HomeMy WebLinkAbout04022009 BSC Agenda Item 4
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Additional Changes from the March meeting List.
Fencing Ordinance
Chapter 18, Article VII
Add definition: (same as in Appendix A, Section 2-102)
Driveway visibility triangle means the area within a triangle beginning at the precise intersection point of
the edge of a driveway and the inside edge of a sidewalk (i.e., the edge farthest from the roadway). From the
intersection point, the first side of the triangle extends five feet inward (away from the roadway) along the edge
of the driveway, the second side of the triangle extends five feet along the edge of the sidewalk away from the
driveway, and the third side is a straight line connecting the extended ends of the first two sides. If there is no
sidewalk, the administrative official shall designate the probable location of a future sidewalk, which shall then be
used as if it were an existing sidewalk. A typical driveway will have two such triangles, one on each side. Such
triangles may include areas within, and not within, a building site. An example diagram showing driveway visibility
triangles is attached to this ordinance and made a part hereof.
Suggested addition
Sec. 18-213
No fence, Bate or column shall be constructed within the required Driveway visibility triangle.
DRIVEWAY VISIMLITY DIAGRAM
See definition in Article 2 and Table 7-5a
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Suggested addition
Sec. 18-65. Demolition.
(a) It shall be the duty of each permittee on a demolition permit, at the time required by this section:
(1) To remove and properly dispose of the structure and all equipment, slab, beams, porches, rubble, steps,
foundation(s), driveway(s), driveway approach(s), private sidewalk(s) and other debris resulting from the work;
and
(2) Grade the surface of all the ground affected by the work so that water will not accumulate and the ground can
be mowed with ordinary lawnmowers.
(3) Should a swimming pool/spa be on the lot where the demolition is occurring then the swimming
oooVspa shall also be removed. Exception: If as a part of the demolition permit application a notarized
statement from the land owner stating his intention to reuse the swimming pooVspa as part of a new
residential structure's accessory use and said residential structure will begin construction within ninety
(90) days of the end of demolition, then the swimming pooVspa is exempt from demolition but shall be
completely secured from entry and all water removed and maintained as not to allow the accumulation of
stagnant water or breeding of insects/mosquitoes.
(b) Demolition permittees shall notify the building official before work begins, shall prosecute the work diligently to
completion and shall complete the removal, disposal and grading on or before the tenth day following the day work
begins. It is an affirmative defense in any proceeding to enforce this section that:
(1) Inclement weather prevented completion and that diligence was used to complete the work at the earliest
practicable time; or
(2) If work occurred before the start of such ten-day period, it consisted of salvage operations only, it took place
completely inside a building (without any outdoor storage, without any exterior changes on the site and without
disturbing any window, outside door or other external part of the building), and it occurred during the term of the
demolition permit.
(Ord. No. 1848, § 1(app. A), 7-9-2007)
Frank Griffin Comments
3/12/09 Agenda
( Agenda Item 5
If a residence is substantially damaged by fire, can it be rebuilt to its original square footage, even if that
exceeds the allowable footage under now-prevailing rules? My view is that it should be permissible to
rebuild to original square footage.
Sec. 26-35, page 3
Section (a)(2) now uses "12 AWG" - why does section (c)(1) still refer to "12/2 AWG"?
3 International Fuel Gas Code page 5
It seems to say that plastic pipe D2513 is acceptable for gas lines - that makes no sense to me - all gas
lines should be iron or steel - whatever we use today. What would happen to these plastic lines in the
event of a fire?
2/5/09 Agenda
Will any of the changes to restroom requirements impact on the baseball activities at the rec center? i.e.
will it cause a need for big increase in restroom facilities?
Fire Code 603.8.4
This talks about hours of operation for incinerators - do we even allow incinerators to operate in West
U? We shouldn't if we do now.
2308.9.3.2, page 294
This section talks about an alternative bracing method that reduced the height of the bracing panels. I
think we need a compelling reason to change - this part of the country needs all the bracing we can
install, and the new alternative may be technically more challenging to install, and hence more subject
to error.
Table 2902.1, page 302
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Increases number of required water closets and urinals. We need to be careful we don't spend all our
bond money on rest room facilities at the rec center and Colonial Park.
310.5, Page 11
Just editorializing, I see no need to spend precious dollars in this economy to accommodate "bashful
kidneys". I am probably just insensitive, but seems to me there are higher priority needs that merit our
tax dollars
421.2, page 42
This talks about access to circulation pumps for whirlpool bathtubs. I absolutely support it, because our
pump is sealed up behind a tile wall at the side of the pool. (FYI - Based on the home tour, it seems the
latest fad to replace whirlpool tubs is some kind of silly bubble system)
424.5, page 50
Does this include scald protection for showers? (maybe they are under separate item)
We need to make sure these devices are reliable and accessible - plumbing costs are bad enough
without yet another item that might break.
504.6, page 52
This item fails to protect against property damage, not just structural damage. I lost part of a ceiling one
time due to a release. I don't see why it can't be piped to at least the drain pan. I oppose the item in its
present form.
Z, 307.2.3, page 141
1 absolutely oppose the idea of doing away with a secondary overflow line, and relying instead on some
sort of level detector! I think the overflow drain should be made to discharge OUTSIDE the residence in
some conspicuous place. I also think an automatic shut-off would be expensive and not totally reliable
after years of service.
On a related item, I think the main A/C condensate drain should be piped directly to the sewer, and be
prohibited from joining into a sink drain anywhere in the house. I have this situation, and it is a major
problem.
MEMO
From the Desk of the Chief Building Official John R. Brown, MCP, CFM
Response to Frank Griffin's questions on Local amendments and changes from the 2003 to 2006 Codes.
1. No. All new construction will need to comply with current laws.
2. 12 AWG refers to the wire size allowed, 12-2 refers to a wire cable [Romex] primarily used in
residential construction. The minimum wire size allowed in West University is 12 AWG with a
ground. This would also apply to commercial wiring when in conduit and not in a cable makeup.
3. Plastic piping for underground use has been used by Center point Entex for 20 years.
G2414.6 (403.6) Plastic pipe, tubing and fittings.
Plastic pipe, tubing and fittings used to supply fuel gas shall be used outdoors, underground,
only, and shall conform to ASTM D 2513. Pipe shall be marked "Gas" and "ASTM D 2513."
4. It is the same as currently required for assembly uses.
5. If the city doesn't allow them by local amendment then they won't be allowed with the adoption
of the 2006 codes.
6. 1 don't disagree however when it designed by an engineer to withstand a 110 MPH windspeed he
is responsible for that design.
7. It is the same as currently required for assembly uses.
8. That is just the way it is today.
9. This has been a basic requirement for years. It is the homeowners that usually don't want to see
the access panels.
10. The 2003 code referred to shower valves and tub-shower valves now tub and whirlpool tubs will
be required also.
424.5 Bathtub and whirlpool bathtub valves.
The hot water supplied to bathtubs and whirlpool bathtubs shall be limited to a maximum
temperature of 120°F (49°C) by a water temperature limiting device that conforms to ASSE 1070,
except where such protection is otherwise provided by a combination tub/shower valve in
accordance with Section 424.3.
11. This just clarifies it much more. 504.6 Requirements for discharge piping.
The discharge piping serving a pressure relief valve, temperature relief valve or combination
thereof shall:
1. Not be directly connected to the drainage system.
2. Discharge through an air gap located in the same room as the water heater.
3. Not be smaller than the diameter of the outlet of the valve served and shall discharge full size to
the air gap.
4. Serve a single relief device and shall not connect to piping serving any other relief device or
equipment.
5. Discharge to the floor, to an indirect waste receptor or to the outdoors. Where discharging to the
outdoors in areas subject to freezing, discharge piping shall be first piped to an indirect waste
receptor through an air gap located in a conditioned area.
6. Discharge in a manner that does not cause personal injury or structural damage.
7. Discharge to a termination point that is readily observable by the building occupants
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8. Not be trapped.
9. Be installed so as to flow by gravity.
10. Not terminate more than 6 inches (152 mm) above the floor or waste receptor.
11. Not have a threaded connection at the end of such piping.
12. Not have valves or tee fittings.
13. Be constructed of those materials listed in Section 605.4 or materials tested, rated and
approved for such use in accordance with ASME A112.4.1.
504.7 Required pan.
Where water heaters or hot water storage tanks are installed in locations where leakage of the
tanks or connections will cause damage, the tank or water heater shall be installed in a
galvanized steel pan having a minimum thickness of 24 gage, or other pans approved for such
use.
504.7.1 Pan size and drain.
The pan shall be not less than 1.5 inches (38 mm) deep and shall be of sufficient size and shape
to receive all dripping or condensate from the tank or water heater. The pan shall be drained by
an indirect waste pipe having a minimum diameter of 0.75 inch (19 mm). Piping for safety pan
drains shall be of those materials listed in Table 605.4.
504.7.2 Pan drain termination.
The pan drain shall extend full-size and terminate over a suitably located indirect waste receptor
or floor drain or extend to the exterior of the building and terminate not less than 6 inches (152
mm) and not more than 24 inches (610 mm) above the adjacent ground surface.
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Suggested Local Amendments to Adopted Codes
Code submitted for adoption from the International Code Council 2006 Edition:
• International Building Code, including appendix I, plus local amendments.
• International Residential Code, including appendix A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, J, K, M, N, P, plus local
amendments.
• International Plumbing Code, including appendix B, C, D, E, F, G, plus local amendments.
• International Mechanical Code, including appendix A
• International Fuel Gas Code, including appendix A, B, C, D, plus local amendments.
• International Property Maintenance Code
Code submitted for adoption from the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70, 2008 edition, with local
amendments.
Local amendments to adopted procedures.
➢ Remodels, additions less than 485 square feet, swimming pools, spas and accessory structures
shall expire 180 days from the date of issuance.
➢ MEP permits shall expire 180 days from the date of issuance unless associated with a master
building permit valid for a longer permit length, and then it will expire the same time the
building permit expires.
➢ Fence, driveway and sidewalk permits shall expire 90 days from the date of issuance.
Local amendments to the International Building and Residential codes:
➢ If, within any 12-month period, alterations or repairs costing in excess of 50 percent of
the value of the building are made to an existing building it shall be considered
substantial improvement, as defined in section 1612.2 of the IBC, the entire structure
shall be made to comply with current codes for new construction to the extent possible
for structural and all issues regarding life safety issues, hand and guard rails, smoke
detectors, safety glazing, ground fault circuit interrupters, arc-fault combination
breakers, emergency egress from sleeping rooms, locking devices on required egress
components, etc.
