HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance 14650ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FORT WORTH ELECTRICAL CODE, BY
ADOPTING THE 1999 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE, WITH LOCAL
AMENDMENTS, AMENDING SECTIONS ll-1 THROUGH 11-4 OF~THE CODE
OF THE CITY OF FORT WORTH(1986), REGULATING ERECTION,
CONSTRUCTION, ENLARGEMENT, ALTERATION, REPAIR, MOVING,
REMOVAL, DEMOLITION, CONt~ERSION, .EQUIPMENT, DESIGN, QUALITY
OF MATERIALS, USE AND MAINTENANCE OF ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT IN
THL 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 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 XT ORDAINED DY 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. 1999 EDITION OF THE NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE ADOPTED.
(a) The Electncat Code of the City of Fort Worth is hereby revised and amended to
conform, with certain exceptions as specified below, to the 1999 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 1999 National Electncal 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) The electrical provisions of the International Residential Code, as adopted elsewhere,
shall be used as the electrical provisions for buildings and structures applicable to that code
except as provided for in that code.
SECTION Z.
That Section 11-2 of the Code of the City of Fort Worth {1986) is hereby amended to read as
follows.
Sec. 11-2. Amendments.
(a) Articles 90-1 through 90-6 of the 1999 edition of the National Electrical Code are
deleted and replaced with a new Administrative Section, Chapters A through F, 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 electncal 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 electncal 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) Intent. This code is not intended as a design specification nor an instruction manual
for untrained persons.
(d) The purpose of this code is not to create or otherwise establish or designate any
particular class or group of persons who will or should be especially protected or benefitted by
the terms of this code.
A01.3. Scope.
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(a) Covered. This code shall regulate:
1 '.Che design, construction, installation, alteration, repaus, relocation, replacement,
addition to, use or maintenance of electncal systems and equipment.
2. The installation and alteration of electncal equipment, which shall include electncal
conductors, fittings, devices, signs, sign pnmanes, fixtures, motors, generators, starters, controls,
raceways and that part of elevator installations consisting of signal systems, fans, electrical
lighting fixtures, illuminated thresholds,~'eeder 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 maybe used as an alternate to the electrical provisions of the International
Reside-Ttial Code
(b) blot 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
functrons 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 far 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 electncal 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; however, the provisions of this code
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shall apply to all other electrical installations or equipment used for any other
purposes not specifically excepted herein and located within or on such buildings or
premises.
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.~epair 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 m 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 Safety 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 ofoutdoor 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 Safety Code or .its successor;
(c) complies with all other applicable ordinances, rules and regulations of the City of
Fort Worth; and,
d
(d) terminates service if requested by the Code Official for public safety and health
reasons because a known dangerous condition exists.
A01.4 Severability. If a section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this code is
for any reason held to be unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the
remaining portions of this code.
SECTION A02 -APPLICABILITY
A02.1 General. The provisions o~'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 matenals, 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 electncal
system and equipment, and if the electncal 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 ongmal 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 electncal systems and
equipment be reinspected.
A02.4 Additions, alterations and repairs. Additions, alterations, renovations and
repairs to electrical systems shall conform to that required for new electrical systems and
equipment without requiring that the existing electrical systems or equipment comply with all of
the requirements of this code. Additions, alterations, renovarions and repairs shall not cause
existing electncal 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 hazazdous and aze approved.
A02.5 Change in occupancy. It shall be unlawful to make a change in the occupancy of
any structure which will subject the structure 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 meets the intent of the provisions of law governing building construction for the
proposed new occupancy and that such change of occupancy does not result in any hazard to the
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public health, safety or welfare.
No.change shall be made in the use or occupancy of any building that would place the
building in a different division of the same group of occupancy or in a different group of
occupancies, unless such building is made to comply with the requirements of this code for such
division or group of occupancy Subject to the approval of the code official, the use or
occupancy of existing buildings shall be permitted to be changed and the building is 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, enlargerrient, restoration, relocation or movirig of buildings or strictures shall
not be mandatory for existing buildings or structures identified and classified by the state or local
jurisdiction as historic buildings when such buildings or structures are fudged by the Code
Official to be safe and in the public interest of health, safety and welfare regarding any proposed
construction, alteration, repair, enlargement, restoration, relocation or moving of buildings.
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-$8, 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.
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Enforcement of these sections may be performed byother 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.
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 modi~'ication 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 matenal 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 matenal 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.I Test inethods. 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.
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SECTION A04 -VIOLATIONS
A04.1 Unla~vful acts. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to erect,
construct, alter, repair, remove, demolish or utilize any electncal system or equipment, or cause
same to be clone, in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.
A04.2 Violation penalties. 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.
A04.3 Stop tivork 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. Stich work shall not resume until authorized by the code
official to proceed.
A04.4 Abatemen# 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 electncal 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
electncal 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 electncal 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 cede official, and all unsafe wiring or electrical equipment shall be repaired or
replaced.
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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 otherv~nse dangerous to
human life, the code official shall order in wasting 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 incases
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, stricture 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.
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Chapter B
ORGANIZATION AND ENFORCEMENT
SECTION BOl -ORGANIZATION
B01.1 Code Official. Whenever the term "code official" is used m this code, it shall be
construed to mean the Building Official or his authorized representative(s) The code official
shall not be removed from office except~or cause and after full opportunity to be heard on
specific and relevant charges.
B01.2 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction, the
code official shall have the authority to appoint a deputy code official, other related technical
officers, inspectors, and other employees. For the purpose of this code, the regularly authonzed
deputy code official shall be the Chief Electrical Inspector
B01.3 Department having jurisdiction. Unless otherwise provided for by law, the
office of the code official shall be part of the Development Department. • • •
B01.4 Restriction of employees. An official or employee connected with the department
of electrical inspection shall not be engaged ~n or directly or indirectly connected with the
furnishing of labor, materials or appliances for the construction, alteration or maintenance of a
building; and such officer or employee shall not engage 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 electrical inspector by the city
B01.5 I.,iability. 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 omissian 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
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property caused by defects, nor shall the code enforcement agency or its parent~urisdiction 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 OFFICIA.T_,
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 maybe
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 o£ this code.
B02.2 Rule-making authority. The code official shall have authority as necessary in the
interest ofpublic 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
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 perniits have been issued, and enforce compliance with the provisions of this code.
The application for permit shall be deemed to be granting authority to enter the property
for the purpose of inspections.
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 tie 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 hazazdous, the code official shall have the
authority to enter the building or premises at alI reasonable times to inspect the same or to
perform the duties imposed upon the code official by this code. If such building or premises is
occupied, the code official shall present credentials to the occupant and request entry. If such
building or premises is unoccupied, the code official shall first make a reasonable effort to locate
the owner or other persons having charge or control of the building or premises and request
entry If entry be refused, the code official shall have recourse to every remedy provided by law
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to secure entry
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 fequest 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 ~,vith the code official, deputy or
any of the electncal inspectors in the discharge of their duties under this code.
B02.6 Identification. The code official shall cajry groper identification when inspecting
stn~ctures or premises in the performance of duties under this code.
802.7 Notices and orders. The code offteial shall issue all necessary notices or orders to
ensure compliance with this code.
B02.8 Department records. The code official shall keep official records of applications
received, permits and certificates issued, fees collected, reports of mspections,,and notices and
orders issued. Such records shall be retained m the official records for the penod 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 junsdtction 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.
