HomeMy WebLinkAbout04062006 BSC Agenda item 3 Ordinance No. 1823
AN ORDINANCE RELATING TO TECHNICAL CODES; AMENDING
THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF WEST UNIVERSITY
PLACE, TEXAS; AND CONTAINING FINDINGS AND PROVISIONS
RELATING TO THE SUBJECT.
WHEREAS, the building official of the City has proposed certain
amendments to the International Codes Schedule (and standard codes that are
incorporated into the Code of Ordinances by that schedule); and
WHEREAS, such amendments were referred to the Building & Standards
Commission, which has recommended them for consideration and adoption by
the City Council;
NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
UNIVERSITY PLACE:
Section 1. (a) The Standard Codes Schedule of the Code of Ordinances
of the City of West University Place, Texas is hereby: (i) renamed "Technical
Codes Schedule" and (ii) amended to read in its entirety as set out in Appendix
A, which is attached to and made a part of this ordinance.
(b) References to the Standard Codes Schedule in ordinances.
resolutions, motions, rules or regulations shall be construed to be references to
the Technical Codes Schedule.
Section 2. All ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict with this
Ordinance are repealed to the extent of the conflict only.
Section 3. If any word, phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph, section or
other part of this Ordinance or the application thereof to any person or
circumstance, shall ever be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of
competent jurisdiction, neither the remainder of this Ordinance, nor the
application of such word, phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph, section or other
part of this Ordinance to any other persons or circumstances, shall be affected
thereby.
Section 4. The City Council officially finds, determines and declares that
a sufficient written notice of the date, hour, place and subject of each meeting at
which this Ordinance was discussed, considered or acted upon was given in the
manner required by the Texas Open Meetings Act, as amended, and that each
such meeting has been open to the public as required by law at all times during
such discussion, consideration and action. The City Council ratifies, approves
and confirms such notices and the contents and posting thereof.
CHARTER AND ORDINANCES, City of West University Place, Texas November22,2005 Page S-1
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Section 5. This Ordinance shall take effect on the tenth day following its
publication, as provided in the City Charter ("Effective Date"). This Ordinance
shall apply to offenses committed on or after the Effective Date. For this
purpose, an offense is committed after the Effective Date if any element of the
offense occurs on or after the Effective Date. Other offenses are covered by the
ordinances in effect at the time, and such ordinances are continued in effect for
that purpose.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED ON FIRST READING on
2006.
Councilmembers Voting Aye:
Councilmembers Voting No:
Councilmembers Absent:
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED ON SECOND AND FINAL
READING AND SIGNED on , 2006.
Councilmembers Voting Aye:
Councilmembers Voting No:
Councilmembers Absent:
Attest: Signed:
City Secretary (Seal) Mayor
Recommended:
City Manager
Approved as to legal form:
City Attorney
Appendix A
Revised 11-17-05(Building Codes), 1-20-06(Fire Codes),2-23-06(conforming)
Note:For each adopted code,substantive changes are indicated by underling and strikeouts:conforming changes are not marked.
Technical Codes Schedule
Adoption. Subject to the amendments, deletions and interpretations indicated in this Schedule, each of
the following codes, 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.
Procedure for amendments. 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.
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.
International Building Code,2000 2003 Ed.,International Code Council,Inc.
1. The administrative officer is the building official. All appeals,hearings,variances etc.are handled
by the BSC.
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 roofmg materials are forbidden.
3. The foundation for each new building(and each new addition to a building)containing habitable
space(as defined in the IBC)must meet the criteria in this section,as applicable. In this section:
"A2LA Lab"means a laboratory accredited by the American Association for Laboratory
Accreditation on the basis of ISO/IEX 17025:1999("general requirements for the
competence of testing and calibration laboratories").
"RLPE"means a licensed or registered professional engineer of the State 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"1"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.
CHARTER AND ORDINANCES, City of West University Place, Texas November 22,2005 Page S-3
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"RLGE"means a person who is:
(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.
a. Engineering. Foundations must be 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 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.
b. Basic Standards. Each foundation must be an approved basic type 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.