➢ Any building which has been substantially damaged, as defined in section 1612.2 of the
IBC, by fire or other causes shall be rebuilt in conformity with this article, as though it
was a new building, or it shall removed. The building or building site shall be secured
from entrance by any unauthorized persons within 24 hours after all embers are
extinguished. A building permit is required before removal, repair or reconstruction
commences which shall be started within 60 days of the date the damage occurs and
shall be completed within a reasonable time, but not later than 180 days after the
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damage occurs. Before occupancy will be permitted a certificate of occupancy shall be
required.
➢ Adoption of minimum foundation specifications for structures less than 485 square
feet.
• Footings, beams and monolithic slabs with integral footings shall be
constructed of masonry or of reinforced concrete rated at 2500 psi @ 28 days
with the following exception: Accessory structures not exceeding one story in
height and less than 200 square feet in area shall be exempt from the
requirements of this subsection. Habitable structures shall be required to have
footings/beams and slabs of reinforced concrete assuming a soil bearing
capacity of 1500 psi., see R-403 of the IRC. All footings/beams shall be 24
inches deep by 12 inches wide and extend at least 12 inches below the
undisturbed soil. Reinforcement for concrete footing/beams shall be 2 #5 rebar
top and bottom, grade 60. Slabs shall be reinforced with #4 rebar, grade 60,
16-inches on center each way, minimum.
• Post-tension cable foundations will not be allowed.
➢ International Residential Code and Chapter 23 of the International Building Code, to
the extent of conflict with the following provisions, is hereby deleted.
(1) All walls where plumbing drain, waste and vent lines are located shall be two-inch
by six-inch sized lumber minimum.
(2) Utility grade lumber is not allowed for joists, rafters or vertical framing.
➢ Attic access, as required by code, shall be provided using a 25-1/2" X 54" (minimum)
folding ladder stair rated at 350 pound capacity with a minimum of a 20 minute fire
rating.
➢ Windspeed clips and straps, minimum:
a) Clip= Simpson Strong Tie H2.5 or equal, clip every other member as
follows: rafter to double top plate.
b) Strap/Rafters= Simpson Strong Tie LSTA 18 or MSTA 18 or equal
rafter to rafter over ridge every other member.
c) Strap/Beams for porches, patios, garage doors= Simpson Strong Tie
LSTA 15 or MSTA 15 or equal install two (2) each end of beam to
post/support.
d) Purlins to rafter every 48-inches or less and purlins brace to purlins
and brace supporting member using Simpson Strong Tie LSTA 15 or
MSTA 15 or equal.
➢ All exterior trim, i.e. soffit, fascia, window, chimney, etc shall be
constructed of treated lumber or no-combustible materials.
NEC
[Proposed changes are in Bold type]
Sec. 26-33. Service entrance conductors.
In any residence, apartment, apartment house, commercial building or other building of whatsoever
character now existing or to be constructed within the city, all service entrance conductors, including
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underground conductors, shall have a minimum current-carrying capacity of 150 amperes. On buildings
with existing service, this requirement shall apply when:
(1) Load is added or modified;
(2) An existing service is found to be inadequate for demand; or
(3) An unsafe condition exists.
(4) When replacing main service panel, all-service disconnect, service riser, service underground
lateral.
Exception: Existing dwellings with a framed area of less than 1500 square feet may have
conductors with a minimum current-carrying capacity of 125 amperes.
(Code 2003, § 8.024)
Sec. 26-34. All-service disconnects.
In every building now existing or to be constructed within the city, there must be an "all-service
disconnect" accessible on the outside of the building and located as close as practicable to the meter. It
shall consist of one switch or circuit breaker having a continuous current rating of no less than 150
amperes. On buildings with existing service, this requirement shall apply when load is added or modified
or whenever an unsafe condition exists or when replacing main service panel, all-service disconnect,
service riser, service underground lateral..
Exception: Existing dwellings with a framed area of less than 1500 square feet may have a main
"all-service disconnect" with a minimum continuous current rating of 125 amperes.
(Code 2003, § 8.025)
Sec. 26-35. Wires, conductors and circuits.
(a) Wires and conductors . Notwithstanding any other code provision or ordinance to the contrary, it
shall be unlawful for any person to install or use any of the following in connection with electrical work for
any structure in the city:
(1) Any wire other than solid or stranded copper ;
(2) Any wire smaller than gauge 4242 12 AWG; or
(3) Any wire without a separate ground, either in the same cable or in the same conduit.
(4) Armored Cable, type A/C
(b) Circuits . Notwithstanding any other code provision or ordinance to the contrary, it shall be unlawful
for any person to install or use more than ten openings (outlets or fixtures) on any single electrical circuit
for any structure in the city.
(c) Old work . In any proceeding to enforce this section with respect to:
(1) Wire smaller than gauge 12/2 AWG; or
(2) Wire lacking a separate ground; or
(3) Having more than ten openings on a single circuit;
It shall be an affirmative defense that the item was installed in strict accordance with an electrical permit
issued by the city prior to September 1, 1994.
(Code 2003, § 8.026)
Sec. 26-36. Additional grounding electrode and grounding electrode conductor.
On any new service or change-out service there is hereby required,
IeRgth of eight feet and duametei: of one half ORGh, dFiYeR tG a Fninimum of eight feet inte the
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gFeURd to have a supplemental grounding electrode as specified in article 250.52(A) with the grounding
conductor sized per table 250.66.
(Code 2003, § 8.027)
➢ The ground-fault circuit-interrupter required for hydro-massage bathtubs by Section
680.71 of the 2008 edition of NFPA 70 shall not be located under such bathtubs and
shall be readily accessible.
➢ The exterior armor of MC Cable shall be color-coded blue on its entire length by the
manufacturer to distinguish it from other flexible metallic conduit systems.
➢ Non-metallic sheathed cables, as listed in article 334 of the 2008 edition of the NEC,
shall not be used in any multifamily dwellings exceeding one (1) floor above grade.
Non-metallic sheathed cables, as listed in article 334 of the 2008 edition of the NEC,
shall not be used in non-residential structures. Residential occupancies, even if
accessory to or an incidental use, located within buildings with mixed uses are not
permitted to be wired with non-metallic sheathed cables.
International Plumbing Code
Plastic pipe shall not be permitted in the city except as provided in this section:
➢ All Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) piping shall be schedule 40 and meet the standards of the
American Society for Testing and Materials, ASTM D2665 when installed underground,
under or through slabs, driveways, patios and foundations. Exception: Area drain piping
may be of SDR 35 PVC.
➢ For water service lines, to within three feet of any building or structure served thereby,
PVC Schedule 40 pipe identified by proper markings as designated ASTM D1785 by the
American Society for Testing and Materials.
➢ For lawn irrigation systems, schedule 40 PVC ASTM D1785 material shall be used for all
pressure lines and class 160 PVC material may be used for all field lines. Lawn irrigation
lines shall be buried at a depth of six inches or more. The city shall not be responsible for
lawn irrigation systems or parts thereof located in the city's rights-of-way or easements.
➢ Polybutylene, Polyethylene, and cross-linked Polyethylene (1313, PE, PEX, PEX-AL-PEX, PE-
AL=PE) shall not be used for water service or distribution piping in concealed spaces,
including attics.
➢ Water lines under a slab-on grade shall be of copper Type L material. Each water line
under, in or through a slab-on grade shall be sleeved with a continuous piece of tubing
0.025 inches thick terminating six inches above the finished floor.
➢ Section 913.3 of the International Plumbing Code is amended to provide:
The vent located below the flood level rim of the fixture being vented shall be installed
below the floor using drainage pattern fittings with a fall of not less than one-quarter inch
( 1/4") to the drain. The vent shall be sized in accordance with Section 916.2 with
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2 " diameter pipe being the minimum. The lowest point of the island fixture vent shall
connect full size to the drainage system. The vent or branch vent shall extend as high as
practicable, but not below the drain board. There shall be a vent loop at the top of the
fixture riser. The fittings shall prevent a horizontal segment at the top of the loop.
Cleanouts shall be provided in the island fixture drain & vent to permit Roding of all
piping located below the flood level rim of the fixtures. Roding in both directions shall be
permitted through a cleanout.
➢ Minimum burial depth: Underground water service piping systems shall be installed a
minimum of.12-inches below grade.
International Fuel Gas Code
➢ For gas lines, thermo plastic pipe identified by proper markings designated No. D2513 by
the American Society for Testing and Materials or a similar number designating an
equivalent quality pipe; provided, however, that where plastic pipe is used, a locator wire
shall be installed with the plastic pipe, such wire being a No. 14 gauge copper wire.
➢ Copper, brass or aluminum shall not be used for gas piping and tubing.
➢ Plastic pipe shall be permitted to terminate above ground outside of buildings where
installed in premanufactured anodeless risers or service head adapter risers that are
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Sign Ordinance
➢ Abandoned or damaged signs.
A sign which has been abandoned or which has become obsolete because of the closing of a business,
change in the nature of a business, or any other reason rendering the sign non-applicable to the property or
building upon which it is displayed, shall be removed by the owner of the building or premises upon
which it is situated within 30 days from the date the sign was abandoned, became obsolete or became
non-applicable to the property or building. No permit may be issued for a sign on a property or building
upon which an abandoned or obsolete sign is located.
A sign which has been substantially damaged by any cause may not be repaired, replaced, reconstructed
or altered until full compliance to the sign ordinance is achieved. Substantial damage is defined in
subsection 6-19.
➢ Definition
Substantial damage, means damage of any origin sustained by a sign or sign structure
whereby the cost of restoring the structure to its before damaged condition would equal or
exceed 51 percent of the current construction cost of the sign or sign structure before the
damage occurred.
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BELOW ARE ADDITIONAL SUGGESTED LOCAL AMENDMENTS ADDED SINCE THE MARCH
BSC MEETING.
Fencing Ordinance
Chapter 18, Article VII
Add definition: (same as in Appendix A, Section 2-102)
Driveway visibility triangle means the area within a triangle beginning at the precise intersection point of
the edge of a driveway and the inside edge of a sidewalk (i.e., the edge farthest from the roadway). From the
intersection point, the first side of the triangle extends five feet inward (away from the roadway) along the edge
of the driveway, the second side of the triangle extends five feet along the edge of the sidewalk away from the
driveway, and the third side is a straight line connecting the extended ends of the first two sides. If there is no
sidewalk, the administrative official shall designate the probable location of a future sidewalk, which shall then be
used as if it were an existing sidewalk. A typical driveway will have two such triangles, one on each side. Such
triangles may include areas within, and not within, a building site. An example diagram showing driveway visibility
triangles is attached to this ordinance and made a part hereof.