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Chapter C
PERMITS AND INSPECTIONS
SECTION C01 -PERMITS
COl.I When required. Any owner, authonzed agent, individual or contractor who
desires to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a buildrng
or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical
system, the installation of tivhrch is regulatied 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 obtarned for each building' or structure.
Permits shall be issued for electncal fences only upon approval by the Board.
A Building Code Ordrnance Inspection shall be requrred to rnspect and approve power to
existing mobile homes rn mobile home parks where the name changes on the electnc utility
account except tivhen the account rs berng transferred from an rndivrdual to the park's name.
C01.1.1 Unlawful Wiring. No pennrt shall be issued for installrng, altenng,
extending or replacing any electrical wrung or equipment on any burldrng, 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 ~vork. 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.
Z. 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 capacrty for
signs or gas tube systems.
5 Taping joints.
6 Removal of electncal wiring.
7. Temporary wiring for experimental purposes in suitable experimental laboratories.
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8. Electrical wiring, devices, appliances, apparatus or equipment operating at less than
25 volts and not capable of supplying more than 50 watts of energy
9 Low-energy power, control and signal circuits of Classes II and III as defined 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 C02.
Exemption from the permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant
authorization for any work to be done in violation of the provisions of #his code or any other laws
or ordinances of this jurisdiction.
SECTION C02 -WHOM PERMITS MAY BE ISSUED TO -WHO MA'Y DO THE
WORK
C02.I -Whom permits may be issued to.
C02.1 General. No permit shall be issued to any person to do or cause to be done any
work regulated by this code, except to a person holding a valid, unexpired and unrevoked
Permitting Master Electr~c~ans License, except as otherwise hennafter provided m this section.
CO2.1.1 Homestead owner. Permits may be issued to a property owner who wishes
to do electrical tivork in a building owned and occupied by him as his homestead. This
provision only permits the homeowner to work on that part of the electncal system that
occurs after, but does not include, the first main breaker behind the electrical meter The
term "to dQ electrical work" shall be construed to mean work actually done personally by the
owner
C02.1.2 Homestead Master or Journeyman Permits maybe issued to a property
owner who holds a current Fort Worth Master or Journeyman Electrician License who
wishes to do electncal 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 electncal work" shall be
construed to mean work actually done personally by the owner
C02.2 -Who may do the tivork.
C02.2 General. It shall be unlawful for any person to do or cause to be done any
electrical work within the City of Fort Worth except as provided 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.
C02.2.1 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
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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 Mastf;r 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 #o the provisions of this code as for a Joumeyman
Electrician.
C02.2.2 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 Hof 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 m
this code.
C02.2.3 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 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.
C02.2.4 Journeyman Sign Electrician. A Journeyman Sign Electrician shall be
able to perform any type of sign and/or outline lighting work of a Master Sign Electrician,
provided that such work must be performed under the supervision of a licensed Master Sign
Electrician.
C02.2.5 Residential Wiseman Electrician. A Residential Wiseman Electrician shall
be able to do electrical work under the supervision of a Master Electrician in one- and two-
family dwe112ngs only.
C02.2.6 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:
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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 Electncian, 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 basil,provided the company has a Permit Master
Electncian. All maintenance work as defined herein shall only be performed by
Maintenance Electncians or Residential Maintenance Electricians, as their
licenses permit, or by individuals supervised on the site by such electricians,
unless a Master or Journeyman electncian is on site as required elsewhere in this
code.
2. The right of a Licensed Mechanical Contractor to perform such electncal
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 electncal 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 egwpment.
4 The electncal maintenance of specialized equipment by a manufachirer of
equipment provided those persons that perform such electncal maintenance work
hold a valid Maintenance Electncian License.
5 The right of a homeowner from performing electncal maintenance work on his
residence.
C02.2.7 Maintenance Electrician Trainee. A Maintenance Electrician Trainee
shall be able to perform electncal 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.
C02.2.8 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
C02.2.6, except that the following restnetions also apply
(1) All work shall be limited to residential properties only; specifically, one- and two-
familydwellings 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.
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(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 def ration of Electrical Maintenance Work.
C02.2.9 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 Electncian, a Journeyman Electrician, a Journeyman Sign
Electrician, a Residential Wireman Electncian, Maintenance Electrician, or a Residential
Maintenance Electrician.
The supervising Master Electrician, Master Sign Electrician, Journeyman Electncian,
Journeyman Sign Electncian, Residential Wireman Electrician, Maintenance Electrician, or
Residential Maintenance Electrician shall be on the job site.
C02.2.10 Homestead owner. A homestead otivner shall be able to perform work on
his homestead property as provided for in sections C02.1 1 and C02.1.2.
SECTION C03 •- APPLICATION FOR PERMIT •
C03.1 Application. Any person legally entitled to apply for and receive a permit shall
make application on forms provided for that purpose. Every such application shall.
1 Identify and describe the work to be covered by the permit for which application is
made.
2 Describe the land on which the proposed work is to be done by legal description,
street address or similar description that will readily identify and definitely locate the
proposed building or work.
3 Indicate the use or occupancy for tivhich the proposed tivork is intended when deemed
necessary.
4, Be accompanied by plans, diagrams, computations and specifications and other data as
required in Section C03.2.
5 Be signed by the applicant or an authorized agent of the applicant.
l~:xception: 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.
C03.2 Plans and specifications. Plans, specifications, engineering calculations,
diagrams, sail investigation reports, special inspection and structural observation programs and
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.
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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 plarls 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.
C03.3 Information on plans and specifications. Plans and specifications shall be
drawn to scale upon substantial paper or cloth and shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the
location, nature and extent of the work proposed and show 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.
C03.4 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 subrruttal items, for compatibility
with the design of the building.
C03.5 Deferred submittals. For the purpose of this section, deferred submittals are
defined as those portions of the design that are not submitted at the time of the application and
that are to be submitted to the code official within a specified period.
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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.
C03.6 Expiration of plan review. Application 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 junsdiction to venfy compliance with any applicable laws under
their junsdiction. 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 COS have
been paid, the code official shall issue a permit therefor to the applicant.
Exception: When plan review is performed by a Third Party 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 xeview 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
19
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 maybe appealed to the Board as provided in Section B03
The code official is authorized to withhold the issuance of electrical permits to.
any person until such time as~the electrical for which a permit tivas previously rssued
has been completed or is being performed iri 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 anyof 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 pernzit based upon construction documents and other data shall not
prevent the code official from thereafter requinng the correction of errors in said construction
documents and other data or from preventing building operations being tamed on thereunder
when in violation of this code or of other ordinances of this lurisdiction.
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 authonzed by such permit is
not commenced within 180 days from the date of such permit, or if the work authonzed 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 beone-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 peimittee 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 pennittee 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
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or on the basis of incorrect information supplied, or in violation of any ordinance or regulation or
any of the provisions of this code.
C04.7 Administrative hold. Any administrative discrepancy including but not limited
to, delinquency in payments, returned checks, failure to gay 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 ~riy other code to obtain
a permit covered by this code, it shall be i43aintained 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 J'ob 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 C05.2,
Any person obtaining a permit application required by this code shall, at the time of
filing, pay a permit and anon-refundable application fee as required by this section for the
installation, relocation or replacement of any of the listed items.
Exceptions: 1 Where the fees for new structures and additions to structures
have been collected on a building permit, the permit fee is not xequired 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.
