HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance 19607-03-2011ORDINANCE NO. 19607-03-2011
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FORT WORTH FIRE CODE, CITY CODE
CHAPTER 13, BY ADOPTING THE 2009 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE, WITH
LOCAL AMENDMENTS; PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF PERMITS AND THE
COLLECTION OF FEES THEREOF; PROVIDING FOR THE INSPECTION OF
BUILDINGS; PROVIDING PENALTIES FOR THE VIOLATION THEREOF;
PROVIDING THAT THIS ORDINANCE SHALL BE CUMULATIVE; PROVIDING
FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR A SAVINGS CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR
PUBLICATION IN PAMPHLET FORM; PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION IN THE
OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER; PROVIDING FOR ENGROSSMENT AND ENROLLMENT;
AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
FORT WORTH, TEXAS:
SECTION 1.
Section 13-1 of the Code of the City of Fort Worth (1986) is amended to read as follows:
Section 13-1.2009 EDITION OF THE INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE ADOPTED.
(a) Code. The Fire Code of the City of Fort Worth is hereby revised and amended to con-
form to the 2009 edition of the International Fire Code, of the International Code
Council, as amended hereby, and the same as amended hereby is hereby adopted as the
Fire Code of the City of Fort Worth from the effective date thereof.
(b) Appendices. The following provisions of the Appendices to the 2009 edition of the In-
ternational Fire Code, as amended hereby, are hereby specifically adopted as amended as
part of the Fire Code of the City of Fort Worth:
Appendix B - Fire Flow Requirements for Buildings
Appendix E - Hazard Categories
Appendix G - Cryogenic Fluids -Weight and Volume Equivalents
Appendix H - Commercial Inspections, Operational Permits and False Alarms
(local amendment)
Appendix I - Installation of Fire Service Features, Fire Protection Systems,
and Other Construction Permits (local amendment)
Appendix J - Mobile Home and Recreational Vehicle Parks (local amendment)
Appendix K - Mobile Fueling Permit Fees (local amendment)
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(c) One copy of the 2009 edition of the International Fire Code, including the Appendices
thereto, marked Exhibit "A," is incorporated herein by reference and shall be filed in the
office of the City Secretary for permanent record and inspection.
(d) Any errata corrections published by the International Code Council for the 2009
International Fire Code, as they are discovered, are considered as part of this code.
SECTION 2.
Section 13-2 of the Code of the City of Fort Worth (1986) is hereby amended to read as follows:
Sec. 13-2. Amendments.
(a) The 2009 edition of the International Fire Code, including the Appendices thereto (Exhibit
"A") is hereby amended as provided in this Section. One (1) copy of such amendments is spe-
cifically incorporated herein by reference and shall be filed in the office of the City Secretary for
permanent record and inspection.
(b) The 2009 edition of the International Fire Code is hereby amended by revising the following
sections as follows:
Chapter 1
ADMINISTRATION
SECTION 101
GENERAL
Section 101.1 -Change to read as follows:
101.1 These regulations shall be known as the Fire Code of the City of Fort Worth, hereinaf-
ter referred to as "this code."
SECTION 102
APPLICABILITY
Section 102.1 -Change Number 3. to read as follows:
3. Existing structures, facilities and conditions when required in Chapter 46 or in specific
sections of this code.
Section 102.3 -Change to read as follows:
Section 102.3 Change of use or occupancy. No change shall be made in the use or occupancy
of any structure that would place the structure in a different division of the same group of occu-
pancy or in a different group of occupancies, unless such structure is made to comply with the
requirements of this code, the Building Code and other codes as applicable. Subject to the ap-
proval of the code official, the use or occupancy of an existing structure shall be permitted to be
changed and the structure is allowed to be occupied for purposes in other ~-oups without con-
torming to all the requirements of this code; Building Code, and other applicable codes for those
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groups, provided the new or proposed use is less hazardous, based on life and fire risk, than the
existing use.
Section 102.4 -Change to read as follows:
102.4 Application of other codes. The design and construction of new structures shall comply
with this code, the Building Code, and other codes as applicable; and any alterations, additions,
changes in use or changes in structures required by this code which are within the scope of other
codes shall be made in accordance therewith.
Section 102.7 -Change to read as follows:
102.7 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall
be those that are listed in Chapter 47 and such codes, when specifically adopted, and standards
shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such
reference. Where differences occur between the provisions of this code and the referenced stan-
dards, 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. Any reference to NFPA 70 or the ICC Electrical Code shall
mean the Electrical Code as adopted.
SECTION 103
DEPARTMENT OF FIRE PREVENTION
Section 103.2 -Delete.
SECTION 104
GENERAL AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Section 104.6 -Change to read as follows:
104.6 Official records. The code official, as authorized, shall maintain official records as
required by this section for a minimum period of time as required by the laws of the State of
Texas.
SECTION 105
PERMITS
Section 105.1.1 -Change to read as follows:
105.1.1 Permits required. Permits required by this code shall be obtained from the fire
department. Permit fees shall be as defined in Appendix H and in Appendix I. Issued per-
mits shall be kept on the premises designated therein at all times and shall be readily avail-
able for inspection by the code official.
Section 105.1.4 -Add to read as follows:
105.1.4 Operational permit fees. A fee as specified in Appendix H, Inspection Sched-
ule and Procedures of Fire Inspection Permits and Fees, shall be charged for permits re-
quired by Section 105.6 or permit renewal. Operational permit fees shall be paid prior to is-
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suance of the permit. Any person, business owner, or manager who fails to pay the required
permit fees within aforty-five (45) day period from the statement date shall be guilty of a
misdemeanor and may be issued a citation as prescribed by the Fire Code. Each day that
the charges are delinquent shall constitute a separate offense.
Section 105.2 -Change to read as follows:
105.2 Application. Application for operational permit(s) shall be made to the fire department
in such form and detail as prescribed by the fire department.
Application for construction permit(s) shall be made to the fire department. For new build-
ings, the applicant shall be required to present the name and street address of the job site as
stated on the building permit and the information necessary for fee calculation. For existing
buildings, the applicant shall be required to present the name and street address of the job site as
stated on the current Certificate of Occupancy and the information necessary for fee calculation.
Plans need not be submitted at the time of application.
Section 105.3.1 -Change to read as follows:
105.3.1 Expiration. An operational permit shall remain in effect until reissued, re-
newed, or revoked or for such a period of time as specified in the permit.
When the building official has deemed that a building permit application has been
abandoned, the construction permits required by Section 105.7 and issued by the fire de-
partment for that building permit will become void and invalid. Construction permits shall
expire one hundred eighty (180) days after the estimated completion date provided at time
of application.
Section 105.3.3 -Delete.
Section 105.3.4 -Delete.
Section 105.4 -Change to read as follows:
105.4 Construction documents. Construction documents for fire protection systems shall be
in accordance with this section.
105.4.1 Submittals. Construction documents and supporting data shall be submitted
with each application for a permit and in such form and detail as required by the fire code
official. With regards to fire protection systems, submittals are required for the following:
Fire sprinkler systems with one (1) or more sprinklers installed for new systems
or any special hazard.
Exception: Fire sprinkler systems with less than twenty (20) sprinklers
installed for a tenant finish (add/relocate).
2. Fire alarm systems with one (1) or more devices installed for new systems of any
kind.
Exception: Fire alarm systems with less than five (5) devices installed for
a tenant tnish or renovation on an existing system.
Page 4
3. Underground fire mains for all private underground fire mains serving, or with the
intent to serve, private fire hydrants or fire protection systems.
4. Alternative fire extinguishing systems with one (1) or more nozzles installed.
5. Standpipe systems with one (1) or more risers installed.
6. Smoke control or exhaust systems.
7. Electronic access control systems.
8. Kitchen hood extinguishing systems.
9. Radio coverage equipment/systems for compliance with Section 510.
Section 105.4.1.1 -Delete.
Section 105. S -Add to bottom of list to read as follows:
8. The installer or contractor has failed to make reasonable progress on work for
which a construction certificate previously has been issued.
9. A permit holder has failed to pay all prior fees assessed in accordance with Ap-
pendix I.
10. Any of the provisions set forth in Appendix I have been violated.
Section 105.6.4 -Carnivals and Fairs -Delete.
Section 105.6.9 -Covered Mall Buildings -Delete.
Section 105.6.12 -Dry Cleaning Plants -Delete.
Section 105.6.13 -Exhibits or Trade Shows -Delete.
Section 105.6.1 S -Fire Hydrants and Valves -Delete.
Section 105.6.27- Change to read as,follows:
105.6.27 LP Gas. An operational permit shall be required for the storage and use of LP-
Gas.
Exceptions:
1. An operational permit is not required for individual containers with a five
hundred (500) gallon (1893 L) water capacity or less serving occupancies
in Group R-3.
2. An operational permit is not required for temporary use of individual con-
tainers with one hundred twenty-five (125) gallon (473 L) water capacity
or less.
Page 5
Section 105.6.30 -Change to read as follows:
105.6.30 Trench burning. An operational permit shall be required for all trench burning
and such burning shall be conducted in accordance with Section 307.
Section 105.6.34 -Add an Exception to read as follows:
Exception: Churches and places of worship used solely for worship.
Section 105.6.38 -Delete.
Section 105.6.47 -Add to read as follows:
105.6.47 Special operational permit. The fire code official is authorized to require and
issue a special operational permit for any operation not listed elsewhere in this section if
it is determined by the fire code official that an operation has the potential for presenting
a hazardous condition and should continue only with the ability to track and monitor the
situation that a permit will provide.
Section 105.6.48- Add to read as follows:
105.6.48 Mobile fueling. A separate permit is required for each mobile refueling appa-
ratus utilized for the purpose of transferring fuel in accordance with this section. A sepa-
rate permit is required for each site where mobile refueling operations take place in ac-
cordance with this section. Notwithstanding the requirements set out in Section 105, the
fees for mobile refueling permits are as set forth in Appendix K.
Section 105.7 -Change to read as follows:
105.7 Required construction permits. The code official is authorized to issue permits for
work as set forth in Sections 105.7.1 through 105.7.17. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm,
or corporation to perform installation or modification of any fire protection system or access con-
trol system without first having obtained a permit from the fire department. Permits for fire pro-
tection systems shall only be issued to fire protection system contractors in accordance with Ap-
pendix Iand as required by state law. Permits shall not be required for maintenance.
Exception: Permits shall not be required for installation of tenant finish (add/relocate)
of fire sprinkler systems when not more than ten (10) sprinklers are installed or relo-
cated for tenant finish only. This does not apply to fire sprinkler system installations for
new systems, additions, or special systems, such as for a spray paint booth or industrial
oven.
Section 105.7.1 S -Add to read as follows:
105.7.15 Underground fire mains. A construction permit is required for the installation
or modification of a private underground water main that supplies a fire protection system.
This includes underground piping that serves both fire and domestic purposes (such as to
an apartment building sprinkler system). A separate permit is required for each contractor.
Each permit will specifically describe the underground fire main installation or modifica-
Page 6
tion. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered a modification
and does not require a permit.
Section IOS. 7.16 -Add to read as follows:
105.7.16 Smoke control or exhaust systems. Construction permits are required for
smoke control or exhaust systems as specified in Section 909 and Section 910 respectively.
Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered a modification and
does not require a permit.
Section 105.7.17 -Add to read as follows:
105.7.17 Electronic access control systems. Construction permits are required for the in-
stallation or modification of an electronic access control system, as specified in Section 503
and Section 1008. A separate construction permit is required for the installation or modifi-
cation of a fire alarm system that may be connected to the access control system. Mainte-
nance performed in accordance with this code is not considered a modification and does
not require a permit.
Section 105.7.18 -Add to read as follows:
105.7.18 Emergency responder radio coverage equipment. Construction permits are
required for the installation or modification of emergency responder radio coverage equip-
ment, as specified in Section 510 and Appendix L of this code. Maintenance performed in
accordance with this code is not considered a modification and does not require a permit.
SECTION 106
INSPECTIONS
Section 106.2.3 -Add to read as follows:
106.2.3 Certificate of fire inspection. A valid fire inspection certificate is required for
commercial occupancies per the conditions specified in Appendix H.
Section 106.2.4 -Add to read as follows:
106.2.4 Penalty. Fire inspection fees shall be paid prior to issuance of a certificate of fire
inspection. Any person, business owner, or manager who fails to pay the required inspec-
tion fees within aforty-five (45) day period from the statement date shall be guilty of a
misdemeanor and may be issued a citation as prescribed by Section 109.3.
Page 7
SECTION 108
BOARD OF APPEALS
Section 108.1 -Change to read as follows:
108.1 Board of Appeals. The Construction and Fire Prevention Board of Appeals shall act
on fire code related matters commensurate with the provisions of the Fort Worth Build-
ing Code. Applications for appeals shall be made to the Construction and Fire Preven-
tion 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.
Section 108.2 -Delete.
Section 108.3 -Delete.
SECTION 109
VIOLATIONS
Section 109.3 -Change to read as follows:
109.3 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.
SECTION 111
STOP WORK ORDER
Section 111.4 -Change as follows:
111.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served
with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a viola-
tion or unsafe condition, shall be liable to a fine of not more than Two Thousand Dollars
($2,000.00).
Page 8
Chapter 2
DEFINITIONS
SECTION 202
GENERAL DEFINITIONS
Section 202 -Add or change the following definitions to read as follows:
[B] AMBULATORY HEALTH CARE FACILITY. Buildings or portions thereof used to
provide medical, surgical, psychiatric, nursing or similar care on a less than 24-hour basis to in-
dividuals who are rendered incapable of self-preservation. The definition shall include but not
be limited to:
- Dialysis centers
- Sedation dentistry (render the patient incapable of self preservation for dental care or
cleaning)
- Surgery Centers (Day Surgery, Oral Surgery, Cosmetic surgery, Eye surgery, etc.)
- Colonic centers
-Psychiatric centers
[B] ATRIUM. An opening connecting three or more stories other than enclosed stairways, ele-
vators, hoistways, escalators, plumbing, electrical, air-conditioning or other equipment, which is
closed at the top and not defined as a mall. Stories, as used in this definition, do not include bal-
conies within assembly groups or mezzanines that comply with Section 505 of the Building
Code. For openings connecting two floor levels, see Section 708.2, exception 7 of the Building
Code.
[B] ATTIC. The space between the ceiling beams of the top story and the roof rafters. The in-
stallation of decking, other than the minimum decking required for equipment access and main-
tenance, shall be considered another floor.
BUILDING CODE. Building Code shall mean the International Building Code as adopted by
this jurisdiction.
[B] Business Group B. {Change and add the following occupancies to this definition}
Educational occupancies above the 12th grade with less than 50 occupants per room
Fire stations
Food processing establishments with less than 50 occupants
Non-accessory assembly use, building or individual tenant space, used for assembly pur-
poses by less than 50 persons.
Police stations (includes an area to confine or restrain up to five individuals)
Religious educational rooms (Sunday School classrooms), used by less than 50 persons
per room for not more than four hours per day of religious observance.
Training and skill development not within a school or academic program with an occu-
pant load less than 50.
High-hazard Group H-2. {Add the,following occupancies to this definition}
Aircraft paint hangars, in accordance with Section 412.6 of the Building Code.
~B~ Group I-1. {Add the follox~ing occupancies to this definition;
Group Home II as defined in the Zoning Code
Page 9
Orphanage for children over 2 'h years of age
State of Texas, Type A (Large facility) Assisted Living
State of Texas, Boarding home facility with more than 16 residents, excluding staff
Foster home with more than 16 care recipients, exclusive of the primary family
[B] Group I-2. {Add the following occupancies to this definition}
State of Texas, Type B (Large & Small facility) Assisted Living
State of Texas, Special Care Facility
Orphanage for children under 2 %2 years of age
Foster home for more than five children 2 '/2 years of age or less, exclusive of the primary
family
All I-1 and Group R uses, not regulated by the IRC, in which the occupants are not capa-
ble of responding to an emergency situation without physical assistance from staff.
[B] Group I-4. {Change the following part of this definition}
Adult care facility. A facility that provides accommodations for less than 24 hours for more
than five unrelated adults and provides supervision and personal care services shall be classi-
fied as Group I-4. This classification shall include Day Habilitation uses.
Exception: A facility where occupants are capable of responding to an emergency situa-
tion without physical assistance from the staff shall be classified as Group A-3, or Group
B when less than 50 persons. Written confirmation may be required to qualify for this ex-
ception and provisions so stating added to the Certificate of Occupancy.
[B] R-1. {Add the following occupancies to this definition}
Bed and Breakfast Inn as defined in the Zoning Code
[B] R-2. {Add the following occupancies to this definition}
Boarding House (inclusive of Lodging House) as defined in the Zoning Code
State of Texas, Type E (Large facility) Assisted Living
Townhouse Apartments
[B] R-3. {Add the following occupancies to this definition}
Bed and Breakfast Home as defined in the Zoning Code
State of Texas, Boarding home facility with not more than 5 residents, excluding staff
[B] R-3. {Change the following part of this definition}
Adult care and child care facilities with five or fewer persons that are within asingle-
familyhome are permitted to comply with the International Residential Code.
This use shall include not more than two dwelling units that are an attached part of an-
other use, e.g. caretaker unit for self-storage facility, residence over a commercial busi-
ness, etc. Unless in separate detached one- or two-family structures, structures with three
or more dwelling units on a single property shall constitute a Group R-2 apartment or
Townhouse Apartment regardless of whether divided by fire walls or party walls.
[B] R-4. {Add the, following occupancies to this definition}
Community Home as defined in the Zoning Code.
Group Home I as defined in the Zoning Code
State of Texas, Type A (Small facility) Assisted Living
Page 10
State of Texas, Type E (Small facility) Assisted Living
State of Texas, Boarding home facility with more than 5 but not more than 16 residents,
excluding staff
Foster home with more than 5 but not more than 16 care recipients, exclusive of the pri-
mary family
[B] CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY. A change in the purpose or level of activity within a build-
ing that involves a change in application of the requirements of this code. The definition shall
also apply to usage of the surrounding site and access to and from the building, structure or site,
as necessary to achieve the purpose of this code, and to obtain compliance with other codes and
ordinances of this jurisdiction.
ELECTRICAL CODE. Electrical Code shall mean the National Electrical Code as adopted by
this jurisdiction. For the purposes of this code, all references to NFPA 70 and the ICC Electrical
Code shall be assumed to mean the Electrical Code as defined herein.
ENERGY CODE. Energy Code shall mean the International Energy Code as adopted by this
jurisdiction.
FIRE PREVENTION CODE (FIRE CODE). Fire Prevention Code, or Fire Code, shall mean
the International Fire Code as adopted by this jurisdiction.
FUEL GAS CODE. Fuel Gas Code shall mean the International Fuel Gas Code as adopted by
this jurisdiction and shall be considered as part of the Plumbing Code. (See Plumbing Code.)
HIGH-RISE BUILDING. A building having floors used for human occupancy located more
than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
MECHANICAL CODE. Mechanical Code shall mean the International Mechanical Code as
adopted by this jurisdiction.
PLUMBING CODE. Plumbing Code shall mean the International Plumbing Code and the In-
ternational Fuel Gas Code as adopted by this jurisdiction. The term "Plumbing Code" applies to
both codes as one (1) combined code.
RESIDENTIAL CODE. Residential Code shall mean the International Residential Code as
adopted by this jurisdiction.
SELF-SERVICE STORAGE FACILITY. Real property designed and used for the purpose of
renting or leasing individual storage and removing personal property on aself-service basis.
Page 11
Chapter 3
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS AGAINST FIRE
SECTION 307
OPEN BURNING
Section 307.1 -Change to read as follows:
307.1 Open burning. It shall be unlawful to burn or cause to be burned any combustibles
including uncut grass, weeds, timber, rubbish, leaves, or other natural or synthetic materials on
any street, alley, lot, or premises. Such prohibited fires shall include bonfires and fires used for
ceremonial purposes.
Exceptions:
1. Burning may be conducted for purposes of cooking or heating in a device desig-
nated for such purpose by the manufacturer, in accordance with applicable sec-
tions of this code. Fuel shall be limited to seasoned wood and charcoal. Incinera-
tors shall comply with Section 603.8.
2. When approved by the fire code official, burning within an approved trench
burner may be permitted provided a standby firefighter is present if required by
the code official. A permit shall be acquired as specified in Section 307.2.2 and
approved safety measures shall be employed.
3. When approved by the fire code official via Special Operational Permit fora cer-
tain time period and along with any applicable safety precautions established by
the fire code official.
Section 307.2 -Change to read as follows:
307.2 Trench burns. Trench burns shall be conducted in air curtain trenches, in accordance
with this section, or as required by the fire code official.
Section 307.2.1 -Change to read as follows:
307.2.1 Attendance. Trench burns shall be constantly attended until the fire is extin-
guished. Aminimum of one (1) portable fire extinguisher complying with Section 906 with
a minimum 4-A rating or other approved on site fire-extinguishing equipment, such as dirt,
sand, water barrel, garden hose or water truck, shall be available for immediate utilization.
Section 307.2.2 -Add to read as follows:
307.2.2 Permit required. A permit shall be obtained from the fire code official in accor-
dance with Section 105.6 prior to trench burning. Application for such approval shall only
be presented by and permits issued to the representative or the owner of the land upon
which the trench burn is to be kindled.
Examples of state or local law, or regulations referenced elsewhere in this section
may include but not be limited to the following:
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) guidelines and/or
restrictions.
Page 12
2. State, county or local temporary or permanent bans on open burning.
3. Local written policies as established by the fire code official.
Section 307.2.3 -Add to read as follows:
307.2.3 Location. The location for trench burning shall not be less than three hundred
(300) feet from any structure and three hundred (300) feet from any property line, or as
approved by the fire code official. Burning material shall be separated from any vegeta-
tion by a minimum fire break of fifty (50) feet.
Section 307.4 -Change to read as follows:
307.4 Outdoor fireplaces. Permanent outdoor fireplaces or firepits constructed of noncombus-
tible materials shall be located a minimum of fifteen (15) feet from a structure or shall meet the
requirements of the Building Code as an indoor fireplace. Such devices shall comply with the
Building Code via an approved Building Permit.
Section 307.4.1- Change to read as follows:
307.4.1 Portable outdoor fireplaces. Portable outdoor fireplaces shall be used in accor-
dance with the manufacturer's instructions and shall not be operated within fifteen (15)
feet (3048 mm) of a structure or combustible material.
Exceptions:
1. Portable outdoor fireplaces used at one- and two-family dwellings.
2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an approved auto-
matic sprinkler system.
Section 307.4.2 -Delete.
Section 307.4.3 -Delete.
Section 307.5 -Delete.
SECTION 308
OPEN FLAMES
Section 308.1.4 -Change to read as follows:
308.1.4 Open-flame cooking devices. Open-flame cooking devices, charcoal grills and
other similar devices used for cooking shall not be located or used on combustible balco-
nies, decks, or within ten (10) feet (3048 mm) of combustible construction.
Exceptions:
1. One- and two-family dwellings.
2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an approved
automatic fire sprinkler system.
3. LP-gas cooking devices having LP-gas container with a water capacity
not greater than 2 '/z pounds [nominal 1 pound (0.454 kg) LP-gas ca-
pacity].
Page 13
Section 308.1.6.2 -Change Exception Number 3. to read as follows
3. Torches or flame-producing devices in accordance with Section 308.1.3.
Section 308.3.1 -Change Number S to read as follows:
5. The flame must be completely enclosed, except where openings on the side for air
supply are not more than 0.375 inch diameter. The candle must be located in the
holder so that there is a minimum of 2 inches between the top of the flame and any
combustible material that might be placed on top of the holder.
SECTION 311
VACANT PREMISES
Section 311.4 -Change to read as follows:
311.4 Removal of combustible and hazardous materials. Upon vacating or abandoning
any premises, the owner and occupant thereof shall be jointly and severally responsible for re-
moving any and all noxious and hazardous material or waste matter which has been deposited,
allowed to come to rest, or permitted to accumulate thereon, and such premises shall be left in a
clean and neat condition.
When the fire department initiates removal of such materials described in this section, the
owner and occupant shall be liable for any and all expenses accrued for this service.
Exception: This section shall not apply to materials in heating, air-conditioning, and re-
frigeration systems installed in accordance with Chapter 6 or exempted herein.
Section 311.5 -Change to read as follows:
311.5 Placards. The fire code official is authorized to require marking of any vacant or aban-
doned buildings or structures determined to be unsafe pursuant to Section 110 of this code relat-
ing to structural or interior hazards, as required by Section 311.5.1 through 311.5.5.
SECTION 315
MISCELLANEOUS COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS STORAGE
Section 315.3.3 -Add to read as follows:
315.3.3 Agricultural products and combustible fibers. The outdoor storage of hay,
straw, combustible fibers or other similar product within 50 feet of a building or other
combustible storage is prohibited. All exposed surfaces of such agricultural product storage
shall be covered by a tarpaulin or similar cover which has been rendered flame retardant.