Suggested addition
Sec. 18-213
No fence. Rate or column shall be constructed within the reauired Driveway visibility triangle.
DRIVEWAY VISIBILITY DIAGRAM
See definition in Article 2 and Table 7-5a
Mop= showing *'Mvmy -thAiRty utaaglW
XW as soft
son"
Sidewalk
Suggested addition
Sec. 18-65. Demolition.
(a) It shall be the duty of each permittee on a demolition permit, at the time required by this section:
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(1) To remove and properly dispose of the structure and all equipment, slab, beams, porches, rubble, steps,
foundation(s), driveway(s), driveway approach(s), private sidewalk(s) and other debris resulting from the work;
and
(2) Grade the surface of all the ground affected by the work so that water will not accumulate and the ground can
be mowed with ordinary lawnmowers.
(3) Should a swimming pooUspa be on the lot where the demolition is occurring then the swimming
pooUspa shall also be removed. Exception: If as a part of the demolition permit application a notarized
statement from the land owner stating his intention to reuse the swimming pool/spa as part of a new
residential structure's accessory use and said residential structure will begin construction within ninety
90 days of the end of demolition, then the swimming pooUspa is exempt from demolition but shall be
completely secured from entry and all water removed and maintained as not to allow the accumulation of
stagnant water or breeding of insects/mosquitoes.
(b) Demolition permittees shall notify the building official before work begins, shall prosecute the work diligently to
completion and shall complete the removal, disposal and grading on or before the tenth day following the day work
begins. It is an affirmative defense in any proceeding to enforce this section that:
(1) Inclement weather prevented completion and that diligence was used to complete the work at the earliest
practicable time; or
(2) If work occurred before the start of such ten-day period, it consisted of salvage operations only, it took place
completely inside a building (without any outdoor storage, without any exterior changes on the site and without
disturbing any window, outside door or other external part of the building), and it occurred during the term of the
demolition permit.
(Ord. No. 1848, § 1(app. A), 7-9-2007)
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Proposed amendments
to Chapter 6
(signs, advertising)
3-31-09
Sec. 6-21. Procedures, defenses, etc.
(a) Permit and license procedures . The procedures prescribed by this Code for
administering building permits (including issuance, revocation, suspension, transfer, etc.) shall
also apply to permits under this chapter. The building official may modify forms, etc., to
conform to this chapter. All actions of the building official under this chapter, and all
applications for interpretations or variances, are subject to the authority of the BSC in the same
manner as similar, building-related actions.
(b) Prior nonconformities . In any proceeding to enforce this article, it is an affirmative
defense that, at the time of the offense, the entire sign in question (or at least the aspect of the
sign alleged to be in violation) had status as a prior nonconformity. Both the acquisition of PNC
status and the loss of PNC status are determined by the principles and procedures set out in
article 12 of the zoning ordinance, except that the BSC has the authority of the ZBA. In
addition: --y
Formatted: Font: (Default) Arial
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LLChanging only the face of a sign, or only the message, does not alter the PNC ' Formatted: No spacing
status of any sign, provided there is no structural alteration or other change. Formatted: Indent: Left: r'
rmatted: Font: (Default) Arial
Formatted:
(2) A non-conformul¢ sir n without current PNC status may not be moved h
Formatted: No Spacing
compliance repaired, with replaced. this Chapter. reconstructed or altered unless it is brought into full
Formatted: Indent: Left: 1"
Formatted: Font: (Default) Arial
(3) On premises where there is a non-conformin Sign without current PNC Formatted: No Spacing
status. no other sign may be placed, constructed, improved or structurally altered. Formatted: indent: Lett: 1"
- - - - - Formatted:Font:(Default)Arial
~4) Upon application of the buildin2 official and after providing both notice and Formatted: No Spacing
an opportunity for a hearing to the owner of the premises the BSC may order that
a sign without current PNC status be removed relocated or reconstructed If Formatted: Indent: Left: 1"
compensation is required by state or federal law at the time that Such action is
required, the order shall be conditioned upon compensation heingprovided.
(c) Other defenses . In any proceeding to enforce this chapter (but not in a proceeding
to enforce state law such as, for example, a proceeding involving a sign on a public road), it shall
be an affirmative defense that the sign in question:
(1) Was not directed toward persons in motor vehicles within a street area, and
no symbols on the sign were taller than 12 inches;
(2) Did not remain in one place for three hours or more;
(3) Was located more than 30 feet from the nearest street area and completely
integrated into the design of a vending machine; or
(4) Was required to be displayed by an applicable regulation.
It shall also be defense in any proceeding to enforce this chapter with respect to a sign that: (i)
the proceeding, in effect, required the sign to be relocated reconstructed or removed under
circumstances (and at a time) when state law required compensation, and (ii) such required
compensation was neither offered nor provided as required.
(Code 2003, § 3.203)
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Sec. 6-26. Location, construction.
(a) Generally. Signs may only be placed and constructed in such places and in such a
manner that they will not create a traffic, storm, personal injury or fire hazard. Signs are subject
to the zoning ordinance (which regulates, for example, height,,placement in yards and orientation
on certain corner sites) and all the other applicable regulations.
(b) Building sites. No sign may be located outside a building site, except for signs duly
authorized in street areas and other areas owned or leased by the city. Any sign advertising the
name of any em ireial business or institution, or advertising anything for sale or lease, must
bed located on the same building site where the eetffffief6al-business or institution is
ek)Hduetedlocated and operated, or the same building site where the thing is actually for sale or
lease, as the case may be, and (ii) covered. blanked-out or concealed within 30 days following
the day when the business or institution ceases to be located or oVerated on the site (or the day
when the thing is no longer for sale or lease on the site. as the case may be).
(c) Screening. The rear of each fixed sign shall be screened so that the supporting
structural members are not readily visible by a person:
(1) Upon a street area;
(2) Upon any site used for SFR purposes; or
(3) Within any building used for SFR purposes.
Lattice work, plantings, sign display area or another part of a structure may be used for such
screening. Exception: The screening requirement does not apply to structural members that are
completely integrated into the design of the sign, both structurally and visually.
(d) Condition and appearance . Every sign, and its screening, shall be kept in good
condition as to structure and appearance.
(e) Power lines. No part of any sign may be located within ten feet of any power line.
(Code 2003, § 3.208)
Proposed amendments
to Chapter 18
(permit terms)
3-31-09
Sec. 18-10. Permit term, renewal.
(a) Term. Each permit shall be effective for a term beginning upon its issuance and
ending at noon on the appropriate day indicated below, unless it is sooner revoked, canceled or
suspended:
TABLE INSET:
Type of Permit Day When Term Ends
Building moving 60th day following day of issuance
Fences 120th day following day of issuance
Demolition 60th day following day of issuance
Remodeling or
ildditions smaller than
48S soft of rocs tloc>r 150th <.iati toill7wintlay of issuance
area
Sw t 21111in T 0(_~ ~I~as
I80th day followip d:t} of issuance
and accessory structures
Mechanical. electrical 180th cl following, day of issuance. unless associated with a master
91' DI.umhir permit with a term e?di._,n,~_, (ater, in which case the term ends with the term
of the masterperrnit.
Feriee k)0th da~v tullowinb day of iNsuance
Drivewav or sidewalk 90th day followine day of issuance
Tree pca°rnits 90th day fallowing day of issuance
Occupancy certificates Indefinite term; valid until revoked, canceled or suspended, unless a
specific temporary term is included in the permit
All other types 360th day following day of issuance
(b) Renewal. Each permit shall be subject to renewal as of its expiration by the filing of a
renewal application with the building official. To be effective, renewal applications must be filed
on or before the fifth day preceding the day of expiration of the permit to be renewed and must
be accompanied by all required and supporting materials called for by the application form,
which shall be promulgated by the building official.
(c) Partial renewal. When part of the activity of an original permit has been completed,
the renewal permit may be limited to that part of the activity that remains to be completed, but
only if such a limitation is feasible, not likely to interfere with enforcement procedures and
approved by the building official.
(d) Temporary, conditional permits. The building official may issue temporary or
conditional permits if the building official determines that:
(1) Appeal or enforcement proceedings are pending or contemplated;
(2) The permit helps to reconcile two or more applicable regulations;
(3) In the case of a project including major development, it appears that the work
has been completed in compliance with applicable regulations, and the permittee
is diligently pursuing the preparation of an "as built" site plan; or
(4) The permit helps achieve compliance with an applicable regulation.
The building official may cause a notice of such a temporary or conditional
occupancy permit to be recorded in the real property records of the county.
(Code 2003, § 6.110; Ord. No. 1748, § 1(6.110(d)), 8-11-2003)
I
i
i
~1
Proposed amendment
to Chapter 18
(demolition)
3-31-09
Sec. 18-65. Demolition.
(a) Puts to remove, restore. It shall be the duty of each permittee on a demolition Formatted: Font: Italic ;
permit, at the time required by this section:
(1) To remove and properly dispose of the-each demolished structure and all - - Formatted: Indent: Left: 1^
equipment, slab, beams, porches, rubble, steps and other debris resulting from the
work; and
(2) Grade the surface of all the ground affected by the work so that water will
not accumulate and the ground can be mowed with ordinary lawnmowers.
(b) L)etnolition of principal building. If a principal building is demolished, the permittee Formatted: Font: Italic
- -
shall also demolish all other structures on or appurtenant to the site (including_private driveway
sidewalks, curb cuts, etc. in the adjoining street area) and remove, dispose, grade, etc. as
provided above. ,Eh'cerlions: - Formatted: Font: Italic
( I ) This subsection does not apply to existing structures that are proposed to be Formatted: Indent: Left: r' l
kept as accessory structures for a new principal building, if: 0) they comply with
applicable regulations. (ii) a building permit for the new building is issued at or
before issuance of the demolition permit. and (iii) the building is completed
within the time allowed by that permit. If a swimtningl2ool or similar
impoundment is proposed to be kept under this subsection. it must be fenced,
covered and maintained so that children cannot enter ('and water cannot become
stannant or breed insects).