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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 distncts or county
community colleges.
4 Work bynon-City personnel on property under the control of the City of Fort
Worth shalt 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 pro~'ect.
6 When the project is to be inspected by an approved third party organization as
described in Section C08, the permit fee shall be seduced by multiplying the sum by 20%
(0.20) 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 ~varve the
requirements to pay a full investigation fee for doing work without a permit as required under
Section C05.3 '
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Table C05.2
Schedule of Fees
Administrative
1 CFPBOA Application Fee
(1st item per address) .
(Each additional item per address)
2 Permit Application Fee
3 Change of Record (per record or permit)
4 Reciprocal Letters
5 Business Verification Letters.
6 Temporary Power Letters
$100 00
20 00
I5 00
15.00
15 00
. 15 00
25 00
Permit items*
LIGHT OYJTLETS, FIXTiJRES, SWITCHES, RECEPTACLES
Up to .100 $ .32 each
All over 100 .27 each
FIXED APPLIANCES
Ceiling Fan 86
Vent Fan 86
Smoke Detector 8b
Bath Heater .86
Disposal .86
Compactor .86
Dishwasher .86
Washing Machine .86
Water Heater 1 73
Dryer 1 73
Range 173
Air Conditioner - 3 to 5 ton 3.51
Air Conditioner -over 5 ton to
7 1/2 ton 5 67
Air Conditioner -over 7 1/2 ton 11.34
Heating Unit (gas) 1 73
Heating Unit (electric) .59 per KW
~~
MOTORS
1 to 3 hp 1.73
Over 3 to 5 hp 3.5 i
Over 5 to 7 1/2 hp 5 67
Over 7 1/2 hp 11.34
TRANSFORMERS, GENERATORS, AND WELDERS
OtoIOKW 351
Over 10 KW to 20 KW 5 67
Over 20 KW 11`."34
Welders 3.51
SERVICES and SUBPANELS
60 amp to 100 amp 11.34
Over 100 amp to 150 amp 16 74
Over 150 amp 22.68
MISCELLANEOUS
Swimming pools 32.40
Construction pole 16 74
Sign connections, each 5 40
New mobile home hookups** 25 00
Submeters (buildings,
leases, apts. etc.) 11 88
*When inspections are performed by third party, the permit fce shall be reduced by multiplying the sum by 20% (0.20).
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) $30 00 per hour
2. Reinspection fee assessed under provisions of C07 (e) $25 00
3 Inspections for which no fee is specifically indicated
(minimum charge -one-half hour) $30 00 per hour
4. Additional plan review required by changes, additions or revisions
to plans (minimum charge -one-half hour) $30 00 per hour
5. Inspections outside of city limits (commercial) $45 OOi per inspector
(residential) $60 00i total
6. Failing to call for final inspections $25 00
~ Or 530.00 per hour, whichever is greater
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C05.3 Investigation fees: Work without a permit.
C05.3.1 Investigation. Whenever any work for which a permit is required by this
code has been commenced without first obtaining said permit, a special investigation shall be
made before a permit may be issued for such work.
xceptions: 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 ar 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 lotiver the
investigation fee required by this section.
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'.Cable 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 code official may authonze 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 retumed, upon request, minus an administration charge of
five dollars ($5 00). After the 60 day time limit, no fee shall be returned.
Exceptions: 1 When the investigation fee of Section C05.3 has been collected, it
shall not be refunded unless paid by another party
2. No refund will be given for the application fee.
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SECTION C06 -INSPECTIONS
C06.1 General. All electncal systems for which a permit is required by this code shall be
inspected by the code official. No portion of any electncal system shall be concealed until
inspected and approved. Neither the code official nor the~urisdiction 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
CO8.
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 fob 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.i.3 Final inspection shall be made after the building is complete, all electncal
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~urisdiction 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.
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.
26
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 when
required by the code official.
C06.3.2 Equipment, material and labor for tests. All equipment, material and
labor required for testing an electncal 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 necessarytconections shall be made to comply with this code.
The work or installation shall then be resubmitted to the code official for inspection and
testing.
006.4 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 in venting 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 fora "Final Inspection" for a residence
where access is dependent upon the occupant, after the fee has been paid by the person
doing the work-additional arrangements for the final inspection and penalties for not
receiving such inspection shall fall on the occupant.
This shall not relieve the person doing the work from having to correct improper
work and such accompanying penalties should the work fail reinspection.
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.
27
This section is not to be interpreted as requinng 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 maybe 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 venting on a
form furnished for that purpose and pay the reinspectior}.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 authonze
the temporary connection of the building or system to the utility source for the purpose of testing
electncal systems or for use under a temporary certificate of occupancy
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 Revie~v.
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
28
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
iiiscretion, 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/buiider and Third Party
Organization may propose methods of correction that do not require uncovering of completed
work. However, the Code Official may require uncovering of completed work after
consideration of the extent of the work involved versus the level of compliance needed and
then only as a last resort when the Code Official determines that the proposed methods of
correction will not result in adequate compliance.
CO$.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
29
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~equired executed agreements. If rn 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.
CO$.8 Certificate of Occupancy. A Certification of Occupancy shallbe 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 constntction inspections have been approved and after the Code Official
has performed and approved a final inspection when deemed necessary
SECTION C09 -SERVICE UTIILITIES
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 authonzed 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:
A. Non-payment of bill.
B Point of attachment.
C. Meter height not correct.
D Meter not wired correctly
E. Termination of service conductors or lateral,
NOTE: The power company must notify the code official of their intent to disconnect
30
power except for non-payment of bill.
The electncal 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 electncity to such
buildings or premises until authonzed to do so by the code official.
Exception: Electncal service need not be disconnected to single-family and
duplex residences, as well as mobile homes in mobile home parks tivhen the service
account is being transferred into the park's name.
31
Chapter D
Licensing
DOl -SCOPE
DOl.I General. Every person desiring to be licensed by the City of Fort Worth to
engage in the electncal business or work in a capacity for which a license ~s required by this code
shall comply with.this chapter
Every applicant shall
1 Take and pass an examination given by the City's officially designated examining
agency for the grade of Itcense sought.
2. Be the holder of a valid electncian license issued by a reciprocating city, hereafter
referred to as a reciprocal license, tivhich license has been valid for one (1) year and is
of a grade equal to that for which the applicant is applying. " • .
Exception: Applicants who obtained their license in a reciprocating city as a
result of having passed an examination given by this City's officially designated or
approved alternate testing agency are exempt from the one year requirement.
or,
3 Be the holder of a certificate of examination which states that the applicant has passed
an examination qualifying the applicant for the grade of license for which applying
and which certificate was issued to the applicant by an alternate examining agency
approved by the city in the manner prescribed herein.
D01.2 Grades. There shall he seven (7) grades of licenses. Master, Master Sign,
Journeyman, Journeyman Sign, Residential Wireman, Maintenance Electrician and Residential
Maintenance Electricians.
D01.3 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 Electncian,
3. The licensing of a Journeyman Electncian as a Journeyman Sign Electncian,
provided such Journeyman Electrician has duly qualified as a Journeyman Sign
32
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.
D01.4 Company 1.2.epresentation.-,A Master Electrician who wishes to take out permmts,
referred to as a Permit Master, may represent only one electrical company This. electrical
company must be registered with the Department of 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 bttsmess 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 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.