Page 14
Section 318 -Add to read as follows:
SECTION 318
REMOVAL OF DEBRIS OR PARTIALLY BURNED BUILDING
AFTER A FIRE
318.1 Removal of debris or partially burned building after a fire. The owner or person
having under his control or in his possession upon any- premises any hay, straw, bales of wool,
cotton, paper, or other substances which have been rendered useless or unmarketable by reason
of any fire on such premises, or any debris resulting from such fire shall remove the same from
such premises within forty-eight hours after notice to do so has been given by the code official.
318.2 Burned or partially burned structure. Whenever any building or other structure is
partially burned, the owner thereof or the person in charge or control thereof, within ten (10)
days after notice from the code official, shall remove from the premises all refuse, debris,
charred and partially burned lumber, and material. If such building or other structure is burned to
such an extent that it is rendered incapable of being repaired, the owner of the property upon
which same is located or the person in control thereof, within ten (10) days after notice from the
code official, shall remove from the premises all of the remaining portion of the building or
structure.
Chapter 4
EMERGENCY PLANNING AND PREPAREDNESS
SECTION 401
GENERAL
Section 401.3 -Change to read as follows:
401.3 Reporting of emergencies and false alarms. In the event of a fire or discovery of a
fire, smoke, or unauthorized release of flammable or hazardous materials on any property, the
owner or occupant shall immediately report such condition to the fire department. The code offi-
cial shall be immediately notified when an unauthorized discharge becomes reportable under
state, federal, or local regulations.
Provisions shall be made for controlling and mitigating unauthorized discharges. Any
person, firm, or corporation responsible for any unauthorized discharge shall institute and com-
plete all actions necessary to remedy the effects of such unauthorized discharge, whether sudden
or gradual, at no cost to the City of Fort Worth. When deemed necessary by the code official,
clean-up maybe initiated by the fire department or by an authorized individual or firm. All costs
associated with such clean-up shall be borne by the owner, operator, or other person responsible
for the unauthorized discharge. Reference Section 2703.3 (Release of Hazardous Materials).
Section 401.5 -Add sentence to read as follows:
Reference Section H 105 with regard to fees for false alarms.
Page 15
Section 404.3.3.1 -Change to read as follows:
404.3.3.1 Lockdown plan contents. Lockdown plans shall be submitted to the fire code official
and shall include the type and arrangement of security devices to be utilized, as well as the fol-
lowing:
{No change to remainder of section.}
Chapter 5
FIRE SERVICE FEATURES
SECTION 501
GENERAL
Section 501.4 -Change to read as follows:
501.4 Timing of installation. When fire access roadways, fire lanes, and fire hydrants are
required to be installed for any structure or development, they shall be installed, tested, and ap-
proved prior to the time of which construction has progressed beyond completion of the founda-
tion of any structure, unless otherwise approved by the fire code official. Reference Section
503.2.3 (Surface).
SECTION 502
DEFINITIONS
.Add definition to read as follows:
PRIVATE FIRE SERVICE MAIN. Private fire service main, also known as underground fire
main, is that pipe and its appurtenances on private property:
1. Between a source of water and the base of the riser for water-based fire protection
systems.
2. Between a source of water and inlets to foam making systems.
3. Between a source of water and the base of private hydrants or monitor nozzles.
4. Used as fire pump suction and discharge piping.
5. Beginning at the inlet side of the check valve on a gravity or pressure tank.
SECTION 503
FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS
Section 503.1.1 -Add the_ following sentence to the first paragraph as follows:
Except for one- or two-family dwellings, the path of measurement shall be along a mini-
mum of a five (5) feet wide unobstructed pathway around the external walls of the struc-
ture. {This is a measurement tool for establishing fire apparatus access road location re-
quirements - it is not a requirement to set buildings a minimum distance from a property
line or other structure.}
Page 16
Section 503.1.2.1 -Add to read as follows:
503.1.2.1 Remoteness. Where two fire apparatus access roads are required, they shall be
placed a distance apart equal to not less than one half of the length of the maximum overall
diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served, measured in a straight line be-
tween accesses. The fire code official is authorized to approve a reduced remoteness di-
mension, based on topography, flood plains, intervening structures or properties, etc.
Exception: One- or two-family dwelling and multiple-family residential
developments.
Section 503.1.4 through 503.1.8 -Add to read as follows:
503.1.4 Buildings more than 55 feet in height. A building where the topmost occupied
floor level is more than fifty-five (55) feet in height above the lowest level of fire depart-
ment vehicle access shall be accessible by a public street or fire apparatus access road that
is not less than fifteen (15) feet nor more than twenty-five (25) feet from the inside curb to
the building face along at least one-half of the length of two sides of the building. Such tall
buildings shall also be provided with two separate and approved fire apparatus access
roads.
503.1.5 Hazardous materials. The fire code official is authorized to require more than
one fire apparatus access road based on the existence of a Group H occupancy or facility,
hazardous materials storage, tank farms, or other hazardous operations that might affect fire
department access.
503.1.6 One- or two-family dwelling residential developments. Developments of one-
or two-family dwellings where the number of dwelling units exceed thirty (30) units shall
be provided with at least two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads.
Exception: The number of dwelling units on a single fire apparatus access road shall
be allowed to increase to forty (40) if the development will connect to future devel-
opments as determined by the fire code official.
503.1.7 Multiple-family residential developments. Multiple-family residential projects
having more than one hundred (100) dwelling units shall be provided with at least two
separate and approved fire apparatus access roads.
503.1.8 Group E. All Group E occupancies shall be provided with at least two separate
and approved fire apparatus access roads.
Section 503.2.1 -Change to read as_follows:
503.2.1 Dimensions. The minimum unobstructed width of a fire lane shall not be less
than twenty (20) feet, except in multi-family complexes, where the minimum shall not be
less than twenty-six (26) feet, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than four-
teen (14) feet.
Page 17
Section 503.2.3 -Change to read as follows:
503.2.3 Surface. Fire lanes shall be designated and maintained to support a twelve
thousand five hundred (12,500) pound wheel loading. The surface shall be designed to pro-
vide all-weather driving capability and constructed of asphalt or concrete, unless otherwise
approved by the fire code official. When approved by the fire code official, other surfaces
may be utilized for the purpose of vertical construction to accommodate the requirements
of Section 501.4 (Timing of Installation) with signed/sealed design by a Licensed Profes-
sional Civil Engineer in the State of Texas indicating compliance with all Fort Worth Fire
Code requirements for Fire Department Apparatus Access Roads.
Section 503.2.4 -Change to read as follows:
503.2.4 Turning radius. The minimum inside turning radius shall be twenty-five (25)
feet, and the minimum outside radius shall be either fifty-one (51) feet in multi-family
complexes or forty-five (45) feet otherwise.
Section 503.2.5 -Change to read as follows:
503.2.5 Dead ends. All dead-end fire lanes in excess of one hundred fifty (150) feet in
length shall be provided with a turnaround meeting the requirements of Figure 503.2.5. The
cul-de-sac design shall be used unless the code official permits the use of alternate designs.
Figure 503.2.5*
o'
s0' II ~-
25'R
50' 25'R 25'R
~ ~ 20'
50' 5'R
*Reference Sections 503.2.1 and 4 with regards to required widths and radii.
Page 18
Section 503.2.7 -Change to read as follows:
503.2.7 Grade. Grade incline of fire lanes in any direction shall not exceed six (6) per-
cent. The fire code official shall have the authority to approve an increase in the grade
incline up to ten (10) percent when adequate justification is presented, such as topog-
raphical constraints.
Exception: When such portions of the fire lane are not potentially necessary for
aerial operations of any kind and when approved by the fire code official.
Section 503.3 -Change to read as follows:
503.3 Marking. Approved striping or signs shall be provided and maintained for fire appara-
tus roads to identify such roads and prohibit the obstruction thereof. Signs and striping shall be
maintained in a clean and legible condition at all times and be replaced or repaired when neces-
sary to provide adequate visibility.
1. Striping. Fire apparatus access roads shall be marked by painted lines of red traf-
fic paint six (6) inches in width to show the boundaries of the lane. The words
"NO PARKING FIRE LANE" shall appear in four (4) inch white letters at
twenty-five (25) foot feet intervals on the red border markings along both sides of
the fire lane. Where a curb is available, the striping shall be on the vertical face of
the curb. See Figure 503.1.
2. Signs. Shall read "NO PARKING FIRE LANE" and shall be twelve (12) inches
wide and eighteen (18) inches high with a companion sign twelve (12) inches
wide and six (6) inches high stating "TOW AWAY ZONE." Signs shall be
painted on a white background with letters and borders in red, using not less than
two (2) inch lettering. Signs shall be permanently affixed to a stationary post and
the bottom of the sign shall be six (6) feet, six (6) inches above finished grade.
Signs shall be spaced not more than fifty (50) feet apart along both sides of the
fire lane. Signs may be installed on permanent buildings or walls or as approved
by the code official.
Figure 503.1
CORRECT II
Page 19
Section 503.4 -Change to read as follows:
503.4 Obstruction of fire apparatus access roads. Fire apparatus access roads shall not be
obstructed in any manner, including the parking of vehicles. The minimum widths and clear-
ances established in Section 503.2.1 and any area marked as a fire lane as described in Section
503.3 shall be maintained at all times.
Section 503.6 -Change to read as follows:
503.6 Security gates. Except as prohibited by other ordinances, the installation of security
gates that restrict fire department access to a property or access to the fire apparatus access road
require approval by the fire code official. Where security gates are installed, an approved means
of emergency operation is required. The security gates and approved means of emergency opera-
tion shall be maintained operational at all times. Electric gate operators, where provided, shall
be listed in accordance with UL 325. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed,
constructed and installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM F 2200
503.6.1 Manual Gates. Manually operated gates shall have an approved lock installed to
allow fire department access. A hold-open device shall be installed, such that the gate will
remain in the open position until manually released to close.
503.6.2 Electric Gates. Electrically operated gates shall be operated with an approved
key switch. The key switch shall be installed on the column or post near the electrical con-
trol box (preferably on the right hand side). When the key switch is operated, the gate shall
remain in the open position until manually reset. A mechanical manual release or a "fail
safe" gate operating mechanism shall be provided for electrically operated gates in case of
power failure.
Electric gate operators shall be listed in accordance with UL 325. Gates intended for
automatic operation shall be designed, constructed and installed to comply with the re-
quirements of ASTM F 2200.
An Access Control Permit from the fire department is required for electrically operated
gates. For multi-family occupancies where gates are provided that obstruct fire apparatus
access roads, at least one gate shall be electric and comply with the requirements of this
section.
503.6.3 Dimensions. All gates crossing fire apparatus access roads shall have a minimum
twenty (20) feet clear width when opened.
503.6.4 Existing gates. All manual gates restricting fire department access that are locked
shall comply with Section 503.6.1. All electric gates restricting fire department access
shall comply with Section 503.6.2. Section 503.6.3 may be applied retroactively when re-
quired by the fire code official where it is determined that fire department access is re-
stricted by such gate(s). When an electric gate operator must be replaced, such replace-
ment shall comply with all requirements of Section 503.6.
Page 20
SECTION 505
PREMISES IDENTIFICATION
Section SOS.1 -Change to read as follows:
505.1 Premises identification. Approved address shall be provided for all new and existing
buildings in accordance with the fire department's addressing policies.
SECTION 506
KEY BOXES
Section 506.1 -Change to read as follows:
506.1 Key boxes. In any building which contains an elevator, any building or complex which
contains a fire alarm system, or when access to or within a structure or an area is unduly difficult
because of secured openings, or where immediate access is necessary for life saving or fire-
fighting purposes, a key box shall be installed. The key box shall be a type approved by the fire
code official and shall contain keys to gain necessary access to any areas required by the code
official. Keys to elevators, fire alarm control panels, and safety data sheets shall be included in
the key box. When installed for the primary purpose of providing access to the fire alarm system
serving an apartment complex, the key box shall be placed at the exterior entrance of the prop-
ertymanager's office and shall be suitably marked as such.
Section 506.3 -Add to read as follows:
506.3 Location. Key box shall be located at the front of the building six (6) to eight (8) feet
above grade level and within five (5) feet of the right side of the main entrance as viewed from
the outside, unless alternate or additional locations are approved or required by the fire code offi-
cial, such as fire pump room or sprinkler riser room access doors, etc.
SECTION 507
FIRE PROTECTION WATER SUPPLIES
Section 507.4 -Add to read as follows:
507.4 Water supply test date and information. The water supply test used for
hydraulic calculation of fire protection systems shall be conducted in accordance with
NFPA 291 "Recommended Practice for Fire Flow Testing and Marking of Hydrants" and
within one year of fire protection plans submittal. The exact location of the static/residual
hydrant and flow hydrant shall be indicated on the design drawings. All fire protection plan
submittals shall be accompanied by a hard copy of the water supply test report from the
Fort Worth Water Department, or as approved by the fire code official. The report must
indicate the dominant water tank level at the time of the test and the maximum and
minimum operating levels of the tank, as well. The licensed contractor must then design
the fire protection system based on this fluctuation information, as per the applicable
referenced NFPA standard. Reference Section 903 as to additional safety factor required.
Page 21
Section 507. S.1 -Change to read as follows:
507.5.1 Required installations. All fire hydrants shall be accessible to the fire depart-
ment apparatus by roadways meeting the requirements of Section 503. All fire hydrants
shall meet the specifications of the Fort Worth Water Department for Dry-Barrel Fire Hy-
drants, or as approved by the fire code official.
Fire hydrants shall be installed in accordance with the following criteria:
1. For all R-3 and Group U Occupancies, fire hydrants shall be installed such that
there is not more than one thousand (1,000) feet (five hundred foot radius) of
space between hydrants along a direct horizontal line. No point on a building shall
exceed a six hundred (600) feet hose lay distance using the route of access that
fire department personnel would travel between the hydrant and the building.
2. For other than R-3 and Group U occupancies, all land uses, including multi-
family complexes, shall have fire hydrants installed such that there is no more
than six hundred (600) feet (three hundred feet radius) of space between hydrants
along a direct horizontal line. No point on any structure shall exceed five hundred
(500) feet hose lay distance, using the route of access that fire department person-
nel would travel between the hydrant and the structure.
3. Afire hydrant shall be installed no more than one hundred-fifty (150) feet from
fire department connections for a standpipe system, and three hundred (300) feet
from fire department connections for a sprinkler and/or combined system.
4. All fire hydrants shall be installed at least two (2) feet, but not more than nine (9)
feet, from the curb face of a paved street or edge of a designated approved fire ac-
cess roadway.
5. All fire hydrants shall be installed such that the center of the main outlet on the
front of the hydrant is not less than eighteen (18) inches, nor more than forty-eight
(48) inches, above grade level.
6. Only National Standard three-way hydrants that open in the clockwise direction
are approved.
7. All fire hydrant threads must be National Standard hose threads or as approved by
the fire code official.
8. Where fire hydrants are installed on a metered water supply or are not owned by
the City of Fort Worth, said hydrants shall be maintained by the legal owner in
satisfactory operating condition and kept free of obstructions at all times.
9. All private fire hydrants shall be painted red and shall be properly maintained by
the property owner. All public fire hydrants shall be provided with two coats of
aluminum paint, as required by the Fort Worth Water Department specifications
for Dry-Barrel Fire Hydrants.
Page 22
Section 507.5.4 -Change to read as follows:
507.5.4 Obstruction. Unobstructed access to fire hydrants shall be maintained at all
times. Posts, fences, vehicles, growth, trash, storage and other materials or objects shall
not be placed or kept within three (3) feet of fire hydrants, fire department inlet connec-
tions or fire protection system control valves in a manner that would prevent such equip-
ment or fire hydrants from being immediately discernible. The fire department shall not
be deterred or hindered from gaining immediate access to fire protection equipment or
fire hydrants.
SECTION 509
FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT IDENTIFICATION AND ACCESS
Section 509.1.1 -Add to read as follows:
509.1.1 Sign Requirements. Unless more stringent requirements apply, lettering for
signs required by this section shall have a minimum height of two (2) inches when lo-
cated inside a building and four (4) inches when located outside, or as approved by the
fire code official. The letters shall be of a color that contrasts with the background.
Section 510.1 -Change Exception #1 to read as follows:
1. Where approved by the fire code official, a wired communication... {remainder of text
unchanged}
Chapter 6
BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS
SECTION 603
FUEL-FIRED APPLIANCES
Section 603.3 -Add sentence to read as follows:
Flammable and combustible liquids tanks and their appurtenances shall comply with
Chapter 34, unless otherwise approved by the fire code official.
Section 603.3.2.1 -Change Exception to read as follows:
Exception: The aggregate capacity limit shall be permitted to be increased to 3,000 gal-
lons (11,356 L) in accordance with all requirements of Section 3404.2.9.5.1 and Chapter
34.
Section 603.3.2.2 -Change to read as.follows:
603.3.2.2 Restricted use and connection. Tanks installed in accordance with Section
603.3.2 shall be used only to supply fuel oil to fuel-burning equipment installed in accor-
dance with Section 603.3.2.4. Connections between tanks and equipment supplied by
such tanks shall be made using closed piping systems.
Section 603.3.2.4 -Change reference in Exception from 3404.2.9.6 to 3403.2.9.5 and 7.
Page 23
Section 603.4.2.1.1 -Change Note 3. to read as follows:
3. On roofs or exterior balconies.
Exceptions:
1. Noncombustible construction.
2. For exterior balconies where buildings, balconies and decks are
protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system.
3. LP-gas cooking or heating devices having an LP-gas container
with a water capacity not greater than 2 'h pounds [nominal 1
pound (0.454 kg) LP-gas capacity].
Chapter 7
FIRE-RESISTANCE-RATED CONSTRUCTION
SECTION 704
FLOOR OPENINGS AND SHAFTS
Section 704 -Delete. Reference Chapter 46 as to these requirements.
Chapter 8
INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS
AND FURNISHINGS
SECTION 804
DECORATIVE VEGETATION
Section 806.1.1 -Add to read as follows:
806.1.1 Restricted occupancies. Natural cut trees shall be prohibited in Group A, B, E, I-
1, I-2, I-3, I-4, M, R-1, R-2, and R-4 Occupancies.
Exceptions:
1. Trees located in areas protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system in-
stalled in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 shall not be prohibited in
Groups A, B, E, M, R-1, and R-2.
2. Trees shall not be prohibited inside private dwelling units of Group R-2 Occupan-
cies.
Section 806.1.4 -Add to read as follows:
806.1.4 Flame retardance. Trees shall be properly treated with an approved flame retar-
dant.
Exception: Flame retardance shall not be required inside private dwelling units of
Group R-2 Occupancies.
Page 24
Section 806.1. S -Add to read as follows:
806.1.5 Tags. Trees shall bear a tag stating date of placement in public building, type of
flame retardant treatment used, name of the person who applied the flame retardant, name
of the person affixing the tag, and of designated person making daily tests for dryness.
SECTION 807
DECORATIVE MATERIALS OTHER THAN DECORATIVE VEGETATION IN NEW
AND EXISTING BUILDINGS
Section 807.4.3.2 -Change to read as follows:
807.4.3.2 Artwork. Artwork and teaching materials shall be limited on the walls of corri-
dors to not more than 20 percent of the wall area and on the walls of classrooms to not
more than 50 percent of each wall area. Such materials shall not be continuous from floor
to ceiling or wall to wall.
Exception: Corridors protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed
in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 shall be limited to 50 percent of the wall area.
Section 807.4.4.2 -Change to read as follows:
807.4.4.2 Artwork. Artwork and teaching materials shall be limited on walls of corridors
to not more than 20 percent of the wall area and on the walls of classrooms to not more
than 50 percent of each wall area. Such materials shall not be continuous from floor to
ceiling or wall to wall.
Exception: Corridors protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed
in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 shall be limited to 50 percent of the wall area.
Chapter 9
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
SECTION 901
GENERAL
Section 901.1 -Add sentence_to read as follows:
Fire protection equipment required by this code shall be listed or approved for the intended use
by a nationally recognized testing laboratory, unless otherwise approved by the fire code official.
Section 901.2 -Add sentence_to read as, follows:
Submittal of plans, specifications, and appropriate calculations for fire protection systems and
appurtenances shall be made to the fire department by a fire protection systems contractor who is
appropriately licensed per the Texas Administrative Code requirements and registered with the
Fort Worth Fire Department.
Page 25
Section 901.4.1.1 -Add to read as follows:
901.4.1.1 Exception or reduction. Any fire protection system for which an exception or
reduction (trade-off) to the provisions of this code or the Building Code has been granted
shall be considered to be a required system.
Section 901. S.1 -Delete.
Section 901.6 -Change to read as follows:
901.6 Inspection, testing and maintenance. The building owner and/or occupant shall be re-
sponsible for assuring that all fire sprinkler systems, fire hydrant systems, standpipe systems, fire
alarm systems, portable fire extinguishers, smoke and heat vents, smoke control and exhaust sys-
tems, and other fire protective or extinguishing systems or appliances are maintained in an opera-
tive condition at all times, and are replaced or repaired where defective. Such systems shall be
extended, altered or augmented as necessary to maintain and continue protection whenever any
building so equipped is altered, remodeled or added to. All additions, repairs, alterations and ser-
vicing shall be in accordance with this chapter. Non-required fire protection systems and equip-
ment shall be inspected, tested and maintained or removed, upon approval of the fire code offi-
cial.
The fire code official may require the testing of any fire protection or extinguishing sys-
tem, at the owner's expense, when evidence is found to indicate possible impairment of the sys-
tem. All tests and inspections required herein shall be conducted by persons approved by the fire
code official.
Section 901.6.1.1- Add to read as follows:
901.6.1.1 Standpipe Testing. Building owners/managers must maintain and test standpipe
systems as per NFPA 25 requirements. The following additional requirements shall be ap-
plied to the testing that is required every 5 years:
1. The piping between the Fire Department Connection (FDC) and the standpipe shall be
backflushed when foreign material is present, and also hydrostatically tested for all
FDC's on any type of standpipe system. Hydrostatic testing shall also be conducted in
accordance with NFPA 25 requirements for the different types of standpipe systems.
2. For any manual (dry or wet) standpipe system not having an automatic water supply
capable of flowing water through the standpipe, connect hose from a fire hydrant or
portable pumping system (as approved by the fire code official) to each FDC, and flow
water through the standpipe system to the roof outlet to verify that each inlet connec-
tion functions properly. Confirm that there are no open hose valves prior to introducing
water into a dry standpipe to prevent potential water damage. There is no required pres-
sure criteria at the outlet. Verify that check valves function properly and that there are
no closed water supply control valves on the system that prevent proper operation of
the system.
3. Any pressure relief, reducing, or control valves shall be flow tested or exercised in ac-
cordance with the requirements of NFPA 25. All hose valves shall be exercised.
Page 26
4. If the FDC is not already provided with approved locking caps, the contractor shall in-
stall such caps for all FDC inlets, as required by the fire code official.
5. Upon successful completion of standpipe test, place a blue tag (as per "Texas Adminis-
trative Code, Title 28. Insurance, Part I. Texas Department of Insurance, Chapter 34.
State Fire Marshal, Subchapter G. Fire Sprinkler Rules, 28 TAC § 34.720. Inspection,
Test and Maintenance Service (ITM) Tag") at the bottom of each standpipe riser in the
building. The tag shall be check-marked as "Fifth Year" for Type of ITM, and the note
on the back of the tag shall read "5 Year Standpipe Test" at a minimum.
6. The procedures required by "Texas Administrative Code, Title 28. Insurance, Part I.
Texas Department of Insurance, Chapter 34. State Fire Marshal, Subchapter G. Fire
Sprinkler Rules, 28 TAC" with regard to Yellow Tags and Red Tags or any deficien-
cies noted during the testing, including the required notification of the local Authority
Having Jurisdiction (Fire Marshal) shall be followed.
7. Additionally, records of the testing shall be maintained by the owner and contractor,
if applicable, as required by the State Rules mentioned above and NFPA 25.
Standpipe system tests where water will be flowed external to the building shall not be
conducted during freezing conditions or during the day prior to expected night time
freezing conditions.
9. Contact the fire code official for requests to remove existing fire hose from Class II and
III standpipe systems where employees are not trained in the utilization of this fire-
fighting equipment. All standpipe hose valves must remain in place and be provided
with an approved cap and chain when approval is given to remove hose by the fire code
official.
Section 901.7 -Change to read as follows:
901.7 Systems out of service. Where a required fire protection system is out of service or in
the event of an excessive number of accidental activations, the fire department and the fire code
official shall be notified immediately and, where required by the code official, the building shall
either be evacuated or an approved fire watch shall be provided for all occupants left unprotected
by the shut down until the fire protection system has been returned to service.
Where utilized, fire watches shall be provided with at least one approved means for notification
of the fire department and their only duty shall be to perform constant patrols of the protected
premises and keep watch for fires, or as required by the fire code official.