(2) This subsection does not apply to a driveway between the curb and sidewalk
in the street area, if the owner of the site: 6) declares an intent to re-use them to
heOn construction on a new principal building within one year, and (ii) submits a
written request for the City to remove them (if not so re-used). together with a
cash deposit to cover the estimated cost of removal, plus 50%.
(~J Notice, completion, etc.- Demolition permittees shall notify the building official Formatted: Font: Italic
before work begins, shall prosecute the work diligently to completion and shall complete the
removal, disposal and grading on or before the tenth day following the day work begins. It is an
affirmative defense in any proceeding to enforce this section that:
(1) Inclement weather prevented completion and that diligence was used to - Formatted: :Left: 1^
complete the work at the earliest practicable time; or
(2) If work occurred before the start of such ten-day period, it consisted of
salvage operations only, it took place completely inside a building (without any
outdoor storage, without any exterior changes on the site and without disturbing
any window, outside door or other external part of the building), and it occurred
during the term of the demolition permit.
(Ord. No. 1848, § I(app. A), 7-9-2007)
Proposed amendments
to Chapter 26
(electrical)
3-31-09
Sec. 26-33. Service entrance conductors.
In any residence, apartment, apartment house, commercial building or other building of
whatsoever character now existing or to be constructed within the city, all service entrance
conductors, including underground conductors, shall have a minimum current-carrying capacity
of 150 amperes. On buildings with existing service, this requirement shall apply when:
(1) Load is added or modified;
(2) An existing service is found to be inadequate for demand; or
(3) An unsafe condition exists.
(4) When replacing main service panel, all-service disconnect, service riser. or - - Formatted: Indent: Left: t"
service underground lateral.
Exception: Existing dwellings with a framed area of less than 1500 square feet may have ~ - - Formatted: Indent: Left: 0"
conductors with a minimum current-carrying capacity of 125 amperes.
(Code 2003, § 8.024)
Sec. 26-34. All-service disconnect.
In every building now existing or to be constructed within the city, there must be an "all-service
disconnect" accessible on the outside of the building and located as close as practicable to the
meter. It shall consist of one switch or circuit breaker having a continuous current rating of no
less than 150 amperes. On buildings with existing service, this requirement shall apply when
load is added or modified or whenever an unsafe condition exists or when replacing main service
panel. all-service disconnect, service riser or service underground lateral. _E~ception: Existing - Formatted: Font: Italic
dwellings with a framed area of less than 1500 square feet may have a main "all-service
disconnect" with a minimum continuous current rating of 125 amperes.
(Code 2003, § 8.025)
Sec. 26-35. Wires, cables, conductors and circuits.
(a) Wires, cables and conductors. Notwithstanding any other code provision or
ordinance to the contrary, it shall be unlawful for any person to install or use any of the
following in connection with electrical work for any structure in the city:
(1) Any alumiHum wife of eond etoF. wire other than solid or stranded copper;
(2) Any wire smaller than gauge 4-2/ 12 AWG; of
(3) Any wire without a separate ground, either in the same cable or in the same
conduig1
(4) Armored cable, type A/C:
L5) MC Cable, unless the exterior armor is color-coded blue its entire length by - - Formatted: indent: Left: t"
the manufacturer to distinguish it from other flexible metallic: conduit systems:
tP
(6) Non-metallic sheathed cables. as listed in article 334 of the NFC (2008 ed.)
but this prohibition only applies to multifamily dwellings with more than one
floor above grade: or
(7) Non-metallic sheathed cables, as listed in article 334 of the NEC (2008 ed.) - - Formatted: Normal
except in buildink~s used and occupied exclusively for residential purposes
(without any non-residential occupancies or mixed uses even if only accessory or
incidental).
(b) Circuits. Notwithstanding any other code provision or ordinance to the contrary, it
shall be unlawful for any person to install or use more than ten openings (outlets or fixtures) on
any single electrical circuit for any structure in the city.
(c) Old work. In any proceeding to enforce this section with respect to:
(1) wWire smaller than gauge 4N-4 12 AWG; or
(2) wWire lacking a separate ground; or
(3) hHaving more than ten openings on a single circuit;
ilt shall be an affirmative defense that the item was installed in strict accordance with an
electrical permit issued by the city prior to September 1, 1994.
(Code 2003, § 8.026)
Sec. 26-36. .Grounding, GFCI's, etc..
(a) Srrpplencentalgrounding. On any new serv ice or change-out service there eH Formatted: Font: Italic
c
. must be a supplemental grounding
electrode as specified in article 250.52(A) of the NEC (2008 ed) with the grounding conductor
sized per table 250.66 of the NEC (2008 ed.).
(b) Certain GFCI's The ground-fault circuit-interrupter required for a hydro-massa!4 Formatted: Font: Italic
bathtub by Section 680.71 of the of NFPA 70 (2008 ed.) may not be located under such a bathtub
and must be readily accessible.
(Code 2003, § 8.027)
7 II
Proposed
updates and amendments
for technical codes schedule
3-31-09
APPENDIX C
TECHNICAL CODES SCHEDULE
Editor's note The followina codes(and editions) are referred to in this Appendix or adopted in whole or in
part, with amendments, deletions and interpretations (see within):
International Building Code (IBC), 28832006 Ed., International Code Council, Inc.
International Energy Conservation Code I( ECC), 288372006 Ed., International Code Council, Inc.
International Fire Code I( FC), 28&3-2006 Ed., International Code Council, Inc.
International Fuel Gas Code I( FGC), 288372006 Ed., International Code Council, Inc.
International Mechanical Code I( MC), 2883-2006 Ed., International Code Council, Inc.
International Plumbing Code IEC , 2883-2006 Ed., International Code Council, Inc.
International Residential Code 'IRC , 28832006 Ed., International Code Council, Inc.
(BOCA) National Building Code, 1996 Ed., Building Officials & Code Administrators Int'I, Inc.
National Electrical Code-NEC1, 2883 2008 Ed., National Fire Protection Association, ("NEC")
International Property Maintenance Code I( EMC),, 28832006 Ed., International Code Council,
Inc.
Sec. C-101. Adoption
Subject to the amendments and deletions and interpretations indicated beneath
each code, each of the fellewiRg~odes referred to in this Appendix C, including all of its
published appendices and attachments, is adopted, ordained and made a part of the
Code of Ordinances of the City and of each chapter where it is referenced, except as
otherwise expressly provided.
Sec. C-102. Procecure for amendments etc.
The procedure for adopting new codes, updated codes, local amendments and
provisions for administration and enforcement of these codes is as follows: (1) proposal
by the building official or other appropriate City official, (2) referral to the Building &
Standards Commission, (3) consideration by the City Council, after giving required
meeting notices, and (4) adoption and publication, as required by Article II of the City
Charter.
Sec. C-103. Interpretation
In all codes adopted by this Schedule, unless otherwise specially indicated: (i)
the adopting jurisdiction is the City, including all territory subject to the City's regulatory
authority; (ii) provisions regarding violations and enforcement shall supplement--not
replace or change--other provisions in the Code of Ordinances; (iii) provisions regarding
permits, including requirements, form, issuance, revocation, suspension, exemptions,
fees, etc. are replaced by similar provisions elsewhere in the Code of Ordinances; (iv)
provisions for personnel, officers, boards, commissions, departments, etc. are replaced
by other provisions of the Code of Ordinances; (v) administrative and executive
functions such as permits, enforcement, etc. are assigned to the building official; (vi)
judicial and quasi-judicial functions such as appeals, variances, etc. are assigned to the
BSC; and (vii) rulemaking, legislative functions and all other functions not mentioned are
reserved to the City Council.
(Ord. No. 1823, § 1, 5-8-2006)
Sec. C-104. International Building Code
1. The administrative officer is the building official. All hearings, variances etc.
are handled by the BSC.
- " Formatted: No Spacing
2. On sites primarily used for residential purposes, all roofs must have Class A
or better fire resistance, as determined under Sec. 1505. 1, except that wooden roofing
materials are forbidden.
- Formatted: No Spacing
3. The foundation for each new building (and each new addition to a building)
must meet all the criteria in this
section, as applicable. Exception: If the building or addition does not contain habitable Formatted: Font: Italic
space (as defined in the IBC) it must meet only the requirements for "non-habitable
space," as indicated below. In this section:
- , Formatted: No Spacing
"A2LA Lab" means a laboratory accredited by the American Association Formatted: Indent: Left: 1°
for Laboratory Accreditation on the basis of ISO/IEC 17025:1999 ("general
requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories").
- Formatted: No Spacing, Indent: Left: 05
"RLPE" means a licensed or registered professional engineer of the State Formatted: Indent: Left: 1" ~J
of Texas who is:
(1) listed with the State Board of Professional Engineers in either the civil
or structural branch of engineering (but, from and after May 1, 2006, listing
in the structural branch is required);
(2) employed by a registered engineering firm of the State of Texas; and
(3) (unless waived by the BSC as provided in 'T' below) covered by
professional errors and omissions insurance that: (i) has limits of at least
$250,000 per claim (and at least $500,000 per year, aggregate) and (ii)
has effective dates-including any retroactive coverage date-that include
the entire period when the person provides services or takes actions
regulated by this section.
- - Formatted: No Spacing, Indent: Left: 0.5"
"RLGE" means a person who is: Formatted: Indent: Left: 1"
(1) either: (a) a registered professional geoscientist of the State of Texas,
or (b) a licensed or registered professional engineer who is listed with the
State Board of Professional Engineers in a relevant branch of engineering
(civil, structural or geological) and employed by a registered engineering
firm of the State of Texas; and
(2) covered by professional errors and omissions insurance that: (i) has
limits of at least $250,000 per claim (and at least $500,000 per year,
aggregate) and (ii) has effective dates-including any retroactive coverage
date-that include the entire period when the person provides services or
takes actions regulated by this section.
- - Formatted: No Spacing
a. Engineering . Foundations must be constructed in accordance with - - Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5"
complete plans and specifications prepared, signed and sealed by a RLPE. The
plans and specifications must be prepared specifically for the site of the work,
and they must meet criteria as to scope, content and form specified by the
building official. If there are existing trees (either to remain or to be removed)
within 20 feet of a foundation, the RLPE must acknowledge, in writing, that the
trees have been taken into account in the preparation of the plans and
specifications.
• - - Formatted: No swing
b. Basic Standards. Each foundation must be an approved basic type - Formatted: Indent: left: 0.5"
listed in the following chart. In addition, the design of each foundation must be
supported by a geotechnical report and special engineering certification, to the
extent indicated in the following chart. _
• - Formatted: No Spacing
TABLE INSET: Formatted: Font: 9 pt
,Approved Basic Types. See Geotechnical Report. Special Engineering Formatted: Font: 10 pt, Bold
Note 1. See Notes 2 and 3. Certification. See Note 4.