Approved Basic Types. See Note I. Geotechnical Report. Special Engineering
See Notes 2 and 3. Certification.See Note 4.
Structural slab with void space and deep foundations Limited Not required
Structural floor with crawl space and deep foundations Limited Not required
Stiffened structural slab with deep foundations Full Required
Stiffened non-structural slab with deep foundations Full Required
Mixed-depth system for all new building construction Full Required
Mixed-depth system for building additions with deep Full Required
Another type approved by special exception issued by As specified in the As specified in the special
The BSC. See'f',below. special exception exception
Note 1. Approved Basic Types. Types of foundations are defined and described in"Foundation Design Options For Residential and
Other Low-Rise Buildings on Expansive Soils"published by the Structural 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").
Note 2. Geotechnical Report,Standards. The plans and specifications for each foundation must be based on a written geotechnical
report prepared,signed and sealed by a RLGE. The report must cover all testing 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 Association,Houston,Texas(Document#FPA-SC-04-0,Rev#0,11 April 2001,. issued for website
publishing),a copy of which is on file in the City Secretary's office. The minimum depth of borings is 20 feet in all cases. All tests
and other laboratory work must be performed by an A2LA Lab.
Note 3. Geotechnical Report,Scope. "Limited"indicates that the geotechnical testing,evaluation and 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 geotechnical testing,evaluation and report must cover all foundation components.
Note 4. Special Engineering Certification. Where indicated as"required,"for a particular type of 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 zone and at least two of the following methods to prepare the plans and
specifications:
(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 Division,"Method for Determining the
Potential(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 SASTM 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.
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c. Foundations, Deep Support Components. Deep support components 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 under reamed concrete piers.
(2) Drilled and 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 approved type.
Approved types are listed below. In this list,types of reinforcement are defined and
described in FDO.
(1) Deformed bar reinforcing.
(2) Another type approved by special exception issued by the BSC. See "h,"below.
e. Observation& Certification. Each foundation must be professionally 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 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,dimension, structural elements,attachments, etc.
before the work is covered or concrete is place. (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:
(i) refer to and be based upon the professional observations 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 from and content as may be specified by the
building official,
(3) Certifications may:
(i) rely in part upon and attached certification by a RLGE,as to
geophysical matters,and
(ii) rely in part upon an attached certification by an A2LA Lab,as to
materials testing;and
(iii) be expressed as a professional opinion based on the RLPE's
knowledge, information and belief that does not constitute aguarantee
or warranty,express or implied..
Before framing or other work commences atop a foundation(and before the 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 may-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. Special Exceptions. The BSC may issue a special exception from 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 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.
CHARTER AND ORDINANCES, City of West University Place, Texas November 22,2005 Page S-5
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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.
4. All concrete piers,footings and foundations must be cured for at least 72 hours before any
significant load is placed on them.
5. All walls and ceilings within a R-1,R-2, R-3 and R-4 type occupancy shall be sheathed with Type
X gypsum board at least 5/8-inch(15.9 mm)thick. Exception: Where this code(IBC)requires
otherwise for moisture protection.
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 study dated April
2000,as amended and revised through the date this edition of the IBC is adopted.
8. In Section 3410.2,the blank date shall mean the date this edition of the IBC is adopted.
International Energy Conservation Code,2000 2003 Ed.,International Code Council,Inc.
1. The administrative officer is the building official. All appeals,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 Section 388.02,TEX.HEALTH&SAFETY CODE)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.
International Fire Code,2000 2003 Ed.,International Code Council,Inc.
1. The fire code 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 6 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 code 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 geographic limits referred to in Section 3204.3.1.1(flammable cryogenic fluids),
3404.2.9.5.1(Class I and Class II liquids),3406.2.4.4(Class I and Class II liquids)or
3804.2(liquefied petroleum gas)shall be the City limits.
4. Explosives and fireworks,as defined in Chapter 33,are prohibited within the City limits.
5. Notwithstanding Section 2206.7.6(relating to fuel delivery),"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 A(Board of Appeals),E(Hazard Categories), F(Hazard Ranking)and G
(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 legible and visible from the street or road fronting
the property. These numbers shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be
Arabic numerals or alphabet letters. 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."