SECTION 902
DEFINITIONS
Section 902 -Add or change Definitions to read as follows:
TENANT FINISH. The relocation of existing devices or addition of new devices which are
necessary to maintain an existing level of protection in an area. This does not include projects
Page 27
with the installation of new fire sprinkler risers or fire alarm control panels. The addition of new
devices into previously unprotected areas is considered a new installation.
SECTION 903
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
Section 903.1.1 -Change to read as follows:
903.1.1 Alternative protection. Alternative automatic fire-extinguishing systems com-
plying with Section 904 shall be permitted in addition to required automatic sprinkler
protection where recognized by the applicable standard, or as approved by the fire code
official.
Section 903.1.2 -Add to read as follows:
903.1.2 Residential systems. Reductions to Building Code provisions, commonly re-
ferred to as "building code tradeoffs," shall not apply to systems installed in accordance
with NFPA 13R or 13D unless authorized as specified in Section 903.1.2 of the Building
Code. When "tradeoffs" are used in the building design that are not authorized for NFPA
13R or 13D systems, the sprinkler installation shall be in accordance with NFPA 13.
For clarification of the appropriate system, the sprinkler designer/installer should
consult the building designer, Section 903.1.2 of the Building Code and the appropriate
plan reviewer.
Residential sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13R shall in-
elude attic sprinkler protection in buildings of three or more stories.
Section 903.2 -Change as follows and delete Exception:
903.2 Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new buildings and
structures shall be provided in the locations described in Section 903.2.1 through
903.2.12. In order to prohibit elevator shunt trip, automatic sprinklers shall not be in-
stalled in elevator machine rooms, elevator machine spaces, and elevator hoistways, or as
approved by the fire code official. Storage shall not be allowed within the elevator ma-
chine room. Signage shall be provided at the entry doors to the elevator machine room
indicating "ELEVATOR MACHINERY - NO STORAGE ALLOWED." Such signage
shall comply with Section 509.
Exception: {Delete Exception}.
Section 903.2.1.2 -Add exception after first paragraph to read as follows:
Exception: Where the building is existing, single story, and multi-tenant with independ-
ent egress per tenant space, only the single tenant fire area shall require sprinkler protec-
tion.
Section 903.2.1.3 -Add exception after first paragraph to read as follows:
Exception: Where the building is existing, single story, and multi-tenant with independ-
ent e~ess per tenant space, only the single tenant fire area shall require sprinkler protec-
tion.
Page 28
Section 903.2.4.1 -Add sentence to end of first paragraph as follows:
Reference Section 1903.2.2 as to dust collection system requirements for such operations.
Section 903.2.7 -Add exception after first paragraph to read as follows:
Exception: Where the building is existing, single story, and multi-tenant with independ-
ent egress per tenant space, only the single tenant fire area shall require sprinkler protec-
tion.
Section 903.2.7 -Change Number 4. to read as follows:
4. Where a Group M occupancy that is used for the display and sale of upholstered fur-
niture or mattresses exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m2).
Section 903.2.8 -Change to read as follows:
903.2.8 Group R. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section
903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R-1, R-2 and R-4 fire area
as specified in Sections 903.2.8.1 and 903.2.8.2.
903.2.8.1 Group R-1 and R-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided
throughout buildings with a Group R-1 or R-2 fire area.
Exceptions:
Where no portion of the R-1 or R-2 fire area is located higher than the sec-
ond story, nor in a basement, and such R-1 or R-2 use complies with all of
the following conditions:
a. The building when used as boarding house, hotel or motel contains
less than ten (10) guest rooms.
b. The building when used as apartment contains less than five (5)
dwelling units.
c. The building when used as a convent, dormitory or monastery con-
tains less than ten (10) occupants.
d. The building when used as fraternities or sororities has an occupant
load often (10) or less.
e. The building when used as:
i. Live/work unit as specified in Building Code Section 419,
ii. timeshare property,
iii. State of Texas Type E (Large facility),
iv. Bed and Breakfast Inn as defined in the Zoning Code,
v. Townhouse Apartment (see also Building Code Section 310.3),
or any other residential use shall comply with the appropriate numbers
listed above dependant upon whether dwelling units, guest rooms, etc. are
in the design.
Page 29
2. A residential sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.2 shall be permitted in buildings, or portions thereof, of Group R-1
and R-2 in accordance with the limitations of Section 903.1.2.
903.2.8.2 Group R-4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided through-
out all buildings with a Group R-4 fire area.
Exception: An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.2 or Section 903.3.1.3 shall be allowed in Group R-4 fa-
cilities in accordance with the limitations of Section 903.1.2.
Section 903.2.9.3 -Add to read as follows:
903.2.9.3 Self-service storage facility. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed
throughout all self-service storage facilities. The minimum sprinkler system design shall
be based on an Ordinary Group II classification, in accordance with NFPA 13 require-
ments.
Exception: One story self-service storage facilities that have no interior corridors
and are provided with aone-hour fire barrier wall installed between every storage
compartment.
Section 903.2.10.1- Add Exception to read as follows:
Exception: Commercial parking garages that comply with the opening require-
ments of an open parking garage as specified in IBC Section 406.3, may comply
with the requirements as specified in Section 903.2.10.
Section 903.2.11.3 -Change to read as follows:
903.2.11.3 Buildings 55 feet or more in height. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
installed throughout buildings with a floor level, other than penthouses in compliance
with Building Code Section 1509, that is located 55 feet or more above the lowest level
of fire department vehicle access.
Exceptions:
1. Delete.
2. Open parking structures with no other occupancies above and in compli-
ance with Section 406.3 of the Building Code.
3. Delete.
Section 903.2.11.7 -Add to read as. ollows:
903.2.11.7 Spray Booths and Rooms. New and existing spray booths and spraying
rooms shall be protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system.
Page 30
Section 903.3.1.1.1 - Chan,~e to read as follows:
903.3.1.1.1 Exempt locations. When approved by the fire code official, automatic
sprinklers shall not be required in the following rooms or areas where such rooms or ar-
eas are protected with an approved automatic fire detection system in accordance with
Section 907.2 that will respond to visible or invisible particles of combustion. Sprinklers
shall not be omitted from any room merely because it is damp, of fire-resistance-rated
construction or contains electrical equipment.
1. Any room where the application of water, or flame and water, constitutes a seri-
ous life or fire hazard.
2. Any room or space where sprinklers are considered undesirable because of the na-
ture of the contents, when approved by the fire code official.
3. Generator and transformer rooms, under the direct control of a public utility, sepa-
rated from the remainder of the building by walls and floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling
assemblies having afire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
4. Fire service access elevator machine rooms and machinery spaces. (Shunt trip
prohibited.)
5. Elevator hoistways and elevator machine rooms enclosed by fire barriers as re-
quired by the International Building Code. Signage shall be provided at the entry
doors to the elevator machine room indicating "ELEVATOR MACHINERY -
NO STORAGE ALLOWED." (Shunt trip prohibited.)
Section 903.3.1.2 -Change to read as follows:
903.3.1.2 NFPA 13R sprinkler systems. Where allowed in buildings of Group R, up to
and including four stories in height, automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed
throughout in accordance with NFPA 13R. However, when "building code tradeoffs"
that are not authorized for NFPA 13R systems are used in the building design, the sprin-
kler installation shall be in accordance with NFPA 13. (See Section 903.1.2)
Residential sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13R shall include attic
sprinkler protection in buildings of three or more stories.
Section 903.3.1.3 -Change to read as follows:
903.3.1.3 NFPA 13D sprinkler systems. Where allowed, automatic sprinkler systems
installed in one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses shall be installed throughout
in accordance with NFPA 13D, or as allowed by State law.
Section 903.3.1.4 -Add to read as follows:
903.3.1.4 Freeze protection. Freeze protection systems for automatic fire sprinkler sys-
tems shall be in accordance with the requirements of the applicable referenced NFPA
standard and this section.
903.3.1.4.1 Antifreeze. Antifreeze shall not be utilized in fire sprinkler systems,
unless approved by the fire code official for small areas, such as garages, canopies,
and open breezeways.
Page 31
Exception: Listed noncombustible antifreeze when approved by the fire
code official.
903.3.1.4.2 Attics. Only dry-pipe automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be allowed
to protect attic spaces, unless otherwise approved by the fire code official.
Exception: Wet-pipe sprinkler systems shall be allowed to protect non-
ventilated attic spaces where the attic sprinklers are supplied by a separate
floor control valve assembly to allow ease of draining the attic system with-
out impairing sprinklers throughout the rest of the building. Adequate heat
shall be provided for freeze protection as per the applicable referenced
NFPA standard and such that the attic space is a part of the building enve-
lope. The temperature in the attic space shall be monitored via the fire alarm
system as a supervisory alarm to activate at or above 40°F.
903.3.1.4.3 Heat trace/insulation. Heat trace/insulation shall only be allowed
where approved by the fire code official for small sections of large diameter water-
filled pipe.
Section 903.3.1.5 -Add to read as follows:
903.3.1.5 Multiple or detached buildings. Multiple or detached buildings shall not be
allowed to be supplied by a single fire sprinkler riser, unless specifically approved by the
fire code official.
Section 903.3.1.6 -Add to read as follows:
903.3.1.6 Use of fire sprinklers. Fire sprinklers shall be installed in accordance with
their listing, unless specifically approved by the fire code official for construction fea-
tures or other special situations requiring unusual water distribution to achieve specific
results.
Section 903.3. S -Add second paragraph to read as follows:
Every fire protection system shall be designed with a 5 psi safety factor, in addition to
water fluctuation adjustments required by Section 507.4.
Section 903.3.7.1- Add to read as follows:
903.3.7.1 Loc'ng Fire Department Connection (FDC) Caps. New FDC installations
shall be equipped with locking FDC caps as approved by the fire code official. Existing
FDC installations will require approved locking FDC caps to be installed when directed
by the fire code official.
Section 903.4 -Add second paragraph to read as follows:
Sprinkler and standpipe system water-flow detectors shall be provided for each floor tap
to the sprinkler system and shall cause an alarm upon detection of water flow for more
than forty-tive (45) seconds. All control valves in the sprinkler and standpipe systems
shall be electrically supervised.
Page 32
Section 903.4 -Add Exception #8 to read as follows:
8. Control valves associated with a backflow prevention device that is installed outside
of a building. Such valves must be chained and locked in the open position even if
located in a locked vault or enclosure.
Section 903.4.2 -Change to read as follows:
903.4.2 Alarms. Approved sprinkler water-flow alarm devices shall be connected to
every automatic sprinkler system. Such sprinkler water-flow alarm devices shall be acti-
vated by water flow equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size
installed in the system. Alarm devices shall be provided on the exterior of the building in
an approved location. Where a fire alarm system is installed, actuation of the automatic
sprinkler system shall actuate the building fire alarm system.
The alarm device required on the exterior of the building shall be a weatherproof
horn/strobe notification appliance with a minimum 75 candela strobe rating, installed as
close as practicable to the fire department connections. Adjacent to the alarm shall be a
sign which states:
"WHEN ALARM SOUNDS, CALL FORT WORTH FIRE DEPARTMENT, 9-1-1,
{insert address}"
and which contains the address of the property as indicated on the Certificate of Occu-
pancy. The sign shall consist of red letters of 1 inch minimum height on a white reflec-
tivebackground.
Section 903.4.3 -Change to read as follows:
903.4.3 Floor control valves. Approved supervised indicating control valves shall be provided
at the point of connection to the riser on each floor in buildings requiring a standpipe system, as
per Section 905.3.
Section 903.6.2 -Change to read as follows:
903.6.2 Retroactive sprinkler requirements. Reference Chapter 46 as to retroactive sprinkler
requirements.
SECTION 904
ALTERNATIVE AUTOMATIC FIRE-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS
Section 904.1 -Add sentence to read as follows:
Automatic fire-extinguishing systems not covered by the reference standards of this sec-
tion shall be designed and installed in accordance with approved standards.
Page 33
SECTION 905
STANDPIPE SYSTEMS
Section 905.1.1 -Add to read as follows:
905.1.1 Locking Fire Department Connection Caps. New Class I and Class III stand-
pipe systems shall be equipped with approved locking caps on all fire department connec-
tions. Existing Class I and Class III standpipe systems shall have approved locking fire
department connection caps installed when required by the code official.
Section 905.3.3 -Change to read as follows
905.3.3 Covered mall buildings. A covered mall building shall be equipped throughout
with a Class I automatic wet standpipe system where the mall exceeds ten thousand
(10,000) square feet in area per story. Standpipes shall be provided where any portion of
the building's interior area is more than two hundred (200) feet of travel, vertically and
horizontally, from the nearest point of fire department vehicle access. Covered mall
buildings not required to be equipped with a standpipe system by this section shall be
equipped with Class I hose connections connected to the automatic sprinkler system sized
to deliver water... {remainder of section unchanged}.
Section 905.8.1- Add to read as follows:
905.8.1 Manual dry standpipe systems shall be supervised with a minimum of ten (10)
psig and a maximum of forty (40) psig air pressure with ahigh/low alarm.
SECTION 906
PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
Section 906.1 -Change to read as follows:
906.1 Where required. Portable fire extinguishers shall be installed and tagged by a
state licensed fire extinguisher company, unless otherwise approved by the fire code offi-
cial, in the following locations.
1. In new and existing Group A, B, E, F, H, I, M, R-1, R-2, R-4, and S occupan-
cies.
Exception: In R-2 occupancies, portable fire extinguishers shall be re-
quired only in locations specified in Items 2. through 6. where each dwell-
ing unit is provided with a portable fire extinguisher having a minimum
rating of 1-A:10-B:C.
2. Within 30 feet..... {no change to remainder of section. }
Page 34
SECTION 907
FIRE ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEMS
Section 907.1.4 -Add to read as follows:
907.1.4 Design standards. Fire alarm systems with thirty (30) or more initiating devices
shall be addressable fire detection systems. Fire alarm systems with fifty (50) or more
smoke detectors shall be intelligent addressable fire detection systems.
907.1.4.1 Existing systems. Existing fire alarm systems shall comply with section
907.1.4 when the total fire system device addition or replacement, within a
twenty-four (24) month period, exceeds thirty (30) percent of the total device
count of the originally installed fire system.
Existing buildings shall comply with Section 907.1.4 within twelve (12) months
of permit application. The owner of the existing building may request, in writing
to the Authority Having Jurisdiction, approval to extend the twelve (12) month
compliance requirement.
Section 907.2.1 -Change to read as follows:
907.2.1 Group A. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification
system in accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed in Group A occupancies hav-
ing anoccupant load of three hundred (300) or more persons or more than one hundred
(100) persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge. Portions of Group E oc-
cupancies occupied for assembly purposes shall be provided with a fire alarm system as
required for the Group E occupancy. Unless otherwise approved by the fire code official,
activation of fire alarm notification appliances shall:
1. Cause illumination of the means of egress with light of not less than 1 foot-
candle (11 lux) at the walking surface level, and
2. Stop any conflicting or confusing sounds and visual distractions.
Exceptions:
1. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Sec-
tion 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout
the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.
2. Buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5 in accordance with Section 303.1 of
the Building Code, when used for open air seating and having a public address
system; however, this exception does not apply to accessory uses including but
not limited to sky boxes, restaurants and other enclosed areas.
Section 907.2.2.2- Add to read as follows:
907.2.2.2 Corridor smoke detection. When a fire alarm system is used as a reduction to
fire-resistant corridors, as provided for in Section 1018.1, exception #5, the occupant load
exceptions of Section 907.2.2 shall not be used to exempt the required installation.
Page 35
Section 907.2.3 -Add the following sentence after the first paragraph:
The Fire Alarm Control Unit or Remote Annunciator with silence and reset capability
shall be located in the main reception office.
Section 907.2.3 -Change Exceptions 2 and 3 to read as follows:
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required in Group E occupancies where all the
following apply:
2.1 Interior corridors are protected by smoke detectors.
2.2 Auditoriums, cafeterias, libraries, gymnasiums and similar areas are
protected by smoke detectors or automatic sprinklers.
2.3 Shops and laboratories involving dusts or vapors are protected by heat
detectors or automatic sprinklers.
2.4 {No change}
2.5 {No change}
3. Delete.
Section 907.2.3.1 Add to read as follows:
907.2.3.1 Group E daycares with an occupant load of more than twelve (12) chil-
dren. A manual fire alarm system and an automatic fire detection system shall be in-
stalled in Group E daycares with an occupant load of more than twelve (12) children.
Smoke detectors shall be installed in corridors, sleeping rooms and common areas. Heat
detectors shall be installed in kitchens.
Exceptions:
1. Smoke detectors are not required in kitchens and rest rooms.
2. Smoke detectors and heat detectors shall not be required in Group E day-
cares where the building is equipped throughout with an approved auto-
matic sprinkler system installed in accordance with section 903.3.1.1 that
will activate the occupant notification system.
907.2.3.2 Group E daycares with an occupant load of not more than twelve (12)
children. Interconnected 120VAC (with battery backup) single station smoke detectors
shall be installed in corridors, sleeping rooms and common areas in Group E daycares
with an occupant load of not more than twelve (12) children. All smoke detector audible
signals shall sound when one smoke detector is activated.
Exception: Smoke detectors are not required in kitchens and rest rooms.
Section 907.2.6 -Change to read as follows:
907.2.6 Group I. A manual fire alarm system and an automatic fire detection system
shall be installed in Group I occupancies. Corridors and areas open to corridors shall be
equipped with an automatic smoke detection system.
Exception: {No change}
Page 36
Section 907.2.6.2 -Change to read as follows:
907.2.6.2 Group I-2. Corridors and areas open to corridors shall be equipped with an
automatic smoke detection system.
Exceptions: {No change}
Section 907.2.9-Change to read as follows:
907.2.9 Group R-2. Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms shall be installed in Group R-2
occupancies as required in Section 907.2.9.1, 907.2.9.2 and 907.2.9.3
Section 907.2.9.1 -Change subparagraph 3 to read as follows:
3. The building contains five (5) or more dwelling units or sleeping units.
Section 907.2.9.1 -Delete Exception 3.
Section 907.2.9.3 -Add to read as follows:
907.2.9.3 Automatic fire alarm system. A smoke detection system shall be installed
throughout all common interior corridors serving dwelling units or sleeping units.
Section 907.2.11.4.1 -Add to read as follows:
907.2.11.4.1 Power source for smoke detectors with integral strobe. In R-1, R-2 and
R-4 occupancies, all single station or multiple station smoke detectors with an integrated
visual strobe shall be powered by an emergency backup power source that will operate
the device, including the strobe, upon AC loss. This backup power source shall provide
twenty-four (24) hours of normal operating power followed by five (5) minutes of alarm
operating power, or power shall be provided by an emergency generator.
Section 907.2.13 -Change Exception 3 to read as follows:
Buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5 in accordance with Section 303.1 of
the International Building Code, when used for open air seating; however, this
exception does not apply to accessory uses including but not limited to sky boxes,
restaurants and other enclosed areas.
Section 907.2.13.2 -Change to read as follows:
907.2.13.2 Fire department communication system. Fire department communication
system shall be provided, and wiring shall be designed and installed in accordance with
NFPA 72 and shall operate between afire command center complying with Section 508,
elevators, elevator lobbies, emergency and standby power rooms, fire pump rooms, areas
of refuge and inside enclosed exit stairways. The fire department communication device
shall be provided at each floor level within the enclosed exit stair-way.
A minimum of five (5) portable handsets shall be located in the fire command
center
Page 37
Exception: Fire department radio systems where approved by the fire code offi-
cial.
Section 907.4.2 -Change to read as follows:
907.4.2 Delayed Egress Locks. Where delayed egress locks are allowed by variance via
Section 1008.1.9.7, a fire alarm system is required for the occupancy based on the occu-
pancy classification in accordance with Section 907, and an approved automatic smoke
detection system is required for interior corridors and open common areas.
Section 907. S. 2 -Add sentence after first paragraph to read as follows:
Manual fire alarm boxes shall be an approved double action type.
Section 907.5.3.1 -Delete.
Section 907.6.2.2 -Change Exception to read as follows:
Exception: In Group I- I and I-2 occupancies, the alarm shall sound in a constantly at-
tended area and a general occupant notification shall be broadcast over the emergency
voice/alarm communication system.
Section 907.6.2.3- Change Exception 1 to read as follows:
1. Visible alarm notification appliances are not required in alterations, upgrades or re-
placement of a fire alarm system, unless the originally installed system required vis-
ual notification.
Section 907.6.2.3 -Add Exception 4 to read as follows:
4. Visual alarm notification appliances shall not be required in Group I operating rooms.
Section 907.7.1.1 -Add to read as follows:
907.7.1.1 Wiring Installation. Fire alarm system wiring shall be installed in such a man-
ner that the failure of any single initiating device will not interfere with the normal opera-
tion of any other initiating device on the same circuit. Initiating Device Circuits (IDC)
shall be Class A, Signaling Line Circuits (SLC) shall be Class A and Notification Appli-
ance Circuits (NAC) shall be Class B, as defined in NFPA 72.
Exception: Altered, upgraded or replaced fire alarm systems may match
original installation circuit wiring style.
Section 907.7.3 -Change to read as_follows:
907.7.3 Zones. Each floor shall be zoned separately and a zone shall not exceed 22,500
square feet. The length of any zone shall not exceed 300 feet in any direction. A separate
zone or address point shall be provided for each water flow initiating device.
Exception: {no change}
Page 38
Section 907.7.5 -Add Exceptions 4, S, and 6 to read as follows:
4. Portable buildings, including Group E portable classroom buildings, as approved by
the fire code official.
5. Group I-4 occupancies.
6. Group E Daycares with an occupant load of less than 50.
Section 907.10 -Add to read as follows:
907.10 Rented or leased residential occupancies. For purposes of this section, the term dwell-
ing unit shall include the following:
1. All one- and two-family, and multi-family dwellings, including manufactured
homes.
2. All one- and two-family and multi-family dwellings where one or more rooms
are rented for use as permanent residence under a single lease.
907.10.1 Smoke detectors. All dwelling units which are currently rented, leased or sub-
leased, or are hereafter rented, leased, or sub-leased shall be provided with smoke detec-
tors appropriate for the occupants which meet the requirements of Section 4603.7. Those
occupancies which are leased for the first time or to a new lessee shall have smoke detec-
tors installed prior to occupancy by the lessee. The smoke detector purchase and installa-
tion shall be the sole responsibility of the landlord.
907.10.2 Duty to inspect and repair. Upon commencement of a tenant's possession of a
dwelling unit containing a smoke detector, the landlord shall have a duty to test the
smoke detector to verify that it is in working order. Upon installation of a smoke detector
by a landlord after commencement of the tenant's possession of a dwelling unit, the land-
lord shall have a duty to test the smoke detector to verify that it is in good working order.
Documentation verifying compliance with this provision shall be submitted to the code
official upon request.
907.10.2.1 Notice of malfunction. During the term of the rental agreement or any
renewal or extension thereof, the landlord shall have a duty to inspect and repair a
smoke detector only if the tenant has given notice to the landlord of malfunction
or has made a request to the landlord for inspection or repair. The notice to the
landlord need not be in writing unless written notice is required in the rental
agreement. The landlord shall comply with the tenant's request for inspection and
repair within a reasonable time, considering the availability of material, labor and
utilities.
907.10.2.2 Cause of malfunction. A landlord shall not have a duty to repair a
smoke detector if the damage or malfunction is caused by the tenant or the ten
ant's family, guest or invitee during the term of the rental agreement or any
renewal or extension period of the rental agreement. Provided, however, a land
lord shall have a duty to repair or replace a smoke detector covered by this sub
section if the tenant pays in advance for the reasonable cost of repair or
replacement, including labor, materials, taxes, and overhead.
Page 39
907.10.2.3 Testing. A landlord shall have satisfied the duty to inspect or repair a
damaged or malfunctioning smoke detector if, after a test of the smoke detector,
the test indicates that the smoke detector is in good working order.
907.10.2.4 Battery replacement. After commencement of possession by the
tenant of a dwelling unit, the landlord shall have no duty to provide replacement
batteries for a battery operated smoke detector which was in good working order
according to a test of the smoke detector at the time of commencement of
possession by the tenant.
907.10.3 Offense. A person commits an offense if, as landlord of a dwelling unit, that
person:
1. Fails to install a smoke detector in compliance with this section; or
2. Fails to test or repair a smoke detector in compliance with this section; or
3. Allows a dwelling unit to be occupied without obtaining documentation
signed by both the landlord (or his authorized representative) and the tenant
verifying compliance with this section. This documentation shall be furnished
to the chief on request.
SECTION 909
SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS
Section 909.18.8 -Change to read as follows:
909.18.8 Special inspections for smoke control. Smoke control systems shall be tested
in accordance with this section and as directed by the fire code official.
Section 909.21 -Add to read as follows:
909.21 Smokeproof enclosures. Where required by Section 1022.9, a smokeproof enclosure
shall be constructed in accordance with this section. A smokeproof enclosure shall comply with
all requirements of the Building Code. Where access to the roof is required by this code, such
access shall be from the smokeproof enclosure where a smokeproof enclosure is required.