• ed Table
Structural slab with void space _ Formatt
- Limited----------- - Notrequired---------- Formatted:FOnt:lOpt
and deep foundations
Structural floor with crawl Limited Not required
space and deep foundations
Stiffened structural slab with Full Required
deep foundations
Stiffened non-structural slab Full Required
with deep foundations
Mixed-depth system for all new Full Required
building construction
Mixed-depth system for
building additions with deep Full Required
foundations
Formatted: Font: 9 pt, Bold
Another type approved by
special exception issued by the As specified in the As specified in the special Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5"
BSC. See "f, "below. special exception exception Formatted: Font: 9 pt
JiVotelr j4pproved Basic Type: . Types of foundations are defined and described in "Foundation Design Formatted: Font: 9 pt, Bold
Options For Residential and Other Low-Rise Buildings on Expansive Soils" published by the Structural " ' Formatted: Font: 9 pt
Committee of the Foundation Performance Association, Houston, Texas (Document # FPA-SC-01-0, Rev
#0, 30 Jun 04, marked "For Website Publishing"), a copy of which is on file in the City Secretary's office
("FDO")
(Vote 2LGeotechnical Report Standards, The plans and specifications for each foundation must be based _ Formatted: Font: 9 pt, Bold
on a written geotechnical report prepared, signed and sealed by a RLGE. The report must cover all testing Formatted: Font: 9 pt
and site evaluation, and all must meet all applicable criteria in "Recommended Practice for Geotechnical
Explorations and Reports" published by the Structural Committee of the Foundation Performance Formatted: Font: 9 pt, Bolo
Association, Houston, Texas (Document # FPA-SC-04-0, Rev #0, 11 April 2001, issued for website Formatted: Font: 9 pt
publishing), a copy of which is on file in the City Secretary's office. The report may by limited as allowed by
Note 3 below. The minimum depth of borings is 20 feet in all cases. All required tests and other laboratory
work must be performed by an A&A Lab.
Mote 3yGeotechnica/ Report Scope, "Limited" indicates that the geotechnical testing, evaluation and__ Formatted: Font: 9 pt, Bold
report may be limited to a determination of the appropriate depth for the deep foundations (but the deep
foundation components must meet the other criteria applicable to them). "Full" indicates that the Formatted: Font: 9 pt
geotechnical testing, evaluation and report must cover all foundation components. Formatted: Font: 9 pt, Bold
Pote 4,,S_pecia/ Engineering Certifica09% Where indicated as "required," for aparticular type of _ _ Formatted: Font: 9 pt
foundation, the RLPE must certify that the plans and specifications were prepared to achieve a soil-caused
foundation movement potential of one inch or less, and that the RLPE used the estimated depth of the active Fonnatted: Font: 9 pt, Bold
zone and at least two of the following methods to prepare the plans and specifications: Formatted: Font: 9 pt
(1) Potential vertical rise (PVR) determined in accordance with Test Method Tex-124-E, Rev. January 1,
1978/December 1982, Texas State Department of Highways and Public Transportation, Materials and Test Formatted: Font: 9 pt, Bold
Division, "Method for Determining the Potential Vertical Rise, PVR" (a copy of which is on file in the office of Formatted: Font: 9 pt
the City Secretary). For this purpose, the "dry" moisture condition (from which little shrinkage is experienced,
but where volumetric swell potential is greatest) shall be used for each sample and test.
(2) Swell tests performed in accordance with ASTM D4546-03, "Standard Test Methods for One-
Dimensional Swell or Settlement Potential of Cohesive Soils" as last revised prior to June 1, 2004.
(3) Suction and hydrometer swell tests performed in accordance with ASTM D5298-03 "Standard Test
Method for Measurement of Soil Potential (Suction) Using Filter Paper" and ASTM D6836-02 "Standard Test
Methods for Determination of the Soil Water Characteristic Curve for Desorption Using a Hanging Column,
Pressure Extractor, Chilled Mirror Hygrometer, and/or Centrifuge," as such methods were last revised prior
to June 1, 2004.
c. Foundations, Deep Support Components . Deep support components - Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5"
must be of an approved type. Approved types are listed below. In this list, types
of deep support components are defined and described in FDO.
(1) Drilled and underreamed concrete piers. - - Formatted: Indent: Left: I"
(2) Drilled straight-shaft concrete piers.
(3) Auger-cast concrete piles.
(4) Another type approved by special exception issued by the BSC.See
"h," below.
d. Reinforcement . Reinforcement for each foundation must be of an - Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5"
approved type. Approved types are listed below. In this list, types of
reinforcement are defined and described in FDO.
(1) Deformed bar reinforcing. - Formatted: Indent: Left: 1"
(2) Another type approved by special exception issued by the BSC. See
"h," below.
e. Observation & Certification . Each foundation must be professionally - Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5"
observed and must be certified by an RLPE, as more fully described below:
(1) Observations must:
(i) be performed either by the certifying RLPE or by one or more ' - Formatted: Indent: Left: 1.5"
persons under that RLPE's direct supervision and control whose
professional qualifications are approved by the RLPE (any such
person may be an RLGE, with respect to geophysical matters),
(ii) include actual measurement of piers, fill, compaction,
reinforcement, forms, materials, dimensions, structural elements,
attachments, etc. before the work is covered or concrete is placed
(Note: dimensions of an underground element may be measured or
estimated from the forms, boring or cavity for the element, before
pouring or filling),
(iii) be performed continuously during placement of concrete, and
(iv) be documented in a form and manner approved by the
building official (which may include photographs).
(2) Certifications must: - - Formatted: Indent: Left: 0s°
(i) refer to and be based upon the professional observations Formatted: Indent: Left: 1.5"
required by this section,
(ii) state that the work complies with the plans and specifications
last approved by the building official (with any field changes that are
ordered by the RLPE and reported to the building official and that
comply with applicable regulations),
(iii) comply with criteria as to form and content as may be
specified by the building official,
(iv) be signed and sealed by the certifying RLPE, and
(v) be filed with the building official.
(3) Certifications may: - - Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5"
(i) rely in part upon an attached certification by a RLGE, as to - - {Formatted: :Left: 1.5"
geophysical matters,
(ii) rely in part upon an attached certification by an A21-A Lab, as
to materials testing, and
(iii) be expressed as a professional opinion based on RLPE's
knowledge, information and belief that does not constitute a
guarantee or warranty, express or implied.
Before framing or other work commences atop a foundation (and before the - Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5"
foundation is otherwise covered), the permittee must obtain written
acknowledgment from the building official that the certification for the foundation
was duly filed as required above. Certifications, plans, specifications and related
items must be kept on file by the City, available for public inspection, for the
retention period required by public records laws and may be kept longer (for an
indefinite period of time).
f. Curinq concrete. All concrete piers footings and foundations must be Formatted: Indent: Left: 0s°
cured for at least 72 hours before any significant load is placed on them. Formatted: Font: Italic
Formatted: Left, No bullets or numbering,
g. Non-habitable space. This paragraph applies to buildings and _ _ _ Tab stops: 0.s", Left
additions to buildings that do not contain habitable space (as defined in the IBC). Formatted: Left, Indent: Left: 0.5", No
Footings beams and monolithic slabs with integral footings shall be constructed bu°etsor"umber'ng,Tabstops: 0.5", Left
of masonry or reinforced concrete rated at 2500 psi Cal 28 days (except for ( Formatted: Font: Italic j
accessory buildings with only one story and less than 200 feet of gross floor
area). Building must have footings, beams and slabs of reinforced concrete
assuming a soil bearing capacity of 1500 psi see R-403 of the IRC. All footings
and beams shall be at least 24 inches deep and at least 12 inches wide and shall
extend at least 12 inches below the undisturbed soil level. Reinforcement for
concrete footings and beams must include at least two #5 deformed bars top and
bottom grade 60 (or better). Slabs must be reinforced with #4 deformed bars,
grade 60 (or better) spaced no wider than 16-inches on center each way. Post-
tensioned slab or cable foundations are not allowed.
fh. Special Exceptions. The BSC may issue a special exception from Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5"
any requirement in subsection "a" through "g," above, but only upon a showing
that:
(1) the requirement will not affect life safety or the performance of a - Formatted: Indent: Left: 1"
structure ; or
(2) an alternate requirement to be imposed by the special exception will
provide equal or better protection for life safety and long-term structural
performance.
However: (i) unless the basic type of foundation is "structural slab with
void space and deep foundations" or "structural floor with crawl space and
deep foundations," as described in this section, the BSC may not issue a
special exception waiving any requirement for an RLPE to have
professional errors and omissions insurance, in whole or in part; and (ii)
the BSC may not waive any requirement for an RLGE to have such
insurance. In connection with any special exception, the BSC may require
that the applicant provide supporting engineering data and opinion, and
the BSC may impose conditions to carry out the purpose and intent of
applicable regulations.
- Formatted: No Spacing
4. Sheathing (gypsum board) and trim must comply with this section as follows:
(1) All walls and ceilings within a R-1 R-2, R-3 and R-4 type occupancy - - Formatted: Indent: Left: 1"
shall be sheathed with Type X gvosum board at least 5/8-inch (15.9 mm)
thick. Exception: Where applicable code (IBC, IRC) requires otherwise
for moisture protection.
(2) All exterior trim (e.g., soffit, fascia, window trim, chimney trim, etc.) - Formatted: Font: Italic
must be made of treated lumber or non-combustible materials.
Formatted: No Spacing
' - Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5"
OGGUPaRGY shall be sheathed with Type X gypsum bE)aFd at least W8 inoh (16.9
Formatted: No Spacing
Formatted: Font: Not Italic
5. Structural a€lements, e= Engineering, e tc. must comply with the following Formatted: Font: Not Italic
section: Formatted: Font: Not Italic _J
Formatted: Font: Not Italic
l3
A. Scope.
(1) The structural elements for the following must meet the criteria - " Formatted: Indent: Left: 1.5"
in this section, as applicable:
(a) Each new building (and each addition to an existing - Formatted: Indent: Left: 2"
building) containing habitable space and having either a
gross floor area of 485 square feet or more or a finished floor
height greater than four feet; and
(b) Each accessible deck, porch, balcony, walkway and
similar structure with a finished floor height greater than four
feet.