D02.2 Ne~v licenses. The applicant for a ne~v license shall submit in person the
following:
1. Proof of receiving a passing grade on,an examination qualifying the applicant for the
grade of license for which applying from the City's officially designated examining
agency or an approved alternate examining agency.
2. Proof of required experience and/or education. (Notarized letters from employers or
W-2 forms of employment.)
3 Proof of insurance as required by Section D07
4 A check for the first year license fee. If not approved, the check will be returned.
Make checks payable to City of Fort'Worth.
Exception: Agencies of any Federal, State or local government shall be
exempt from the payment of licensing fees in cases where the electrician performing
the work is an employee of such agency and the work is to be performed on premises
owned or controlled by such agency.
33
5 Valid picture ID (Example: Drivers License, State ID, etc.)
- D02.3 Reciprocal licenses. The holder of a valid electrical license or certificate of
registration issued by a reciprocating city may apply for the grade of license comparable to that
which the applicant holds or has qualified for elsewhere without taking the written examination
given by the City's officially designated examining agency
The applicant for. a reciprocal license shall submit in person the following:
X. Reciprocal letter from the city,where the current license was issued. The date of the
reciprocal letter must be `vithin the effective date of the current home base license
required under item 2 of this subsection. Applicants for reciprocal licensees are
required to keep their home base license current and in good standing.
2. Copy of current license card showing expiration date and a valid picture ID
(Example: Drivers License, State ID, etc.)
Exception: An applicant holding a current Fort Worth reciprocal
Maintenance Electrician License, issued based upon a City of Dallas home base
license, may renew although Dallas has eliminated the Dallas Maintenance Electrical
License program.
3. Proof of insurance as required by Section D47
4 Certificate of Occupancy for the business address or a photo of place of business
showing company name and address of business.
5 A check for the first year license fee. If not approved, the check will be returned.
Make checks payable to City of h'ort'~Vorth
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
D02.4 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 issue a license to the applicant of the grade for
which certified.
Upon acquiring a Master or Master Sign license, 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 electrical licenses maybe
made to the Board.
D02.5 Yssuance/Transfer, No license shall be issued under the terms of this code to any
other than a natural person.
34
No license in effect, issued, or renewed under the terms of tlus code shall ever be
transferred to or used by any other person other than the one to whom the same is issued. Nor
shall a holder of a license allow his name or license to be used by any other person to obtain a
permit or to perform work under such license.
SECTION D03 -QUALIFYING EXPERIENCE
D03.1 General. To be qualified, an applicant for a license shall have passed a required
examination administered by the City's officially designated examining agency, or hold a
certificate of examination from an approved alternate examining agency, or hold a license or
certificate of registration from a reciprocating city, and have the minimum qualifications and
experience as listed in this section.
D03.2 -MASTER ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
1 Shall have had at least four (4) years expenence as a Journeyman Electrician in the
construction industry; or,
2. Shall be a graduate of a recognized Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training (a
division of the U.S Department of Labor) electrical trade school with a four (4) year
curriculum and have had at least rivo (2) years expenence as a Journeyman
Electrician, or,
3 Shall have graduated after ma~onng in electrical engineering from an accredited
college or university which has not less than a four (4) year cumculum and shall have
had at least one (1) year of practical electrical experience.
D03.3 -MASTER SIGN ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
1 Shall have had at least three (3) years expenence as a Journeyman Sign Electrician rn
the installation and/or manufacturing of electrical signs, exclusive of expenence
devoted to non-electrical components; or,
2. Shall have graduated after majoring in electrical engineering from an accredited
college or university which has not less than a four (4) year curriculum and shall have
had at least eighteen (18) months experience of practical electrical sign experience.
D03.4 -JOURNEYMAN ELECTRICIAL LICENSE
1 Shall have had at least four (4) years of electrical installation experience under a
Master Electrician in the electrical construction industry; or,
2 Shall be a graduate of a recognized Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training electrical
trade school with a four (4) year cumculum.
NOTE: A Journeyman Electrician may work in the capacity as a Residential Wireman
Electrician, Maintenance Electrician or Residential Maintenance Electrician.
D03.5 -JOURNEYMAN SIGN ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
35
1 Shall have at least three (3) years experience in the installation of electrical sign or
outline lighting equipment, exclusive of experience devoted to non-electrical
components such as enclosures; or,
2. Shall have had two (2) years college credit majoring in electrical engineering in an
accredited college or university; including completion o~that university or college
published curriculum for freshman and sophomore electncal engineering of electncal
engineering major; and shall have had at least eighteen (18) months experience of
practical electncal sign experience.
D03.6 -RESIDENTIAL WIRElY~AN ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
1 Shall have at least two (2) years experience in the installation of electncal equipment
in one- and two-family dwellings.
NOTE: The residential wireman electrician license restricts the holder of such licenses
to do electrical work in one- and two-family dwellings only.
D03.7 -MAINTENANCE ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
Shall have four (4) years experience in maintaining and repairing electncal apparatus
which ~s already installed. A certificate from an approved two (2) year service
maintenance training school may be deemed the equivalent of two (2) years
experience. Written documentation as to proof of experience and education shall be
required.
Exception: With approval of the code official of the City of Fort Worth, a
Maintenance Electrician Training License may be issued to training school graduates.
D03.8 -RESIDENTIAL MAINTENANCE ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
Shall have three (3) years experience in maintaining and repairing electncal
apparatus, on residential properties, which are already installed. A certificate from an
approved two (2) year service maintenance training school may be deemed the
equivalent of two (2) years experience. Written documentation as to proof of
experience and education shall be required.
Exception: Until July 1, 2002, existing residential maintenance electricians
who can show four (4) years experience, or a combination. of two (2) years experience
and two (2) years service maintenance training school, may obtain a license without
the taking of the exam.
SECTION D04 - EXPIRATION/RENEWAL
D04.1 General Any license issued under the terms of this Code shall expire January 1 of
35
each year unless the annual fee specified in Table D04 1 is paid. Each license renewal shall be
accompanied with a copy of a current valid picture ID Reciprocal renewals shall also be
accompanied with a copy of a current valid home base llcense.
(1\ote: 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 ne~v 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 fe~s.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 llcense within thirty (30) days after the expiration date shall be required to pay as a
renewal fee for such llcense the same amount as the fee for the first full year plus one half.
The holder of a Journeyman License, Journeyman Slgn Llcense, Residential Wireman
Licenses, Malntenance Llcense or Residential Malntenance License who fail's'to pay the annual
fee due for such license within thirty (30) days after the expiration date shall be required to pay
as a renewal fee for such license the same amount as the fee for the first full year plus a pena]ty
charge often dollars ($10 00)
TABLE D04 1.
Electrical License Fees
1. Annual licetrse fee1'l
Master electrician ... .. .
Master sign electrician .. .
Journeyman electncian ... .
Journeyman sign electncian . .
Residential wireman electrician
Maintenance electncian
Residential Maintenance electrician
2. Permit Master change of business
. ... $1fl0 00
... 10000
. 10 00
..... .. ... 10.00
.... 1000
.. .. .1000
. ... 1000
... .. ..$5000
~ Annual fee is due in full on the first day of January each year. Fees will not be pro rated for licenses taken out during the year.
(As staffing and resources allow, the Code Off cial may allow a renewal to be for up to two yeah 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 Ianuary 1 In order
to implement the program the Code Official may assign new expiration data to existing licenses and charge a pro-
rated renewal fee.)
