HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinances (O-23-2240)-06/06/2023ORDINANCE 0-23-2240
AMENDING ORDINANCE 0-21-2181 BY AMENDING AND RESTATING
THE LOCAL AMENDMENTS TO THE 2018 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE
ADOPTED THEREIN; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE
WHEREAS, the City of Colleyville, pursuant to Ordinance 0-21-2181
adopted the 2018 Edition of the International Fire Code (the
"IFC") and local amendments thereto to provide for the safety
of the citizens of Colleyville; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to amend and restate the previously
adopted local amendments to the IFC, providing for updated
regulations governing automatic sprinkler systems for one -
and two-family residential structures.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF COLLEYVILLE, TEXAS:
Sec. 1. THAT the City Council hereby amends Ordinance 0-21-2181,
by replacing Exhibit B thereto in its entirety with the First
Amended and Restated Amendments to the 2018 International
Fire Code attached hereto and incorporated herein as Exhibit
"A„
Sec. 2. THAT this ordinance shall be cumulative of all provisions of
ordinances of the City of Colleyville, Texas, except where
provisions of this ordinance are in direct conflict with the
provisions of another ordinance, in which event the conflicting
provisions of the other ordinance are hereby repealed.
Sec. 3. THAT the provisions of this ordinance are severable, and if any
phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph, or section of this
ordinance shall be declared unconstitutional by the valid
judgment or decree of any court of competent jurisdiction,
such unconstitutionality shall not affect any of the remaining
phrases, clauses, sentences, paragraphs, and sections of this
ordinance, since they would have been enacted by the City
Council without the incorporation in this ordinance of the
unconstitutional phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph, or
section.
Sec. 4. THAT any person, firm, or corporation who violates, disobeys,
omits, neglects or refuses to comply with or who resists the
enforcement of any of the provisions of this ordinance shall be
Ordinance 0-23-2240
Page 2 of 3
fined not more than Two Thousand Dollars ($2,000.00) for all
violations involving zoning, fire safety or public health and
sanitation, including dumping or refuse, and shall be fined not
more than five hundred dollars ($500) for all other violations
of this ordinance. Each day that a violation is permitted to exist
shall constitute a separate offense.
Sec. 5. THAT in addition to and accumulative of all other penalties, the
City shall have the right to seek injunctive relief for any and all
violations of this ordinance where the law in such cases so
provides.
Sec. 6. THAT all rights and remedies of the City of Colleyville are
expressly saved as to any and all violations of the provisions
of Ordinance 0-21-218 or any other ordinances affecting the
City's code which have accrued at the time of the effective date
of this ordinance; and, as to such accrued violations and all
pending litigation, both civil and criminal, whether pending in
court or not, under such ordinances, same shall not be affected
by this ordinance but may be prosecuted until final disposition
by the courts.
Sec. 7. THAT this ordinance shall take effect immediately from and
after its passage subject to the publication of the caption, as
the law or charter in such cases may provide.
AND IT IS SO ORDERED.
The first reading and public hearing being conducted on the 16th day of May
2023.
The second reading and public hearing being conducted on the 61h day of
June 2023.
PASSED AND APPROVED BY A VOTE OF 7 AYES, 0 NAYS ON THIS THE 6T"
DAY OF JUNE 2023.
Mayor Bobby Lindamood Aye Mayor Pro Tern Callie Rigney Aye
Brandi Elder, Place 1 Aye George Bond, Place 2 Aye
Scotty Richardson, Place 3 Aye Ben Graves, Place 4 Aye
Chuck Kelley, Place 5 Aye
ATT�/E,,S'T,:,
Christine Loven, TRMC
City Secretary
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Whitt Wyatt
City Attorney
Mayor
Ordinance 0-23-2240
Page 3 of 3
EXHIBIT A
First Amended and Restated Amendments to the
2018 International Fire Code
[as amended by Ordinance 0-23-22401
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2018 International Fire Code (IFC) are hereby amended
as follows: Standard type is text from the IFC. Underlined tvve is text inserted ' ^^-' through t„^o is deleted text
frnrn lFG A double asterisk (**) at the beginning of a section identifies an amendment carried over from the 2015
edition of the code and a triple asterisk (***) identifies a new or revised amendment with the 2018 code.
**Section 102.1; change #3 to read as follows:
3. Existing structures, facilities, and conditions when required in Chapter 11 or in specific sections of this
code.
(Reason: To clarify that there are other provisions in the fire code applicable to existing buildings that are not
located in Chapter 11, including but not limited to Section 505 Premises Identification.)
'Section 105.3.3; change to read as follows:
105.3.3 Occupancy Prohibited before Approval. The building or structure shall not be occupied prior to the fire
code official issuing a permit when required and conducting associated inspections indicating the applicable
provisions of this code have been met.
(Reason: For clarity to allow for better understanding in areas not requiring such permits, such as unincorporated
areas of counties. This amendment may be struck by a city.)
**Section 105.7; add Section 105.7.26 to read as follows:
(Reason: Adds construction permit requirements for electronic access control systems affecting access and/or
egress to ensure proper design and installation of such systems. These changes reflect local practices of
municipalities in this region.)
**Section 202, amend and add definitions to read as follows:
** [B] AMBULATORY CARE FACILITY. Buildings or portions thereof used to provide medical, surgical,
psychiatric, nursing, or similar care on a less than 24-hour basis to persons who are rendered incapable of self-
preservation by the services provided or staff has accepted responsibility for care recipients already incapable.
This oroup may include but not be limited to the following'
- Dialysis centers
- Procedures involving sedation
-Sedation dentistry
- Surgery centers
- Colonic centers
- Psychiatric centers
(Reason: to clarify the range of uses included in the definition)
** [B] ATRIUM. An opening connecting We three or more stories... (remaining text unchanged)
(Reason: Accepted practice in the region based on legacy codes. IBC Section 1009 permits unenclosed two story
stairways under certain circumstances.)
** roi nCCCAIn IAI 01 Al C n _______
(Reason: Added from International Building Code (IBC) definitions for consistency in interpretation of the subject
requirements pertaining to such occupancies.)
**FIRE WATCH. A temporary measure intended to ensure continuous and systematic surveillance of a building
or portion thereof by one or more qualified individuals or standby personnel when required by the fire code official
for the purposes of identifying and controlling fire hazards, detecting early signs of unwanted fire, raising an alarm
of fire and notifying the fire department.
(Reason: Clearly defines options to the fire department for providing a fire watch.)
**FIREWORKS. Any composition or device for the purpose of producing a visible or an audible effect for
entertainment purposes by combustion, deflagration, of detonation, and/or activated by ignition with a match or
other heat Producing device that meets the definition of 1.3G fireworks or 1 AG fireworks. ... (Remainder of text
unchanged)...
(Reason: Increased safety from fireworks related injuries.)
**HIGH -PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE. add a second paragraph to read as follows:
(Reason: To provide protection for worst -case scenario in flexible or unknown situations.)
**HIGH-RISE BUILDING. A building with an occupied floor located more than 75 55 feet (2- RR9 16 764 mm)
above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
(Reason: Allows for additional construction safety features to be provided, based on firefighting response
capabilities.)
**REPAIR GARAGE. A building, structure or portion thereof used for servicing or repairing motor vehicles. This
(Reason: To further clarify types of service work allowed in a repair garage, as well as to correspond with definition
in the IBC.)
(Reason: To provide a definition that does not exist in the code.)
**STANDBY PERSONNEL. Qualified fire service Personnel approved by the Fire Chief. When utilized the
number required shall be as directed by the Fire Chief. Charges for utilization shall be as normally calculated
by the iurisdiction.
(Reason: To provide a definition that does not exist in the code for fire watch accommodations as required by the
jurisdiction.)
