for park tenants, and other similar buildings in recreational vehicle parks.
Illumination levels shall be maintained, as a minimum, as follows:
a. General seeing tasks: Five (5) foot candles.
b. Laundry room work area: Forty (40) foot candles.
c. Toilet room, in front of mirrors: Forty (40) foot candles.
551.1.7 History. Mobile Home Park regulations were first adopted in 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, City Code
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 600.6
*Article 600.6(A)(1) changed to read as follows:
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(1) At Point of Entry to a Sign Enclosure. The disconnect shall be located at the point the
feeder circuit or branch circuit(s) supplying a sign or outline lighting system enters a sign
enclosure or a pole in accordance with 600.5(C)(3) and shall disconnect all ungrounded
conductors where it enters the enclosure of the sign or pole.
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 in the
wall or ceiling with an electrical cord for plug in or direct connection to an electrical source.
These signs shall not be permitted to be installed in an outside location.
Exterior - Shall be those signs that are set on the exterior, usually but not always in the
parking lot, limited in size as described in the Zoning and Sign Code, some of which may have
wheels installed to permit the towing behind a vehicle.
600.10.1. Interior.
(A)Support. Portable or mobile signs shall be adequately supported and readily 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 in wet or damp locations shall comply
with 600.10.1(C)(1) and (C)(2).
(1) Cords. All cords shall be junior hard service or hard service types as designated in
Table 400.4, and have an equipment grounding conductor.
(2) Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter. 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 in the power-supply cord within 12 in. (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) in length.
600.10.2. Exterior.
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(A)Exterior portable or mobile signs shall not be illuminated by any electrical source. Those
signs equipped with an electrical cord shall have it removed.
(B)Signs shall be adequately secured to prevent overturning by wind.
ARTICLE 600.21
*Article 600.21(E); changed to read as follows:
(E) Attic and Soffit Locations. Ballasts, transformers, and electronic power supplies shall be
permitted to be located in attics and soffits, provided there is an access door at least 900mm by
562.5mm (36 in. by 22 1/2 in.) 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 lighting 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 in rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal
conduit, liquidtight flexible nonmetallic conduit, rigid polyvinyl chloride conduit, or reinforced
thermosetting resin conduit. Electrical metallic tubing shall be permitted where installed on or
within 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 in the pool area where
subject to corrosion.
ARTICLE 696—ELECTRIFIED FENCES
696.1 Scope
This article applies to the installation and maintenance of electrified fences containing more than
two energized strands and having a minimum height of more than twenty four (24) inches
measured from grade to the highest strand.
696.2 Definitions
Protective Barrier. Permanent fence or wall that restricts direct access to the energized portions
of an electrified fence. Permanent shall mean not being able to be removed, lifted or relocated
without the use of a tool or equipment.
Electrified Fence. A fence energized with an electrical current.
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Secure Area. The area bounded by the electrified fence.
696.3 Permits Required. An electrical permit is required for the installation, repair, and
alteration of electrified fences. A separate permit is required for the installation of a protective
barrier.
Exceptions:
1. The repair and replacement of electrified fence conductive strands, and posts
or poles for electrified fence systems.
2. Electrified fences installed on agriculturally zoned property as defined in the
Fort Worth Zoning Code.
696.3.1 Plan Submittal. Electrical permit applications for electrified fences shall include
two complete sets of the following:
1. Site plan showing the location of the protective barrier and the electrified fence
on the property in relationship to property lines, walkways and exiting buildings.
2. Fence details showing both the electrified fence and protective barrier, including
all gates.
3. Electrical details showing the equipment, wiring diagrams, grounding, and other
information to insure compliance with the Fort Worth Electrical Code.
4. Energizer Output Certification Form as prescribed in section 696.8.
696.4 Fee. At the time of permit application, an electrical permit fee of one hundred seventy
dollars ($170.00) shall be paid.
696.5. Location Restrictions. Electrified fences shall not be installed at the following locations:
a. Within five (5)feet of a building exit.
b. Within thirty (30)feet of a hazardous material storage or handling areas.
c. On roof tops or within buildings.
d. All residential uses
696.6 Electrified Fence Height. Electrified fences shall be restricted to a maximum height of
two (2) feet above the height of the protective barrier.
696.7 Electrical Equipment Standards. Electrical equipment, wiring, and grounding
shall comply with the provisions of this Code and the following standards:
1. The energizer output shall comply with section 22.108 of the International
Electrotechnical Commission(IEC) 60335-2-76 Standard.
2. Energizers shall provide pulsed power.
3. AC current shall not be used to energize any electrified fence.
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4. The energizer shall be powered by a DC battery not to exceed 12 volts. A trickle
charger and solar panels may be used to recharge the battery but shall not directly
energize the fence.
5. All ground system cables shall be properly insulated.
6. The electrified fence grounding system shall not be connected to any plumbing
systems.
7. Each energizer shall be connected to its own ground system and shall not be
connected to any other grounding system.
696.8 Energizer Output Certification. The applicant shall sign a form provided by the City of
Fort Worth certifying that the electrified fence energizer output characteristics comply with
section 22.108 of the IEC 6335-2-76 International Standard.
696.9 Protective Barrier. The perimeter of the secure area shall be protected by an additional
non-electrified fence meeting the following standards:
1. The protective barrier shall be a permanent fence or wall at least six (6) feet in height
above the adjacent grade, subject to the limitations of the City of Fort Worth Zoning
Ordinance
2. Openings in the protective barrier shall not allow for the passage of a two (2) inch
sphere. The maximum vertical clearance between grade and the bottom of the
protective barrier shall be two (2) inch.
Exception: At rolling gates, the maximum vertical clearance between grade and
the bottom of the protective barrier shall be four(4) inches.