909.21.1 Stair pressurization alternative. Where the building is equipped throughout
with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the stair
pressurization alternative is chosen for compliance Building Code requirements for a
smokeproof enclosure, interior exit stairways shall be pressurized to a minimum of 0.10
inches of water (25 Pa) and a maximum of 0.35 inches of water (87 Pa) in the shaft rela-
tive to the building measured with all stairway doors closed under maximum anticipated
conditions of stack effect and wind effect. Such systems shall comply with Section 909,
including the installation of a separate fire-fighter's smoke control panel as per Section
909.16, and a Smoke Control Permit shall be required from the Fire Department. Refer-
ence Section 105.7.16.
909.21.2 Ventilating equipment. The activation of ventilating equipment for the stair
pressurization system shall be by smoke detectors installed at each floor level at an ap-
proved location at the entrance to the smokeproof enclosure. When the closing device for
the stair shaft and vestibule doors is activated by smoke detection or power failure, the
Page 40
mechanical equipment shall activate and operate at the required performance levels.
Smoke detectors shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.3.
909.21.2.1 Ventilation systems. Smokeproof enclosure ventilation systems shall
be independent of other building ventilation systems. The equipment, control wir-
ing, power wiring and ductwork shall comply with one of the following:
1. Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be lo-
cated exterior to the building and directly connected to the Smokeproof
enclosure or connected to the smokeproof enclosure by ductwork en-
closed by not less than 2-hour fire barriers or horizontal assemblies
constructed in accordance with the Building Code, or both.
2. Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be lo-
cated within the smokeproof enclosure with intake or exhaust directly
from and to the outside or through ductwork enclosed by not less than
2-hour fire barriers or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance
with the Building Code, or both.
Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be lo-
cated within the building if separated from the remainder of the build-
ing, including other mechanical equipment, by not less than 2-hour fire
barriers or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with the
Building Code, or both.
Exceptions:
1. Control wiring and power wiring utilizing a 2-hour rated cable or cable
system.
2. Where encased with not less than 2 inches (51 mm) of concrete.
909.21.2.2 Standby power. Stair pressurization systems and automatic fire de-
tection systems shall be powered by an approved standby power system conform-
ing to Building Code requirements.
909.21.2.3 Acceptance and testing. Before the mechanical equipment is ap-
proved, the system shall be tested in the presence of the fire code official to con-
firm that the system is operating in compliance with these requirements.
SECTION 910
SMOKE AND HEAT VENTS
Section 910.2.3 -Add to read as_follows:
910.2.3 Group H. Buildings and portions thereof used as a Group H occupancy as fol-
lows:
In occupancies classified as Group H-2 or H-3, any of which are more than
15.000 square feet (1394 mZ) in single floor area.
Page 41
2. In areas of buildings in Group H used for storing Class 2, 3 and 4 liquid and
solid oxidizers, Class 1 and unclassified detonable organic peroxides, Class 3
and 4 unstable (reactive) materials, or Class 2 or 3water-reactive materials as
required for ahigh-hazard commodity classification.
Exception: Buildings of noncombustible construction containing only noncombusti-
blematerials.
Section 910.2.4 -Add to read as follows:
910.2.4 Exit access travel distance increase. Buildings and portions thereof used as a
Group F-1 or S-1 occupancy where the maximum exit access travel distance is increased
in accordance with Section 1016.3.
Table 910.3 -Change the title of the first row of the table from "Group F-1 and S-1 " to include
"Group H"and to read as follows:
Group H, F-1 and S-1
Section 910.3.2.2 -Add paragraph to read as follows:
The automatic operating mechanism of the smoke and heat vents shall operate at a temperature
rating at least 100°F greater than the temperature rating of the sprinklers installed.
SECTION 912
FIRE DEPARTMENT CONNECTIONS
Section 912.2 -Add paragraph to read as follows:
Fire Department Connection shall be located within fifty (50) ft. of a dedicated street or fire ap-
paratus access road and shall be within three hundred (300) ft. hose lay distance of the nearest
fire hydrant. For standpipe systems, fire department shall be within one hundred fifty (150) ft. of
the fire hydrant. Each building shall be equipped with its own fire department connection(s).
SECTION 913
FIRE PUMPS
Section 913.1 - Add a second paragraph and Exception to read as follows:
When located on the ground level at an exterior wall, the fire pump room shall be provided with an
exterior fire department access door that is not less than 3 feet in width and 6 feet 8 inches in height,
regardless of any interior doors that are provided. An approved key box with access keys shall be
provided at this door, as required by Section 506.1.
Exception: When it is necessary to locate the fire pump room on other levels or not at an ex-
terior wall, the corridor leading to the fire pump room access from the exterior of the building
shall be provided with equivalent fire resistance as that required for the pump room, or as ap-
proved by the fire code ollicial. All necessary access keys shall be provided in the approved
key box as required by Section 506.1.
Page 42
SECTION 914
FIRE PROTECTION BASED ON SPECIAL DETAILED
REQUIREMENTS OF USE AND OCCUPANCY
Section 914.3.1 -Change Exceptions to read as follows:
Exception: An automatic sprinkler system shall not be required in spaces or areas of:
1. Open parking garages in accordance with Section 406.3 of the Building Code and
Section 903.2.11.3
2. As identified in Section 903.3.1.1.1 when approved by the fire code official.
Section 914.7.3 -Add to read as follows:
914.7.3 Emergency voice/alarm communication system. An emergency voice/alarm
communication system shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.2.12.3.
Section 914.8.2 -Add sentence to Exception to read as follows:
The fixed base operator shall not conduct major maintenance or overhaul in such hangar, due to
the exemption from foam fire protection requirements.
Chapter 10
MEANS OF EGRESS
[B] Section 1002
DEFINITIONS
Section 1002 -Add or change the following definitions to read as follows:
COMMON PATH OF EGRESS TRAVEL. That portion of exit access which the occupants
are required to traverse before two separate and distinct paths of egress travel to two exits are
available. Paths that merge are common paths of travel. Common paths of egress travel shall be
included within the permitted travel distance and shall be measured in the same manner as the
travel distance.
CORRIDOR. An enclosed exit access component that defines and provides a path of egress
travel to an exit. The term also includes Open-Ended Corridor and Breezeways.
EXIT DISCHARGE, LEVEL OF. The story at the point at which an exit terminates and an
exit discharge begins. This will usually be the first story, but on sloped sites where the grade
change is enough such that occupants can walk out on grade at two levels, both levels may be
considered as a Level of Exit Discharge. Exterior stairs shall be considered part of the Exit, then
part of the Exit Discharge after reaching the floor level qualifying as a Level of Exit Discharge.
STAIRWAY, EXTERIOR. A stairway that is open on at least one side, except for required
structural columns, beams, handrails and guards in accordance with Section 1026.3. The adjoin-
ing open areas shall be in direct contact with either yards, courts or public ways. The other sides
of the exterior stairway need not be open.
Any stairway at the end of an open ended corridor that is pulled into the building shall be
considered an exterior stair if in compliance with both of the following provisions:
Page 43
1. When using switchback stairs, such that the outside edge of the outside landing is no
more than 5 feet inside the exterior walls. Artificially extending the landing beyond what
is minimally required to meet code will not allow the stairs to be drawn in further.
2. When using straight run stairs, individually or in conjunction with a switchback stair,
such that the bottom riser is no more than 1 foot inside the exterior walls.
OPEN-ENDED CORRIDOR. A corridor that is open to the outside at the exterior of the build-
ing, leading directly to an exterior stairway at each end with no intervening doors or enclosures.
PUBLIC WAY. A street, alley or other parcel of land open to the outside air leading to a street,
that has been deeded, dedicated or otherwise permanently appropriated to the public for public
use and which has a clear width and height of not less than 10 feet (3048 mm).
An active railway line, that is owned and operated by a railway corporation, in which the
land is unplatted, extending through the jurisdiction without interruption by property lines, shall
be considered as a Public Way. Railway easements, utility easements or any other type of ease-
ment on a neighboring property shall not be considered as Public Way.
[B] SECTION 1003
Section 1003.1.1 and 1003.1.2 -Add to read as follows:
1003.1.1 Additional means of egress components. When additional elements, includ-
ing but not limited to extra stairs or doors, are provided, they shall comply with the provi-
sions of Sections 1003 through 1013, except as follows:
a. Area of refuge of Section 1007.
b. Exit signs, Section 1011, are not required for additional doors.
Any additional means of egress element, including but not limited to, doors, open stairs,
enclosed stairs or exterior stairs, provided to comply with any means of egress provision
shall be considered as a required element.
1003.1.2 Separation of multiple egress elements. When more than one egress element
is provided or, under Section 1003.1.1, becomes a required element from an area or floor
to comply with any provision of this code, including but not limited to doors and open or
enclosed stairs, such elements shall remain separated as required by Section 1015.2.1,
1015.2.2 and 1021 throughout their pathway until discharged at separate exterior loca-
tions.
[B] SECTION 1004
Section 1004.1.1 -Delete the exception.
Section 1004.2 -Change to read as follows:
1004.2 Increased occupant load. The occupant load permitted in any building, or portion
thereof, is permitted to be increased by the building official from that number established for the
occupancies in Table 1004.1.1, provided that all other requirements of this code or any other ap-
Page 44
plicable code(s) are also met based on such modified number and the occupant load does not ex-
ceed one occupant per 7 square feet (0.65 m2) of net occupiable floor space.
In making his decision, the building official may consider such issues as:
a. is this a temporary or permanent increase;
b. the function and operation of the business;
c. openness of egress flow;
d. management control of crowd and evacuation issues;
e. the affect of seating or tables on the egress path;
f. is alcohol involved.
After review, the building official may determine that one occupant per 7 square feet (0.65 m2) is
not appropriate and may assign a lesser density.
Where required by the building official, an approved aisle, seating or fixed equipment diagram
substantiating any increase in occupant load shall be submitted. Where required by the building
official, such diagram shall be posted.
[B] TABLE 1004.1.1
Table 1004.1.2 -Change and add the following category:
Function of Space
Note: "Functions" listed are not to be considered
as an occupancy Group classification. Example:
"Assembly" provisions will apply to Group A as-
semblies as well as Group B assemblies, or any
other use that functions as an assembly.
Assembly
Gaming floors (keno, slots, etc.) 11 gross
Exhibit Gallery and Museum 30 net
Assembly without fixed seats
Concentrated (chairs only-not fixed) 7 net
Dance floors 7 net
Standing space 5 net
Unconcentrated (tables and chairs) 15 net
Business areas 100 net
Group B used for Assembly uses with an occupant Same as Assembly
load less than 50
Other Group B occupancies As assigned based upon the actual use
Day Care 35 net
Adult Day Care 30 net
Educational
Classroom area - Group E occupancies, with stan- 20 net
dard student desks, through the 12`h grade
Classroom area -other than listed above Same as Assembly
Shops, labs with tables and other vocational room 50 net
areas
Gymnasiums/Sport Area
When dedicated for sporting event only Total number of sport participants, coaches, and
other accessory personnel
When usable for other events. e.g. graduation sere- 15 net
monies, assembly meetings, parties, etc. (in-
cludes school gyms)
Page 45
Note: All high school gyms will be considered as
used for events. Other schools will be individu-
ally evaluated.
Mercantile
Primary floor(s) of the retail space 30 gross
Floors and mezzanines other than the primary 60 gross
floor(s)
Storage, stock, shipping areas 300 gross
Note: Primary floor is always the entry floor of
the retail space. More than one floor may be a
primary floor if customer entry can occur on dif-
ferent levels. Other floors are secondary floors,
mezzanines, basements, etc. that customers can
only access once inside the retail space.
[B] SECTION 1006
Section 1006.2 -Add Exception 2 to read as follows:
2. In open parking garages, the illumination level applies to the stairways and the imme-
diate area around the stair provided there is an adequate combination of lighting
throughout the floor level from building lighting and from the exterior to identify the
means of egress. This provision should not be assumed as providing adequate light-
ing for security purposes.
[B] SECTION 1007
Section 1007.1 -Add Exception 4 to read as follows:
4. Buildings regulated under State Law (TAS) and built in accordance with State regis-
tered plans, including any variances or waivers granted by the State, shall be deemed
to be in compliance with the requirements of 1007.1 through 1007.11.
SECTION 1008
Section 1008.1 - Add a sentence to the end of the first paragraph to read as follows:
Security devices affecting means of egress shall be subject to approval of the fire code official.
(See Section 1030.2)
Section 1008.1.4.4 through 1008.1.4.4.3 -Change and add to read as follows:
1008.1.4.4 Access-controlled egress doors. Devices that restrict or control ingress or egress
through the use of an electrical or electronic means shall be permitted to be installed in accor-
dance with this section, Section 1008.1.9.10, 1008.1.10, Chapter 46, and IBC Section 403.5.3.
An Access Control Permit is required from the fire department for all access-controlled doors,
including those with a mechanical means of egress, as well as electric security gates per Section
503.6.
Page 46
1008.1.4.4.1 General. Electronic locking devices installed in such a manner that the method
of unrestricted exiting relies upon electricity or electronics instead of mechanical means shall
comply with this section. All equipment shall be listed or approved for the intended applica-
tion.
1. Access to exits, even in non-fire situations, shall be available to all individuals, even
those individuals that are considered as unauthorized. Door release mechanisms shall
be made available.
Exceptions:
1. Locations for occupants needing self protection because of reduced
mental capacities when approved by the fire code official.
2. Locations, such as I-3 occupancies, where the occupants require secu-
rity restraint, as approved by the fire code official.
2. Automatically release upon activation of the fire alarm system, if provided. The con-
trol devices shall remain unlocked until the system has been reset.
3. Automatically release upon loss of electrical power to the building or to the electronic
device. Locking mechanisms shall not be provided with emergency backup batteries,
unless otherwise approved in writing by the fire code official.
4. All fire-rated or other doors required by the Building or Fire Code to positively latch
upon closing shall remain latched regardless of access control provisions that
lock/unlock said door.
1008.1.4.4.2 Door release mechanisms. Only one action shall be required to release the
door. One of the following release methods shall be utilized:
1. Provide an electronic release bar. Such bars shall be installed so that pushing on the
bar will provide egress. Bars shall be the positive latching type, or as approved by the
fire code official. These devices shall comply with Section 1008.1.9 and shall be lo-
cated 34 to 48 inches above the finished floor.
2. Provide a motion detector. Upon detection of an approach, the device will automati-
cally unlock the secured door. When using a motion detector, an exit button, that
meets the requirements of this section, shall also be installed in case of failure of the
motion detector device.
Provide an exit button. When operated, the exit button shall result in direct interrup-
tion of power to the locking device, independent of the access control system, for a
minimum of ten (10) seconds. Exit buttons shall be red or green in color, square or
round, and at least 1 3/ inch in size. They shall be located forty (40) to forty-eight (48)
inches vertically above the floor and within two (2) feet of the related door, or as ap-
proved by the fire code official. A sign shall be located directly adjacent to the button
with the words "Push to Exit", having minimum 1 inch high red lettering on a white
background. If the exit button is labeled `Exit" or "Push to Exit", an additional sign is
not required
Page 47
Exceptions:
1. When approved by the fire code official, an emergency pull box or a break glass
emergency pull box may be located adjacent to the door to activate the release in
an emergency. This box shall be easily identifiable, contrasting with any other
box in the area, and located forty (40) to forty-eight (48) inches vertically above
the floor and within two (2) feet of the related door, or as approved by the fire
code official. Unless the device is labeled with an approved message, such as
"Pull to Open Door" or "Break Glass to Open Door" an approved sign shall be lo-
cated adjacent to the box with an appropriate message, such as "Pull to Open
Door" or "Break Glass to Open Door", having minimum one (1) inch high red let-
tering on a white background. Momentary, or latching, devices must directly in-
terrupt power to the locking device, independent of the access control system for a
minimum often (10) seconds.
2. When approved by the fire code official, a means of two-way communication to
an on-site twenty-four (24) hour security center may be provided adjacent to the
secured door. The communication device shall be located forty (40) inches to
forty-eight (48) inches vertically above the floor and within two (2) feet of the re-
lated door, or as approved by the fire code official. The security center must be
able to remotely unlock the door immediately. The two-way communication cir-
cuit shall be supervised as defined in the Fire Code. An approved sign shall be ad-
jacent to the communication device with an appropriate message such as "Call
Security to Open Door", having minimum one (1) inch high red lettering on a
white background. Failure of the supervising communication circuit shall imme-
diately notify the security center and the related door shall remain unlocked until
the means of communication is repaired.
3. When approved by the fire code official, a control for unlocking the door shall be
provided at the nurse station and a release method, such as a keyed control, con-
trol pad, or card reader, is provided at the secured door. Such devices shall be lo-
cated forty (40) to forty-eight (48)inches vertically above the floor and within two
(2) feet of the related door, or as approved by the fire code official. This is al-
lowed only for the secured area related to the subject nurse station in a Group I
occupancy having complete automatic fire sprinkler protection. Responsible staff
shall be trained at least annually on the use of the exit devices and evacuation
procedures for the area, and all newly hired responsible staff shall be similarly
trained prior to starting work in that area.
1008.1.4.4.3 Exit stairway door locks. Only mechanical egress latching electric crash bars
or mechanical egress latching electrified handset access control hardware are allowed to con-
trol exit stairway doors, unless otherwise approved by the fire code official. Magnetic locks,
electric strikes or electric non-latching touch bars are not allowed unless approved in writing
by the fire code official.
Section 1008.1.5 -Change Exception 3 to read as follows:
3. In Group R-3 occupancies not required to be Accessible units, Type A units or Type B
units, the landing on the exterior side at an exterior doorway ... {remainder un-
changed} .. .
Page 48
Section 1008.1.7- Change Exception 1 and add Exception 2 to read as follows:
Exceptions:
1. The threshold height on the exterior side shall be limited to 7 3/ inches (197 mm)
where ... {remainder unchanged}.. .
2. Access to a private exterior balcony from a private dwelling unit or sleeping room
associated with Groups R-1, R-2 and R-3, when more than four stories above
grade may have a threshold for weather protection. Such threshold shall not cre-
ate astep over of more than 7 3/ inches (197 mm) on either side. Horizontal slid-
ing doors must be used.
Section 1008.1.9.3 -Add items 2.4 and 2.5 to read as, ollows:
2.4 When doors at one egress location occur in a series, such as with a vestibule, the
key-operated locking devices shall only be installed on one door or set of doors,
usually the outer door or outer set of doors. Key-operated locking devices shall
not be installed on both the outer and inner door(s).
2.5 In lieu of akey-operated locking device (double keyed dead bolt) a thumb turn
dead bolt maybe used provided it is a % turn dead bolt. All other provisions, in-
cluding readily distinguishable as locked, are still applicable.
Section 1008.1.9.3 -Add item 3.1 to read as follows:
3.1 Where egress doors are used in pairs and positive latching is required, approved
automatic flush bolts shall be permitted to be used, provided that both leaves achieve
positive latching regardless of the closing sequence and the door leaf having the
automatic flush bolts has no doorknobs or surface mounted hardware.
Section 1008.1.9.4 -Change Exceptions 3 and 4 to read as follows:
3. Where a pair of doors serves an occupant load of less than 50 persons in a Group B, F, M
or S occupancy, manually operated edge- or surface-mounted bolts are permitted on the
inactive leaf. The inactive leaf shall contain no doorknobs, panic bars or similar operat-
ing hardware. If this is the main exterior set of doors, and the active leaf is locked with a
key-operated locking device, compliance with Section 1008.1.9.3 is also required.
When the doors are indistinguishable as to which door to use for exiting, such as match-
ing glass doors with matching push bars, both doors shall be operational and a sign shall
be posted adjacent to the doors stating: THESE DOORS TO REMAIN UNLOCKED
WHEN BUILDING IS OCCUPIED.
4. Where a pair of doors serves a Group A, B, F, M or S occupancy, manually operated
edge- or surface-mounted bolts are permitted on the inactive leaf provided such inactive
leaf is not needed to meet egress with requirements. The inactive leaf shall contain no
doorknobs, panic bars or similar operating hardware. If this is the main exterior doors,
and the active leaf is locked with akey-operated locking device, compliance with Section
1008.1.9.3 is also required.
Page 49
When the doors are indistinguishable as to which door to use for exiting, such as match-
ing glass doors with matching push bars, both doors shall be operational and a sign shall
be posted adjacent to the doors stating: THESE DOORS TO REMAIN UNLOCKED
WHEN BUILDING IS OCCUPIED.
Section 1008.1.9.6 -Delete.
Section 1008.1.9.7 -Change to read as follows:
1008.1.9.7 Delayed egress locks. Delayed egress locks shall not be installed unless ap-
proved by variance via the Construction and Fire Prevention Board of Appeals. If time delay
is approved as a variance, compliance with Fire Code Section 907.4.2 shall be required,
along with the rest of this section in its entirety. An Access Control Permit is required from
the fire department for all such devices.
Delayed egress locks that are approved by variance serving any occupancy shall only be
located in buildings that are equipped throughout with an automatic fire sprinkler system in
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and an approved automatic smoke or heat detection sys-
tem installed in accordance with Section 907, provided that the doors unlock in accordance
with Items 1 through 6 below. A building occupant..... {Rest of Section unchanged. }
Section 1008.1.9.8 -Delete.
Section 1008.1.9.10 -Change Exceptions 2 and 3 to read as follows:
2. This section shall not apply to doors arranged in accordance with Building Code Section
403.5.3 or approved access-controlled doors of Section 1008.1.3.4 through 1008.1.9.9.
Reference Section 4604.23 for existing buildings.
3. In stairways serving not more than four stories, doors are permitted to be locked from the
side opposite the egress side, provided they are openable from the egress side.
[B] SECTION 1009
Section 1009.14 -Change to read as follows:
1009.14 Stairway to elevator equipment. Roof and penthouses containing elevator equipment
that must be accessed for maintenance are required to be accessed by a stairway.
(ASME A17.1; Inquiry 06-25a) Alternating tread devices shall not be considered as a stairway.
[B] SECTION 1010
Section 1010.1 -Add sentence to Exception 3 to read as follows:
This exception applies to parking spaces installed along the vehicle ramp. Accessible parking
shall not be installed on the ramp. The portion of the vehicle ramp from the parking space to the
next landing can only be used as a exit access for those spaces along the ramp between landings
unless in compliance with Section 406.2.5.
Page 50
[B] SECTION 1011
Section 1011.4 -Change to read as follows:
1011.4 Internally illuminated exit signs. Electrically powered and self-luminous exit signs
shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 924 and shall be installed in accordance with
the manufacturer's instructions, Sections 1011.5.1, 1011.5.3 and Chapter 27. Exit signs shall be
illuminated at all times. If photoluminescent exit signs are approved by Board variance, a charg-
ing light shall be installed nearby in accordance with UL 924 that cannot be manually turned off
except with the overcurrent protection device.
[B] SECTION 1014
Section 1014.2.1 -Change the Exception to read as follows:
Exception: When a larger tenant sublets a smaller portion of their area to a separate tenant,
the means of egress from a smaller tenant space shall not be prohibited from passing through
the o larger adjoining tenant space where such rooms or spaces of the small tenant occupy
less than 10 percent of the area of the larger tenant space through which they pass; are the
same or similar occupancy group; a discernable path of egress travel to an exit is provided;
and the means of egress into the adjoining space is not subject to locking from the egress
side. A required means of egress serving the larger tenant space shall not pass through the
smaller tenant space or spaces. This provision is most common in large big box retail estab-
lishments that sublet interior portions of the building to smaller shops; e.g. eye ware, photo
shops, banks, fast food, etc. However, it can also apply to an office tenant that may rent one
office to a subtenant.
Section 1014.3 -Change Exception 1 to read as follows:
1. The length of a common path of egress travel in Group B, F and S occupancies shall not
be more than 100 feet (30 480 mm), provided that the building is equipped throughout
with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. For
Group B occupancies, this sprinkler increase may be applied as each floor is fully sprin-
klered throughout in lieu of the entire building.
[B] SECTION 1015
Section 101 S. 7 -Add to read as follows:
1015.7 Electrical rooms. For electrical rooms special exiting requirements may apply. Refer-
ence the Electrical Code.
[B] SECTION 1016
Section 1016.1 -Delete Exceptions 3 and 4 and replace with exception 3 to read as follows:
For other than open parking garages, when exit stairs are permitted to be unenclosed by
Section 1022.1, exceptions, they shall be considered as exit access stairs. As such, the
exit access travel distance of Section 1016 or Table 1021.2 shall be measured down the
Page 51
nosing of the treads to the level of exit discharge. For exterior stairways permitted to be
non-separated from the interior of the building in accordance with Section 1026.6, travel
distance shall be measured to exterior door when provided or the first step.
Section 1016.3 -Add to read as follows:
1016.3 Roof vent increase. In buildings that are one story in height, equipped with automatic
heat and smoke roof vents complying with Section 910 and equipped throughout with an auto-
matic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, the maximum exit access travel dis-
tance shall be 400 feet (122 m) for occupancies in Group F-1 or S-1. In order to obtain this extra
travel distance, smoke and heat vents must be installed, even if not required by the Fire Code
Table 2306.2, footnote j.