= Failure to renew within 30 days after expiration shalt result in a penalty fee as specified in section D04.1.
37
SECTION DOS -LICENSE SUSPENDED, REPEALED OR REVOKED
DO5.1 General. A license or permit maybe 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 Plumbing, Mechanical, or Building
Codes or any other regulatory ordinances of the City applicable to the installation or
alteration of appliances, equipanent 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 penod that the license is in
violation of this chapter
D05.2 Work Suspension. tJpon suspension or revocation of said Master Electrician or
Master Sign Electncian License, same shall be null and void and no work thereafter maybe
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 Electncian license shall funush the code official with a wntten
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 electncal workers employed by him.
D06.2 Identification.
1 Joumeyman,Electricians, Journeyman Sign Electricians, Residential Wireman
Electncians, Maintenance Electrician and Residential Maintenance Electricians shall carry their
license and a valid picture ID on their person at all Mmes while performing electrical work, and
they shall produce and present such license or permit immediately upon request by an Electrical
38
Inspector
2. Each licensed Master Electncian and Master Sign Electncian shall have his company
name and his Electncian license number as follows. E , or approved Universal Number,
permanently affixed on each front door or fender of each truck or vehicle which said electrician
operates 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 Electncian or any one Licensed Master Sign Electncian. Such name and number shall not
be of the magnetic type.
SECTION D07 -INSURANCE
DO7.1 General. Each Master Electncian 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 Electncian or Master Sign Electncian 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 Electncians
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.
39
Chapter E
Approval of Reciprocating Cities
and Examining Agencies
SECTION E01-RECIPROCATING CITIES
E01.1 General. The Board may list other cities as approved Reciprocating Cities under
the following guidelmes•
1 The Board shall confirm that the electrician 1}cerise or certificate of registration issued
by another city is of a grade equal to that license for tivhich the applicant is applying.
2. The Board may adjust the years of training, education, work experience or required
period of experience after the issuance of the license from that city as necessary to
make the license or certificate match the grade of that being applied for
3 The Board may not require the city to test through a specific agency or organization
but will evaluate the test chosen by that city as to ~t being equivalent to the testing
standards used by the City of Fort Worth. "
SECTION E02 -EXAMINING AGENCIES
E02.1 Officially Designated Examining Agency. The City Council may authorize the
City Manager to contract with an examination agency to perform examination services for the
licensing of electricians, or the City Council may authorize the City Manager to contract with
other cities in the North Texas Region in the form of an Tnterlocal Cooperation Agreement
allowing the cities as a unit to contract for the services of an examining agency The selected
agency shall be the City's officially designated examining agency and shall perform all
examination services requested by the City when issuing electrical licenses.
E02.2 Alternate Examining Agencies. The code official shall be authorized to approve
those examining agencies whose certificates of examination will be accepted by the City in lieu
of the certificate of examination issued by the City's officially designated examining agency
Such agencies shall be known as alternate examining agencies.
It shall be the responsibility of the Board of the City of Fort Worth to review the
qualifications and testing standards of such agencies, and to submit its recommendation to the
code official, provided, however, that such recommendation shall be advisory only, and the final
decision as to approval of an alternate examining agency and the acceptance of its certificates of
examination shall be vested solely in the code official. The code official shall not approve an
examining agency which does not maintain examination standards at least equal to those
required by this code.
E02.3 Test Application. A person wishing to take a test for a license issued by the City
of Fort Worth shall file a written application with the City's officially designated examining
40
agency or alternate examining agency Such application shall be completed and filed in
accordance with the procedures prescribed by the examining agency
E02.4 Responsibilities of the Examining Agency. Examination fees, dates, times and
places of the examinations, procedures for administering the examinations, grading of the
examinations, examination security and examination site security, examination content,
notification of examination results, repeat examinations, and appeal of examination scores, shall
be the sole responsibility of the agency administering the examination.
41
CHAPTER F
REFERENCED STANDARDS
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 sltall be as specified in Section A02.8.
American National Standards Institute
ANSI I1 West 42nd Street
New York, NY 10036
Standard Referenced
reference In code
number Title 1 section number
221.83-98 Fuel Cell Power Plants. 1202.10
lntemational Code Council
5203 Leesburg Pike, Suite 708
Ice Falls Church, VA 22041
Standard Referenced
reference in code
number Title sectton number
IBC-2000 lntemational Building Code° 201.3, 303.1, 303.2, 901 7, 1202.3, 1202.6, 1202.7
IECC-2000 lntemational Energy Conservation CodeTN 201
3
1FGG-2000 lntemational Fuel Gas Code° .
201 .3,1202.9
IMC--2000 lntemational. Mechanical Code° 201.3, 1202.8,1202.8.1,1202.9
IFG-2000 lntemational Fire Code° 201.3, 1202.6, 1202.7, 1202.13,1202.14
IPA-2000 lntemational Plumbing Code° 201
3
IPSDC-2000 lntemational Private Sewage Disposal Code° .
201.3
IPMG-2000 lntemational Property Maintenance Code° 201.3,1203.1
IRC 2000 lntemational Residential CodeTM 201.3,1201 1.1
iZC--2000 lntemational Zoning CodeTM 201.3
National Fire Protection Association
NFPA Batterymarch Park
Quincy, MA 002269
Standard Referenced
reference in code
number Title section number
37-98 Installation and use of Stationary Combustion Engines and Gas Turbines. 1202
9
70-99 National Electrical Code. .
201.3
1201.1
1
110-99 Emergency and Standby Power systems. ,
.
1202
6
111-96 Stored Electrical Energy Emergency and Standby Power Systems. .
1202.6
Underwriters Laboratories
7 ~"j' 333 Pfingsten Road
V L Northbrook, iL 60062-2096
Standard Referenced
reference in code
number Title
section number
910-98 Test for Flame-Propagation and Smoke-Density Values for Electrical and Optical-fiber Cables Use
in SpaceTransporting Environmental Air. 1202.8
2043-96 Standard for Fire Test for Heat and visible Smoke Release for Discrete products and
Their Accessories Installed in Air-Handling Spaces. 1202 81
42
(c) The remaining Articles of the 1999 NEC are hereby amended as follows:
ARTICLE 100
*Article 100, "Scone" 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 listecl~,elsewhere in this code.
Interchangeability. Words used in the present dense 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 A of this article contains definitions intended to apply wherever the terms are used
throughout this code. Part B contains definitions applicable only to the parts of articles
specifically covenng installations and equipment operating over 600 volts, nominal.
*Article 100. Part A new deTnitions are added to read as follows
APPROVED AGENC'St. An established and recognized agency regularly engaged in
conducting tests or furnishing inspection services, where the agency has been approved by the
Code Official.
BUILDING CODE. Building Code shall mean the International Building Code as adopted by
this jurisdiction.
CODE OFFICIAL. The officer or other designated authority charged v~nth the administration
and enforcement of this code, or a duly authorized representative. For the purpose of this code,
the Code Official shall be the Buildin Official and his regularly authorized deputy shall be the
Chief Electrical Inspector ,
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
43
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 Code as adopted by this
~unsdiction.
FIRE PREVENTION CODE (FIRE CIODE). 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 Fzcel Gas Code as adopted by
this jurisdiction and shall be considered as part of the Plumbing Code. (See Plumbing Code.)