(2) This section does not apply to foundation elements observed - " Formatted: Indent: Lek: 1.5"
and certified under another section.
- - Formatted: No Spacing
B. Definitions. In this section:
Height is measured from the "standard base level" as provided in Formatted: Indent: Left: 1.5"
the Zoning Ordinance.
• - - ° Formatted: No Spacing
A2LA Lab means a laboratory accredited by the American Fomtatted: Indent: Left: 1.5"
Association for Laboratory Accreditation on the basis of ISOMEC
17025:1999 ("general requirements for the competence of testing
and calibration laboratories").
- Formatted: No Spacing
RLPE means a registered or licensed professional engineer of the - Fonmatted: Indent: Left: 1.5"
State of Texas who is:
(a) Listed with the State Board of Professional Engineers in either
the civil or structural branch of engineering (but, from and after
June 1, 2006, listing in the structural branch is required);
(b) Employed by a registered engineering firm of the State of
Texas; and
(c) Covered by professional errors and omissions insurance that:
(i) has limits of at least $250,000.00 per claim (and at least
$500,000.00 per year, aggregate) and (ii) has effective dates-
including any retroactive coverage date-that include the entire
period when the person provides services or takes actions
regulated by this section.
C. Engineering; Plans and Specifications. Structural elements must be - - - Formatted: Indent: Left: 1"
constructed in accordance with complete plans and specifications
prepared, signed and sealed by a RLPE. The plans and specifications
must be prepared specifically for the structure in question, and they must
meet criteria as to scope, content and form specified by the building
official.
Formatted: No Spacing
D. Specific Requirements. - Formatted: Indent: Left: V
Formatted: No Spacing
Iq
(1) Framing; Sheathing. All framing must include full exterior - Formatted: Indent: Left: 1.5"
sheathing with structural elements (or blocking) along all joints. The
plans must indicate the type, size and spacing of fasteners. All
sheathing must be minimum 7/16" structural wood panels. In walls
where plumbing, drain, waste or vent lines are located, the framing
members must be 2" X 6" or larger.
Formatted: No Spacing
(2) Trusses, Joists, Etc. - " Formatted: Indent: Left: 1.5"
(a) The species and grade of all lumber used for trusses, - Fom,atted: Indent: Left: 2"
joists, purlins, purlin supports or similar elements must be
specified in the plans.
(b) The length, spacing and direction of trusses and joists
must be specified in the plans.
(c) Each manufactured wood truss must comply with
applicable requirements of the "National Design Standard
For Metal Plate Connected Wood Truss Construction"
published by Truss Plate Institute (TPI), 1-2000 Ed. The
design and specifications of any truss built on the site (and
any other truss not already certified as meeting such TPI
requirements), must be included in the plans and
specifications.
* - - Formatted: No spacing
(3) Utility-grade lumber may not be used for foists, rafters or - Formatted: No Spacing, Indent: Left: 1.5"
vertical framing.
(4) Windspeed clips and straps must meet these minimum
requirements:
(a) Clips: Simpson Strong Tie H2.5 or equal, installed on Formatted: Indent: Left: 2"
every other member as follows: rafter to double top plate.
(b) Strap/Rafters: Simpson Strong Tie LSTA 18 or MSTA
18 or equal installed rafter to rafter over ridge, on every other
member.
(c) Strap/Beams for porches, patios, garage doors: Simpson
Strong Tie LSTA 15 or MSTA 15 or equal, installed two on
each end of each beam, strapped to post/support.
(d) Purling: Simpson Strong Tie LSTA 15 or MSTA 15 or
equal, installed to rafters and spaced no wider than 48-
inches on center, also installed onpurlin braces and tied to
purlins and brace supporting members.
E. Observation and Certification. Structural elements must be - Formatted: Indent: Left: 1"
professionally observed and must be certified by an RLPE, as more fully
described below:
(1) Observations must: Formatted: Indent: Left: 1.5"
(a) Be performed either by the certifying RLPE or by one or - { Formatted: Indent: Left: 2"
more persons under that RLPE's direct supervision and
control whose professional qualifications are approved by
the RLPE;
(b) Include actual observation of structural elements and
attachments in crawl spaces before they are covered by
floors or other materials;
(c) Include actual observations of each beam, joist, rafter,
truss and similar element, including each related weld and
high-strength bolt: (i) after all required plumbing, electrical
and mechanical "rough-in" inspections have been passed
and all expected "notching," boring and similar work has
been done, and (ii) before the item is covered; and
(d) Be documented in a form and manner approved by the
building official (which may include photographs).
(2) Certifications must: - Formatted: Indent: Left: 1s^
(a) Refer to and be based upon the professional Formatted: Indent: test: 2'
observations required by this section;
(b) State that the portions of the work required to be
observed comply with the plans and specifications last
approved by the building official (with any field changes that
are ordered by the RLPE, reported to the building official and
in compliance with applicable regulations);
(c) Comply with criteria as to form and content as may be
specified by the building official;
(d) Be signed and sealed by the certifying RLPE; and
(e) Be filed with the building official.
(3) Certifications may: Formatted: Indent: Left: 1.5"
(a) Rely in part upon attached certifications by: (1) an A2LA - Formatted: indent: Left: 2-
Lab, as to materials testing, and (ii) an inspector certified by
the City of Houston, as to welds or high-strength bolts (or
meet the provisions of Section 1704.3.3 of the IBC); and
(b) Be expressed as a professional opinion based on the
RLPE's knowledge, information and belief that does not
constitute a guarantee or warranty, express or implied.
- - Formatted: No Spacing
Before any a beam, joist, rafter, truss, weld, high-strength bolt or - - Formatted: Indent: Left: 1.5"
similar element is covered: (i) all required city inspections relating to
that element must be passed, and (ii) the permittee must obtain
written acknowledgment from the building official that the
certification for that element was duly filed as required above. For
any given building, there may be more than one certification filed.
After a beam, joist, rafter, truss, weld, high-strength bolt or similar
element has been observed and certified, as provided above, it
may not be notched, bored or structurally altered without: (i) a new
or amended permit, if required, and (ii) a new observation and
certification, in accordance with this section.
14
Certifications, plans, specifications and related items must be kept
on file by the City, available for public inspection, for the retention
period required by public records laws and may be kept longer (for
an indefinite period of time).
- Formatted: No Spacing
F. Special Exceptions. The BSC may issue a special exception from any - Formatted: Indent: Left: i^
requirement in subsection "aA" through "dE", above, but only upon a
showing that:
(1) The requirement will not affect life safety or the performance of - Formatted: Indent: Left: 1.5"
a structure (for its estimated useful life); or
(2) - An alternate requirement to be imposed by the special
exception will provide equal or better protection for life safety and
long-term structural performance.
In connection with any such special exception, the BSC may require that - Formatted: Indent: Left: 1"
the applicant provide supporting engineering data and opinion, and the
BSC may impose conditions to carry out the purpose and intent of
applicable regulations.
6. Delete: Appendices A (Employee Qualifications), B (Board of Appeals) and D
(Fire Districts).
7. In Section 1612.3, the referenced flood study (with FIRM and FBFM) means
the "Flood Insurance Study for Harris County, Texas and Incorporated Areas," dated
June 18, 2007 (revision date), with the most effective Flood Insurance Rate Maps
and/or Flood Boundary- Floodway Maps (FIRM and/or FBFM) dated June 18, 2007 (mar)
revised date). he study dated ApFil 2000, as amended and FeYised thmugh the date
this edkiep ef the 19G is adGpted-
8. In Section 3410.2, the blank date shall mean the date of thj6-that edition of
the IBC, as -+s adopted by the City.
9. If work done on a building within any 12-month period constitutes, - Formatted: Normal, No bullets or numbering ,
cumulatively, a "substantial improvement" (as defined in the City's flood damage
prevention ordinances, ,e.g.. Section 18-272 of this Code), the owner shall---to the - Fom,atted: Font: Italic
extent reasonably practicable---make the building comply with current code provisions
for new construction regarding: (i) structural components (except foundations) and (ii)
life safety features (hand and guard rails, smoke detectors, safety glazing, around fault
circuit interrupters, arc-fault combination breakers, emergency egress from sleeping
rooms, locking devices on required egress components, etc.). To determine the
"market value" of a pre-existing building, the most current tabulation of square foot
construction costs published by the International Code Congress (usually as part of
"Building Valuation Data," see, e.g., www.iccsafe.org/cs/techservices) shall be used.
Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5", No bullets or
10. If a building is "substantially damaged" (as defined in the City's flood damage numbering
prevention ordinances, e.a., Section 18-272 of this Code), the owner shall cause it to
be: (i) secured to prevent entry by unauthorized persons, within 24 hours after all
embers are extinguished (or other damaging occurrence has ended) and (ii) either
demolished (in accordance with Chapter 18 of this Code) or rebuilt in conformity with
applicable technical codes as though it were a new building. Normal permits (including
certificate of occupant) are required. Work to demolish or rebuild must begin within 60
days following the date the occurrence ends and must be completed within a
reasonable time, but not longer than the time allowed by the applicable permit(s). To
determine the "market value" of a pre-existing building, the most current tabulation of
square foot construction costs published by the International Code Congress (usually as
part of "Building Valuation Data." see, e.g.. www.iccsafe.org/cs/techservices) shall be
used.
(Ord. No. 1775, § 1(app. A), 9-27-2004; Ord. No. 1791, § 1(app. A), 5-2-2005; Ord. No.
1823, § 1, 5-8-2006; Ord. No. 1824, § 1, 5-8-2006)
Sec. C-105. International Energy Conservation Code
1. The administrative officer is the building official. All hearings, variances etc.
are handled by the BSC.
2. In lieu of inspection by City employees, the building official may require a
written certification that a building meets or exceeds minimum requirements, if the
certification is: (i) signed by a code-certified inspector (as defined in V.T.C.A., Health &
Safety Code § 388.02) not employed by the city, and (ii) accompanied by an approved
inspection checklist, properly completed, signed and dated by the inspector. If the fees
of the code-certified inspector are paid by the City, the amount shall be added to the
building permit fees otherwise payable. With approval from the building official, a
permittee may pay such fees directly to an independent inspection firm. Only code-
certified inspectors may perform inspections and enforce this code in the City.
(Ord. No. 1775, § 1(app. A), 9-27-2004; Ord. No. 1823, § 1, 5-8-2006)
Sec. C-106. International Fire Code
1. The fire official shall be the fire chief or acting fire chief, who may detail other
members of the fire department or the building inspection division to act as inspectors.