Table 1016.1 -Change footnote c and add a footnote d to read as follows:
F-2, S-2, U 300 400 °'
c. Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1. For Group B occupancies, this sprinkler increase may be applied
as each floor is fully sprinklered throughout in lieu of the entire building.
d. Single use open parking garages in accordance with Section 406.3.5.1, may have the
following travel distances:
- Non-sprinklered open parking garages may have 450' travel distance.
- Sprinklered open-parking garages may have 600' travel distance.
See also Sections 406.2.5 and 1021.1.2.
[B] SECTION 1018
Section 1018.1 -Add Exception S to read as follows:
5. In Group B office buildings, corridor walls and ceilings need not be of fire-resistive
construction within office spaces of a single tenant when in compliance with the follow-
ing:
a. the occupant load of the tenant space does not exceed 100; or,
b. the building is equipped with an approved fire alarm system in accordance
with Section 907.2.2 and smoke detectors are installed within the corridor.
c. See also Section 1018.6, exception 2.
Section 1018.6 -Change to read as follows:
1018.6 Corridor continuity. Corridors shall be continuous from the point of entry to an exit,
and shall not be interrupted by intervening rooms.
Exceptions:
1. Foyers, lobbies or reception rooms constructed as required for corridors shall not
be construed as intervening rooms.
2. When the corridor within an individual tenant space is not required to be fire-
resistance-rated, it is permitted to pass through open office/business spaces pro-
Page 52
vided the exit path is clearly marked through the office/business area to the point
of exit.
[B] TABLE 1018.1
Table 1018.1 -Add footnote d in the title and after the table as follows:
With sprinkler system°'
d. Corridors of Group B Occupancies need not be of fire-resistive construction when the entire story in
which the space is located is equipped with an automatic sprinkler system throughout.
[B] SECTION 1021
Section 1021.1 -Change to read as follows:
1021.1 Exits from stories. All spaces within each story shall have access to the minimum num-
ber of approved independent exits from the story as specified in Table 1021.1 based on the occu-
pant load of the story. For the purposes of this chapter, occupied roofs shall be provided with
exits as required for stories.
When exit stairs are permitted to be unenclosed by Section 1022.1, exceptions, they shall be con-
sidered as exit access stairs. As such, the exit access travel distance of Section 1016 or Table
1021.2 shall be measured down the nosing of the treads to the level of exit discharge. For exte-
rior stairways permitted to be unenclosed in accordance with Section 1026.6, travel distance
shall be measured to exterior stairway door, when provided, or the first step.
For access to elevated or underfloor equipment, see the appropriate Electrical, Mechanical or
Plumbing Code.
Exceptions:
1. As modified by Section 403.5.2 and 3008.4.
2. As modified by Section 1021.2
3. In Group R-2 and R-3 occupancies. See Section 1021.1.4.
4. Within a story, rooms and spaces complying with Section 1015.1 with exits that dis-
charge directly to the exterior at the level of exit discharge, are permitted to have one
exit from the story. Common path of egress travel of Section 1014.3 and travel dis-
tance of Section 1016 still apply.
5. As permitted for elevator lobbies per section 708.14.1.
Section 1021.1.4; added to read as follows:
1021.1.4 Single-story or multi-story dwelling units. Individual single-story or multi-story
dwelling units shall be permitted to have a single exit within and from the dwelling unit pro-
vided that all of the following criteria are met:
1. The dwelling unit complies with Section 1015.1 (inclusive of Section 1015, item #1 and
exception, Table 1015.1, and Section 1014.3) as a space with one means of egress and;
2. Either the exit from the dwelling unit discharges directly to the exterior at the level of exit
Page 53
discharge, or the exit access outside the dwelling unit's entrance door provides access to
not less than two approved independent exits.
Exception: Single exits designed in accordance with Section 1021.2.
[B] SECTION 1021
Table 1021.2 -Change to read as follows:
STORY OCCUPANCY MAXIMUM OCCUPANTS (OR DWELLING UNITS) PER
FLOOR AND TRAVEL DISTANCEf
A, B , Ee, F , M, U 49 occupants and 75 feet travel distance
First story or
h
f
b H-2, H-3 3 occupants and 25 feet travel distance
t
e
irst
ase-
ment level H-4, H-5, I, R 10 occupants and 25 feet travel distance
.
Sa'
29 occupants and 75 feet travel distance
B , F, M, Sa 29 occupants and 75 feet travel distance
Second story R-2 4 dwelling units and 50 feet travel distance
E, R 9 occupants and 75 feet travel distance
Third story R-2° 4 dwelling units and 50 feet travel distance
a. For the required number of exits for parking structures, see Section 1021.1.2.
b. For the required number of exits for air traffic control towers, see Section 412.3.
c. Buildings classified as Group R-2 equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler sys-
tem in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and provided with emergency es-
cape and rescue openings in accordance with Section 1029.
d. Group B, F and S occupancies in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprin-
kler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 shall have a maximum travel distance
of 100 feet.
e. Day care occupancies shall have a maximum occupant load of 10.
f. When exit stairs are permitted to be unenclosed by Section 1022.1, exceptions, they shall
be considered as exit access stairs. As such, the exit access travel distance of Section
1016 or Table 1021.2 shall be measured down the nosing of the treads to the level of exit
discharge. For exterior stairways permitted to be unenclosed in accordance with Section
1026.6, travel distance shall be measured to stairway door, when provided, or the first
step.
[B] SECTION 1022
Section 1022.1 -Add Exceptions 8, 9 and 10 to read as follows:
8. Stairways that are not a required means of egress element are not required to be enclosed
where such stairways comply with Section 708.2.
9. In other than Group H and I occupancies, a maximum of 50 percent of egress stairways
serving one adjacent floor are not required to be enclosed, provided at least two means of
egress are provided from both floors served by the unenclosed stairways. Any two such
interconnected floors shall not be open to other floors. Unenclosed exit stairways shall
be remotely located as required in Section 1015.2.
Page 54
When permitted to be unenclosed per this exception, such stairs shall be considered to be
exit access stairways. Travel distance shall continue to be measured down the nosing of
the treads and out to an exit discharge.
10. In other than Group H and I occupancies, interior egress stairways serving only the first
and second stories of a building equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system
in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 are not required to be enclosed, provided at least
two means of egress are provided from both floors served by the unenclosed stairways.
Such interconnected stories shall not be open to other stories. Unenclosed exit stairways
shall be remotely located as required in Section 1015.2.
When permitted to be unenclosed per this exception, such stairs shall be considered to be
exit access stairways. Travel distance shall continue to be measured down the nosing of
the treads and out to an exit discharge.
[B] SECTION 1026
Section 1026.4 -Change to read as follows:
1026.4 Side yards. The open areas adjoining exterior exit ramps or stairways shall be in direct
contact with either yards, courts or public ways; the remaining sides are permitted to be enclosed
by the exterior walls of the building.
Exception: Any stairway at the end of an open ended corridor that is pulled into the
building shall be considered an exterior stair if in compliance with both of the following
provisions:
1. When using switchback stairs, such that the outside edge of the outside landing is
no more than 5 feet inside the exterior walls. Artificially extending the landing
beyond what is minimally required to meet code will not allow the stairs to be
drawn in further.
2. When using straight run stairs, individually or in conjunction with a switchback
stair, such that the bottom riser is no more than 1 foot inside the exterior walls.
Section 1026.6 -Change to read as follows:
1026.6 Exterior ramps and stairway protection. Exterior exit ramps and stairways shall be
separated from the interior of the building as required in Section 1022. Openings shall be limited
to those necessary for egress from normally occupied spaces.
{Exceptions 1, 2 and 3 remain unchanged. Exception 4 changed as follows:}
4. Separation from the interior open-ended corridors of the building is not required for exte-
rior ramps or stairways connected to open-ended corridors, provided that Items 4.1
through 4.6 are met:
4.1 The building, including corridors and ramps and stairs, shall be equipped through-
out with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or
903.3.1.2.
4.2 The open-ended corridors comply with Section 1018.
4.3 The open-ended corridors are connected on each end to an exterior exit ramp or
stairway complying with Section 1026.
Page 55
4.4 Any location in an open-ended corridor where a change of direction exceedin~ 45
degrees (0.79 rad) occurs, a clear opening of not less than 35 square feet (3.3 m) or
an exterior ramp or stairway shall be provided. Where clear openings are provided,
they shall be located so as to minimize the accumulation of smoke or toxic gases.
4.5 The side walls of the stair separating the stair from the interior of the building shall
be constructed as required in Section 1022. Any portion of the stair that projects
beyond the exterior wall shall be protected from the interior of the building in ac-
cordance with 1022.1 or 1022.6.
4.6 When in compliance with this exception, the travel distance of Section 1016 maybe
measured from the most remote point to the first tread of the stair.
[B] SECTION 1027
Section 1027.1- Change Exception 4 to read as follows:
4. Horizontal exits complying with Section 1025 shall not be required to discharge directly
to the exterior of the building. After passing through a horizontal exit, the provisions of
exit access that applied on one side shall continue to be applicable on the other side, e.g. a
corridor on one side shall not discharge into a room on the other side per Section 1018.6,
a room on one side that discharges into a room on the other side shall do so only if in
compliance with Section 1014.2, etc. Travel distance shall be permitted to start again.
[B] SECTION 1028
Section 1028.1 -Change to read as follows:
1028.1 General. Occupancies in Group A and assembly occupancies accessory to Group E shall
comply with this section.
[B] SECTION 1029
Section 1029.3.1 -Add to read as follows:
1029.3.1 Minimum window sill height. For minimum required window sill height, see Sec-
tion 1405.13.2.
SECTION 1030
MAINTENANCE OF THE MEANS OF EGRESS
Section 1030.2 and 1030.2.1 -Change and add to read as follows:
1030.2 Reliability. Required exit accesses, exits or exit discharges shall be continuously main-
tained free from obstructions or impediments to full instant use in the case of fire or other emer-
gency at all times. Security devices affecting means of egress shall be subject to approval of the
fire code official.
1030.2.1 Lift-out bars. In other than I and R occupancies and high-rise buildings and/or
when approved by the fire code official, lift-out bars maybe utilized under the following
provisions:
1. Bar shall be removable with a single effort not to exceed 15 pounds.
Page 56
2. Installation of such devices shall not reduce the required minimum egress width
of the subject door when fully open. Projections into the means of egress shall
not exceed that allowed by Section 1003.3, 1005, and 1008 and shall not result
in an obstruction or impediment to egress.
3. Bar shall be marked with "Lift to Remove" in 2 inch letters with contrasting
background.
4. Each door shall be marked with "This Door to be Unlocked when building is
occupied" in 2 inch letters with contrasting background
5. Bars shall be stored in an area not accessible to the public when occupied.
6. Bars shall not be capable of being locked in place.
Section 1030.7 -Change to read as follows:
1030.7 Emergency escape openings. Required emergency escape openings shall be maintained
in accordance with the code in effect at the time of construction or, when applicable, the provi-
sions of Fire Code Chapter 46, or the Minimum Building Standards Code and the following:
1. Required emergency escape and rescue openings shall be operational from the inside of
the room without the use of keys or tools.
2. Bars, grilles, grates or similar devices are allowed to be placed over emergency escape
and rescue openings provided the minimum net clear openings size is maintained and
such devices shall be releasable or removable from the inside without the use of a key,
tool or force greater than that which is required for normal operation of the escape and
rescue opening. Bars, grills, grates and similar devices require a building permit as speci-
fied in the Building Code and Residential Code.
Chapter 11
AVIATION FACILITIES
SECTION 1104
AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE
Section 1104.1.1-Add to read as follows:
1104.1.1 Transferring fuel in hangars. Flammable and combustible liquids shall not be
dispensed into or removed from the fuel system of an aircraft within an aircraft hangar.
Exception: When approved by the fire code official, fueling and de-fueling of air-
craft inside a repair hangar for the specific purpose of evaluating the integrity of the
aircraft fuel system maybe conducted when sufficient safeguards are provided. These
may include enclosed secondary containment of the fueling system, vapor monitoring
with automatic shutoffs for the system, leak detection, drainage, spill control, and
automatic fire protection adequate to protect the hazard. Fueling and de-fueling op-
erations utilizing refueling units are prohibited inside hangars.
Section 1104.3 -Change to read as follows:
1104.3 Cleaning parts. Aircraft engines and parts of aircraft shall not be cleaned with Class I
or II liquids in an aircraft hangar or within fifty (50) feet of another aircraft, building, or hangar,
unless cleaning is in accordance with Section 3405.3.6.
Page 57
Chapter 14
FIRE SAFETY DURING
CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION
SECTION 1413
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM
Section 1414.1- Change to read as follows:
1414.1 Completion before occupancy. In buildings where an automatic sprinkler system is
required by this code or the Building Code, it shall be unlawful to occupy any portion of a build-
ing or structure until the automatic sprinkler system installation has been tested and approved.
Chapter 15
FLAMMABLE FINISHES
SECTION 1504
SPRAY FINISHING
Section 1501.2 -Delete.
Section 1504.4 -Change to read as follows:
1504.4 Fire protection. New and existing spray booths and spray rooms shall be protected by
an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system complying with Chapter ~, which shall also
protect exhaust plenums, exhaust ducts, and both sides of dry filters when such filters are used.
For installation of automatic sprinklers in ducts, see Section 1504.7.5 and the Mechanical Code.
Chapter 19
LUMBER YARDS AND WOODWORKING FACILITIES
Section 1903.2.2 -Add to read as follows:
1903.2.2 Woodworking (or cabinet) shop. Where more than thref; (3) fixed or table
mounted pieces of dust producing equipment exist, each fixed or table mounted piece
shall be connected to a dust collection system, in accordance with this section and Sec-
tions 510 and 511 of the Mechanical Code, and interconnected such that the dust collec-
tion is automatically activated whenever the equipment is on.
Chapter 22
MOTOR FUEL-DISPENSING FACILITES AND REPAIR GARAGES
SECTION 2202
DEFINITIONS
Section 2202 -Change definitions to read as follows:
REPAIR GARAGE. A building, structure or portion thereof used for servicing or repairing
motor vehicles. This occupancy shall not include motor fuel-dispensing f~icilities, but shall
include any auto repair bays.
Page 58
This occupancy shall also include facilities involved in minor repair, modification and
servicing of motor vehicles for items such as Tube changes, inspections, windshield repair or
replacement, shocks, minor part replacement and other such minor repair.
Chapter 23
HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE
SECTION 2302
DEFINITIONS
Section 2302 -Change the definition of "High-Piled Combustible Storage " to read as follows:
HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE. Storage of combustible materials where the top
of storage is greater than 12 feet (3658 mm) in height. High-piled combustible storage also in-
cludes certain high-hazard commodities, such as rubber tires, Group A plastics; flammable or
combustible liquids; idle pallets; Class 2, 3 and 4 liquid and solid oxidizers; Class 1 and unclassi-
fied detonable organic peroxides; Class 3 and 4 unstable (reactive) materials; Class 2 or 3 water-
reactive materials; and similar commodities, where the top of storage is greater than 6 feet (1829
mm) in height.
Also, any building classified as a Group S Occupancy or Speculative Building exceeding
two thousand five hundred (2,500) sq. ft. that has a clear height in excess of fourteen (14) feet,
making it possible to be used for storage in excess of twelve (12) feet, shall be considered to be
high-piled storage and shall comply with the provisions of this section. When a specific product
cannot be identified, a fire protection system shall be installed as for Class IV commodities to the
maximum building height available for storage.
SECTION 2306
GENERAL FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY FEATURES
Table 2306.2 -Delete both `Nonpublic accessible (option 2) 'rows from the table.
CHAPTER 24
TENTS AND OTHER MEMBRANE STRUCTURES
SECTION 2403
TEMPORARY TENTS AND MEMBRANE STRUCTURES
Section 2403.8.4 -Add sentence to first paragraph to read as follows:
This section does not apply to tents, as defined in the Fire Code.
SECTION 2404
TEMPORARY AND PERMANENT TENTS AND MEMBRANE STRUCTURES
Section 2404.15.5 -Change to read as follows:
2404.15.5 Cooking tents. Any cooking involving grease-laden vapors or open dames to
be located in a tent shall be located in `cooking tents' specifically, which must be sepa-
rated from any other tent, canopy or membrane structure by a minimum of 20 feet.
Page 59
Cooking tents shall also comply with the following, unless otherwise approved by the fire
code official:
If provided with sidewalk or drops, cooking tents shall have an adequate ex-
haust, shall not be accessible by the public, and shall be limited to 200 square
feet each.
2. Cooking tents if 75% open on sides, shall have adequate ventilation, shall not
be accessible by the public, except for walk-up store front type service, and
shall be limited to 400 square feet each.
3. All cooking tents shall be provided with Class K portable fire extinguishers
for all such cooking operations in accordance with Section 904.11.5.
4. Appropriate Health permits shall be obtained and posted.
CHAPTER 25
TIRE REBUILDING AND TIRE STORAGE
SECTION 2505
OUTDOOR STORAGE
Section 2505.1 -Change to read as follows:
2505.1 Outdoor tire and tire byproduct storage. Outdoor tire and tire byproduct storage is
prohibited.
Exceptions:
1. Outdoor tire storage may be permitted when in conjunction with a tire rebuilding, tire
recapping, or tire handling operation and less than fifty (50) tires are stored within the
boundary of any contiguous properties owned by the same person or persons.
2. Outdoor tire storage may be permitted when in conjunction with atire-rebuilding, tire
recapping, or tire handling operation and fifty (50) or more tires are stored within the
boundary of any contiguous properties owned by the same person or persons if such
tires are suitable for recapping or rebuilding and if:
2.1. The ground surface covering in the areas used for and adjacent to stor-
age areas or sixty (60) feet in any direction are hard surfaced and kept
free of grass, weeds, debris, etc.; and
2.2. The perimeter of the storage area is enclosed by a fence not less than 6
feet in height to restrict access by unauthorized persons; and
2.3. Tires are not stored within fifty (50) feet of any structure or property
line; and
2.4. Storage configurations are piles not to exceed six hundred twenty-five
(625) square feet in area with a maximum dimension of fifty (50) feet,
a maximum height often (10) feet, and a minimum separation between
piles of twenty (20) feet; or in racks no more than fifty (50) feet in
length and ten (10) feet in width with a minimum aisle separation be-
tween racks often (10) feet, and
Page 60
3. New or recapped tires displayed for purposes of sale.
Section 2505.2 -Delete.
Section 2505.3 -Delete.
Section 2505.4 -Delete.
Section 2505.5 -Delete.
Section 2505.6 -Delete.
Section 2505.7 -Delete.
SECTION 2507
FENCING
Section 2507 -Delete.
SECTION 2509
INDOOR STORAGE ARRANGEMENT
Section 2509.2 -Add to read as follows:
2509.2 Fire protection. Automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be required in accordance with
Section 903.2.9.2 and Chapter 23 (High-piled storage) regarding fire sprinkler requirements for
the storage of rubber tires.
Chapter 27
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS -GENERAL PROVISIONS
SECTION 2703
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Section 2703.6.1 -Add to read as follows:
2703.6.1 Sign size requirements. Signs required in Section 2703.5 and 2703.5.1 shall
have text characters that are a minimum of four (4) inches in height when inside a building
and six (6) inches in height when outside a building.
Chapter 33
EXPLOSIVES AND FIREWORKS
SECTION 3301
GENERAL
Section 3301.1.3 -Change to read as follows:
3301.1.3 Fireworks. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling and use of
fireworks are prohibited.
Exception: The use of fireworks for display as perrnitted in Section 3308.
Page 61
Section 3301.2.1 -Change to read as follows:
3301.2.1 Sale and retail display. No person shall construct a retail display nor offer for
sale explosives, explosive materials, or fireworks.
Section 3301.2.2 -Delete.
Section 3301.2.4 -Change to read as follows:
3301.2.4 Financial Responsibility
Before a permit is issued, as required by Section 3301.2, the applicant shall submit proof of
Commercial General Liability (CGL) insurance coverage with the jurisdiction, in an amount of
no less than $5,000,000 for the purpose of the payment of all damages to persons or property
which arise from, or are caused by, the conduct of any act authorized by the permit upon which
any judicial judgment results. The required coverage limit of liability may be greater than the
minimum when conditions at the location warrant the increase due to higher levels of risk expo-
sures. The CGL policy shall have no exclusions for pollution liability.
Section 3301.2.4.1 -Change to read as follows:
3301.2.4.1 Blasting. Before approval to do blasting is issued, the applicant for approval shall
file a bond or submit a certificate of insurance in such form, amount and coverage to be ade-
quate in each case to indemnify the jurisdiction against any and all damages arising from
permitted blasting.
Section 3301.2.4.2 -Change to read as follows:
3301.2.4.2 Fireworks display. The permit holder shall furnish a certificate of insurance in
an amount deemed adequate by the fire code official for the payment of all potential damages
to a person or persons or to property by reason of the permitted display, and arising from any
acts of the permit holder, the agent, employees or subcontractors.
Section 3301.9 -Add to read as follows:
3301.9 Aiding minors to violate article. No parent or guardian of a minor shall furnish
money or a thing of value to a minor for the purchase of fireworks or encourage, act in conjunc-
tion with, or in any manner instigate or aid a minor in the commission of possessing, selling, of-
fering for sale, giving away, using, transporting, or manufacturing fireworks within the city. The
commission of the offense by the minor on the property under the control or owned by the parent
or guardian shall be prima facie proof that the relation or guardian was instigating or aiding the
minor.
Section 3301.10 -Add to read as follows:
3301.10 Signaling devices. This article shall not apply to the possession or use of signaling de-
vices for current daily consumption by railroads, vessels and others requiring them; or to the pos-
session, sale, or use of normal stocks of flashlight compositions by photographers or dealers in
photographic supplies; or to the possession or use of flares or rockets for military or police pur-
poses; or any auto flares, or paper caps containing not in excess of an average of twenty-five one
hundredths (25/100ths) of a grain of explosive content per cap, and toy pistols, toy canes, toy
Page 62
guns, or other devices for use of such caps, the sale and use of which shall be permitted at all
times.
Section 3301.11-Add to read as follows:
3301.11 Territorial applicability. The provisions of this article shall be applicable within the
corporate limits of the city and also within the area immediately adjacent and contiguous to the
city limits and extending outside the city limits for a distance of five thousand feet unless such
area is within the corporate limits of another municipality.
SECTION 3308
FIREWORKS DISPLAY
Section 3308.2 -Change to read as follows:
3308.2 Fireworks application and permit. It shall be unlawful for any person to possess,
use, manufacture, sell, offer for sale, give away, transport, or discharge fireworks of any descrip-
tion; provided, however, that the fire code official shall have the power to adopt reasonable rules
and regulations for the granting of permits for supervised public displays of fireworks by artisans
in pursuit of their trade. Every such use or display shall be handled by a competent operator ap-
proved by the fire code official, and shall be of such character and so located, discharged, or
fired as in the opinion of the fire code official after proper investigation so as not to be hazardous
to property or endanger any person. No permit granted shall be transferable.
The fire code official shall not approve any application for permit for supervised public display
of fireworks unless he or she finds that:
1. The applicant has filed in the City Secretary's Office a certificate showing the ap-
plicant has secured, and agrees to keep in force during the term of the permit, a
policy providing for bodily injury and property damage insurance in the amounts
as follows:
Commercial General Liability, Per Occurrence...... $1,000,000
Commercial General Liability, Aggregate............ $3,000,000
Such insurance policy shall provide that it cannot be canceled or amended without
at least thirty (30) days' notice to the City Secretary; and
2. That the applicant has covenanted and agreed in writing to indemnify, hold harm-
less, and defend at its own expense, the City of Fort Worth, it's officers, agents
and employees from and against any and all claims or suits for property damage
and/or personal injury, including death, or whatsoever kind of character, whether
real or asserted, arising out of, or in connection with, the execution, performance
or attempted performance of fireworks at a public display whether or not caused,
in whole or in part, by alleged negligence of officers, agents or employees of the
City of Fort Worth; and the applicant hereby assumes all liability and responsibil-
ity for any and all claims or suits for property damage and/or personal injury, in-
cluding death, or whatsoever kind of character, whether real or asserted, arising
out of, or in connection with, the execution, performance, or attempted perform-
ance of fireworks at a public display, whether or not caused in whole or in part by
alleged negligence of officers, agents or employees of the City of Fort Worth.