3. The protective barrier shall be separated from the electrified fence by a minimum of
six (6) inches and a maximum of twelve (12) inches.
Exception: Conductive stands installed at gates installed in protective barriers shall
be separated from the gate by a maximum of twelve (12) inches.
696.10 Warning Signs. Electrified fences shall be clearly marked with warning signs. The
warning signs shall be placed on the protective barrier at each entrance to the secure area and at
intervals not to exceed thirty (30) feet along the entire perimeter of the fence line. Warning signs
shall be located not less than five (5) feet above the adjacent walking surface.
696.10.1 Graphics. Warning signs shall be printed on both sides in both English and
Spanish with the following text: "WARNING ELECTRIC FENCE" and contain the
international symbol for electrical shock hazard. Signs shall be reflective with a
minimum 2 inch letter height, minimum stroke of 1/2 inch and have a contrasting
background.
696.11 Key Switch. A Fort Worth Fire Department permitted and approved key switch shall be
installed to provide secure access to the electrical power disconnect switch by public safety
personnel. The key switch shall be located at the main entry point to the property in a location
approved by the Fire Official.
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696.12 Commercial Business Hours of Activation. An electrified fence shall not be energized
during the hours of normal business operation. However, where businesses are operating
continuously on a twenty four (24) hour basis the conductors of an electrified fence shall not be
energized unless all authorized persons within or entering the secure area have been informed of
the electrified fence location.
696.13 Registration. Electrified fences permitted and installed after the effective date of this
ordinance must be registered through the City of Fort Worth Planning and Development
Department. The registration must be renewed annually from the date of permit issuance. The
following information must be provided at the time of registration application:
1. Business Name
2. Address of Property
3. Contact Person/Representative
4. Address and phone number of contact person
Furthermore, an applicant for renewal must provide a notarized statement from a registered
electrician or fence contractor specializing in the installation of electrified fences, certifying that
the electrified fence and equipment is currently operating in conformance with the provisions of
this Code.
696.13.1 Registration Renewal Fee. An annual registration renewal fee of$120 shall be
charged for the registration of electrified fences.
696.13.2 Barrier Fence Inspection. As part of the registration renewal process, a
Building Ordinance Inspection shall be scheduled and approved verifying the integrity of
the Protective Barrier.
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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 in those instances where provisions of such
ordinances are in direct conflict with the provisions of this ordinance.
SECTION 4.
That Section 11-4 of the Code of the City of Fort Worth (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 punishable by a fine not to
exceed Two Thousand Dollars ($2,000.00) for all violations involving fire safety, or public
health and sanitation and shall be fined not more than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) for all
other violations of this ordinance. Each day or any portion thereof during which any violation of
this ordinance occurs or continues shall be deemed a separate offense and upon conviction
thereof shall be punishable as herein provided.
SECTION 5.
This article shall be cumulative of all provisions of ordinances of the Code of the City of
Fort Worth, Texas (1986), affecting Electrical Code provisions, as amended, and shall not repeal
any of the provisions of such ordinances, except in those instances where provisions of such
ordinances are in direct conflict with the provisions of this ordinance.
SECTION 6.
It is hereby declared to be the intention of the City Council that the sections, paragraphs,
sentences, clauses, and phrases of this ordinance are severable, and, if any phrase, clause,
sentence, paragraph, or section of this ordinance shall be declared void, ineffective, or
unconstitutional by the valid judgment or decree of any court of competent jurisdiction, such
voidness, ineffectiveness, or unconstitutionality shall not affect any of the remaining phrases,
clauses, sentences, paragraphs, and sections of this ordinance, since the same would have been
enacted by the City Council without the incorporation in this ordinance of any such void,
ineffective, or unconstitutional phrase, clause, sentence,paragraph, or section.
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SECTION 7.
Any person, firm, or corporation violating any of the provisions of this ordinance shall be
deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punishable by a fine not to
exceed Two Thousand Dollars ($2,000.00) for all violations involving fire safety, or public
health and sanitation and shall be fined not more than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) for all
other violations of this ordinance. Each day or any portion thereof during which any violation of
this ordinance occurs or continues shall be deemed a separate offense and upon conviction
thereof shall be punishable as herein provided.
SECTION 8.
All rights and remedies of the City of Fort Worth, Texas are expressly saved as to any and
all violations of the previous Electrical Code, or any other ordinances affecting construction and
fire safety, which have accrued at the time of the effective date of this ordinance: and, as to such
accrued violations and all pending litigation, both civil and criminal, whether pending in court or
not, under such ordinances, same shall not be affected by this ordinance but may be prosecuted
until final disposition by the courts.
SECTION 9.
A copy of the 2014 National Electrical Code, together with the local amendments
contained in this ordinance, shall be filed in the office of the City Secretary for permanent record
and inspection.
SECTION 10.
The Department of Planning and Development of the City of Fort Worth, Texas, is hereby
authorized to publish this ordinance in pamphlet form for general distribution among the public,
and the operative provisions of this ordinance as so published shall be admissible in evidence in
all courts without further proof than the production thereof, as provided in Chapter XXV, Section
3, of the Charter of the City of Fort Worth, Texas.
SECTION 11.
The City Secretary of the City of Fort Worth, is hereby directed to publish the caption and
Sections 1, 7, 9, 11 and 12 of this ordinance for two(2) days in the official newspaper of the City
of Fort Worth, Texas as authorized by Section 2, Chapter XXV of the Charter of the City of Fort
Worth, Texas and by Section 52.013 (a) of the Texas Local Government Code.
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SECTION 12.
This ordinance shall take effect upon January 1, 2015.
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APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY:
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Melinda Ramos, Assistant City Attorney Mary Kayse , ty Secretary
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ADOPTED: December 9, 2014
EFFECTIVE:
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