"UPGRADED OR REPLACED FIRE ALARM SYSTEM A fire alarm system that is upgraded or replaced
includes, but is not limited to the following:
• Replacing one single board or fire alarm control unit component with a newer model
• Installing a new fire alarm control unit in addition to or in place of an existing one
• Conversion from a horn system to an emergency voice/alarm communication system
• Conversion from a conventional system to one that utilizes addressable or analog devices
The following are not considered an upgrade or replacement
• Firmware updates
• Software updates
• Replacing boards of the same model with chips utilizing the same or newer firmware
(Reason: This is referenced in several places, but the wording of "upgraded or replaced" is somewhat ambiguous
and open to interpretation. Defining it here allows for consistent application across the region.)
"Section 307.1.1; change to read as follows:
"Section 307.1.1; change to read as follows:
307.1.1 Prohibited Open Burning. Open burning shall be prohibited that is offensive or objectionable because
of smoke emissions or when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make such fires hazardous shall be
prohibited.
Exception: {No change.)
(Reason: To further protect adjacent property owners/occupants from open burning and/or smoke emissions from
open burning.)
"Section 307.2; change to read as follows:
307.2 Permit Required. A permit shall be obtained from the fire code official in accordance with Section 105.6
prior to kindling a fire for recognized silvicultural or range or wildlife management practices, prevention or control
of disease or pests, or open burning ^ os.,,,fe. Application for such approval shall only be presented by and
permits issued to the owner of the land upon which the fire 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:
1. Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) guidelines and/or restrictions.
2. State. County, or Local temporary or permanent bans on open burning
3. Local written policies as established by the fire code official
(Reason: Amendments to 307.2, 307.4, 307.4.3, and 307.5 better explain current requirements and recognize
that jurisdictions have local established policies that best fit their environments.)
"Section 307.3; change to read as follows:
307.3 Extinguishment Authority. WheR open WFAiAg creates E)F adds to a hazardous s tuatian, eF a Fequired
the ^^^^ 1961FR Rg eperatinn The fire code official is authorized to order the extinguishment by the permit holder,
another person responsible or the fire department of open burning that creates or adds to a hazardous or
objectionable situation.
Provides direction as to responsible parties relative to extinguishment of the
as
307.4 Location. The location for open burning shall not be less than 50 300 feet ( 15 1240 91 440 mm) from
any structure, and provisions shall be made to prevent the fire from spreading to within 50 300 feet (15-240 91
440 mm) of any structure.
Exceptions: {No change.)
(Reason: To increase the separation distance thereby increasing the safety to adjacent properties, as per
applicable TCEQ rules and regulations regarding outdoor burning.)
"Section 307.4.3, Exceptions; add exception #2 to read as follows:
Exceptions:
2. Where buildings balconies and decks are protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system
To reflect similar allowances for open -flame cookinq in these same
as
Building Code.
307.4.5 Trench Burns. Trench burns shall be conducted in air curtain trenches and in accordance with Section
307.2.
(Reason: To provide a greater level of safety for this potentially hazardous fire exposure condition. Decrease in
separation distance allowed for outdoor firepits due to permanent nature of construction having substantial
securement.)
"Section 307.5; change to read as follows:
307.5 Attendance. Open burning, trench burns, bonfires, recreational fires, and use of portable outdoor fireplaces
shall be constantly attended until the... {Remainder of section unchanged)
(Reason: Adds attendance for trench burns based on previous amendment provision for such.)
"Section 308.1.4; change to read as follows:
308.1.4 Open -flame Cooking Devices. GhaFGQal bunners and other o0pen-fiame cooking devices, charcoal
grills and other similar devices used for cooking shall not be opera ied located or used on combustible balconies,
decks or within 10 feet (3048 mm) of combustible construction.
Exceptions:
1. One- and two-family dwellings except that LP -gas containers are limited to a water capacity not greater
than 50 pounds (22.68 kg) [nominal 20 pound (9.08 kg) LP -pas capacityl with an aggregate LP -pas
capacity not to exceed 100 pounds (5 containers).
2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an approved automatic sprinkler
containers).
3. (No change.)
(Reason: Decrease fire risk in multi -family dwellings and minimizes ignition sources and clarify allowable limits
for 1 & 2 family dwellings, and allow an expansion for sprinklered multi -family uses. This amendment adds
clarification and defines the container size allowed for residences.)
"Section 308.1.6.2, Exception #3; change to read as follows:
Exceptions:
3. Torches or flame -producing devices in accordance with Section 308:4 308.1.3.
(Reason: Section identified in published code is inappropriate.)
**Section 308.1.6.3; change to read as follows:
308.1.6.3 Sky Lanterns. A person shall not release or cause to be released an , intet.,erpd unmanned free-floating
device containing an open flame or other heat source, such as but not limited to a sky lantern.
(Reason: Eliminates the potential fire hazard presented by utilization of such devices and the potential accidental
release of such devices.)
**Section 311.5; change to read as follows:
311.5 Placards. Any The fire code official is authorized to require marking of any vacant or abandoned buildings
or structures determined to be unsafe pursuant to Section 110 of this code relating to structural or interior hazards,
hn" L marked as required by Section 311.5.1 through 311.5.5.
(Reason: There may be situations where placarding is not desired or necessary; also clarifies intent that it is not
the fire code official's responsibility to provide the placard.)
**Section 403.5, change Section 403.5 to read as follows:
403.5 Group E Occupancies. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall
be prepared and maintained for Group E occupancies and for buildings containing both a Group E occupancy and
an atrium. A diagram depicting two evacuation routes shall be posted in a conspicuous location in each classroom
Group E occupancies shall also comply with Sections 403.5.1 through 403.5.3.
(Reason: The diagrams are intended to assist with egress in such occupancies — specifically, the primary teacher
is not always present to assist children with egress. Also, such will help reinforce evacuation drill requirements.)
**Section 404.2.2; add Number 4.10 to read as follows:
4.10 Fire extinguishing system controls.
(Reason: The committee believed this information could be of great help to such plans to facilitate locating
sprinkler valves to minimize water damage, for instance.)
**Section 405.4; change Section 405.4 to read as follows:
405.4 Time. The fire code official may require an evacuation drill at any time Drills shall be held at unexpected
times and under varying conditions to simulate the unusual conditions that occur in case of fire.
(Reason: This change clarifies who may require a fire or evacuation drill).
**Section 501.4, change to read as follows:
501.4 Timing of Installation. When fire apparatus access roads or a water supply for fire protection is required
to be installed for any structure or development, they shall be installed, tested and approved orior to the time of
which construction has progressed beyond completion of the foundation of any structure , such proteGt aR shall
(Reason: Reflects current practice in the region relative to ensuring fire department and EMS access during
construction, which can be a time of increased frequency for emergency incidents.)
"Section 503.1.1; add sentence to read as follows:
Except for one- or two-family dwellings the path of measurement shall be along a minimum of a ten feet (10')
wide unobstructed pathway around the external walls of the structure
(Reason: Recognizes that the hose lay provision can only be measured along a pathway that is wide enough for
fire fighter access.)
*"Section 503.2.1; change to read as follows:
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 2-0-24 feet
(6096+nFn 7315 mm), exclusive of shoulders, except for approved security gates in accordance with Section
503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 'nGhes (411 ^ ^ ` 14 feet (4267 mm).
Exception: Vertical clearance may be reduced; provided such reduction does not impair access by fire
apparatus and approved signs are installed and maintained indicating the established vertical clearance when
approved.
(Reason: Amendments to 503.2.1 and 503.2.2 recognize that the equipment now used in firefighting is increasing
in size. The code already recognizes that larger dimensions may be required under Section 503.2.2. The
amendments are to standardize the dimensions for this area. With the increase in fire apparatus size, this will
allow for the passage of two fire apparatus during a fire or EMS emergency.)