Chapter 18 of this Code shall apply to enforcement and administration of the fire code in
the same manner as it applies to the building code (except that the fire official shall
have the powers and duties of the building official under such articles).
2. The BSC shall have the same jurisdiction and authority with respect to the
fire code as it has with respect to the building code.
3. The limits of the fire district referred to in Section 902.1.1 are coextensive
with the City limits.
/v
4. Explosives and fireworks, as defined in Chapter 33, are prohibited within the
City limits.
5. Notwithstanding Section 2206.7.6 (relating to service stations), "latch-open"
type devices are prohibited.
6. Section 603.8.4 (hours for burning) is amended to read in its entirety as
follows: "An incinerator shall not be used or allowed to remain with any combustion
inside it: (i) at any time from an hour preceding sunset on one day until sunrise the
following day; or (ii) at any time when unattended."
7. Delete: Appendices FA (Board of Appeals), FE (Hazard Categories), FF
(Hazard Ranking) and FG (Cryogenic Fluids - Weight and Volume Equivalents).
8. Section 505.1 (address numbers) is amended to read in its entirety as
follows: "New and existing buildings shall have approved address numbers, building
numbers or approved building identification placed in a position that is plainly visible
from the street or road fronting the property. These numbers shall contrast with their
background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numerals or alphabet numbers. Numbers
shall be a minimum of 4 inches high with a minimum stroke of 0.5 inches._Exception:
One- and two-family dwellings shall comply with Section 6.409 of the Code of
Ordinances."
(Ord. No. 1775, § 1(app. A), 9-27-2004; Ord. No. 1823, § 1, 5-8-2006)
Sec. C-107. International Fuel Gas Code
1. The administrative officer is the building official. Chapter 18 of this Code shall
apply to enforcement and administration of this code in the same manner as it applies to
the building code. The BSC shall have the same jurisdiction and authority with respect
to this code as it has with respect to the building code.
2. Delete Sections FG103, FG106 and FG10.
3. Even if otherwise permitted by this code:
a. Cropper, brass or aluminum tubing orpipinclshall not be used - Formatted: Indent: Left: 1"
fOF the yard seFyiee line in the City.
- Formatted: No spacing
b. Thermo plastic pipe may be used for gas lines only if it:0) meets'- - Formatted: Indent: Left: 1"
ASTM D2513 (or equivalent, or better), ii is identified by proper markings
and (iii) is installed with a locator wire (No. 14 gauge copper wire).
c. Thermo ?Plastic pipe shall terminate above around outside - - Formatted: No Spacing, Indent: Left: r
of buildings only if installed in pre-manufactured anodeless risers or
service head adapter risers, all in accordance with the manufacturer's
installation instructions
4. Amend Section 311.2 to read in its entirety as follows: "Low pressure (not to
exceed 0.5 PSI) gas piping shall withstand a pressure of at least 10 inches of mercury
for a period of time not less than 10 minutes without showing any drop in pressure,
except that the following shall apply in the case of new construction: The newly-
constructed system must withstand a pressure of at least 25 PSI for a period of not less
than 10 minutes without showing any drop in pressure as an initial pressure test, and
the system must also withstand a pressure as a final test. Higher pressure piping must
withstand pressure of at least 10 PSI, but never less than twice the maximum pressure
to which the piping will be subjected in operation, for a period of at least 10 minutes
without showing a drop in pressure, but the higher pressures required for new
construction, above, shall be used to test new construction in lieu of the 10-PSI level
prescribed by this sentence."
5. There must be a permanently-installed stairway, either fixed or folding, to
serve attic space where appliances or equipment are located. The opening must be at
least 25.5" X 54", and any folding staircase must be rated for at least 350 pounds
capacity and at least 20 minutes fire resistance.
6. Even if otherwise permitted by this code, undiluted liquefied petroleum gas,
or "LPG," shall not be used at any fixed location in the City._Exception: This does not
prohibit the use of such gas in quantities of 10 gallons or less.
7. Each new or replaced gas meter shall be located on the same building site
that it serves.
(Ord. No. 1775, § 1(app. A), 9-27-2004; Ord. No. 1823, § 1, 5-8-2006)
Sec. C-108. International Mechanical Code
1. The administrative officer is the building official. All hearings, variances etc.
are handled by the BSC.
2. Add to Section M306.3: "There must be a permanently-installed stairway,
either fixed or folding, to serve attic space where appliances or equipment are located.
The opening must beat least 25.5" X 54", and any folding staircase must berated for at
least 350 pounds capacity and at least 20 minutes fire resistance."
3. Add to Section M603: "All return air ducts must be installed so as to be
sefw~eabieserviceable without use of a portable ladder in all new residential construction
and wherever possible in existing buildings."
4. Delete: Appendix MB (Recommended Permit Fee Schedule).
2a
(Ord. No. 1775, § 1(app. A), 9-27-2004; Ord. No. 1823, § 1, 5-8-2006)
Sec. C-109. International Plumbing Code
1. The administrative officer is the building official. Chapter 18 of this Code shall
apply to enforcement and administration of this code in the same manner as it applies to
the building code. The BSC shall have the same jurisdiction and authority with respect
to this code as it has with respect to the building code.
• - Formatted: No Spacing
2. Delete: Sections P103, P106 and P109 and Appendices PA (Plumbing Permit
Fee Schedule) and PG (Vacuum Drainage System).
Formatted: No Spacing
3. Add at the beg!RRiR9 9f SeGtiGR : "Even if otherwise permitted by this
ssde-(-WC};the IPC:
a_ i - ' Formatted: Indent: Left: 1"
AAcrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS) pipe er-and fittings, pelyethyleRe
pipe OFfi+#~S,_Type M copper, lead-based pipe, aluminum DWV pipe of
and components, e~and air admittance valves are forbidden to be used
anywhere in the City.
b. Polybutylene. Polyethylene, and cross-linked Polyethylene (PB.
PE. PEX. PEX-AL-PEX. PE-AL=PE) are forbidden to be used for water
service or distribution piping in concealed spaces (including attics).
Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5"
4. Even if otherwise permitted by this cede (lPG}, he IPC:
a. -PVC and CPVC= type water pipe and fittings are not allowed for - - - Formatred: Indent: Left: 1"
use in the City._Exceptions: (A) Schedule 40 meeting ASTM D1785 (or
better) PVC water pipe may be used where permitted by this cede
4P 4-,the IPC, but only if: (i) it is installed underground but see next - Formatted: Font. Italic
paragraph reguiring copper lines in some locations) or as pool piping, afW
(ii) all joints are primed and glued as required by the manufacturer's
recommendations (and the primer must be purple or another distinctive
color, except on above-ground pool piping), and (iii) it is identified by
proper markings. (B) This section does not apply to irrigation systems.
- Formatted: No Spacing, Indent: Left: 0.5"
b. All water lines under a slab on grade must be copper Type L or - Formatted: No Spacing, Indent: Left: 1"
better. Each water line under, in or through a slab on grade must be
sleeved with a continuous piece of tubing at least 0.025 inches thick
terminating at least six inches above the finished floor.
c. Irrigation systems must meet these criteria: (i) Schedule 40 PVC
material meeting ASTM D1785 (or better) must be used for pressure lines.
(ii) Class 160 PVC material (or better) must be used for field lines. (iii) All
lines shall be buried at least six inches below grade. Note: The City is not Formatted: Font: Italic
responsible for irrigation system components located in street areas or
2(
easements (and special permits may be required to install such
components in those locations: see e.g. -Chapter 70 of this Code) - rwm+atWed: Font: Italic
Formatted: Font: Italic
d. Underground water service piping must be buried at least 12
inches below grade.
e. PVC and CPVC-type drain waste or vent pipe and fittings
installed underground or under or through slabs driveways patios
foundations, etc., must be Schedule 40 meeting ASTM D2665 for better)
and indentified by proper markings Exception: Area drain piping may be - Formatted: Font: Italic
SDR 35 PVC.
- Formatted: No Spacing, Indent: Left: 0.5"
5. Even if otherwise permitted by the IPC, #4s-sede-0RG}, wet venting shall not
be allowed except when authorized by the BSC, as a special exception for hardship and
unusual cases. Also, amend Section 913.3 to read as follows: "The vent located below
the flood level rim of the fixture being vented shall be installed below the floor using
drainage pattern fittings with a fall of not less than one-quarter inch ( 1/4") to the drain
The vent shall be sized in accordance with Section 916.2 with 2 " diameter pipe being
the minimum. The lowest point of the island fixture vent shall connect full size to the
drainage system. The vent or branch vent shall extend as high as practicable but not
below the drain board. There shall be a vent loop at the top of the fixture riser. The
fittings shall prevent a horizontal segment at the top of the loop Cleanouts shall be
provided in the island fixture drain & vent to permit Roding of all piping located below
the flood level rim of the fixtures. Roding in both directions shall be permitted through a
cleanout."
6. -Amend Section 1101.2 to read in its entirety as follows: "The provisions of
this chapter are applicable to interior leaders, building storm drains, building storm
sewers, exterior conductors, downspouts, roof gutters and other storm drainage fixtures
and facilities."
7. -Maximum water meter size, unless an RPE can clearly and convincingly
demonstrate the need for a larger meter in a particular case, is: 3/4ths-inch for an
irrigation system, or 1-inch for a single-family dwelling.
(Ord. No. 1775, § 1(app. A), 9-27-2004; Ord. No. 1823, § 1, 5-8-2006)
Sec. C-110. International Residential Code
1. The administrative officer is the building official. All hearings, variances etc.
are handled by the BSC.
2. This code, in lieu of the other "International Codes," applies to all residential
structures in the City. "Residential" means having the character of a detached one-
family or two-family dwelling that is not more than three stories high with separate
means of egress, including the accessory structures of the dwelling. This code does not
- 2
apply to: (i) any dwelling that has a common means of egress, such as a common
hallway, or (ii) any dwelling or structure that has the character of a facility used for
accommodation of transient guests or a structure in which medical, rehabilitative, or
assisted living services are provided in connection with the occupancy of the structure.
3. All amendments and deletions to the other "International Codes" adopted by
this Schedule are also carried forward and adopted as amendments and deletions from
the International Residential Code.
4. Delete: Appendices RAF (Radon Control Methods), RAI (Private Sewage
Disposal), a+4RAE (Manufactured Housing Used as Dwellings), and RAL (Permit
Fees) and RAO (Electrical Provisions.