HAZARDOUS I..OCATION. (See Article 500-3) The location is not necessarily categorized
xn the International Building Code as ahigh-hazard use group classification.
MECHANICAL CODE. Mechanical Code shall mean the International'Mechanical Code as
adopted by this ~unsdnction.
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.
Not included in this definition are installations of chilled water piping m
connection with refrigeration, process and comfort cooling; hot water piping in
connection with building heating; and piping for fire protection 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, 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, water, liquids, or any combination of these, or dispose of waste
water or sewage.
44
PLUMBING CODE. Plumbing Code shall mean the litternational Plumbing Code and the
International Ftrel Gas Code as adopted by this ~unsdiction. The term "Plumbing Code" applies
to both codes as one combined code.
PLUMBING SYSTEM.
For the purpose of using the Inter~iational Plumbing Code, as adopted, shall mean.
Includes the water supply and distribution pipes, plumbing f xtures and traps,
water-treating or water-using equipment; soil, waste and vent pipes, and sanitary and
storm sewers and building drains, in addition to their respective connections, devices and
appurtenances within a structure or premise. ,
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, 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 setivage 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.
RESIDENDIAL CODE. Residential Code shall mean the 1'i~ternational Residential Code as
adopted by this~urisdiction.
ARTICLE 110
*Articles 110-60 through 110-79 added to read as ollows.
E. Electrical Requirements from Other Codes
110-60. Penetrations. Penetrations of walls, floors, ceilings and assemblies required to
have afire-resistive rating, shall be protected in accordance with the Building Code. Where
cables, conductors and raceways penetrate fireblocking or drafstopping, such penetrations shall
be protected by filling the annular space with an approved fireblocking material.
1.10-fit. [B] Cutting, notching and boring in wood framing. When permitted by the
Building Code, the T#e cutting, notching and boring of wood framing members shall comply
with the following:
d5
..
[B] 2308.8.2 Joist notching. Notches on the ends of joists shall not exceed one-fourth
the foist depth. Holes bored in joists shall not be within 2 inches (51 mrri) 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] 2308.9.10 Stud cutting and notching. In exterior walls and beanng 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 nonbeanng
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
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 0.625 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,
110-62. [B] Cutting, notching and boring in steel framing. The cutting, notching and
bonng of steel framing members shall comply with the following:
[B] Cutting, notching and boring holes in structural steel framing. The cutting,
notching and 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 ofload-beanng cold-formed steel framing members shall not be cut or notched. Holes in
webs ofload-beanng 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.
[Bj 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.
110-63. [FG] 309.1 Prohibited grounded electrode. Fuel gas piping shall not be used
as a grounding electrode.
110-64. (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
46
be maintained in accordance with the original approval.
110-65. [BJ 909.11 Smoke control systems. Smoke control systems required by the
Building Code or the Fire Code shall be supplied with t•vo 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 of not less than 1-hour fire-resistive-rated construction, 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
[BJ 909.11.1 Power sources and potiver 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] 909.12.2 Wiring. In addition to meeting the requirements of this code, all s-gnal
and control wiring for smoke control systems, regardless of voltage, shall be fully enclosed
within continuous raceways.
110-66. [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 1 S, and a flame spread not greater than 5
feet (1524 mm) when tested in accordance with UL 910 Only type OFNP (plenum-rated
nonconductive optical fiber cable) shall be installed in plemim-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.
[MJ 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 015 when tested in accordance
with UL 2043 Combustible electrical equipment shall be listed and labeled.
110-67 [MJ 915.2 Engine and gas turbine-potivered 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
47
110-68 [Mj 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 Z21 83
and shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
110-69 [M] 1006.8 Boiler control requirements. The power supply to the electrical
control system for boilers shall be from atwo-wire branch circuit that has a grounded conductor,
or from an isolation transformer with atwo-wire secondary Where an isolation transformer is
provided, one conductor of the secondary winding shall be grounded. Control voltage shall not
exceed 150 volts nominal, Iine to line. Control and limit devices shall interrupt the ungrounded
side of the circuit. A means of manually ~lisconnectmg 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 inithe off position and shall be provided
with ready access.
- 110-70 Vibration isolation. Where vibration isolation of equipment and appliances is
employed, an approved means of supplemental restraint shall be used to accomplish the support
and restraint.
110-'J1 Repair. Defective material or parts shall be replaced or repaired in such a manner
so as to preserve the original approval or listing.
110-72 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.
110-73 [BJ 1612.1 Flood hazard. For structures located m a special flood-hazard area,
electrical systems shall comply with the flood-resistant constnietion requirements of the Building
Code.
110-74 [B] F101.1 Rodent proofing. Buildings or structures and the walls enclosing
habitable or occupiable rooms and spaces in which persons live, sleep or work, or in which feed,
food or foodstuffs are stpred, prepared, processed, served or sold, shall be constructed to protect
against the entrance of rodents in accordance with the Building Code.
110-75 [BJ 1614.1 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.
110-76 [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.
48
110-77 [FJ 907.2.10.1 Smoke alarms. Single- ormultiple-station smoke alarms shall be
installed as described in Sections 907.2.101 1 through 907.2.10.3.
[FJ 907.2.10.1.1 Group R 1. Single- ormultiple-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 guestroom or suite.
3 In each story within the guestroom or suite, including basements. For guestrooms
or suites 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.
[FJ 907.2.10.1.2 Groups R-2, R-3, R-4 and I-1. Single-ormultiple-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.
3 In each story within a dwelling unit, including basements and cellars 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.
[FJ 907.2.10.1.3 Group I-1. Single- ormultiple-station smoke alarms shall be
installed and maintained in sleeping areas in occupancies in Group I-1 Single- or multiple-
stationsmoke alarms shall not be required where the building is equipped throughout with an
automatic fire detection system in accordance with the Fire Code, Section 907.2.6.
[FJ 907.2.10.1.4 Additions, alterations or repairs to Group R. 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 this section. Where one or more sleeping rooms are added or created in an
existing Group R, smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with this section.
Exception: Repairs to the exterior surfaces of occupancies in Group R are
exempt from the requirements of this section.
[FJ 907.2.10.2 Potiver source. In new construction, required smoke alarms shall
receive their primary power from the building winng where such wiring is served from a
commercial source and shall be equipped with a battery backup Smoke alarms shall emit a
49
signal when the batteries are low Wiring shall be permanent and without a disconnecting
switch other than as required for overcurrent protection.
Exceptions:
1 Smoke alarms are not required to be equipped with battery backup in Group R-1
where they are connected to an emergency electrical system.
2. Smoke alarms are~allowed to be solely battery operated in existing buildings,
buildings not served from a commercial power source and.in existing areas where
alterations or repairs regulated by Section 907.2.10.1 4 do not result m the
removal of interior wall or~eiling finishes exposing the structure, unless there is
an attic, crawl space or basement available which could provide access for
building wiring without the removal of interior finishes.
[F] 907.2.10.3 Interconnection. Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be
installed within an individual dwelling unit ~n Group R-2, R-3 or R-4, or within an individual
guestroom or suite 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 Smoke alarms that are permitted to be solely battery operated in accordance with
Section 907.2 14.2 are not required to be interconnected.
2. Smoke alarms in existing areas are not required to be interconnected where
alterations or repairs regulated by Section 907.2.10 1 4 do not result m 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.