Page 63
Applicant likewise covenants and agrees, and does hereby indemnify and hold
harmless the City of Fort Worth from and against any and all injuries, damage, or
destruction of City property arising out of or in connection with, directly or indi-
rectly, all acts or omissions of applicant, his officers, agents, employees, contrac-
tors, subcontractors or invitee, or caused by alleged negligence in whole or in part
by officers, agents or employees of the City; and
The application for the permit was made in writing at least fifteen (15) days prior
to the date of display in accordance with Section 105.6.15; and
4. The applicant has included in the application for permit the names of the organi-
zation sponsoring the display together with the names of persons actually in
charge of the firing of the display; and
5. The applicant has included in the application for permit the date and time of day
at which the display is to beheld; and
6. The applicant has included in the application for permit the exact location planned
for the display; and
7. The applicant has included in the application for the permit a description setting
forth the age, experience, and physical characteristics of the persons who are to do
the actual discharging of the fireworks; and
The applicant has included in application for permit the number and kinds of
fireworks to be discharged; and
9. The applicant has included in the application for permit the manner and place of
storage of such fireworks prior to the display; and
10. The applicant has included in the application for the permit a diagram of the
grounds on which the display is to be held showing the point at which the fire-
works are to be discharged, the location of the buildings, highways, and other
lines of communication, the lines behind which the audience will be restrained,
and the location of all nearby trees, communication or telephone lines, or other
overhead obstructions; and
11. The applicant has included in the application for permit all licenses and permits
issued and required by the Texas State Fire Marshal's Office.
Section 3308.2.1 -Change to read as follows:
3308.2.1 Displays. In addition to the requirements of Section 403, permit applications
for outdoor fireworks displays using Division 1.3G fireworks shall include the following:
The fire code official shall approve the application and issue the permit for the
public display of fireworks if he finds that: the applicant has complied with the
applicable provisions for this article; the discharge, failure to fire, faulty firing, or
fall-out of any fireworks or other objects will not endanger any person, buildings,
structures, forests, or brush; and the fireworks are to be fired more than 200 feet
Page 64
from the nearest building, public highway, railroad, or other means of travel; and
50 feet from the nearest above ground telephone or communication line, tree, or
other overhead obstruction. In no case shall the fire code official issue a permit
for a display to be held within six hundred (600) feet of a school, theater, church,
hospital, or similar institution.
2. All fireworks that fire a projectile shall be so set up that the projectile will go into
the air as nearly as possible in a vertical direction; provided, however, that where
such fireworks are to be fired beside a lake or other large body of water, they may
be directed in such a manner that the falling residue from the projectile will fall
into said body of water.
3. Any fireworks that remain unfired after the display is concluded shall be immedi-
ately disposed of or removed in a manner safe for the particular type of fireworks.
The debris from the discharged fireworks shall be properly disposed of by the op-
erator before he leaves the premises. The operator, upon the conclusion of the
display, shall make a complete and thorough search for any unfired fireworks or
pieces thereof which have failed to fire or function and shall dispose of them in a
safe manner. The search shall be instituted at the earliest possible time following
that conclusion of the display, but in no event later than the first period of daylight
which follows.
4. No fireworks display shall be held during any windstorms in which the wind
reaches a velocity of more than twenty (20) miles per hour.
All fireworks articles and items at places of display shall be stored in a manner
and in a place secure from fire, accidental discharge, and theft, and in a manner
approved by the fire code official.
6. The approval of any application and issuance of any permits by the fire code offi-
cial shall in no way be construed as an assumption of responsibility or liability by
the City for any damages or injuries to persons or property arising out of or inci-
dent to the discharge of fireworks at a public display.
Chapter 34
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
SECTION 3403
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Section 3403.6 - Add a sentence to read as follows:
An approved method of secondary containment shall be provided for underground tank and pip-
ing systems.
Page 65
SECTION 3404
STORAGE
Section 3404.2.7. S. S.1 -Change to read as follows:
3404.2.7.5.5.1 Class 1 liquids. For Class I liquids other than crude oil and as-
phalt, the fill pipe shall be designed and installed in a manner which will mini-
mize the possibility of generating static electricity by terminating within 6
inches (152 mm) of the bottom of the tank.
Section 3404.2.9.5.1 -Add section to read as follows:
3404.2.9.5.1 Combustible liquid storage tanks inside of buildings. The maximum ag-
gregate allowable quantity limit shall be 3,000 gallons (11 356 L) of Class II or III com-
bustible liquid for storage in protected aboveground tanks complying with Section
3404.2.9.7 when all of the following conditions are met:
1. The entire 3,000 gallon (11 356 L) quantity shall be stored in protected above-
ground tanks;
2. The 3,000 gallon (11 356 L) capacity shall be permitted to be stored in a single
tank or multiple smaller tanks;
3. The tanks shall be located in a room protected by an automatic sprinkler system
complying with Section 903.3.1.1; and
4. Tanks shall be connected to fuel-burning equipment, including generators, util-
izing an approved closed piping system.
5. Tanks shall not be located more than two stories below grade.
The quantity of combustible liquid stored in tanks complying with this section shall not be
counted towards the maximum allowable quantity set forth in Table 2703.1.1(1), and such
tanks shall not be required to be located in a control area.
Section 3404.2.11.5.3 -Add to read as follows:
3404.2.11.5.3 Observation wells. Approved sampling tubes, or observation wells, of
a minimum six (6) inches in diameter shall be installed in the backfill material of each
underground flammable or combustible liquid storage tank. The tubes shall extend
from a point twelve (12) inches below the average grade of the excavation to ground
level and shall be provided with suitable surface access caps. Each tank site shall pro-
vide aminimum of four (4) observation wells located at the outer corners of the exca-
vation with a minimum of 4 sumps. Observation wells shall also be placed in the
product line excavation within ten (10) feet of the tank excavation and one every fifty
(50) feet routed along product lines toward the dispensers. A minimum of two obser-
vation wells are required in the product line excavation.
Section 3404.2.11.5.4 -Add to read as follows:
3404.2.11.5.4 STP (sub-pumps) sumps and dispenser pans. Approved sumps
shall be installed around the sub-pumps and approved dispenser pans or sumps shall
be installed under the dispensers. The sumps around the sub-pumps shall be liquid
Page 66
and vapor tight and shall be electronically monitored. The dispenser pans or sumps
shall be liquid tight and shall be electronically monitored.
Section 3404.2.11. S. S -Add to read as follows:
3404.2.11.5.5 Secondary containment. An approved method of secondary con-
tainment shall be provided for underground tank systems, including tanks, piping and
related components.
Section 3404.2.14.1- Change to read as follows:
3404.2.14.1 Removal. Removal of above-ground and underground tanks shall be in
accordance with all of the following, unless otherwise approved by the fire code offi-
cial:
1. Flammable and Combustible Liquids Construction Permit required for re-
moval of tank. The fire code official shall be notified prior to starting work at
a removal site to inform the inspector as to the schedule of the work to coor-
dinate appropriate inspection times. Tanks shall not be removed from an ex-
cavation without the fire code official present.
2. Submit copy of TCEQ Construction Notification Form for removal of each
tank.
3. The excavation shall be properly secured and barricaded to ensure the public
safety. Lighted barricades required if the excavation is left open overnight.
There shall be no smoking on a flammable/combustible liquids tank removal
site at any time.
4. Flammable and combustible liquids shall be removed from the tank and con-
necting piping. Tank shall be cleaned with approved surfactant agent to assist
with removal of all flammable/combustible liquid residue in tank. Vacuum
trucks shall be bonded and grounded to prevent possible static accumulation.
5. Piping at tank openings which is not to be used further shall be disconnected.
6. Piping shall be removed from the ground.
Exception: Piping is allowed to be abandoned in place only where the
fire code official determines that removal is not practical. Abandoned pip-
ing shall be capped and safeguarded as required by the fire code official.
7. Tanks shall be purged of vapor prior to removal from the excavation. Vapors
shall be purged out of vent located minimum 12 ft. above grade. (Verify tank
atmosphere to be less than 10% LEL prior to removal from excavation with
combustible gas meter -contractor shall provide calibrated meter for this pur-
pose.)
8. After the tank has been purged of vapor and prior to removal, the tank open-
ings shall be capped or plugged, leaving a 0.125-inch to 0.25-inch-diameter
(3.2 mm to 6.4 mm) opening at the top of the tank for pressure equalization.
Care shall be taken to avoid damaging the tank. However, in the event that
the tank becomes damaged, wholes in the tank shall be patched with tape, etc.,
in anon-hazardous manner (no cutting/welding of any kind and no introduc-
tion of a flammable/combustible adhesive) in order to meet the above venting
requirement. If the tank is so severely damaged that patching is not possible,
additional cleaning of the tank with surfactant is required until such time as a
0% LEL can be achieved and maintained.
Page 67
9. The tank atmosphere and the excavation shall be regularly tested (at least
hourly) after vapor purge to ensure LEL does not exceed 10% until the tank is
removed from both the excavation and the site.
9. Tanks shall not be dropped, dragged, or rolled during the process of removal
from the excavation and loading of the transport on site, due to potentially
hazardous conditions. Tanks shall be lifted from manufacturer-provided lift-
ing lugs on the tank. If this is not possible, straps shall be provided for lifting,
rather than wrapping the tank with a chain.
10. Tanks shall not be destroyed in the excavation or on site, due to potentially
hazardous conditions.
11. Before any tank is removed from a premise, the tank shall be labeled and the
manifest of transportation shall be filed with the fire department. The labeling
shall include the prior contents of the tank, the address that the tank was re-
moved from, the date that the tank was removed, and that the tank is not suit-
able for storage of food or liquids intended fro human or animal consumption.
Letters shall be at least two (2) inches high and contrasting in color with the
background.
12. Prior to removal from the site, tanks shall be inerted with at least 1.5 lbs. of
dry ice per one hundred (100) gallons of tank capacity. If tank is inerted prior
to removal from the excavation, the contractor shall have available an oxygen
meter to verify oxygen concentration is less than 8% in tank prior to removal
from the excavation.
13. Tanks shall be disposed of in accordance with federal, state and local regula-
tions. API 1604 shall be utilized as a guide for tank removals unless the above
requirements are more stringent.
SECTION 3406
SPECIAL OPERATIONS
Section 3406.3.1.2 -Change to read as follows:
3406.3.1.2 Streets and railways. Wells shall not be drilled within 75 feet of any public
street, road, highway, future street or right-of--way, property line, or nearest rail of an operat-
ing railway.
Section 3406.3.1.3 -Change to read as follows:
3406.3.1.3 Setbacks. There shall be no avenue for an appeal or variance from any of the fol-
lowing minimum setback requirements in this Section, other than those provided for in the
Fort Worth Gas Drilling and Production Ordinance.
3406.3.1.3.1 Definitions. The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this
Section only, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section only, except where
the context clearly indicates a different meaning:
BUILDING. Any structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering any use
or occupancy. The term "building" shall be construed as if followed by the words
"or portions thereof"
Page 68
HABITABLE STRUCTURE. Any structure for which a certificate of occu-
pancy is required. A habitable structure shall not include detached accessory
buildings, garages and sheds.
HOSPITAL BUILDING. All buildings used or designed to and intended to be
used for medical, surgical, psychiatric, nursing or custodial care on a 24-hour ba-
sis, including convalescent facilities, social rehabilitation centers, mental hospi-
tals, detoxification facilities, and alcohol and drug centers.
LIFT COMPRESSOR. A device that raises the pressure of a compressible fluid
(gas) in order to lift gas from the well.
LINE COMPRESSOR. A device that raises the pressure of a compressible fluid
(gas) in order for the gas to be transported through a pipeline.
MULTIPLE WELL SITE PERMIT. A permit that is required when there is an
application for the placement of more than one well on a pad site, as per the Fort
Worth Gas Drilling and Production Ordinance.
OUTER BOUNDARY SURFACE PROPERTY LINE. The outer boundary of
any property for which a preliminary plat or concept plan has been filed with the
City of Fort Worth
PROTECTED USE._A residence, religious institution, hospital building, school
or public park.
PUBLIC BUILDING. All buildings with occupancies greater than 50 persons
and more than 750 square feet used or designed to and intended to be used for
motion picture theaters, symphony and concert halls, television and radio studios
admitting an audience, theaters, banquet halls, night clubs, restaurants, taverns
and bars, amusement arcades, art galleries, blowing alleys, community halls,
courtrooms, dance halls, exhibition halls funeral parlors, gymnasiums without
spectator seating, indoor swimming pools and tennis courts without spectator
seating, lecture halls, libraries, museums, waiting areas in transportation termi-
nals, pool and billiard parlors, arenas with spectator seating, skating rinks with
spectator seating, swimming pools with spectator swimming, tennis courts with
spectator seating and amusement park outdoor activities.
PUBLIC PARK. Any structures, bleachers, grandstands and stadiums used for
viewing land area dedicated to by the City for traditional park-like recreational
purposes.
RELIGIOUS INSTITUTION. Any building in which persons regularly assem-
ble for religious worship and activities intended primarily for purposes connected
with such worship or for propagating a particular form of religious belief.
RESIDENCE. A house, duplex, apartment, townhouse, condominium, city-
inspected mobile homes or other building designed for dwelling purposes, includ-
ing those for which a building permit has been issued on the date the application
for a Gas Well Permit is filed with the Gas Inspector. Residence shall include as-
sisted living facilities, nursing homes (both intermediate care facilities and skilled
nursing facilities), residential board and care facilities, group homes, 24-hour
shelters, half-way houses, hotels, motels and jails.
SCHOOL. Any public and private, primary and secondary educational facilities
providing education or off-site related school sports venues up through and in-
cluding the twelfth grade level and any licensed day care centers, meaning a facil-
ity licensed by the State of Texas or by the City of Fort Worth that provides care,
training, education, custody, treatment or supervision for more than six children
under 14 years of age, and for less than 24 hours per day.
Page 69
3406.3.1.3.2 New Natural Gas Wells. New natural gas wells shall have setbacks pro-
vided in accordance with the requirements of the Fort Worth Gas Drilling and Production
Ordinance.
3406.3.1.3.3 Existing Natural Gas Wells. Where natural gas wells are existing, the fol-
lowing setback requirements shall apply.
1. A Protected Use or Public Building shall not be constructed within three hundred
(300) feet of the center of a gas well, at the surface of the ground, or within two
hundred twenty-five (225) feet of a gas well pad site having a Multiple Well Site
Permit.
Exception: Residential structures on platted lots prior to 4/3/2009 shall
not be constructed within two hundred (200) feet of the center of a gas
well, at the surface of the ground, or within one hundred twenty-five (125)
feet of a gas well pad site having a Multiple Well Site Permit.
2. A Habitable Structure shall not be constructed within two hundred (200) feet of
the center of a gas well, at the surface of the ground, or within one hundred
twenty-five (125) feet of a gas well pad site having a Multiple Well Site Permit.
3. An accessory building, not necessary to the operation of the well, shall not be
constructed within one hundred (100) feet of the center of a gas well, at the sur-
face of the ground, or within twenty-five (25) feet of a gas well pad site having a
Multiple Well Site Permit.
The distance shall be calculated from the well bore, or edge of pad site for Multiple Well
Site Permit, in a straight line, without regard to intervening structures or objects, to the
closest exterior point of any object indicated in this Section.
3406.3.1.3.4 Compressor Stations -Natural Gas Facilities. Natural gas compressor
stations shall be provided with the following setbacks.
3406.3.1.3.4.1 New Lift or Line Compressors. New natural gas Lift or Line Com-
pressors shall have setbacks provided in accordance with the requirements of the Fort
Worth Gas Drilling and Production Ordinance.
3406.3.1.3.4.2 Existing Lift Compressor. Any Protected Use, Public Building, or
Habitable Structure shall be setback a minimum of two hundred (200) feet from any
existing Lift Compressor site or equipment and buildings not part of the operation of
the compressor.
3406.3.1.3.4.3 Existing Line Compressor. Any Protected Use shall be setback a
minimum of six hundred (600) feet from any existing Line Compressor site or three
hundred (300) feet from any existing fully enclosed Line Compressor sites. Any Pub-
lic Building or Habitable Structure shall be setback a minimum of three hundred
(300) feet from any existing Line Compressor site. Any Protected Use, Public Build-
ing or Habitable Structure shall be setback a minimum of two hundred (200) feet
from any equipment and buildings not part of the operation of the compressor.
Page 70
Section 3406.5.4 -Change to read as follows:
3406.5.4 Dispensing from tank vehicles and tank cars. Dispensing from tank vehicles
and tank cars into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles shall be prohibited unless allowed by
and conducted in accordance with Sections 3406.5.4.1 through 3406.5.4.5.4.
Sections 3406.5.4.5 through 3406.5.4.5.4 -Add to read as follows:
3406.5.4.5 Commercial, industrial, governmental or manufacturing. Dispensing of
Class II and III motor vehicle fuel from tank vehicles into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles
located at commercial, industrial, governmental or manufacturing establishments is al-
lowed where permitted, provided such dispensing operations are conducted in accordance
with Sections 3406.5.4.5.1 through 3406.5.4.5.4 and Appendix K.
3406.5.4.5.1 Site requirements.
1. Dispensing may occur at sites that have been permitted to conduct mobile
fueling.
2. A detailed plan shall be submitted with each application for a permit. The
site plan must indicate:
a. all buildings, structures, and appurtenances on site and their uses or
function;
b. all uses adjacent to the property lines of the site;
c. the locations of all storm drain openings, adjacent waterways or wet-
lands;
d. information regarding slope, natural drainage, curbing, impounding
and how a spill will be retained upon the site property; and,
e. the scale of the site plan.
3. The Code Official is authorized to impose limits upon: the times and/or
days during which mobile fueling operations are allowed to take place,
and specific locations on a site where fueling is permitted.
4. Mobile fueling operations shall be conducted in areas not generally acces-
sible to the public.
5. Mobile fueling shall not take place within 15 feet (4.572m) of buildings,
property lines, or combustible storage.
3406.5.4.5.2 Refueling Operator Requirements
1. The owner of a mobile fueling operation shall provide to the jurisdiction a
written response plan which demonstrates readiness to respond to a fuel
spill, carry out appropriate mitigation measures, and to indicate its process
to properly dispose of contaminated materials when circumstances require.
2. The tank vehicle shall comply with the requirements of NFPA 385 and
Local, State and Federal requirements. The tank vehicle's specific func-
tion shall include that of supplying fuel to motor vehicle fuel tanks. The
tank vehicle and its equipment shall be maintained in good repair.
3. Signs prohibiting smoking or open flames within 25 feet (7.62m) of the
tank vehicle or the point of fueling shall be prominently posted on 3 sides
of the vehicle including the back and both sides.
Page 71
4. Afire extinguisher with a minimum rating of 40:BC shall be provided on
the vehicle signage clearly indicating its location.
5. The dispensing nozzles and hoses shall be of an approved and listed type.
6. The dispensing hose shall not be extended from the reel more than 100
feet (30.48m) in length.
7. Absorbent materials, non-water absorbent pads, a 10 foot (3.048m) long
containment boom, an approved container with lid, and anon-metallic
shovel shall be provided to mitigate a minimum 5 gallon fuel spill.
8. Tanker vehicles shall be equipped with a fuel limit switch such as a count-
back switch, limiting the amount of single fueling operation to a maximum
of 500 gallons (1893 L) between resettings of the limit switch.
Exception: Tankers utilizing remote emergency shut-off device
capability where the operator constantly carries the shut-off device
which, when activated, immediately causes flow of fuel from the
tanker to cease
9. Persons responsible for dispensing operations shall be trained in the ap-
propriate mitigating actions in the event of a fire, leak, or spill. Training
records shall be maintained by the dispensing company and shall be made
available to the Code Official upon request.
10. Operators of tank vehicles used for mobile fueling operations shall have in
their possession at all times an emergency communications device to no-
tify the proper authorities in the event of an emergency.
3406.5.4.5.3 Operational Requirements
1. The tank vehicle dispensing equipment shall be constantly attended and
operated only by designated personnel who are trained to handle and dis-
pense motor fuels.
2. Prior to beginning dispensing operations, precautions shall be taken to as-
sure ignition sources are not present.
3. The engines of vehicles being fueled shall be shut off during dispensing
operations.
4. Night time fueling operations shall only take place in adequately lighted
areas.
5. The tank vehicle shall be positioned with respect to vehicles being fueled
so as to preclude traffic from driving over the delivery hose and between
the tank vehicles and the motor vehicle being fueled.
6. During fueling operations, tank vehicle brakes shall be set, chock blocks
shall be in place and warning lights shall be in operations.
7. Motor vehicle fuel tanks shall not be topped off.
8. The dispensing hose shall be properly placed on an approved reel or in an
approved compartment prior to moving the tank vehicle.
9. The Code Official and other appropriate authorities shall be notified when
a reportable spill or unauthorized discharge occurs.
3406.5.4.5.4 Fees. Not withstanding the requirements set forth in Section 105, the
fees for mobile refueling permits are as set forth in Appendix K.
Page 72
Chapter 38
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GASES
SECTION 3803
INSTALLATION OF EQUIPMENT
Section 3803.1 -Change to read as follows:
3803.1 General. Liquefied petroleum gas equipment shall be installed in accordance with the
International Fuel Gas Code, NFPA 58, and applicable state and federal regulations, except as
otherwise provided in this chapter.
SECTION 3804
LOCATION OF CONTAINERS
Section 3804.2.1-Add to read as follows:
3804.2.1 Residence, spa and pool heaters. Where natural gas service is not available,
LP-gas containers are allowed to be used for the fuel supply when approved by the fire
code official. Such containers shall not exceed an aggregate of five hundred (500) gallon
water capacity per lot. See Table 3804.3 for location of containers.
CHAPTER 46
CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
SECTION 4601
GENERAL
Section 4601.1- Change to read as follows:
4601.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all existing buildings lawfully con-
structed prior to the adoption of this code. The provisions are applicable at any time a building is
found to benon-compliant, whether work is being performed or not.
Exceptions:
1. Group I, Division 3 Occupancies need only comply with Sections 4603.2, 4603.5,
4603.6.4, 4604, 4607 and 4609.
2. For retroactive Interior Wall and Ceiling Finish and Trim requirements, see Sec-
tion 803 of the Fire Code.
3. For retroactive Emergency Responder Radio Coverage, see Section 510.
Section 4601.1.1 -Add to read as follows:
4601.1.1 Compliance with Former Provisions. Buildings or structures that complied with
the former provisions for Existing Structures, Building Code, Chapter 34, Division II, III and
IV, in effect prior to the adoption of this code, or received a variance under those provisions,
will not be required to comply with the similar provisions listed in this Chapter.
Page 73
Exceptions:
1. All existing Group R occupancies and dwellings not classified as Group R occu-
pancies shall comply with the single- and multiple-station smoke alarms require-
ments as provided in Section 4603.7.
2. Regardless of date of construction or annexation, all buildings, structures and uses
shall comply with the following:
- Section 4606, Emergency Preparation
- Section 4607, Certificate of Occupancy
- Section 4608, Swimming Pool Barriers
- Section 4609, Minimum Building Standards Code
Section 4601.1.2 -Add to read as follows:
4601.1.2 Additions, Alterations and Repairs. When a building is undergoing additions, al-
terations or repairs, such work shall be in accordance with the applicable code(s) for new
construction, except as permitted by those codes. See Sections 3403, 3404 or 3405 of the
Building Code. The provisions of this Chapter are applicable to any work that is not ad-
dressed in the addition, alteration or repair and to the portion of the building not undergoing
work.
Section 4601.1.3 -Add to read as follows:
4601.1.3 Change of Occupancy. Buildings undergoing a Change of Occupancy (or Use),
shall comply with the applicable code as required for new construction, or as specified in
each applicable code. See Building Code Section 3408. The provisions of this Chapter may
not be used to claim compliance for a Change of Occupancy (or Use).
Section 4601.2 -Change to read as follows:
4601.2 Intent. The intent of this chapter is to provide a minimum degree of fire and life safety to
persons occupying existing buildings by providing minimum construction requirements when
such buildings do not comply with the minimum requirements of the International Building
Code.
The provisions of this chapter shall not be construed to allow the elimination of fire protection
systems or a reduction in the level of fire safety provided in buildings constructed in accordance
with previously adopted codes.
Section 4601.3 -Change to read as follows:
4601.3 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sections 105.6 and 105.7 and other ap-
plicablecodes.
Section 4601.4 -Change to read as follows:
4601.4 Owner notification. Where a building is found to be in noncompliance with this chapter,
the fire code official shall duly notify the owner or authorized representative of the building.
Upon receipt of such notice, the owner shall, subject to the following time limits, take necessary
actions to comply with the provisions of this chapter.
Page 74
Section 4601.4.1 -Change to read as follows:
4601.4.1 Construction documents. Construction documents for the necessary alterations
shall be completed and submitted within a time schedule approved by the fire code official.
Section 4601.4.4 -Add to read as follows:
4601.4.4 Time. Unless amended by the appropriate code official, the time for compliance
shall be as follows:
1. All structures:
a. All existing Group R occupancies and dwellings not classified as Group R occupan-
cies shall comply with the single- and multiple-station smoke alarms as provided in
Section 4603.7 upon notification.