"Section 503.2.2; change to read as follows:
503.2.2 Authority. The fire code official shall have the authority to require an increase in the minimum access
widths and vertical clearances where they are inadequate for fire or rescue operations.
(Reason: Amendments to 503.2.1 and 503.2.2 recognize that the equipment now used in firefighting is increasing
in size. The code already recognizes that larger dimensions may be required under Section 503.2.2. The
amendments are to standardize the dimensions for this area. With the increase in fire apparatus size, this will
allow for the passage of two fire apparatus during a fire or EMS emergency.)
"Section 503.2.3; change Section 503.2.3 to read as follows:
503.2.3 Surface. Fire apparatus access roads shall be designed and maintained to support imposed loads of
80,000 Lbs. for fire apparatus and shall be surfaced so as to provide all-weather driving capabilities.
(Reason: To address the current size of fire trucks in use —figure derived from DOT requirements for waiver of
vehicle exceeding such weight.)
"Section 503.3; change to read as follows:
503.3 Marking. Where required by the fare code offiGial, aPPFGV8d signs or other approved RGt G96 er mark ngs
that iRGl6dP thevinrdig No PARKING FIRE _Lnn F Striping, signs, or other markings, when approved by the fire
code official, shall be provided for fire apparatus access roads to identify such roads or prohibit the obstruction
thereof. The means by which fire laRes are design ctcd Striping, signs and other markings shall be maintained in
a clean and legible condition at all times and be replaced or repaired when necessaryto provide adequate visibility.
(2) Signs — Signs shall read "NO PARKING FIRE LANE" or "FIRE LANE NO PARKING" and shall be 12"
(Reason: Establishes a standard method of marking and reflects local long-standing practices.)
**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 clearances 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.
(Reason: As originally worded, the section implied that vehicles could be parked in the marked fire lane and not
be in violation if the minimum width is still maintained. Current accepted enforcement practice is to require the
entire marked fire lane to be maintained clear and unobstructed.)
**Section 505.1; change to read as follows:
**Section 505.1; change to read as follows:
505.1 Address Identification. New and existing buildings shall be provided with approved address identification.
The address identification shall be legible and placed in a position that is visible from the street or road fronting
the property. Address identification characters shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be
Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Numbers shall not be spelled out. Each character shall be not less than
^ inGhes (102 FnF•) 6 inches (152.4 mm) high with a minimum stroke width of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm). Where required
by the fire code official, address numbers shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency
response. Where access is by means of a private road, buildings do not immediately front a street and/or the
building cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other sign with approved 6 inch (152.4 mm)
means shall be used to identify the structure.
shall be maintained.
(Reason: To increase the minimum addressing requirements for commercial properties and establish a minimum
for single-family residential properties Such improves legibility of these signs which are critical to emergency
response in a more timely manner.)
'.4; change to read as
507.4 Water Supply Test Date and Information.
Testing and Marking of Hydrants" and within one year of sprinkler plan submittal The fire code official shall be
notified prior to the water supply test. Water supply tests shall be witnessed by the fire code official, as required
requirements.
(Reason: Clarifies intent of the test to ensure contractor accounts for water supply fluctuations.)
**Section 507.5.4; change to read as follows:
507.5.4 Obstruction. Unobstructed access to fire hydrants shall be maintained at all times.
rants trom being immediately discernible The fire department shall not be deterred or
immediate access to fire protection equipment or fire hydrants.
(Reason: Additional guidance based on legacy language to ensure these critical devices are available in an
new Section 509.7.2 to read as
with the background.
(Reason: Provides direction as to appropriate sign criteria to develop local and regional
consistency in this regard.)
**'Section 603.3.2 and 603.3.2.1; change to read as follows:
603.3.1 Fuel oil storage in outside, above -ground tanks. Where connected to a fuel -oil piping system, the
maximum amount of fuel oil storage allowed outside above ground without additional protection shall be 660
gallons (2498 L). The storage of fuel oil above ground in quantities exceeding 660 gallons (2498 L) shall comply
with NFPA 31 and Chapter 57.
603.3.2 Fuel oil storage inside buildings. Fuel oil storage inside buildings shall comply with Sections 603.3.2.1
through 603.3.2.5 of and Chapter 57.
603.3.2.1 Quantity limits. One or more fuel oil storage tanks containing Class II or III combustible liquid shall be
permitted in a building. The aggregate capacity of all tanks shall not exceed the following:
1. 660 gallons (2498 L) in unsprinklered buildings, where stored in a tank complying with UL 80, UL 142 or
UL 2085 for Class III liquids, and also listed as a double-wall/secondary containment tank for Class II
liquids.
2. 1,320 gallons (4996 L) in buildings equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1, where stored in a tank complying with UL 142 or UL 2085 as a double-wall/secondary
containment tank.
3. 3,000 gallons (11 356 L) where stored in protected above -ground tanks complying with UL 2085 and
Section 5704.2.9.7 and the room is protected by an automatic sprinklersystem in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1.
(Reason: Issues addressed by Chapter 57, such as venting to outside of buildings, remote fill to outside of building,
overfill protection, physical protection, etc., are not included in Section 603.3, so compliance with Chapter 57 is
also required. The Board determined that fuel storage in such tanks inside of buildings is commonly in double -
wall tanks, and that this inherent leak protection was prudent in order to allow these quantities of combustible
liquids to be stored inside a building for such purpose.)
"Section 807.5.2.2 and 807.5.2.3; change to read as follows:
807.5.2.2 Artwork in Corridors. Artwork and teaching materials shall be limited on the walls of corridors to not
more than 20 percent of the wall area. Such materials shall not be continuous from Floor to ceiling or wall to wall
Curtains draperies wall hangings and other decorative material suspended from the walls or ceilings shall meet
807.5.2.3 Artwork in Classrooms. Artwork and teaching materials shall be limited on walls of classrooms to not
more than 50 percent of the specific wall area to which they are attached.
Curtains draperies wall hangings and other decorative material suspended from the walls or ceilings shall meet
the flame propagation performance criteria of NFPA 701 in accordance with Section 807 or be noncombustible
(Reason: This change allows an increase in wall coverage due to the presence of sprinklers. Also provides
additional guidance relative to fire resistance requirements in these areas.)
**Section 807.5.5.2 and 807.5.5.3; change to read as follows:
807.5.5.2 Artwork in Corridors. Artwork and teaching materials shall be limited on the walls of corridors to not
more than 20 percent of the wall area. Such materials shall not be continuous from floor to ceiling or wall to wall.
807.5.5.3 Artwork in Classrooms. Artwork and teaching materials shall be limited on walls of classrooms to not
more than 50 percent of the specific wall area to which they are attached. Curtains, draperies, wall hangings and
(Reason: This change allows an increase in wall coverage due to the presence of sprinklers. Also provides
additional guidance relative to fire resistance requirements in these areas.)
***Section 901.6.1; add Section 901.6.1.1 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 applied to the testing that is required every 5
years:
2.
3. Any pressure relief, reducing or control valves shall be tested in accordance with the requirements of NFPA
25. All hose valves shall be exercised.
4. If the FDC is not already provided with approved caps the contractor shall install such caps for all FDC's
as required by the fire code official
5.
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 Ni 25.
8. 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
hose by the fire code official.
(Reason: Increases the reliability of the fire protection system and re-emphasizes the requirements of NFPA 25
relative to standpipe systems, as well as ensuring that FDC connections are similarly tested/maintained to ensure
operation in an emergency incident.)
"Section 901.6.4, add Section 901.6.4 to read as follows:
901.6.4 False Alarms and Nuisance Alarms. False alarms and nuisance alarms shall not be given signaled or
transmitted or caused or permitted to be given signaled or transmitted in any manner.