Retroactive Smoke Detectors. Regardless of the date of occupancy, approved smoke
detectors shall be provided in accordance with the ordinance under which they were constructed,
or the following, whichever is more restrictive.
[B] 3425.1 General. Dwelling units, congregate residences, hotel or lodging house
guest rooms, or similar residential uses of R-1, R-2, R-3 or R-4 occupancies, that are used for
sleeping purposes shall be provided with smoke detectors maintained in operable condition.
Detectors shall be installed in accordance with the approved manufacturer's instructions and
as further specified in this section, in 3410.2, in the Minimum Building Standards Code and
in the Fire Code.
[B] 3425.2 Power Source. Smoke detectors may be battery operated or may receive
their primary power from the building wiring when such wiring is served from a commercial
source. Wirng shall be permanent and without disconnecting switches other than those
required for overcurrent protection.
50
[B] 3425.3 Location tivithin Dtivelling Units. Tn dwelling units, detectors shall be
mounted on the ceiling or wall at a point centrally-.located in the comdor or area giving
access to each separate sleeping area. Where sleeping rooms are on an upper level, the
detector shall be placed at the center of the ceiling directly above the stairway Detectors
shall also be installed in the basements of dwelling units having stairways that open from the
basement into the dwelling. Detectors shall sound an alarm audible.in all sleeping areas of
the dwelling unit in which they are located.
[B] 3425.4 Location in Efficiency Dwelling Units and Hotels. In efficiency
dwelling units, hotel suites and in hotel sleeping rooms, detectors shall be located on the
ceiling or wall of the main room or hotel sleeping room. When sleeping rooms within an
efficiency dwelling unit or hotel suite are on an upped level, the detector shall be placed at the
center of the ceiling directly above the stairway When actuated, the detector shall sound an
alarm audible within the sleeping area of the dwelling unit, hotel suite or sleeping room in
which it is located.
110-78 [B] 1003.2.10 Exit signs. Exit signs shall comply with Sections 1003.2.10.1
through 1003.2.10.5
1003.2.10.1 Where required. Exits and exit access doors shall be marked by an
approved exit sign readily visible from any direction of egress travel. Access to exits shall be
marked by readily visible exit signs m cases where the exit or the path of egress travel is not
immediately visible to the occupants. Exit sign placement shall be such that no point in an
exit access corridor is more than 100 feet (30 480 mm) from the nearest visible exit sign.
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 R-3 as applicable in Section
101.2, Group U, guestrooms in Group R-1, dwelling units in Group R-2 as
applicable in Section 101.2 and sleeping rooms.
4 Exit signs are not required in sleeping room areas in occupancies in Group I-3
5 In occupancies in Groups A-4 and A-5 that include grandstand seating
arrangements, 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.
1003.2.10.4 Exit sign illumination. Exit signs shall be internally or externally
illuminated. The face of an exit sign illuminated from an external source shall have an
intensity of not less than Sfoot-candles (541ux). Internally illuminated signs shall provide
equivalent luminance and be listed for the purpose.
51
Exceptions:
1 Approved self-luminous exit signs that provide evenly illuminated letters shall
have a minimum luminance of 0 06 foot-lamberts (0.21 cd/m 2 ).
•.; 2. Tactile signs required by Section 1003.2.10.3 need not be provided with
illumination.
1003.2.10.5 Potiver 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 exit signs shall be connected to an emergency electrical system provided from
storage batteries, unit equipment or art.,on-site generator The installation of the emergency
power system shall be in accordance with the ICC Electrical Code.
Exception: Approved exit signs 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.
110-79 Energy Code. When adopted, the electrical provision of the Energy Code shall
also apply
ARTICLE 220-36
*Article 220-36, add an interpretation to read as follows.
[This specification may apply to restaurants regarding_new occupancy new buildm s change of
occupancy in existin buildm or ups admQ existma buildings to new electrical load
requirements.
ARTICLE 230-2
*Article 230-2(a) add a special condition #6 to read as ollows.
~6) In suppl n}~ng electrical service to multifamily dwellings, two or more laterals or
overhead service drops shall be permitted to a building when both of the following conditions are
met:
a. The building has six or more individual gang meters and all meters are grouped at the
same location.
b. Each lateral or overhead service drop originates from the same point of service.
ARTICLE 230-71
*Article 230-71 U, add an exception to read as ollows.
52
Excentio~i: Multi-occupant Buildings ~ Individual service disconnecting means is limited
to six for each occuz~ant. The number of individual disconnects at one location may exceed six
ARTICLE 250-50
*Article 250-50, add a 1i th pa~raph after the exception to read as follotivs
Where a metal underground water Ape as described in item (a is not present a method
of ~roundmg as specified m (b through (d) below shall be used.
ARTICLE 250-104
*Section 250-104~(b), changed to read as follotivs.
"(b) Metal Gas Piping. Each interior ebevegreu~d portion of a metal gas piping system
upstream from the equipment shutoff valve shall be electrically continuous and bonded to the
grounding electrode system. The bondm~~umper shall be sized in accordance with Table 250-
122 using the rating of the circuit that may energize the gas Aping
ARTICLE 310-15
*Article 310-IS(b)(6) "120/240-Volt, 3-Wire, Single-Phase Dwelling Services and
Feeders", add a sentence to read as, ollows•
This Section shall not be used in contunction with Section 220-30.
ARTICLE 336-5
*Article 336-5(a)(1) add an exception to read as ollows.
Exceptio~i: An additional level shall be permitted in madtifamily dwellings where
the entire structure is protected throughout by an approved az~tomatic sprinkler system.
*Article 336-5(a), add a restriction #10 to read a~ollows.
53
X101 In non-residential metal frame structures
ARTICLE 600-10
*Article 600-10, changed anti expa~tded to 600-11 and 600-12 to read as ollows
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 si~r-s that are set on the exterior, usually but not alwa s in the
parking lot, limited in size as described m the Zoning and Sign Code some of which mauve
wheels installed to permit the towing behind a vehicle
600-11. 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 meet all of
the following.
(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-
faultcircuit interrupter shall be an integral part of the attachment plug or shall be located
in the power-supply cord within 12 in. (305 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, SPT-2, or heavier, as designated in Table 400-4
(2) The cord shall not exceed 15 ft (4.57 m) in length.
,600-12. Exterior,
~a) Exterior portable or mobile signs shall not be illuminated by any electncal source Those
suns equipped with an electrical cord shall have rt removed
Suns shall be adequately secured to prevent overturnin~by wind
54
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 ali 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,~xcept 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. 1X-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 (1986j, 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.
Tt 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
SS
enacted by the City Council without the incorporation in this ordinance of any such void,
ineffective, or unconstitutional phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph, or section.
SECTION 7
Any person, firm, or cozporation 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 nQ.l 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 1999 National Electrical Code, together with the local amendments
contained in this ordinance, shall be filed in the office of the City Secretary for permanent record
and inspection.
SECTION 10
The Department of Development 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
56
~,~~~
of Fprt Worth, Texas as authorized by Section 2, Chapter XXV of the Charter of the City of Fort
Worth, Texas and by Section 52.013 (a) of the Texas Local Government Code.
SECTION 12
This ordinance shall be in full force and effect July 1, 2001
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY
David Yett, City Attorney
By. ~~ ~~ttit OU/"
Assista City Attorney
Adopted.