Exception: In accordance with Construction and Fire Prevention Board, Case
#10-17, all apartments must be in compliance by April 1, 2013.
b. All high rise buildings shall comply with the Emergency Preparation provisions of
Section 4606 upon notification.
c. [B] All occupancies and land uses shall obtain a Certificate of Occupancy in accor-
dance with Section 4607 upon notification.
d. [B] .All properties with anon-compliant pool barrier shall comply with Section 4608
upon notification.
e. [B] All properties not in compliance with the Minimum Building Standards Code,
Section 4609, shall comply as required by the appropriate code official.
2. High-Rise:
Within eighteen (18) months after notice is given, plans and specifications for the neces-
sary alterations shall be filed for review. Work on the required alterations to the building
shall commence within thirty (30) months of the date of notification and such work shall
be completed within five (5) years from the date of notification.
3. Other than High-Rise:
Within eighteen (18) months after notice is given, plans for compliance shall be submit-
ted for review. Within thirty-six (36) months after notice is given, the work shall be
completed, or the building shall be vacated until made to conform.
Section 4601.5 -Add to read as follows:
4601.5 Authority of the fire code official. For the purpose of applying the provisions of this
chapter, the fire code official shall have the authority to consider alternative approaches and
grant necessary deviations from this Chapter as follows:
1. Allow alternate materials or methods of compliance if such alternate materials or
methods of compliance will provide levels of fire and life safety equal to or greater
than those specifically set forth in this division.
Page 75
2. Waive specific individual requirements if it can be shown that such requirements are
not physically possible or practical and that a practical alternative cannot be provided.
Section 4601.6 -Add to read as follows:
4601.6 Appeals Board. Appeals of the determinations of the fire code official in applying the
provisions of this Chapter may be made by an appeal directed to the board of appeals as estab-
lished by Section 112 of the Building Code.
SECTION 4603
FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR
EXISTING BUILDINGS
Section 4603.2 -Change to read as follows:
4603.2 Elevators.
4603.2.1 Elevator operation. Existing elevators with a travel distance of 25 feet (7620 mm)
or more above or below the main floor or other level of a building and intended to serve the
needs of emergency personnel for fire-fighting or rescue purposes shall be provided with
emergency operation in accordance with ASME A17.3.
4603.2.2 Posting of Elevators. In high-rise buildings, a permanent sign shall be installed in
each elevator cab adjacent to the floor status indicator and at each elevator call station on
each floor reading 1N FIRE EMERGENCY, DO NOT USE ELEVATOR-USE EXIT
STAIRS, or similar verbiage approved by the fire code official.
Exceptions:
1. Sign maybe omitted at the main entrance floor-level call station.
2. Occupant evacuation elevators in accordance with Building Code Section 3008.
Section 4603.3 through 4603.3.4 -Change to read as follows:
4603.3 Vertical openings. Interior vertical shafts, including but not limited to stairways, elevator
hoistways, service and utility shafts, that connect two or more stories of a building, shall be en-
closed or protected as specified in Sections 4603.3.1 through 4603.3.7. For escalators, see Sec-
tions 4603.3.5, 4603.3.6 and 4603.3.7.
4603.3.1 Group I occupancies. In Group I occupancies, interior vertical openings connect-
ing two or more stories shall be protected with 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction.
Exceptions:
1. In high-rise buildings of Type I, II-A, III-A or IV construction with the installa-
tion of an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, verti-
cal shaft enclosures may be of nonrated construction for required exit stairway
enclosures. Vertical shaft enclosures of openings in floors provided for elevators,
escalators and supplemental stairways shall not be required, provided such open-
ings are protected by an approved curtain board and water curtain sprinkler sys-
tem, as per NFPA 13 requirements.
Page 76
2. In non-high-rise buildings with the installation of an automatic sprinkler system in
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, vertical openings need not be protected.
In high-rise buildings, all elevators on all floors shall open into elevator lobbies that are sepa-
rated from the remainder of the building as is required for corridor construction in the Build-
ing Code, unless the building is protected throughout by a sprinkler system.
4603.3.2 Three to five stories. In other than Group I occupancies, interior vertical openings
connecting three to five stories shall be protected by either 1-hour fire-resistance-rated con-
struction or an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the building in accor-
dance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
Exceptions:
1. Vertical opening protection is not required for Group R-3 occupancies.
2. Vertical opening protection is not required for open parking garages and ramps.
3. Vertical opening protection is not required for escalators.
4603.3.3 More than five stories. In other than Group I occupancies, interior vertical open-
ings connecting more than five stories shall be protected by 1-hour fire-resistance-rated con-
struction.
Exceptions:
1. Vertical opening protection is not required for Group R-3 occupancies.
2. Vertical opening protection is not required for open parking garages and ramps.
3. Vertical opening protection is not required for escalators.
4. In high-rise buildings of Type I, II-A, III-A or IV construction with the installation of
an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, vertical shaft en-
closures maybe of nonrated construction for required exit stairway enclosures. Verti-
cal shaft enclosures of openings in floors provided for elevators, escalators and sup-
plemental stairways shall not be required, provided such openings are protected by an
approved curtain board and water curtain sprinkler system, as per NFPA 13 require-
ments.
In high-rise buildings, all elevators on all floors shall open into elevator lobbies that are sepa-
rated from the remainder of the building as is required for corridor construction in the Build-
ing Code, unless the building is protected throughout by a sprinkler system.
4603.3.4 Atriums and covered malls. Interior vertical openings in a covered mall building
or a building with an atrium, other than in the actual open mall or atrium area, shall be pro-
tected as specified in 4603.3 through 4603.3.8
Page 77
Table 4603.1 -Change to read as follows:
Table 4603.1
OCCUPANCY AND USE REQUIREMENTS
OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION
Section A-2 B& M E I-1 I-2 I-3 I-4 R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 All
Others
4603.2 R R R R R R R R R R R
4603.3.1 R R R
4603.3.2 R R R R R R R
4603.3.3 R R R R R R R
4603.3.4 R R R R R R R R R R
4603.3.5 R
4603.3.6 R R R R R R R R R
4603.3.7 R R R R R R R R R
4603.3.8 R R R R R R R R R R
4603.4 R R R R R R R R R R
4603.5 R R R R R R R R R R R
4603.6.1 R
4603.6.2 R
4603.6.3 R
4603.6.4 R
4603.6.5 R
4603.6.6 R
4603.6.7 R
4603.6.8 R
4603.6.9 R R R R R R R R R R R
4603.6.10 R R R R R R R R R R R
4603.7 R R R R
4604 R R R R R R R R R R R R
4606 R R R R R R R R R R
4607 R R R R R R R R R R R
4609 R R R R R R R R R R R R
R =The building is required to comply.
Page 78
Section 4603.3.8 -Add to read as follows:
4603.3.8 Shaft enclosure opening protection. Openings other than those provided for
elevator doors in new vertical shaft enclosures constructed of one-hour fire-resistive con-
struction shall be equipped with approved fire assemblies having afire-protection rating
of not less than one hour.
Openings other than those provided for elevator doors in existing vertical shaft enclosures
shall be equipped with approved 20-minute-rated fire assemblies, 1 3/4-inch (44 mm)
solid wood doors or the equivalent thereto. Doors shall be either self-closing or automatic
closing, and automatic latching.
Exception: In high-rise buildings of Type I, II-A, III-A or IV construction with the
installation of an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1,
protection of openings in vertical shaft enclosures may be nonrated but shall not be
less than a 1 3/4-inch (44 mm) solid- wood door or the equivalent thereto. Doors
shall be either self-closing or automatic closing, and automatic latching.
Section 4603.4 -Change to read as follows:
4603.4 Sprinkler systems. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in existing buildings
in accordance with Sections 4603.4.1 through 4603.4.3.
Section 4603.4.2 -Change to read as follows:
4603.4.2 Spray Booths and Rooms. New and existing spray booths and spraying rooms
shall be protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system.
Section 4603.4.3 -Add to read as follows:
4603.4.3 Basements. An approved automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in base-
ments as required by Section 903.2.11.1.
Section 4603.5 -Change to read as follows:
4603.5 Standpipes. Any building over four stories in height shall be provided with an approved
Class I or Class III standpipe system installed in accordance with Section 905, unless otherwise
approved by the fire code official. The standpipes shall have an approved fire department con-
nection with hose connections at each floor level above or below the lowest level of fire depart-
ment access. The fire code official is authorized to approve the installation of manual standpipe
systems to achieve compliance with this section where the responding fire department is capable
of providing the required hose flow at the highest standpipe outlet.
Page 79
Section 4603.6 -Change Exceptions to read as follows:
Exceptions:
1. For other than existing Group R occupancies and dwellings not classified as
Group R occupancies under Section 4603.7, occupancies with an existing, previ-
ously approved fire alarm system.
2. In high-rise buildings of Type I, II-A, III-A or IV construction, the manual fire
alarm system and occupant notification is not required when an approved auto-
matic sprinkler system is installed throughout the building in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1.
Section 4603.6.1 -Delete Exceptions.
Section 4603.6.6 through 4603.6.10 -Change and add to read as follows:
4603.6.6 Group R-2. An automatic or manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant
notification system in accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed in existing Group R-2
occupancies more than three stories in height or with more than 16 dwelling or sleeping
units.
Exceptions: {No changes to Exceptions 1. and 2.}
3. Afire alarm system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corri-
dors serving dwelling units and are protected by an approved automatic sprin-
kler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, pro-
vided that dwelling units either have a means of egress door opening directly
to an exterior exit access that leads directly to the exits or are served by open-
ended corridors designed in accordance with Section 4604.20.
4603.6.6.1 Group R-2 Fire Alarm System. Existing R-2 occupancies that do not have
an approved supervised automatic sprinkler system shall install manual fire alarm boxes
at breezeway or corridor stairway points of egress on every level or shall install rate of
rise heat detectors in the main living area of the dwelling unit. The manual or automatic
devices shall activate notification appliances in each dwelling unit that meets the audible
requirements of Section 907.6.2.1.1.
4603.6.7 Group R-4. Single and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in existing
Group R-4 occupancies in accordance with Section 4603.7.
Exceptions: {Delete Exceptions. }
4603.6.8 Group A-2. Existing Group A-2 occupancies having an occupant load of three
hundred (300) or more shall install a fire alarm system in accordance with Section 907.2.1.
4603.6.9 High-rise fire alarm system. Existing high-rise buildings shall be provided with
an approved monitored manual fire alarm system and an approved occupant voice notifica-
tion system throughout, unless the building is provided with approved complete automatic
fire sprinkler protection.
Page 80
4603.6.10 High-rise fire department communications system. Existing high-rise buildings
shall be provided with an approved fire department communications system for use by first
responders.
Section 4603.7.1- Change to read as follows:
4603.7.1 Where required. Existing Group R occupancies and dwellings not classified as
Group R occupancies shall be provided with single-station smoke alarms. Installation shall
be in accordance with Section 907.2.11, except as provided in Sections 4603.7.2 and
4603.7.3.
Section 4603.8 -Add to read as follows:
4603.8 Rented or leased residential occupancies. Any new or existing rented or leased residen-
tial occupancy shall comply with Section 907.10 in its entirety.
SECTION 4604
MEANS OF EGRESS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
Section 4604.1 through 4604.3 -Change to read as follows:
4604.1 General. Means of egress in existing buildings shall comply with the minimum egress
requirements when specified in Table 4603.1 as further enumerated in Sections 4604.2 through
4604.23, and the building code that applied at the time of construction. Where the provisions
conflict, the most restrictive provision shall apply. Existing buildings that were not required to
comply with a building code at the time of construction shall comply with the minimum egress
requirements when specified in Table 4603.1 as further enumerated in Sections 4604.2 through
4604.23.
Exception: Means of egress conforming to the requirements of the building code under
which they were constructed shall be considered as complying means of egress if, in the
opinion of the fire code official, they do not constitute a distinct hazard to life.
4604.2 Elevators, escalators and moving walks. Elevators, escalators and moving walks shall
not be used as a component of a required means of egress.
Exceptions:
1. Elevators used as an accessible means of egress where allowed by Section 1007.4.
2. Previously approved escalators and moving walks in existing buildings.
3. Occupant Evacuation Elevators in accordance with Building Code. See Building
Code Section 3008.
4604.3 Exit sign illumination. Illuminated exit signs shall be provided in all means of egress
and located in such a manner as to clearly indicate the direction of egress. Exit signs shall be in-
ternally or externally illuminated. The face of an exit sign illuminated from an external source
shall have an intensity of not less than Sfoot-candles (54 lux). Internally illuminated signs shall
provide equivalent luminance and be listed for the purpose.
Page 81
Exception: Approved self-luminous signs that provide evenly illuminated letters shall have a
minimum luminance of 0.06 foot-lamberts (0.21 cd/m2).
Section 4604. S -Change to read as follows:
4604.5 Illumination emergency power. When the building is occupied, exit stairways and cor-
ridors shall be illuminated with lights having an intensity of not less than 1 footcandle (10.8 lx)
at the floor level. The power supply for means of egress illumination shall normally be provided
by the premises' electrical ..... {Remainder of section unchanged. }
Section 4604.17.4 -Change to read as follows:
4604.17.4 Access. Access to a fire escape from a corridor shall not be through an intervening
room. Nor shall access to the fire escape be secured in an area that cannot be freely accessed
by any occupant on that floor needing it as an exit. Access to a fire escape stair shall be from
a door or window meeting the criteria of Section 1005.1. Access to a fire escape stair shall be
directly to a balcony, landing or platform. These shall be no higher than the floor or window-
sill level and no lower than 8 inches (203 mm) below the floor level or 18 inches (457 mm)
below the window sill.
Page 82
Table 4604.18.2 -Change to read as follows:
TABLE 4604.18.2
COMMON PATH, DEAD-END AND TRAVEL DISTANCE LIMITS
(by occupancy)
COMMON PATH
LIMIT DEAD-END LIMIT TRAVEL DISTANCE
LIMIT
OCCUPANCY Unsprinklered
(feet) Sprinklered
(feet) Unsprinklered
(feet) Sprinklered
(feet) Unsprinklered
(feet) Sprinklered
(feet)
Group A 20/75a 20/75 a 20 20 200 250
Group B 75 100 35 50 200 300
Group E 75 75 35 50 200 250
Group F-1, s-1 75 100 50 50 200 250
Group F-2, S-2 75 100 50 50 300 400
Group H-1 25 25 0 0 75 75
Group H-2 50 100 0 0 75 100
Group H-3 50 100 20 20 100 150
Group H-4 75 75 20 20 150 175
Group H-5 75 75 20 20 150 200
Group i-1 75 75 20 50 200 250
Group I-2
(Health Care) NRe NR ~ 35 NR 150 200
Group I-3 (Detention
and Conectional -
Use Conditions II,
III, IV, V 100 100 NR NR 150° 200
Group I-4
(Day Care Centers) NR NR 20 20 200 250
Group M
(Covered Mall) 75 100 35 50 200 400
Group M (Mercan-
tile) 75 100 35 50 200 250
Group R-1 (Hotels) 75 75 35 50 200 250
Group R-2 (Apart-
ments) '75 125 35 50 200 250
Group R-3 (One- and
Two-family) NR NR NR NR NR NR
Group R-4 (Residen-
tial Care/Assisted
Livin ) NR NR NR NR NR NR
Group U 75 100 20 50 200 250
a. 20 feet for common path serving 50 or more persons; 75 feet for common path serving less than 50 persons.
b. See Section 1028.9.5 for dead-end aisles in Group A occupancies.
c. This dimension is for the total travel distance, assuming incremental portions have fully utilized their allowable maximums. For travel
distance within the room, and from the room exit access door to the exit, see the appropriate occupancy chapter.
d. See the International Building Code for special requirements on spacing of doors in aircraft hangars.
e. Any patient sleeping room, or any suite that includes patient sleeping rooms, of more than 1,000 square feet (93 mZ) shall have at least
two exit access doors placed a distance apart equal to not less than one-third of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension
of the patient sleeping room or suite to be served, measured in a straight line between exit access doors.
NR = No requirements.
Page 83
Section 4604.19 through 4604.19.1 -Change and add to read as follows:
4604.19 Exit stairways. All buildings shall have a minimum of two approved exit stairways.
Exception: Existing buildings that have a stairway and a fire escape, need not construct
the second stairway as required by this subsection, provided the fire escape complies with
all of the provisions of Section 4604.17.
4604.19.1 Stairway discharge identification. Astairway in an exit enclosure which contin-
ues below its level of exit discharge shall be arranged and marked to make the direction of
egress to a public way readily identifiable.
Exception: Stairs that continue one-half story beyond their levels of exit discharge need
not be provided with barriers where the exit discharge is obvious.
Section 4604.20 -Delete Exception 4.1.
Section 4604.23 -Change to read as follows:
4604.23 Stairway doors. Exit doors into exit stairway enclosures shall comply with all of the
following.
1. Maintained unlocked from the stairway side (opposite of egress side) on at least every
incremental fifth floor level and bear a sign stating "ACCESS ONTO FLOOR THIS
LEVEL" having minimum 2 inch high letters on contrasting background.
Exception: The incremental fifth floor maybe locked from the stairway side,
subject to all of the following conditions:
1. All stairway doors that are to be locked from the stairway side
shall have the capability of being unlocked simultaneously without
unlatching upon a signal from the Fire Command Center, or an ap-
proved location.
2. A telephone or other two-way communications system connected
to an approved emergency service that operates continuously or an
approved emergency pull box or emergency break glass device per
Section 1008.1.4.4.2 Exception 1 shall be provided at not less than
every fifth floor in each required stairway on the stairway side.
2. All other stairway doors into the related exit stairway enclosure maybe mechanically
or electrically locked from the stairway side.
3. The stairway side lock shall have the capability to be unlocked with a key. The
unlocking shall be mechanical and shall not be dependent on electricity.
4. Approved key box required by Section 506 shall contain a minimum of four master
keys to unlock the doors from the stairway side. These keys shall be clearly labeled
with a tag that reads "Exit Stairway Master Keys".
5. Only mechanical egress latching electric crash bars or mechanical egress latching
electrified handset access control hardware shall be allowed to control exit stairway
doors, unless otherwise approved by the fire code official.
Page 84
Section 4604.24 -Change to read as follows:
4604.24 High-rise stair shaft ventilation. Stair shaft enclosures that extend to the roof shall be
provided with an approved manually openable hatch to the exterior having an area not less than
16 square feet (1.486 m2) with a minimum dimension of 2 feet (610 mm), unless provided with
complete automatic fire sprinkler protection throughout.
Exception: Stair shaft enclosures complying with the requirements for smokeproof en-
closures per the Building Code and this code.
Section 4604.25 -Change to read as follows:
4604.25 High-rise elevator shaft ventilation. Elevator shaft enclosures that extend to the roof
shall be vented to the outside with vents whose area shall not be less than 3 1/2 percent of the
area of the elevator shaft, with a minimum of 3 square feet (0.28 m2) per elevator.
Exceptions: Compliance with Section 3004 of the Building Code, or as otherwise ap-
proved by the fire code official.
SECTION 4605
REQUIREMENTS FOR OUTDOOR OPERATIONS
Section 4605.1- Change to read as follows:
4605.1 Tire storage yards. Reference Section 2505 regarding the outdoor storage of tires.
Section 4605.1.1 through 4605.1.2 -Delete.
Section 4606 -Add to read as follows:
SECTION 4606
EMERGENCY PREPARATION
4606.1 Emergency Preparation. All existing high-rise buildings shall comply with the emer-
gency preparation requirements of Sections 4606.1.1 through 4606.1.3.
4606.1.1 Emergency plan. The management for all buildings shall establish and maintain a
written fire- and life-safety emergency plan in accordance with Section 404 that has been ap-
proved by the fire chief.
4606.1.2 Posting of emergency plan and exit plans. Copies of the emergency plan and exit-
ing plans (including elevator and stairway placarding) shall be posted in accordance with
Section 404 in locations approved by the chief.
4606.1.3 Fire drills. The management of all buildings shall conduct fire drills for their staff
and employees in accordance with Section 405. A written record of each drill shall be main-
tained in the building management office and made available to the fire department for re-
view.
Page 85
Section 4607 -Add to read as follows:
[B] SECTION 4607
CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY
[B] 4607 Certificate of Occupancy. Those premises not posting a Certificate of Occupancy
shall be required to comply with Section 111 of the Building Code. A Certificate of Occupancy
shall not be withheld based on non-compliance when a building meets the ordinance under which
it was constructed provided the non-compliance items are not considered hazardous. This provi-
sion shall not waive the requirement to comply with any retroactive provision of any applicable
ordinance.
Exceptions:
1. One- and two-family dwellings and townhouses regulated by the Residential Code
and their associated accessory buildings or structures.
2. Community Homes, as defined in the Zoning Code.
Section 4608 -Add to read as follows:
[B] SECTION 4608
SWIMMING POOL BARRIERS
4608 Swimming Pool Barriers. Compliance shall be as listed below:
1. For pools constructed on or after October 1, 1993 for use with Group R, Division 3 Oc-
cupancies, see the appropriate provisions in the code in effect when the pool was con-
structed as follows:
a. 12-4-98 to 7-1-01, see 1997 UBC, Appendix Chapter 4 with amendments -Ord
13625.
b. 7-1-01 to present, see IBC Chapter 31 and IRC Appendix Chapter G with
amendments, as adopted at time of constructed.
2. For pools owned, controlled, or maintained by the owner of a multiunit rental complex or
by a property owners association, see the appropriate state law, Chapter 214, Local Gov-
ernment Code, Subchapter C, "Swimming Pool Enclosures", and Subtitle A, Title 9,
Health and Safety Code, Chapter 757, "Pool Yard Enclosures". Primary enforcement au-
thority is by the Health Department
3. For public pools, see the appropriate state law, Texas Department of Health Standards for
Public Swimming Pool/Spa, Sections 265.181 through 265.207. Primary enforcement
authority is by the Health Department.
4. For all other existing pools not covered by items 1, 2 or 3 above, regardless of date of in-
stallation, see Section 3109.6.
Page 86
Section 4609 -Add to read as follows:
[B] SECTION 4609
MINIMUM BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
[B] 4609 Minimum Building Standards Code. As provided for in Section 7-67, and as further
detailed in Sections 7-87, 7-88, 7-89, 7-90 and 7-91 of the City Code, which is more specifically
known as the Minimum Building Standards Code, those provisions setting minimum standards
that relate to Building Code items for buildings and structures shall be considered as part of this
code.
Enforcement of these sections maybe performed by other departments or divisions of the City of
Fort Worth. However, as provisions of this code, final interpretation, appeals of interpretation,
requests for variances, etc. shall be handled as described in this code.
Chapter 47
REFERENCED STANDARDS
Change and add NFPA standard reference numbers and editions for the following specific stan-
dards only:
Standard
Reference
Number Title Referenced
in code
section number
72-10 National Fire Alarm Code 508.1.5, Table 901.6.1,
903.4.1, 904.3.5, 907.2,
907.2.6, 907.2.11,
907.2.13.2, 907.3, 907.4.3,
907.4.4, 907.6.2.1.2,
907.6.2.2, 907.7, 907.7.1,
907.7.2, 907.7.5, 907.8,
907.8.1, 907.8.2, 907.9,
907.9.2, 907.9.5, Chapter 46,
A endix L
291-07 Recommended Practice for Fire-Flow 507.4
Testing and Marking of Hydrants
Page 87
Appendix A -Delete.
Appendix B
SECTION B105
FIRE-FLOW REQUIREMENTS FOR BUILDINGS
Section B105.1-Change to read as follows:
B105.1 One- and two-family dwellings. The minimum fire flow requirements for one- and
two- family dwellings that have a fire area which does not exceed 2,500 square feet shall be 750
gallons per minute, and 1,000 gallons per minute for fire areas 2,500 square feet up to 3,600
square feet. Fire flow and flow duration for dwellings that have a fire area in excess of 3,600
square feet shall not be less than that specified in Table B 105.1.
Exception: A reduction in required fire flow of 50 percent, as approved, is allowed where
the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
Appendix C -Delete.
Appendix D -Delete.
Appendix F -Delete.
Appendix H-Change to read as follows:
Appendix H
COMMERCIAL INSPECTIONS, OPERATIONAL PERMITS
AND FALSE ALARMS
SECTION H101
GENERAL
H101.1 The fire inspections for all commercial establishments (defined as all buildings, facili-
ties, and structures, including but not limited to residential structures except one- and two-family
residential dwellings) shall be in accordance with this Appendix and Section 105, Permits, and
Section 106, Inspections, of the Fire Code. The fire inspection of mobile home recreational vehi-
cle parking facilities will be in accordance with Appendix J of this code.
SECTION H102
CERTIFICATE OF INSPECTION
H 102.1 General. A Certificate of Inspection will be issued by the fire department in accor-
dance with Section 102 of this Appendix. A Certificate of Inspection will be issued only after all
Page 88
inspection procedures have been followed in accordance with Section 103 of this Appendix, In-
spection Procedures, and all fees have been paid in accordance with Section 104 of this Appen-
dix, Fees for Inspections and Operational Permits.
H102.1.1 Required Certificate of Inspection for buildings less than four stories in
height. The occupant of every commercial establishment shall be required to have a valid
certificate of inspection.