(Reason: Places the responsibility on the business or property owner to maintain their fire alarm systems in
approved condition. Allows the enforcement of 'prohibition of false alarms". Replaces text lost from the legacy
codes that helps to ensure the maintenance of life safety systems.)
'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 activations, the fire department and the fire code official shall be notified immediately and,
where required by the fire 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.... (Remaining text unchanged)
(Reason: Gives fire code official more discretion with regards to enforcement of facilities experiencing nuisance
alarm or fire protection system activations necessitating correction/repair/replacement. The intent of the
amendment is to allow local jurisdictions to enforce fire watches, etc., where needed to ensure safety of occupants
where fire protection systems are experiencing multiple nuisance activations.)
"Section 903.1.1; change to read as follows:
903.1.1 Alternative Protection. Alternative automatic fire -extinguishing systems complying with Section 904 shall
be permitted instead of in addition to automatic sprinkler protection where recognized by the applicable standard
and o� r as approved by the fire code official.
(Reason: Such alternative systems do not provide the reliability of automatic sprinkler protection. Most gaseous
type systems are highly susceptible to open doors, ceiling or floor tile removal, etc. However, an applicant could
pursue an Alternate Method request to help mitigate the reliability issues with these alternative systems with the
fire code official if so desired, or there may be circumstances in which the fire code official is acceptable to allowing
an alternate system in lieu of sprinklers, such as kitchen hoods or paint booths.)
"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 fire area. excluding Group R-3 occupancies.
(Reason: Amendment carried forward from previous codes; further amended to exempt Group R-3 residential
structures)
'Section 903.2.8.1; change to read as follows:
903.2.8.1 Group R-3
"Section 903.2; add paragraph to read as follows and delete the exception:
Signage shall be provided at the
- Nr) RTnPAr:F Al I r)\NFn "
(Reason: Firefighter and public safety. This amendment eliminates the shunt trip requirement of the International
Building Code Section 3005.5 for the purpose of elevator passenger and firefighter safety. This amendment is
contingent on the Building Code amendment eliminating the Exceptions to Section 3005.4, such that passive fire
barriers for these areas are maintained. The exception deletion is due to the fact that such telecom areas pose
an undue fire risk to the structural integrity of the building.)
"Section 903,Z9; add Section 903.2.9.3 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.
(Reason: Fire departments are unable to inspect these commercial occupancies and are unaware of the contents
being stored. Previous allowance to separate units by fire barriers is difficult to enforce maintenance after
opening.)
"Section 903.2.11; change 903.2,11.3 and add 903.2.11.7, 903.2.11.8, and 903.2.11.9 as follows:
903.2.11.3 Buildings 55 35 feet or more in height. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed
throughout buildings that have one or more stories w th an occupant lead Af 30 Ar FRAFe other than penthouses
in compliance with Section 1510 of the International Building Code located 55 35 feet (16 764 10 668 mm)
or more above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, measured to the finished Floor.
Exceptions:
1. Open parking structures in compliance with Section 406.5 of the International Building Code
having no other occupancies above the subiect garage.
2. OGGupanG 86 iR "F^ ^ F 2. 2. Occupancies in Group R-3.
903.2.11.7 High -Piled Combustible Storage. For any building with a clear height exceeding 12 feet (4572
mm), see Chapter 32 to determine if those provisions apply.
903.2.11.8 Spray Booths and Rooms. New and existing spray booths and spraying rooms shall be protected
by an approved automatic fire -extinguishing system.
Exceptions:
1 Open parking structures in compliance with Section 406.5 of the International Building Code
2. Occupancies in Group R-3.
(Reason: Provides jurisdictions options as to their desired level of sprinkler protection based on multiple factors
including firefighting philosophies/capabilities.)
**Section 903.3.1.1.1; change 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 ... {text unchanged)... 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 serious life or fire hazard.
2. Any room or space where sprinklers are considered undesirable because of the nature of the contents,
when approved by the code official.
3. Generator and transformer rooms, under the direct control of a public utility separated from the remainder
of the building by walls and floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assemblies having a fire -resistance rating of not
less than 2 hours.
4- IR Fogms nr areas that AFP Af RoRnmrnbust ble GORStFUGt OR With Wholly RORGE)mbustiblp enntents
5. Fire serviGe aGGe6s Elevator machine rooms, and machinery spaces, and hoistways, otherthan pits where
such sprinklers would not necessitate shunt trio requirements under any circumstances.
6. (Delete.)
(Reason: Gives more direction to code official. Exception 4 deleted to provide protection where fire risks are poorly
addressed. Amendment 903.2 addresses Exception 5 above relative to the elimination of sprinkler protection in
these areas to avoid the shunt trip requirement.)
***Section 903.3.1.2.3; delete section and replace as follows:
[F] Section 903.3.1.2.3 Attached Garages and Attics Sprinkler protection is required in attached garages and
in the following attic spaces:
1 Attics that are used or intended for living purposes or storage shall be protected by an automatic
sprinkler system..., excluding attics in Group R-3 occupancies
2. Where fuel -fired equipment is installed in an unsprinklered attic not fewer than one quick -response
intermediate temperature sprinkler shall be installed above the equipment
3. Attic spaces of buildings that are two or more stories in height above grade plane or above the lowest
4.1. Provide automatic sprinkler system protection.
International Building Code.
4.5. Fill the attic with noncombustible insulation.
(Reason: Attic protection is required due to issues with fire exposure via soffit vents, as well as firefighter safety.
Several jurisdictions indicated experience with un-protected attic fires resulting in displacement of all building
occupants. NFPA 13 provides forapplicable attic sprinkler protection requirements, as well as exemptions to such,
based on noncombustible construction, etc. Attached garages already require sprinklers via NFPA 13R — this
amendment just re-emphasizes the requirement.)
**Section 903.3.1.3; change to read as follows:
903.3.1.3 NFPA 13D Sprinkler Systems. When required by this code, automatic sprinkler systems installed in
one- and two-family dwellings; Group R-3; Group R-4, Condition 1; and townhouses shall be permitted to be
installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13D or in accordance with state law.
(Reason: To allow the use of the Plumbing section of the International Residential Code (IRC) and recognize
current state stipulations in this regard.)
**Section 903.3.2; change to read as follows
903.3.2 Quick -response and residential sprinklers.
Where automatic sprinkler systems are required by this code, quick -response or residential automatic sprinklers
shall be installed in all of the following areas in accordance with Section 903.3.1 and their listings:
1. Throughout all spaces within a smoke compartment containing care recipient sleeping units in Group 1-2 in
accordance with the International Building Code.
2. Throughout all spaces within a smoke compartment containing treatment rooms in ambulatory care facilities.
3. Dwelling units and sleeping units in Group I-1 and R-1. R-2 and R-4 occupancies (automatic sprinkler systems
shall be encouraged but not required for R-3 occupancies unless otherwise determined by the code official).
4. Light -hazard occupancies as defined in NFPA.
(Reason: Residential automatic sprinklers shall be recommended for dwelling and sleeping units in R-3
occupancies, but not required.)
**Section 903.3.1.4, add to read as follows:
[F] 903.3.1.4 Freeze protection. Freeze protection systems for automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be in
allowed to protect attic spaces.