5. This code does not apply to installation and maintenance of electrical wiring
and related components._See National Electrical Code , below.
6. In Section R301.2 insert the following table:
TABLE INSET:
Table R301.2(1). Climatic and Geographical Design Criteria - Formatted Table
Gorodund snow 0 Air freezing index: 50 BF days
Wind speed 110 3-second gust Mean annual 68, F
(mph): temperature:
Seismic Subject to damage from
design A weatherin Negligible
category: 9'
Winter design 32' F Frost line: 6"
temperature:
Ice shield Not required Termite: Very heavy
underlayment:
Flood Map effective date: Mod. to
hazards: June 18, 2007 Decay: severe
(map revised date)
7. In Section P2603.6.1 insert 12 inches for minimum depth cover for a sewer
line.
8. In Section P3103.1 insert 12 inches for a minimum height above the roofline
for a vent termination.
(Ord. No. 1775, § 1(app. A), 9-27-2004; Ord. No. 1823, § 1, 5-8-2006; Ord. No. 1849, §
1(app. A), 7-9-2007)
Sec. C-111. (BOCA) National Building Code
z3
Only Sections 3108 (Radio And Television Towers) and 3109 (Radio And
Television Antennas), together with any necessary definitions or interpretive aids, are
adopted. See subchapter G of Chapter 6 of this code.
(Ord. No. 1775, § 1(app. A), 9-27-2004)
Sec. C-112. National Electrical Code
1. The administrative officer is the building official. All hearings, variances etc.
are handled by the BSC.
2. See Chapter 26 of this Code for various provisions which override or
supplement the NEC.
(Ord. No. 1775, § 1(app. A), 9-27-2004; Ord. No. 1823, § 1, 5-8-2006)
1
Sec. C-113. International Property Maintenance Code
1. The administrative officer is the building official. All hearings, variances, etc.
are handled by the BSC.
(Ord. No. 1823, § 1, 5-8-2006)
zy
aa» y as d? s sm~:. ~ T`% W . _ ~a r~' afar n ^tu':
w .qy r F i
~+cl
The International Code Council is pleased to provide the follow- group and type of construction. The average costs include foun-
ing Building Valuation Data (BVD) for its members. The BVD will dation work, structural and nonstructural building components,
be updated and printed at six-month intervals, with the next electrical, plumbing, mechanical and interior finish material. The
update in August 2009. ICC strongly recommends that all juris- data is a national average and does not take into account any
dictions and other interested parties actively evaluate and regional cost differences. To this end, the table containing the re-
assess the impact of this BVD table before utilizing it in their gional cost modifiers was last printed in the October 2003 issue
current code enforcement related activities. and has been discontinued.
The BVD table provides the "average" construction costs per
square foot, which can be used in determining permit fees for a PERMIT FEE MULTIPLIER
jurisdiction. Permit fee schedules are addressed in Section Determine the Permit Fee Multiplier:
108.2 of the 2006 International Building Code (IBC) whereas 1. Based on historical records, determine the total annual con-
Section 108.3 addresses building permit valuations. The permit struction value which has occurred within the jurisdiction for
fees can be established by using the BVD table and a Permit the past year.
Fee Multiplier, which is based on the total construction value 2. Determine the percentage of the building department
within the jurisdiction for the past year. The Square Foot Con-
struction Cost table presents factors that reflect relative value of Permit Fee Multiplier = Bldg. Dept. Budget x
one construction classification/occupancy group to another so Total Annual Construction Value
that more expensive construction is assessed greater permit Example
fees than less expensive construction. The building department operates on a $300,000 budget, and it
ICC has developed this data to aid jurisdictions in determin- expects to cover 75 percent of that from building permit fees.
ing permit fees. It is important to note that while this BVD table The total annual construction value which occurred within the
does determine an estimated value of a building (i.e., Gross jurisdiction in the previous year is $30,000,000.
Area x Square Foot Construction Cost), this data is only in
Permit Fee Multiplier = $300,0.0.0...x...75% = 0.0075
tended to assist jurisdictions in determining their permit fees.
This data table is not intended to be used as an estimating guide $30,000;000
because the data only reflects average costs and is not repre- PERMIT FEE
sentative of specific construction. The permit fee is determined using the building gross area, the
This degree of precision is sufficient for the intended Square Foot Construction Cost and the Permit Fee Multiplier.
purpose, which is to help establish permit fees so as to fund Permit Fee = Gross Area x Square Foot Construction Cost
code compliance activities. This BVD table provides jurisdictions x Permit Fee Multiplier
with a simplified way to determine the estimated value of a build-
ing that does not rely on the permit applicant to determine the Example
cost of construction. Therefore, the bidding process for a partic- Type of Construction: IIB Area: 1 st story = 8,000 sq. ft.
ular job and other associated factors do not affect the value of a Height: 2 stories 2nd story = 8,000 sq. ft.
building for determining the permit fee. Whether a specific Permit Fee Multiplier = 0.0075
project is bid at a cost above or below the computed value of Use Group: B
construction does not affect the permit fee because the cost of 1. Gross area:
related code enforcement activities is not directly affected by the Business = 2 stories x 8,000 sq. ft. = 16,000 sq. ft.
bid process and results. 2. Square Foot Construction Cost:
B/IIB = $143.24/sq. ft.
Building Valuation 3. Permit Fee:
The following building valuation data represents average valua- Business =16,000 sq. ft. x $143.24/sq. ft x 0.0075 = $17,188
tions for most buildings. In conjunction with IBC Section 108.3. Important Points
this data is offered as an aid for the building official to determine In most cases the BVD does not apply to additions, alter-
if the permit valuation is underestimated. Again it should be ations or repairs to existing buildings. Because the scope of
noted that, when using this data, these are "average" costs alterations or repairs to an existing building varies so greatly,
based on typical construction methods for each occupancy the Square Foot Construction Costs table does not reflect
January-February2008 building safety journal 41
5-r
Building Valuation Raltj
accurate values for that purpose. However, the Square Foot (1 year) is the sum of each building's value (Gross Area x
Construction Costs table can be used to determine the cost Square Foot Construction Cost) for that time period (e.g., 1
of an addition that is basically a stand-alone building which year).
happens to be attached to an existing building. In the case of The Square Foot Construction Cost does not include the
such additions, the only alterations to the existing building price of the land on which the building is built. The Square
would involve the attachment of the addition to the existing Foot Construction Cost takes into account everything from
building and the openings between the addition and the ex- foundation work to the roof structure and coverings but does
isting building. not include the price of the land. The cost of the land does not
• For purposes of establishing the Permit Fee Multiplier, the es- affect the cost of related code enforcement activities and is
timated total annual construction value for a given time period not included in the Square Foot Construction Cost.
Square Foot Construction Costsa, b, d
Group (2006 International Building Code) Type of Construction •
IA IB IIA He IIIA IIIB IV VA VB
A-1 Assembly, theaters, with stage 207.99 201.27 196.59 188.35 177.31 172.08 182.33 161.78 155.82
Assembly, theaters, without stage 188.37 181.65 176.97 168.72 157.73 152.50 162.70 142.19 136.23
A-2 Assembly, nightclubs 160.35 155.84 151.87 146.10 137.40 133.56 140.99 124.59 120.41
A-2 Assembly, restaurants, bars, banquet halls 159.35 154.84 149.87 145.10 135.40 132.56 139.99 122.59 119.41
A-3 Assembly, churches 191.73 185.01 180.33 172.08 161.06 155.82 166.06 145.52 139.56
A-3 Assembly, general, community halls, 162.11 155.39 149.71 142.46 129.82 126.20 136.44 114.89 109.93
libraries, museums
A-4 Assembly, arenas 187.37 1.80.65 174.97 167.72 155.73 151.50 161.70 140.19 135.23
B Business 161.10 155.30 150.33 .143.24 130.34 125.39 137.63 114.22 109.47
-
E Educational 17625 170.31 165.47 158.26 148.32 140-74 153.03 130,54 125.61
F-1 Factory and industrial, moderate hazard 97.68 93.20 87.88 84.96 76.10 72.71 81.54 62.67 59.24
F-2 Factory and industrial, low hazard 96.68 92.20 87.88 83.96 76.10 71.71 80.54 62.67 58.24
H-1 High Hazard, explosives 91.50 87.02 82.70 78.78 71.10 66.71 75.36 57.67 N.P
H234 High Hazard 91.50 87.02 82.70 78.78 71.10 66.71 75.36 57.67 53.24
H-5 HPM 161.10 155.30 150.33 143.24 130.34 125.39 137.63 114.22 109.47
1-1 Institutional, supervised environment 161.32 155.78 151.61 145.46 135.81 132.09 146.81 122.94 118.11
1-2 Institutional, hospitals 271.13 265.33 260.35 253.27 239.63 N P 247.66 22151 N P
1-2 Institutional, nursing homes 189.55 183,75 178.78 171.69 159.17 N P 166,08 143,05 N P
1-3 Institutional, restrained 185.16 179.37 174.39 167.30 155.66 149.72 161,69 139.55 132.80
1-4 Institutional, day care facilities 161,32 155.78 151.61 145.46 135.81 132.09 146.81 122.94 118.11
M Mercantile 119.24 114.73 109.76 104.99 95.94 93.10 99 88 83.13 79.95
R-1 Residential, hotels 163.43 157.90 15372 147.58 137.69 133.97 14&68 124.81 119.99
R-2 Residential, multiple family 136.97 131.44 127.26 121.11 111.35 107.63 122.34 98.47 93.65
R-3 Residential, one- and two-family 129.98 126.37 123.27 120.01 115.61 112.61 118.02 108.33 101.95 .
R-4 Residential, care/assisted living facilities 161.32 155.78 151.61 145.46 135.81 132.09 146.81 122.94 118.11
S-1 Storage, moderate hazard 90.50 86.02 80.70 77.78 69.10 65.71 74.36 55.67 52.24
S-2 Storage, low hazard 89.50 85.02 80.70 76.78 69.10 64.71 73.36 55.67 51.24
U Utility, miscellaneous 69.10 6533 61.44 58.37 52.71 49.14 55.08 41.61 39.61
a. Private Garages use Utility, miscellaneous
b. Unfinished basements (all use group) = $15.00 per sq. ft.
c. For shell only buildings deduct 20 percent.
d. N.P. =not permitted
Electronic files of the latest Building Valuation Data can be downloaded from the Code Council website
at www.iccsafe.org,'cs/fechservices
42 building safetyjournal January-February 2009