Exception: An owner or manager of a building less than four stories in height may
request that the building he/she manages or owns receive a valid Certificate of In-
spection for the entire building, structure, or facility, including all tenant spaces. The
building owner must provide after hours contact information that is current and ac-
ceptable for all tenants in the building. The owner or his designee must have access to
all tenant spaces in case of an emergency. Where there is a significant difference in
occupancy classifications among the tenant spaces, the chief reserves the authority to
require separate Certificates of Inspection for those spaces.
H102.1.2 Required Certificate of Inspection for buildings of four stories or more in
height. The owner, building manager, or property manager representative of any building
with four or more occupied floors existing above street level shall be required to have a
valid Certificate of Inspection for the entire building, structure, or facility.
H102.2 Expiration. A Certificate of Inspection shall be valid until a subsequent inspection
takes place or until revoked; provided, however, that possession of a Certificate of Inspection
shall not exempt a commercial establishment from reinspection or citation for violations occur-
ring during the period of time between inspections.
H102.3 Transfer of Certificate of Inspection. A Certificate of Inspection shall not be trans-
ferable, and any change in use or occupancy of the major portion of the building or operation
shall require a new Certificate of Inspection.
H102.4 Conditions of Certificates of Inspection. The issuance or granting of a Certificate of
Inspection shall not be deemed or construed to be a permit for, or an approval of any violation of
any of the provisions of this code. No certificate presuming to give authority to violate or cancel
the provisions of this code shall be valid, except insofar as the work or use which it authorizes is
lawful.
H102.5 Retention of Certificate of Inspection. Certificates of Inspection shall at all times be
kept on the premises designated therein and shall at all times be posted in a conspicuous location
and be subject to inspection by an officer of the fire or police department or other authorized per-
sons.
H102.6 Revocation of Certificate of Inspection. Any Certificate of Inspection issued under
this code may be suspended or revoked when it is determined by the chief that one or more of the
following has occurred:
The Certificate of Inspection was used by someone other than to whom it was issued.
2. The Certificate of Inspection was used for a location other than that for which it was
issued.
Page 89
3. Any of the conditions or limitations set forth in the certificate have been violated.
4. The possessor of the certificate fails, refuses, or neglects to comply with any order or
notice served upon him under the provisions of this code within the time period pro-
vided therein.
5. There has been any false statement or misrepresentation as to a material fact in the
plans, specifications, or documentation on which the certificate was based.
6. There has been a change in the use or occupancy classification of the building for
which a Certificate of Inspection has been issued.
SECTION H104
FEES FOR INSPECTIONS AND OPERATIONAL PERMITS
H104.1 General. Fees for fire inspections and operational permits will be in accordance with
Section 104 of this Appendix. Fees for the inspection of mobile home and recreational vehicle
parking facilities will be in accordance with Appendix J of this code.
H104.2 Fees for fire inspections. Afire inspection fee will be charged not more than once per
calendar year for a fire inspection of all occupancies requiring a Certificate of Inspection as set
forth in Section 102 of this Appendix. These fees shall be paid before a Certificate of Inspection
is issued. The fees for fire inspection will be the sum of the base fee as set forth in Table H104.1
and the multiple-story fee as set forth in H 104.2.1.
Table H104.1 Base Fees for Fire Inspections
Number of Square Feet
of Floor Area in Building
or Business
Base Fee
Less than 5,000 $40.00
5,001 -10,000 $45.00
10,001 - 25,000 $55.00
25,001 - 50,000 $70.00
50,001 - 75,000 $105.00
75,001 - 100,000 $140.00
Greater than 100,000 $140.00 plus $20.00 for each additional
50,000 sq. ft. or portion thereof
H104.2.1 Multiple-story fee. An additional fee of $5.00 per floor will be added to the
base fee for inspection of buildings with four or more occupied floors above the street
level.
H104.2.2 Shopping malls. Shopping malls shall be assessed an inspection fee based on
total floor area of the public areas within the structure plus the per story charge. The indi-
vidual tenant spaces will be assessed fees based on the square footage of the individual
space.
Page 90
H104.3 Fees for operational permits. The fee for all operational permits will be as set forth in
Table H104.2. Fees for Mobile Fueling Permits will be in accordance with Appendix K.
Table H104.2
Fees for O erational Permits
IFC Section O erational Permit Fee Amount
105.61 Aerosol Products $55.00
105.6.2 Amusement Buildings $110.00
105.6.3 Aviation Facilities $55.00
105.6.5 Battery Systems $55.00
105.6.6 Cellulose nitrate film $55.00
105.6.7 Combustible Dust-Producing Operations $55.00
105.6.8 Combustible Fibers $55.00
105.6.9 Compressed Gases $55.00
105.6.11 Cryogenic Fluids $55.00
105.6.12 Cutting and Welding $55.00
105.6.15 Explosives $55.00
105.6.17 Flammable and Combustible Liquids $55.00 Repair and upgrades
105.6.18 Floor Finishing $55.00
105.6.19 Fruit and Crop Ripening $55.00
105.6.20 Fumigation and Thermal Insecticide
Fogging $55.00
105.6.21 Hazardous Materials $275.00
105.6.22 HPM Facilities $275.00
105.6.23 High-Piled Storage $55.00
105.6.24 Hot Work Operations $55.00
105.6.25 Industrial Ovens $55.00
105.6.26 Lumber Yards and Woodworking Plants $275.00
105.6.27 Liquid or Gas-Fueled Vehi-
Iles/Equipment in Assembly Buildings $55.00
105.6.28 LP-Gas $55.00 Re airs and modifications
105.6.29 Magnesium $55.00
105.6.30 Miscellaneous Combustible Storage $55.00
105.6.31 Trench Burning $55.00
105.6.32 Open Flames and Torches $55.00
105.6.33 Open Flames and Candles $55.00
105.6.34 Organic Coatings $55.00
105.6.35 Places of Assembly $55.00 -Occupant Load < 300.
$110.00 -Occupant Load 301-1000
$275 -Occupant Load > 1000
105.6.37 Pyrotechnic Special Effects Material $55.00
105.6.38 Pyroxylin Plastics $55.00
105.6.40 Repair Garages and Motor Fuel-
Dis ensing Facilities $55.00
105.6.41 Rooftop Heliports $55.00
105.6.42 Spraying and Dipping $55.00
105.6.43 Storage of Scrap Tires and Tire Byprod-
ucts $275.00
Page 91
105.6.44 Temporary Membrane Structures, Tents,
and Canopies $55.00
105.6.45 Tire Rebuilding Plants $55.00
105.6.46 Waste Handling $110.00
105.6.47 Wood Products $55.00
105.6.48 Special Operational Permit $55.00
105.6.49 Mobile Fueling See Appendix K
SECTION H105
FEES FOR FALSE ALARMS
H105.1 General. Fees will be assessed to commercial establishments for excessive false
alarms in accordance with Section 105 of this Appendix.
H105.2 Definitions. For the purpose of this Appendix the following definitions shall apply in
addition to those in Section 202, General Definitions, and Section 902, Definitions, of the Fire
Code.
H105.2.1 False alarm. For the purpose of this section, a false alarm is defined as an
alarm which causes the emergency response by the fire department and which is initiated
by one of the following:
1. Afire alarm system malfunction.
2. Improper maintenance of a fire alarm or an automatic fire suppression system.
3. Improper use or misuse of a fire alarm system or an automatic fire suppression
system.
4. Damage to a fire alarm system or automatic fire suppression system due to care-
lessness while performing other procedures in the building.
5. The initiation of a fire alarm system during construction, painting, or other proce-
dure in which care should have been taken to protect initiating devices from send-
ing afalse signal.
H105.3 Procedure. The procedure used to assess false alarm complaints and application of the
fees contained herein will be in accordance with Section H 105.3.
H105.3.1 Review of Incident Reports. False alarm incidents will be reviewed by the
Fire Prevention Bureau on a regular basis to determine if those incidents meet the criteria
stated in Section H 105.2.1 of this Appendix.
H105.3.2 Notification. Upon the review of a false alarm incident report, a member of the
Fire Prevention Bureau will verify the validity of the complaint. The owner or manager of
the premises in question will then be issued a written notice to take measures to correct any
problem that may be causing the false alarms. The notice will state that future false alarms
at the referenced address, which occur within twelve months of the original complaint, will
Page 92
cause the owner or manager of the establishment to be invoiced in accordance with Section
105.4 of this Appendix, Fees.
H105.3.3 Invoice for false alarms. An invoice will be mailed to any establishment for
all reported false alarms which occur after the written notification in accordance with Sec-
tion 105.3.2 of this Appendix is issued, and which occur before a period of twelve months
has passed since the written notification. The invoice will be in accordance with Section
105.4 of this Appendix, Fees.
H105.4 Fees. A fee in accordance with Table H105.1 will be assessed for each false alarm re-
ported to the Fire Prevention Bureau after written notification is issued in accordance with Sec-
tion 105.3.2 of this Appendix.
Table H 105.1
Number of False Alarms in a 12
Month Period Fee Amount
1 - 2 No Fee /Warning
Only
3 $100.00
4 $200.00
5 $400.00
6 $800.00
7 or more $1,500.00
SECTION H106
OVERPAYMENT OF FEES
H106.1 Overpayment of fees. All business owners requesting reimbursement of overpayments
on inspection fees must notify the fire department no later than one year from the actual date of
inspection. Requests must be written and mailed to Fire Administration -Revenue Group, 1000
Throckmorton Street, Fort Worth, Texas 76102. Telephone requests will not be accepted. The
request must contain appropriate documentation of overpayment, such as copies of both sides of
the canceled check. Requests must include the business name, address (including suite number if
applicable) and a contact person's name and telephone number.
Page 93
Appendix I -Change to read as follows:
Appendix I
INSTALLATION OF FIRE SERVICE FEATURES,
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS, AND OTHER CONSTRUCTION
PERMITS
SECTION I101
GENERAL
I101.1 The installation of fire service features and fire protections systems shall be in accor-
dance with this Appendix and Section 105, Permits; Section 106, Inspections; Section 503, Fire
Apparatus Access Roads; and Section 508, Fire Protection Water Supplies, of the Fire Code.
SECTION I102
FEES
I102.1 General. Upon application for a construction permit in accordance with Section 105
for fire protection systems, the applicant shall be required to pay all fees associated with the in-
stallation or tenant finish work as specified in Table I102.1.
I102.1.1 Pre-engineered extinguishing systems. Construction permit fees for these
systems shall be one half of the fees designated in Table I102.1 for "Other Suppression
Systems." This does not affect the permit fee schedule indicated in Table I102.1 for pre-
engineered kitchen hood extinguishing systems.
I102.2 Penalty. Fees specified in Table I104.1 will be doubled if a contractor starts installa-
tion or tenant finish work without a valid permit.
I102.3 Additional plan review. When the original plans have been reviewed and found to be
acceptable, an additional plan review fee of $165.00 shall be charged to the fire protection sys-
tem contractor for each additional plan review conducted.
I102.4 Resubmittal plan review. When the original plans have been reviewed and found to
be unacceptable, a fee equivalent to one-half of the permit fee will be charged for the second
plan review and each subsequent review until the plans are found to be acceptable.
Page 94
TABLE I102.1
FEES BASED ON TYPE OF FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT
TYPE PERMIT FEES OTHER FEES
New Sprinkler Installa-
tions:
11 to 20 sprinklers $250.00
21 to 100 sprinklers $415.00 $85.00 per hour fee for any
Over 100 sprinklers $415.00 plus $75.00 for each additional inspections after
additional 100 sprinklers or twoinspections.
fraction thereof in excess of
100
With fire pump $415.00 additional
With foam $85.00 additional
Each additional floor $65.00
New Underground Installa- $165.00 $85.00 per hour fee for any
tion additional inspections after
twoinspections.
New Pre-Engineered $165.00 per pre-engineered $85.00 per hour fee for any
Kitchen Hood Extinguish- kitchen hood extinguishing additional inspections after
in S stems system oneinspection
New Fire Alarm Installa-
tion:
1 to 4 initiating devices $250.00
5 to 25 total devices $415.00 $85.00 per hour fee for any
Over 25 total devices $415.00 plus $75.00 for each additional inspections after
additional 100 devices or oneinspection.
fraction thereof in excess of
25
Each additional panel $65.00
Each additional floor $65.00
Other New Suppression
Systems:
(Halon, COz, Dry Chemical,
FM 200, Intergen, etc.) $85.00 per hour fee for any
additional inspections after
1 to 5 nozzles $415.00 oneinspection.
Over 5 nozzles $415.00 plus $55.00 per
nozzle over 5 nozzles.
Page 95
New Standpipe Systems:
1 to 3 risers $580.00 $85.00 per hour fee for any
4 or more risers $825.00 additional inspections after
With fire um $415.00 additional twoinspections.
New Smoke Control or Ex- $415.00 $85.00 per hour fee for any
haust Systems (Construc- additional inspections after
tion) oneinspection.
Compressed Gas Tanks $110.00 per tank $85.00 per hour fee for any
(Installation) additional inspections after
two inspections.
Cryogenic Fluids (Installa- $55.00 per tank $85.00 per hour fee for any
tion) additional inspections after
one inspection.
Flammable and Combusti- $275.00 per tank or per site $85.00 per hour fee for any
ble Liquids (Installation and for piping/dispensing/other additional inspections after
Removal) two inspections.
Hazardous Materials Facil- $275.00 $85.00 per hour fee for any
ity (Installation / Construc- additional inspections after
tion) one inspection.
Industrial Ovens (Installa- $55.00 per oven $85.00 per hour fee for any
tion) additional inspections after
one inspection.
LP Gas Tanks/Facilities $55.00 per tank $85.00 per hour fee for any
(Installation) additional inspections after
one inspection.
Private Fire Hydrants (In- $55.00 $85.00 per hour fee for any
stallation) additional inspections after
one inspection.
Temporary Membrane $55.00 per tent type structure $85.00 per hour fee for any
Structure, Tents, and additional inspections after
Canopies (Construction) one inspection.
Access Control Systems
1 to 4 devices $165.00 $85.00 per hour fee for any
5 to 25 devices $220.00 additional inspections after
More than 25 devices $220.00 Plus $75.00 for each one inspection.
100 devices over 25 or frac-
tion thereof.
Page 96
Emergency Responder Ra-
dio Coverage Equipment
1 to 4 devices $165.00 $85.00 per hour fee for any
5 to 25 devices $220.00 additional inspections after
More than 25 devices
$220.00 Plus $75.00 for each one inspection.
100 devices over 25 or frac-
tion thereof.
Battery Systems (Installa- $55.00 per battery system $85.00 per hour fee for any
tion) installation additional inspections after
one inspection.
Appendix J-Change to read as follows:
Appendix J
MANUFACTURED HOME AND RECREATIONAL VEHICLE PARKS
SECTION J101
GENERAL PROVISIONS
J101.1 Definitions. For the purpose of this Appendix, certain words and phrases are defined
and certain provisions shall be construed as set forth herein, unless it is apparent from the context
that a different meaning is intended. When terms are not defined in this section, they shall have
the meanings set forth in Article 2 of the Fire Code.
MANUFACTURED HOME, HUD-CODE. A structure constructed on or after June 15, 1976,
according to the rules of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development,
transportable in one or more sections, which, in the traveling mode, is eight (8) body feet or more
in width or forty (40) body feet or more in length, or, when erected on site, is three hundred
twenty (320) or more square feet, and which is built on a permanent chassis and designed to be
used as a dwelling with or without a permanent foundation when connected to the required utili-
ties, and includes the plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, and electrical systems. The term does
not include a recreational vehicle as that term is defined by 24 CFR § 3282.8(g).
LOT. A plot of ground within a mobile home park or recreational vehicle park as indicated on
the construction plan, which is designed to accommodate one (1) manufactured home or recrea-
tional vehicle respectively.
MANUFACTURED HOME or MANUFACTURED HOUSING. Includes the terms HUD-
code manufactured home and mobile home, and collectively means and refers to both.
MANUFACTURED HOME ACCESSORY STRUCTURE. Any structural addition to a
manufactured home or mobile home park lot which includes awnings, cabanas, carports, Florida
rooms, porches, ramadas, storage cabinets and buildings, and similar appurtenant structures.
Page 97
MINIMUM BUILDING STANDARDS CODE. That article of the "Buildings" chapter of the
City Code so designated.
MANUFACTURED HOME. A structure that was constructed before June 15, 1976, transport-
able in one (1) or more sections, which, in the traveling mode, is eight (8) body feet or more in
width or forty (40) body feet or more in length, or, when erected on site, is three hundred twenty
(320) or more square feet, and which is built on a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a
dwelling with or without a permanent foundation when connected to the required utilities, and
includes the plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, and electrical systems.
MANUFACTURED HOME PARK. A unified development of lots arranged on a tract of land
under common ownership, which has been planned and improved for the placement of two (2) or
more manufactured homes for non-transient occupancy.
PERMANENT FOUNDATION. A manufactured home stand constructed per the requirements
of the Texas Department of Labor and Standards.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE. A vehicle which is: (a) built on a single chassis; (b) four hun-
dred (400) square feet or less when measured at the largest horizontal projections; (c) self-
propelled or permanently towable by an automobile or light duty truck; (d) designed primarily
not for use as a permanent dwelling but as temporary living quarters for recreational, camping,
travel, or seasonal use; and (e) required by Texas law to have a valid vehicle registration when
traveling upon public streets. It shall not include a manufactured home.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE PARK. A unified development on a tract of land under com-
mon ownership designed primarily for transient service, on which recreational vehicles of the
general public are parked or situated.
ZONING ORDINANCE. The comprehensive zoning ordinance of the City of Fort Worth.
SECTION J201
MANUFACTURED HOME PARK STANDARDS
J201.1 Applicability. All manufactured home parks and manufactured homes shall be con-
structed and maintained in accordance with this appendix, the Comprehensive Zoning Ordi-
nance, the Minimum Building Standards Code, and all other applicable provisions of the City
Code. Any reference to "mobile home" elsewhere in the City Code shall mean "manufactured
home" as defined by this appendix.
SECTION J202
TENANT RESPONSIBILITIES
J202.1 Each manufactured home park tenant shall maintain the tenant's manufactured home
and lot in compliance with the following:
J202.1.1 The manufactured home shall be properly placed on its stand and anchored to a
permanent foundation. All utilities shall be properly installed in accordance with the in-
structions of the park's owner or operator, and in accordance with the City Code. The build-
ing official has the right to refuse to issue all permits to hook a manufactured home up to
Page 98
utilities until the tenant or owner or operator of the park shows proof that the manufactured
home has been anchored in accordance with state regulations.
J202.1.2 A noncombustible skirting shall be installed around the manufactured home.
Such skirting may include any vents, screens, and/or openings necessary for utility and me-
chanical system hookups.
J202.1.3 The skirting, and any porches, stairways, awnings and other additions shall be
constructed, installed, and maintained in good repair. All requirements of the Building
Code pertaining to single family dwellings for like structures or additions shall be applica-
ble.
J202.1.4 The space beneath a manufactured home shall not be used for storage.
J202.2 A person commits an offense if the person is a mobile home park tenant and knowingly
fails to maintain the person's manufactured home and lot in compliance with this section.
J202.3 A person commits an offense if the person owns or operates a mobile home park and
knowingly allows or suffers a violation of this section by a tenant.
SECTION J203
FIRE SAFETY EDUCATION
J203.1 Each manufactured home park owner or operator shall ensure that its park staff is in-
structed in the use of park fire protection equipment and in the staffs specific duties in the event
of a fire.
J203.2 The fire chief may make printed safety instructions available to all manufactured home
park owners or operators for distribution to their tenants.
SECTION J301
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE PARK STANDARDS
J301.1 Applicability. All recreational vehicle parks shall be constructed and maintained in
accordance with this appendix, the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, the Minimum Building
Standards Code, and all other applicable provisions of the City Code.
SECTION J302
FIRE SAFETY INSTRUCTION
J302.1 Each recreational vehicle park, owner or operator, shall ensure that its park staff is in-
structed in the use of park fire protection equipment and in their specific duties in the event of a
fire.
J302.2 The fire chief may make printed safety instructions available to all recreational vehicle
park owners or operators for distribution to their guests.
SECTION J401
INSPECTION FEES
Page 99
J401.1 An annual fee is hereby charged to the owner of each manufactured home park and rec-
reational vehicle park located within the city, to provide for inspections by the fire code official
to determine compliance with the requirements of the Fire Code and of the requirements of this
appendix relative to fire safety.
J401.1.1 Calculation of inspection fee. The annual inspection fee for inspections re-
quired bythis section are calculated as the total of the following:
a. Base fee of $150.00.
b. Additional fee of $5.00 per individual lot within the park.
J401.2 All other requirements of Appendix H shall apply with regards to issuance of Certificates
of Inspections.
SECTION J500
HISTORY
J500.1 Mobile Home Park regulations were first adopted in May 18, 1970 (with retroactive pro-
visions), Ordinance 6293. Recreational Vehicle Park regulations were first adopted by Ordi-
nance 6372, effective October 12, 1970. Under Ordinance 12264, City Code Chapter 21, Mobile
Home Parks was deleted and the provisions moved to the Fire Code Appendix. Such Appendix
was continued thru Ordinances 14652, 14688 and 16027.
Appendix K -Add to read as follows:
Appendix K
MOBILE FUELING PERMIT FEES
SECTION K101
K101.1 Mobile fueling permit fees. Mobile fueling permit fees will be assessed as set forth in
Table K101.1. Permits shall renew annually. Permit fees shall be reviewed on the one year an-
niversary date of passage of this ordinance and at such times thereafter as the City Council shall
determine.
Table K101.1
Mobile Fueling Permit Fees
For Each Site For Each Refueling Vehi-
cle.
Initial Permit Fee $1,000 1St - 3r vehicle: $200
4th _ 6th vehicle: $400
7th - 10th vehicle: $600
11 or more: $800
Permit Renewal Fee $500 Same as initial
Page 100
SECTION 3.
This article shall be cumulative of all provisions of ordinances of the Code of the City of Fort
Worth, Texas (1986), affecting Fire Code provisions, as amended, and shall not repeal any of the
provisions of such ordinances, except in those instances where provisions of such ordinances are
in direct conflict with the provisions of this ordinance.
SECTION 4.
It is hereby declared to be the intention of the City Council that the sections, paragraphs, sen-
tences, 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, ineffective-
ness, or unconstitutionality shall not affect any of the remaining phrases, clauses, sentences,
paragraphs, and sections of this ordinance, since the same would have been enacted by the City
Council without the incorporation in this ordinance of any such void, ineffective, or unconstitu-
tional phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph, or section.
SECTION 5.
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 6.
All rights and remedies of the City of Fort Worth, Texas are expressly saved as to any and all
violations of the previous Fire 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 ac-
crued 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 7.
The Fire Department of the City of Fort Worth, Texas, is hereby authorized to publish this ordi-
nance 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.
Page 101
SECTION 8.
The City Secretary of the City of Fort Worth, is hereby directed to publish the caption and Sec-
tions 1, 5, 8 and 9 of this ordinance for two (2) days in the official newspaper of the City of Fort
Worth, Texas as authorized by Section 2, Chapter XXV of the Charter of the City of Fort Worth,
Texas and by Section 52.013 (a) of the Texas Local Government Code.
SECTION 9.
This ordinance shall take effect upon adoption and publication as required bylaw.
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY:
sy: t ' 1
Assistant C' Attorney
Adopted: March 22.2011
Effective: • ~ ~ ~
Page 102
City of Fort Worth, Texas
Mayor and Council Communication
CdUNCIL ACTION: Approved on 3/22!2011 -Ord. No. 19607-03-2Q11
,_
.~.~ n. ~~
DATE: Tuesday, March 22, 2011 REFERENCE NO.: G-17250
LOG NAME: 36FIRECODE2009
SUBJECT:
Adoption of the 2009 International Fire Code with Local Amendments
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the City Council adopt the attached ordinance, with local amendments,
establishing the Fort Worth Fire Code and related fees.
DISCUSSION:
The attached ordinance reflects transition to the 2009 International Fire Code (IFC) with Local
Amendments. The Fire and Planning and Development Departments have worked to consolidate and
coordinate the amendments in their respective Fire and Building Codes.
All local amendments recommended for the 2009 IFC have been reviewed by the Planning and
Development Department and have met the approval of the Construction and Fire Prevention Board of
Appeals for recommended adoption.
This ordinance shall take effect on April 1, 2011.
FISCAL INFORMATION /CERTIFICATION:
The Financial Management Services Director certifies that this action will have no material effect on City
funds.
FUND CENTERS:
TO Fund/Account/Centers
FROM Fund/Account/Centers
CERTIFICATIONS:
Submitted for City Manager's Office b~
Ori inating Department Head:
Additional Information Contact:
Charles Daniels (6199)
Rudy Jackson (6801)
Fernando Gonzalez (6849)
Landon Stallings (6808)
Logname: 36FIRECODE2009
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