Exception: Wet -pipe fire sprinkler systems shall be allowed to protect non -ventilated attic spaces
where:
1. The attic sprinklers are supplied by a separate floor control valve assembly to allow ease
of draining the attic system without impairing sprinklers throughout the rest of the building
and
2. Adequate heat shall be provided for freeze protection as per the applicable referenced
NFPA standard. and
3. The attic space is a part of the building's thermal or heat envelope such that insulation
is provided at the roof deck, rather than at the ceiling level
903.3.1.4.2 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
(Reason: In the last few years, severe winters brought to light several issues with current practices for sprinklering
attics, not the least of which was wet -pipe sprinklers in ventilated attics provided with space heaters, etc. for freeze
protection of such piping. This practice is not acceptable for the protection of water -filled piping in a ventilated
attic space as it does not provide a reliable means of maintaining the minimum 40 degrees required by NFPA,
wastes energy, and presents a potential ignition source to the attic space. Listed antifreeze is specifically included
because NFPA currently allows such even though there is no currently listed antifreeze at the time of development
of these amendments. The intent of this amendment is to help reduce the large number of freeze breaks that
have occurred in the past with water -filled wet -pipe sprinkler systems in the future, most specifically in attic
spaces.)
**Section 903.3.5; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
(Reason: To define uniform safety factor for the region.)
**Section 903.4; add a second paragraph after the exceptions to read as follows:
a supervisory signal at the central station upon tampering.
(Reason: To avoid significant water losses. Consistent with amendment to IFC 905.9.)
**Section 903.4.2; add second paragraph to read as follows:
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 connection
(Reason: Fire department connections are not always located at the riser; this allows the fire department faster
access.)
**Section 905.2; change to read as follows:
905.2 Installation Standard. Standpipe systems shall be installed in accordance with this section and NFPA 14.
Manual dry standpipe systems shall be supervised with a minimum of 10 psig and a maximum of 40 psig air
pressure with a high/low alarm.
(Reason: To define manual dry standpipe supervision requirements. Helps ensure the integrity of the standpipe
system via supervision, such that open hose valves will result in a supervisory low air alarm.)
***Section 905.3; add Section 905.3.9 and exception to read as follows:
standpipes shall be provided.
Exceptions:
1. Auto
2.
(Reason: Allows for the rapid deployment of hose lines to the body of the fire. Manual dry option added this
edition.)
"Section 905.4, change Item 1, 3, and 5, and add Item 7 to read as follows:
1. In every required !RtPdar exit stairway, a hose connection shall be provided for each story above and below
grade plane. Hose connections shall be located at an intermediate landing between stories, unless
otherwise approved by the fire code official.
2. (No change.)
3. In every exit passageway, at the entrance from the exit passageway to other areas of a building.
Exception: Where floor areas adjacent to an exit passageway are reachable from an interior exit stairway
hose connection by a {remainder of text unchanged)
4. {No change.)
5. Where the roof has a slope less than four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33.3-percent slope), each
standpipe shall be provided with a two-way a -hose connection shall be located to serve the roof or at the
highest landing of an iaterier exit stairway with stair access to the roof provided in accordance with Section
1011.12.
6. {No change.)
by the fire code official.
(Reason: Item 1, 3, and 5 amendments to remove 'interior' will help to clarify that such connections are required
for all 'exit' stairways, to ensure firefighter capabilities are not diminished in these tall buildings, simply because
the stair is on the exterior of the building. Item 5 reduces the amount of pressure required to facilitate testing, and
provides backup protection for fire fighter safety. Item 7 allows for the rapid deployment of hose lines to the body
of the fire.)
"Section 905.9; add a second paragraph after the exceptions to read as follows:
a supervisory signal at the central station upon tampering
(Reason: To avoid significant water losses. Consistent with amendment to IFC 903.4.)
"Section 907.1; add Section 907.1.4 and 907.1.4.1 to read as follows:
907.1.4 Design Standards. Where a new fire alarm system is installed the devices shall be addressable Fire
alarm systems utilizing more than 20 smoke detectors shall have analog initiating devices
(Reason: Provides for the ability of descriptive identification of alarms, and reduces need for panel replacement
in the future. Updated wording to match the language of the new requirement at 907.5.2.3. Change of terminology
allows for reference back to definitions of NFPA 72.)
"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 907.5 shall be installed in Group A occupancies whP% tnc^ the having an occupant load due to the ^^^^mbl
eeeupaney is of 300 or more persons, or where the Group A occupant load is more than 100 persons above or
below the lowest level of exit discharge. Group A occupancies not separated from one another in accordance with
Section 707.1-10 of the International Building Code shall be considered as a single occupancy for the purposes
of applying this section. Portions of Group E occupancies occupied for assembly purposes shall be provided with
a fire alarm system as required for the Group E occupancy.
Exception: (No change.)
Activation of fire alarm notification appliances shall:
1. Cause illumination of the means of egress with light of not less than 1 foot-candle 01 lux) at the walking
surface level, and
2. Stop any conflicting or confusing sounds and visual distractions
(Reason: Increases the requirement to be consistent with Group 8 requirement. Also addresses issue found in
Group A occupancies of reduced lighting levels and otherA/V equipment that distracts from fire alarm notification
devices or reduces ability of fire alarm system to notify occupants of the emergency condition.)
**Section 907.2.3; change to read as follows:
907.2.3 Group E. A manual fire alarm system that initiates the occupant notification signal utilizing an emergency
voice/alarm communication system meeting the requirements of Section 907.5.2.2 and installed in accordance
with Section 907.6 shall be installed in Group E educational occupancies. When automatic sprinkler systems or
smoke detectors are installed, such systems or detectors shall be connected to the building fire alarm system. An
Exceptions:
1. {No change.)
1.1.Residential In -Home day care with not more than 12 children may use interconnected sinale
station detectors in all habitable rooms. (For care of more than five children 2 1/2 or less years of
age, see Section 907.2.6.) {No change to remainder of exceptions.}
(Reason: To distinguish educational from day care occupancy minimum protection requirements. Further, to
define threshold at which portable buildings are considered a separate building for the purposes of alarm systems.
Exceptions provide consistency with State law concerning such occupancies.)
**Section 907.2.1Z Exception 3; change to read as follows:
3. Open air portions of buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5 in accordance with Section 303.1 of the
International Building Code: however, this exception does not apply to accessory uses including but not limited
to sky boxes, restaurants, and similarly enclosed areas.
(Reason: To indicate that enclosed areas within open air seating type occupancies are not exempted from
automatic fire alarm system requirements.)
**Section 907.4.2; add Section 907.4.2.7 to read as follows:
907.4.2.7 Type. Manual alarm initiating devices shall be an approved double action type
to reduce false
**Section 907.6.1; add Section 907.6.1.1 to read as
907.6.1.1 Wiring Installation. All fire alarm systems shall be installed in such a manner that a failure of any
single initiating device or single open in an initiating circuit conductor will not interfere with the normal operation
separation horizontal and one foot vertical between supply and return circuit conductors. The initiating device
circuit (IDC) from a signaling line circuit interface device may be wired Class B provided the distance from the
interface device to the initiating device is ten feet or less.
(Reason: To provide uniformity in system specifications and guidance to design engineers. Improves reliability of
fire alarm devices ands stems.
"Section 907.6.3; delete all four Exceptions.
(Reason: To assist responding personnel in locating the emergency event for all fire alarm systems. This is moved
from 907.6.5.3 in the 2012 IFC and reworded to match new code Ian ua a and sections.
"Section 907.6.6; — add sentence at end of paragraph to read as follows
See 907.6.3 for the required information transmitted to the supervising station.
(Reason: To assist responding personnel in locating the emergency event for all fire alarm systems. This is
to read as
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
shall be required from the fire department as per Section 105.7.
909.22.1_Ventilating equipment. The activation of ventilating equipment for the stair or ramp pressurization
performance levels. Smoke detectors shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.3.
909.22.1.1 Ventilation Systems. Smokeproof enclosure ventilation systems shall be independent of other
building ventilation systems. The equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall comply with one of
enclosed by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the
Building Code or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the Building
Code, or both.
2. Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located within the smokeproof enclosure
with intake or exhaust directly from and to the outside or through ductwork enclosed by not less than
2-hour barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the Building Code or horizontal
assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the Building Code, or both.
3. Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located within the building if separated
from the remainder of the building, including other mechanical equipment, by not less than 2-hour fire
barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the Building Code or horizontal assemblies
constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the Building Code, or both.
3. Control wiring and power wiring protected by a listed electrical circuit protective systems with a fire -
resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
909.21.1.2 Standby Power. Mechanical vestibule and stairway and ramp shaft ventilation systems and automatic
fire detection systems shall be provided with standby power in accordance with Section 2702 of the Building Code.
909.22.1.3 Acceptance and Testing. Before the mechanical equipment is approved the system shall be tested
in the presence of the fire code official to confirm that the system is operating in compliance with these
requirements.
(Reason: To assist with enforcement of such as a smoke control system, as per Section 909.6.3, especially since
a permit is now specifically required for such systems in the Fire Code. Also ensures that a firefighter's override
panel is provided as per 909.16 for such systems. The above amendment copies the applicable requirements for
such systems from Section 909.20 of the Building Code into the Fire Code. Although the published code did copy
the elevator pressurization requirements into the Fire Code, it did not copy over the stair pressurization
requirements.)
**Section 910.2; change Exception 2. and 3. to read as follows:
2. Only manual smoke and heat removal shall net be required in areas of buildings equipped with early
suppression fast -response (ESFR) sprinklers. Automatic smoke and heat removal is prohibited.
3. Only manual smoke and heat removal shall Piet be required in areas of buildings equipped with control
mode special application sprinklers with a response time index of 50(m*S)'I2 or less that are listed to
control a fire in stored commodities with 12 or fewer sprinklers. Automatic smoke and heat removal is
prohibited.
(Reason: Allows the fire department to control the smoke and heat during and after a fire event, while still
prohibiting such systems from being automatically activated, which is a potential detriment to the particular
sprinkler systems indicated.)
**Section 910.2; add subsections 910.2.3 with exceptions to read as follows:
910.2.3 Group H. Buildings and portions thereof used as a Group H occupancy as follows:
1. In occupancies classified as Group H-2 or H-3, any of which are more than 15,000 square feet (1394 m2)
in single Floor area.
Exception: Buildings of noncombustible construction containing only noncombustible materials.
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 3
water -reactive materials as required for a high -hazard commodity classification.
Exception: Buildings of noncombustible construction containing only noncombustible materials.
chemicals bum out, rather than extinguish.)
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on / . • • section 910.3.4
910.3.4 Vent Operation. Smoke and heat vents shall be capable of being operated by approved automatic and
manual means. Automatic operation of smoke and heat vents shall conform to the provisions of Sections 910.3.2.1
through 910.3.2.3.
910.3.4.1 Sprinklered buildings. Where installed in buildings equipped with an approved automatic sprinkler
system, smoke and heat vents shall be designed to operate automatically.
The automatic operating mechanism of the smoke and heat vents shall operate at a temperature rating at least
100 degrees F (approximately 38 degrees Celsius) greater than the temperature rating of the sprinklers installed.
Exception: Manual only systems per Section 910.2
(Reason: Amendment continues to keep applicable wording from prior to the 2012 edition of the IFC. Specifically,
automatic activation criteria is no longer specifically required in the published code. Specifying a temperature
range at which smoke and heat vents should activate in sprinklered buildings helps to ensure that the sprinkler
system has an opportunity to activate and control the fire prior to vent operation.)
**Section 910.4.3.1; change to read as follows:
910.4.3.1 Makeup Air. Makeup air openings shall be provided within 6 feet (1829 mm) of the floor level. Operation
of makeup air openings shall be manual E) automatic. The minimum gross area of makeup air inlets shall be 8
square feet per 1,000 cubic feet per minute (0.74 m2 per 0.4719 n is) of smoke exhaust.
(Reason: Makeup air has been required to be automatic for several years now in this region when mechanical
smoke exhaust systems are proposed. This allows such systems to be activated from the smoke control panel
by first responders without having to physically go around the exterior of the building opening doors manually.
Such requires a significant number of first responders on scene to conduct this operation and significantly delays
activation and/or capability of the smoke exhaust system.)
**Section 912.2; add Section 912.2.3 to read as follows:
912.2.3 Hydrant Distance. An approved fire hydrant shall be located within 100 feet of the fire department
connection as the fire hose lays along an unobstructed path.
(Reason: To accommodate limited hose lengths, improve response times where the FDC is needed to achieve
fire control, and improve ease of locating a fire hydrant in those situations also. Also, consistent with NFPA 14
criteria.)
**Section 913.2.1; add 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 ft. in width and 6 ft. — 8 in. in height regardless of any interior doors
that are provided. A kev box 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 exterior 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 approved by the fire code official. Access keys shall
be provided in the key box as required by Section 506.1.
(Reason: This requirement allows firefighters safer access to the fire pump room. The requirement allows access
without being required to enter the building and locate the fire pump room interior access door during afire event.
The exception recognizes that this will not always be a feasible design scenario for some buildings, and as such,
provides an acceptable alternative to protect the pathway to the fire pump room.)
"*Section 914.3.1.2; change to read as follows:
914.3.1.2 Water Supply to required Fire Pumps. In buildings that are more than 420 120 feet (37 m) in building
height, required fire pumps shall be supplied by connections to no fewer than two water mains located in different
streets. Separate supply piping shall be provided between each connection to the water main and the pumps.
Each connection and the supply piping between the connection and the pumps shall be sized to supply the flow
and pressure required for the pumps to operate.
Exception: (No change to exception.)
(Reason: The 2009 edition of the IFC added this requirement based on a need for redundancy of the water supply
similar to the redundancy of the power supply to the fire pumps required for such tall buildings, partially due to the
fact that these buildings are rarely fully evacuated in a fire event. More commonly, the alarm activates on the floor
of the event, the floor above and the floor below. Back-up power to the fire pump becomes critical for this reason.
Certainly, the power is pointless if the water supply is impaired for any reason, so a similar requirement is provided
here for redundant water supplies. The 2015 edition changes the requirement to only apply to very tall buildings
over 420 ft. This amendment modifieMowers the requirement to 120 ft., based on this same height requirement
for fire service access elevators. Again, the language from the 2009 and 2012 editions of the code applied to any
high-rise building. This compromise at 120 ft. is based on the above technical justification of defend -in -place
scenarios in fire incidents in such tall structures.)
"Section 1006.2.2.7; Add Section 1006.2.2.7 as follows:
1006.2.2.7 Electrical Rooms. For electrical rooms, special exiting requirements may apply. Reference the
electrical code as adopted.
Reason: Cross reference necessary for coordination with the NEC which has exitin re uirements as well.
"*Section 1009.8; add the following Exception 7:
Exceptions:
To accommodate buildings regulated under Texas State Law and to be consistent with amendments in
"Section 1010.1.9.5 Bolt Locks; amend exceptions 3 and 4 as follows:
Exceptions:
3. Where a pair of doors serves an occupant load of less than 50 persons in a Group B, F, M or S occupancy.
(Remainder unchanged)
4. Where a pair of doors serves a Group A B, F, M or S occupancy (remainder unchanged)
(Reason: Application to M occupancies reflects regional practice; No. 4 expanded to Group A due to it being a
similar scenario to other uses; No. 4 was regional practice.)
**Section 1020.1 Construction; add exception 6 to read as follows:
6. In group B occupancies, corridor walls and ceilings need not be of fire -resistive construction within a single
tenant space when the space is equipped with approved automatic smoke -detection within the corridor. The
actuation of any detector must activate self -annunciating alarms audible in all areas within the corridor. Smoke
detectors must be connected to an approved automatic fire alarm system where such system is provided.
(Reason: Regionally accepted alternate method.)
(Reason: Unenforceable.)