~1
Effective: '
os-sz-o~
57
.a
`T
City of Fort Worth, Texas
~~u~a~~ un~ ~~unc;( C,anrtmun~cAt~an
DATE REFERENCE NUMBER LOG NAME PAGE
6/5/01 G-13262 06CODES 1 of 3
SUBJECT ESTABLISHING CONSTRUCTION RELATED CODES AND FEES BY ADOPTION OF
THE 2000 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE, THE 2000 INTERNATIONAL
MECHANICAL CODE, THE 2000 INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE, THE 2000
INTERNATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE, THE INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE,
THE 1999 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE, THE AMENDMENT OF THE SIGN CODE
TO INCLUDE 1999 NEC ELECTRICAL PROVISIONS, AND THE 2001
INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE. ALL WITH LOCAL AMENDMENTS
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council adopt the attached ordinances establishing construction related
codes and fees:
1 Adoption of the 2000 International Building Code (IBC), with local amendments, as the Building
Code of the City of Fort Worth, and
2 Adoption of the 2000 International Mechanical Code (IMC), with local amendments, as the
Mechanical Code of the City of Fort Worth, and
3 Adoption of the 2000 International Plumbing Code (IPC) and the 2000 International Fuel Gas Code
(IFGC), with local amendments, as the Plumbing Code of the City of Fort Worth, and
4 Adoption of the 2000 International Residential Code (IRC), with local amendments, as the
residential Code of the City of Fort Worth, and
5 Adoption of the 1999 National Electrical Code (NEC), with local amendments, as the Electrical Code
of the City of Fort Worth, and o
6 Adoption of an ordinance to amend the Sign Code with new electrical provisions included in the
1999 NEC, and r
7 Adoption of the 2000 International Fire Code (IFC), with local amendments, as the Fire Code of the
City of Fort Worth
DISCUSSION
Staff has been working with the North Central Texas Council of Governments (COG) over the past year
in preparation of adoption of the most current codes related to building construction Construction
codes,: ace..cd'nstantly changing with the development of new products, materials, and methods and
research performed in the building construction industry Updates to existing codes are reviewed and
voted on nationally on an annual basis. Every three years new sets of codes are published with the
cumulative annual changes incorporated The 2000 set of codes is the newly published set under
review at COG and by the Development and Fire Departments.
City of Font Worth, Texas
M,~Ayoe And cawncil Co~nmunicAtian
DA
6/5/01
E
G-13262
06CODES
PAGE
2 of 3
SUBJECT ESTABLISHING CONSTRUCTION RELATED CODES AND FEES BY ADOPTION OF
THE 2000 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE, THE 2000 INTERNATIONAL
MECHANICAL CODE, THE 2000 INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE, THE 2000
INTERNATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE, THE INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE,
THE 1999 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE, THE AMENDMENT OF THE SIGN CODE
TO INCLUDE 1999 NEC ELECTRICAL PROVISIONS, AND THE 2001
INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE. ALL WITH LOCAL AMENDMENTS
Movement to a single model code group started with a change in the Plumbing and Mechanical Codes
in 1997 This effort will be completed with this set of codes. Instead of just an updated version of the
same code, the City will actually be changing to a different code. The three model code groups,
International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO), Southern Building Code Congress International
(SBCCI) and Building Officials and Code Administrators International, Inc. (BOCA), have joined
together to produce one set of books, the International Code Additionally, the COG has supported this
movement to one set of code books in an effort to create common building construction standards
across the metropolitan area.
The transfer in the codes will be as follows
Current Codes
1997 Uniform Building Code
1996 and 1997 International Mechanical Code
1997 International Plumbing Code
1996 National Electrical Code
1997 Uniform Fire Code
Codes Under Review
20001nternational Building Code (IBC)
2000 International Residential Code (IRC)
(with IPC, IMC, NEC, IFGC and IECC)
2000 International Mechanical Code (IMC)
2000 International Plumbing Code (1PC)
2000 Intema#ional Fue{ Gas Code (IFGC)
1999 National Electrical Code (NEC)
2000 International Fire Code (IFC)
(Under Fire Dept authority)
During the code adoption process, each city has an opportunity to add local amendments to their
adoption One such .local amendment contained in the IBC deals with renovations to older buildings.
Chapter 34, Existing Buildings, of the IBC provides an objective method to score- an existing building
based on its original construction rating, the proposed use and the necessary improvements to ensure
the minimum life safety is in place. This chapter has been reviewed and recommended by the Central
City Redevelopment Committee Their recommendation includes applying these codes to .buildings 50
years old or older The attached ordinance covering the 2000 IBC includes Chapter 34
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City of Fort Worth, Texas
Aya~ and aunc~( C,ain~rtun~cAt~ian
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DATE REFERENCE NUMBER LOG NAME PAGE
6/5/01 G-13262 06CODES 3 of 3
suB~ECT . ESTABLISHING CONSTRUCTION RELATED CODES AND FEES BY ADOPTION OF
THE 2000 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE, THE 2000 INTERNATIONAL
MECHANICAL CODE, THE 2000 INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE, THE 2000
INTERNATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE, THE INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE,
THE 1999 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE, THE AMENDMENT OF THE SIGN CODE
TO INCLUDE 1999 NEC ELECTRICAL PROVISIONS, AND THE 2001
INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE, ALL WITH LOCAL AMENDMENTS
The adoption of the new IBC and IRC will, for the first time, separate the construction codes for
residential and commercial These new codes are more than just an upgrade from the current Uniform
Building Code The respective industries have been notified and training classes have been
implemented in preparation for these codes.
Included in the proposed building related ordinances (excluding Fire Code) are new fee tables that are
based upon square footage for new construction and new additions. The current fee table, based upon
dollar value of work, will continue to be used for remodel permits All of the fee tables have been
adjusted to implement a fee increase of 8% Also, the reduction for third party permit waivers are
proposed to be decreased from the current 90% to 80% In regard to third party services, the net value
of plans review services is established as 40% of the total permit fee The inspection services by the
same are being established as 60% of the permit fee. Changes in the calculation of fees, the increase
in permit fees and adjustment to the third party waiver amounts will enable the Development
Department to recover all direct and indirect costs related to the delivery of services of plans exam and
inspections.
Approval of the attached ordinances will establish an effective date of July 1, 2001, except for the
energy chapter of the IRC The adopfion of the energy chapter of the IRC and the proposed 2000
International Energy Code (commercial properties) is proposed by COG to take effect on January 1,
2002 Adoption of these energy provisions will be considered by the City Council at a later date
FISCAL INFORMATION/CERTIFICATION
The Finance Director certifies that this action will have no material effect on City funds.
MG k
Submitted for City Manager's FUND ACCOUNT CENTER AMOUNT CITY SECRETARY
Office by: (to)
~ROVEo
Mike Groomer 6140 ~ CITY COUNCIL
Originating Department Head:
JUN 5 2001
Bob Riley 8901 (from)
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Additional Information Contact:
Secrsttr~ of tlw
Cit
y
City of Fort Wott21, T~zat
Bob Riley 8901
~cated Ordinance No,~~gdopted Ordinance ho..~~!%~Adopted Ordinance No. ~~~
AdoptEd Ordnance i~o~~~
adopted Ordinance No.~~~~Adot~i~d ord+nance ~~~ ~;opt~d Ordinance t~~o,If~.