**Section 1031.2; change to read as follows:
1031.2 Reliability. Required exit accesses, exits and exit discharges shall be continuously maintained free from
obstructions or impediments to full instant use in the case of fire or other emergency where the h !ding afea
^served by the means of egress is ^^^ ^'^ An exit or exit passageway shall not be used for any purpose that
interferes with a means of egress.
(Reason: Maintain legacy levels of protection and long-standing regional practice, and provide firefighter safety.)
**Section 1103.3; add sentence to end of paragraph as follows:
Provide emergency signage as required by Section 606.3.
(Reason: Coordinates requirements of previous amendment.)
Fire sprinkler system installation shall be completed within 24 months from date of notification by the fire
code official.
(Reason: Regional consistency of this retroactive requirement to allow business owners adequate time to budget
to accommodate the cost of the fire sprinkler system. )
as
1103.5.5 Spray Booths and Rooms. Existing spray booths and spray rooms shall be protected by an approved
automatic fire -extinguishing system in accordance with Section 2404.
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'Section1 add • 11103.7.7.1 to read as follows:
1103.7.7 Fire Alarm System Design Standards. Where an existing fire alarm system is upgraded or replaced
the devices shall be addressable. Fire alarm systems utilizing more than 20 smoke and/or heat detectors shall
have analog initiating devices.
alarm system, the fire alarm system must comply within 18 months of permit application
1103.7.7.1 Communication requirements. Refer to Section 907.6.6 for applicable requirements.
(Reason: To assist responding personnel in locating the emergency event and provide clarity as to percentages
of work that results in a requirement to upgrade the entire fire alarm system.)
***Section 1203; change and add to read as follows:
1203.1.1 {No change.}
1203.1.2 (No change.1
1203.1.3 Emergency power systems and standby power systems shall be installed in accordance with the
International Building Code, NFPA 70, NFPA 110 and NFPA 111. Existing installations shall be maintained in
accordance with the original approval, except as specified in Chapter 11.
1203.1.4 through 1203.1.9 (No changes to these sections.}
1203.1.10 Critical Operations Power Systems (COPS). For Critical Operations Power Systems necessary to
maintain continuous power supply to facilities or parts of facilities that require continuous operation for the reasons
of public safety, emergency management, national security, or business continuity. see NFPA 70.
1203.2 Where Required. Emergency and standby power systems shall be provided where required by Sections
1203.2.1 through 1203.2.4826 or elsewhere identified in this code or any other referenced code.
1203.2.1 through 1203.2.3 (No change.)
1203.2.4 Emergency Voice/alarm Communications Systems. Emergency power shall be provided for
emergency voice/alarm communications systems in the following occupancies, or as specified elsewhere in this
code as required in Section 907.5.2.2.5. The system shall be capable of powering the required load for a duration
of not less than 24 hours, as required in NFPA 72.
Covered and Open Malls, Section 907.2.19 and 914.2.3
Group A Occupancies, Sections 907.2.1 and 907.5.2.2.4.
Special Amusement Buildings, Section 907.2.11
High-rise Buildings, Section 907.2.12
Atriums, Section 907.2.13
Deep Underground Buildings, Section 907.2.18
1203.2.5 through 1203.2.13 (No change.)
1203.2.14 Means of Egress Illumination. Emergency power shall be provided for means of egress illumination
in accordance with Sections 1008.3 and 1104.5.1. (90 minutes)
1203.2.15 Membrane Structures. Emergency power shall be provided for exit signs in temporary tents and
membrane structures in accordance with Section 3103.12.6. (90 minutes) Standby power shall be provided for
auxiliary inflation systems in permanent membrane structures in accordance with Section 2702 of the International
Building Code. 4 hours Auxiliary inflation systems shall be provided in temporary air -supported and air -inflated
membrane structures in accordance with section 3103.10.4.
1203.2.16 (No change.)
1203.2.17 Smoke Control Systems. Standby power shall be provided for smoke control systems in the following
occupancies, or as specified elsewhere in this code, as required in Section 909.11:
Covered Mall Building, International Building Code, Section 402.7
Atriums, International Building Code, Section 404.7
Underground Buildings, International Building Code, Section 405.8
Group 1-3. International Building Code, Section 408.4.2
Stages, International Building Code, Section 410.2.5
Special Amusement Buildings (as applicable to Group A's), International Building Code, Section 411.1
Smoke Protected Seating, Section 1029.6.2.
1203.2.18 (No change.}
1203.2.19 Covered and Open Mall Buildings. Emergency power shall be provided in accordance with Section
907.2.19 and 914.2.3.
1203.2.20 Airport Traffic Control Towers. A standby power system shall be provided in airport traffic control
towers more than 65 ft. in height. Power shall be provided to the following equipment:
1. Pressurization equipment, mechanical equipment and lighting.
2. Elevator operating equipment.
1203.2.22 Elevator Pressurization. Standby power shall be provided for elevator pressurization system as
Standby power shall be provided when
1203.2.24 Common Exhaust Systems for Clothes Dryers. Standby power shall be provided for common
exhaust systems for clothes dryers located in multistory structures in accordance with the International Mechanical
Code, Section 504.10, Item 7.
1203.2.25 Hydrogen Cutoff Rooms. Standby power shall be provided for mechanical ventilation and gas
in this code, or in any other referenced code or standard, the emergency and standby power system shall be
supplied with enough fuel or energy storage capacity for not less than 2-hour full -demand operation of the system
Exception: Where the system is supplied with natural gas from a utility provider and is approved.
(Reason: These amendments were moved from Chapter 6, due to relocation of the published sections to this
new Chapter 12. These provisions provide a list to complete and match that throughout the codes. The only
additional requirements are the reference to COPS in NFPA 70, and the specified Energy time duration. Other
changes are a reference to a code provision that already exists.)
"Section 2304.1; change to read as follows:
2304.1 Supervision of Dispensing. The dispensing of fuel at motor fuel -dispensing facilities shall be cnndacted
by a qualified attendARt OF Shall be URGIGF the supeNision ef a qua! fied attendant at all times oF shall n
accordance with SP.Gt'AR 2204.2 the following:
1. Conducted by a qualified attendant: and/or.
2. Shall be under the supervision of a qualified attendant: and/or
3. Shall be an unattended self-service facility in accordance with Section 2304.3.
At any time the qualified attendant of item Number 1 or 2 above is not present such operations shall be considered
as an unattended self-service facility and shall also comply with Section 2304.3.
(Reason: Allows a facility to apply the attended and unattended requirements of the code when both are potentially
applicable.)
"Section 2401.2; delete this section.
(Reason: This section eliminates such booths from all compliance with Chapter 15 including, but not limited to:
size, ventilation, fire protection, construction, etc. If the product utilized is changed to a more flammable
substance, the lack of compliance with Chapter 15 could result in significant fire or deflagration and subsequent
life safety hazard.)
'Section 3103.3.1; delete this section.
(Reason: This new section of the Fire Code requires a fire sprinkler system to be installed in temporary tents and
membrane structures, which is not a reasonable or enforceable requirement for a temporary use. A fire watch or
fire alarm system is a more advisable approach for such occupancies that are only temporary)
**Table 3206.2, footnote h; change text to read as follows:
h.Plot Fequired Where storage areas are protected by either early suppression fast response (ESFR) sprinkler
systems or control mode special application sprinklers with a response time index of 50 (m • s) 1/2 or less that
are listed to control a fire in the stored commodities with 12 or fewer sprinklers, installed in accordance with
NFPA 13, manual smoke and heat vents or manually activated engineered mechanical smoke exhaust
systems shall be required within these areas.
(Reason: Allows the fire department to control the smoke and heat during and after a fire event, while ensuring
proper operation of the sprinkler protection provided. Also, gives an alternative to smoke and heat vents.)
***Table 3206.2, footnote j; add footnote j to row titled `High Hazard' and 'Greater than 300,000' to read as
follows:
i. High hazard high -piled storage areas shall not exceed 500,000 square feet. A 2-hour fire wall constructed in
accordance with Section 706 of the International Building Code shall be used to divide high -piled storage
exceeding 500,000 square feet in area.
(Reason: This is a long-standing legacy requirement and provides passive protection for extremely large buildings
where it would be otherwise impossible to control the spread of fire without the fire wall in place in an uncontrolled
fire event, which is much more likely in high hazard commodities, such as tires, flammable liquids, expanded
plastics, etc.)
**Section 3310.1; add sentence to end of paragraph to read as follows:
When fire apparatus access roads are required to be installed for any structure or development they shall be
approved prior to the time at which construction has progressed beyond completion of the foundation of any
structure.
(Reason: Reference requirement of Section 501.4.)
**Section 5601.1.3; change to read as follows:
5601.1.3 Fireworks. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling, and use of fireworks are prohibited.
Exceptions:
1. Only when approved for fireworks displays, storage, and handling of fireworks as allowed in Section
5604 and 5608.
3-.2. The use of fireworks for approved fireworks displays as allowed in Section 5608.
4. The possess on, storage, ... (Delete remainder of text.)
(Reason: Restricts fireworks to approved displays only, which is consistent with regional practice. Such is intended
to help protect property owners and individuals from unintentional fireworks fires within the jurisdiction, as well as
to help protect individuals from fireworks injuries. It is noted that there has been a change in the State Law to
allow possession of unopened fireworks in certain areas of the vehicle, and it is highly recommended that AHJ's
familiarize themselves with the applicable State Laws in this regard.)
"Section 5703.6; add a sentence to read as follows:
5703.6 Piping Systems. Piping systems, and their component parts, for flammable and combustible liquids shall
be in accordance with Sections 5703.6.1 through 5703.6.11. An approved method of secondary containment shall
be provided for underground tank and pining systems.
(Reason: Increased protection in response to underground leak problems and remediation difficulty in
underground applications. Coordinates with TCEQ requirements.)
"Section 5704.2.11.4; add a sentence to read as follows:
5704.2.11.4 Leak Prevention. Leak prevention for underground tanks shall comply with Sections 5704.2.11.4.1
and 5704 �11 4.'.11.^.2 through 5704.2.11.4.3. An approved method of secondary containment shall be provided for
underground tank and pining systems.
(Reason: Increased protection in response to underground leak problems and remediation difficulty in
underground applications.)
"Section 5704.2.11.4.2; change to read as follows:
5704.2.11.4.2 Leak Detection. Underground storage tank systems shall be provided with an approved method
of leak detection from any component of the system that is designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 30
and as specified in Section 5704.2.11.4.3.
(Reason: Reference to IFC Section 5704.2.11.4.3 amendment.)
"Section 5704.2.11.4.3; add Section 5704.2.11.4.3 to read as follows:
a minimum of 4 tubes. Sampling tubes shall be placed in the product line excavation within 10 feet of the tank
excavation and one every 50 feet routed along product lines towards the dispensers a minimum of two are
required.
(Reason: Provides an economical means of checking potential leaks at each tank site.)
"Section 5707.4; add paragraph to read as follows:
to office -type or similar occupancies that are not primarily intended for use by the public.
(Reason: The general public does not expect a hazardous operation to be occurring in a typical parking lot or for
a fuel truck to be traversing such parking lot, temporarily fueling a vehicle, and moving on to the next area in the
parking lot to fuel the next vehicle. Vehicular accidents occur in parking lots on a regular basis, but the presence
4.
of a fuel truck, especially one in the process of fueling a vehicle with gasoline, greatly adds to the potential risk
involved in such accidents. By restricting such operations to the occupancies in question, the employees of the
business may be adequately notified to expect such operations to occur in the parking lot.)
**Section 6103.2.1; add Section 6103.2.1.8 to read as follows:
pound (27.2 kg) water capacity. Each device shall be separated from other containers by a distance of not less
than 20 feet.
(Reason: To provide a consistent and reasonable means of regulating the use of portable LP -Gas containers in
these situations. Reduces the hazard presented by portable containers when natural gas is already available.
Please note that current State Law does not allow for the enforcement of any rules more stringent than that
adopted by the State, so this amendment is only applicable as to the extent allowed by that State Law.)
**Section 6104.2, Exception; add an exception 2 to read as follows:
Exceptions:
1. (existing text unchanged)
2. Except as permitted in Sections 308 and 6104.3.2, LP -gas containers are not permitted in residential
areas.
(Reason: To provide a consistent and reasonable means of regulating the use LP -Gas containers. Reduces the
hazard presented by such containers when natural gas is already available. References regional amendment to
IFC 6104.3.2. Please note that current State Law does not allow for the enforcement of any rules more stringent
than that adopted by the State, so this amendment is only applicable as to the extent allowed by that State Law.)
**Section 6104.3; add Section 6104.3.3 to read as follows:
6104.3.3 Spas, Pool Heaters. and Other Listed Devices. Where natural gas service is not available. an LP
gas container is allowed to be used to supply spa and pool heaters or other listed devices. Such container shall
not exceed 250-gallon water capacity per lot. See Table 6104.3 for location of containers.
Exception: Lots where LP -gas can be off-loaded wholly on the property where the tank is located may install
up to 500 gallon above ground or 1,000 gallon underground approved containers.
(Reason: Allows for an alternate fuel source. Dwelling density must be considered and possibly factored into
zoning restrictions. Reduces the hazard presented by over -sized LP -Gas containers. Please note that current
State Law does not allow for the enforcement of any rules more stringent than that adopted by the State, so this
amendment is only applicable as to the extent allowed by that State Law.)
**Section 6107.4 and 6109.13; change to read as follows:
6107.4 Protecting Containers from Vehicles. Where exposed to vehicular damage due to proximity to alleys,
driveways or parking areas, LP -gas containers, regulators and piping shall be protected in accordance with NFP
58-Section 312.
6109.13 Protection of Containers. LP -gas containers shall be stored within a suitable enclosure or otherwise
protected against tampering. Vehicle impact protection shall be provided as required by Section 6107.4.
(Reason: NFPA 58 does not provide substantial physical protection (it allows raised sidewalks, fencing, ditches,
parking bumpers as `vehicle barrier protection] of the container(s) from vehicular impact as is required and has
been required historically, as per Section 312, i.e. bollard protection. Further, the exception to Section 6109.13
would allow for portable containers in ventilated metal cabinets to not require any physical protection whatsoever
from vehicular impact, regardless of the location of the containers. Please note that current State Law does not
allow for the enforcement of any rules more stringent than that adopted by the State, so this amendment is only
applicable as to the extent allowed by that State Law.)
change footnote a. to read as follows:
a. The reduced fire -flow shall be not less than 4,000 1 500 gallons per minute.
(Reason: The minimum fire -flow of 1,500 gpm for other than one- and two- family dwellings has existed since the
2000 edition of the IFC, as well as the Uniform Fire Code before that. Little to no technical justification was
provided for the proposed code change at the code hearings. The board believes that the already -allowed 75
percent reduction in required fire -flow for the provision of sprinkler protection is already a significant trade-off. The
minimum 1,500 gpm is not believed to be overly stringent for the vast majority of public water works systems in
this region, especially since it has existed as the requirement for so many years. Further, the continued
progression of trading off more and more requirements in the codes for the provision of sprinkler protection has
made these systems extremely operation -critical to the safety of the occupants and properties in question. In
other words, should the sprinkler system fail for any reason, the fire -flow requirements drastically increase from
that anticipated with a sprinkler -controlled fire scenario.)