International Fuel Gas Code,20002003 Ed.,International Code Council, Inc.
1. The administrative officer and code official is the building official. Chapter 6 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 103, 106 and 109.
3. Even if permitted by this code,copper tubing shall not be used for the yard service line.
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.
6. Even if 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.
International Mechanical Code,20002003 Ed.,International Code Council,Inc.
1. The administrative officer and code official is the building official. All appeals,hearings,
variances etc. are handled by the BSC.
2. Add to Section 306.3:"There must be a permanently-installed stairway,either fixed or folding,to
serve attic space where appliances or equipment are located."
3. Add to Section 603: "All return air ducts must be installed so as to be
serviceable without the use of a portable ladder of the finished floor in all new residential
construction and wherever possible in existing buildings."
4. Delete: Appendix B(Recommended Permit Fee Schedule).
International Plumbing Code,20002003 Ed.,International Code Council,Inc.
1. The administrative officer and code official is the building official. Chapter 6 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 P103,P106 and P109 and Appendices PA(Plumbing Permit Fee Schedule)and
PG(Vacuum Drainage System).
3. Add at the beginning of Section 303.1:"Even if permitted by this code(IPC),none of the
following is allowed for use in the City: Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene(ABS)pipe or fittings,
polyethylene pipe or fittings,Type M copper,lead-based pipe,aluminum DWV pipe or
components,or air admittance valves."
4. Even if permitted by this code(IPC), PVC and CPVC type water pipe and fittings are not allowed
for use in the City.Exception: PVC water pipe may be used where permitted by this code(IPC),
but only if: (i)it is installed underground and(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).
5. Even if permitted by this code(IPC),wet venting shall not be allowed except when authorized by
the BSC,as a special exception for hardship and unusual cases.
6. Amend Section 1101.2 to read in its entirety as follows: "The provisions of this chapter are
CHARTER AND ORDINANCES, City of West University Place, Texas November 22,2005 Page S-7
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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.
International Residential Code,2000 2003 edition,International Code Council,Inc..
1. The administrative officer is the building official. All appeals,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 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 F(Radon Control Methods),I(Private Sewage Disposal),and E
(Manufactured Housing Used as Dwellings).
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 R301.2(I). CLIMATIC AND GEOGRAPHIC DESIGN CRITERIA
GROUND SNOW LOAD:0 AIR FREEZING INDEX: 50 BF DAYS
WIND SPEED(MPH): 110 MEAN ANNUAL TEMP: 68 DEG F
SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORY:A SUBJECT TO DAMAGE FROM:
WINTER DESIGN TEMPERATURE:32 DEGREES F WEATHERING: NEGLIGIBLE
ICE SHIELD UNDERLAYMENT:NOT REOUIRED FROST LINE: 6"
FLOOD HAZARDS:MAP EFFECTIVE DATE. TERMITE: VERY HEAVY
APRIL 2000 DECAY: MOD TO SEVERE
8. In Section P2603.6.1 insert 12"for minimum depth of cover for a sewer line.
9. In Section P3103.1 insert 12"for a minimum height above the roofline for a vent termination.
(BOCA)National Building Code, 1996 Ed.,Building Officials&Code Administrators International,
Inc.
Only Sections 3108(Radio And Television Towers)and 3109(Radio And Television Antennas),
together with any necessary definitions or interpretative aids,are adopted. See Subchapter G of
Chapter 6 of this Code.
National Electrical Code,2002 edition,National Fire Protection Association,("NEC")
1.The administrative officer and chief electrical inspector is the building official. All appeals,hearings,
variances etc. are handled by the BSC.
2. See Chapter 8 of this Code for various provisions which override or supplement the NEC.
• •
• - ' ' • • • • International Property•
Maintenance Code,2003 Ed., International Code Council,Inc.
1.The administrative officer is the building official. All hearings, variances etc. are handled by the BSC
Page 9
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\forms\BDF-302(11-05) FOUNDATION CERTIFICATE
Unless otherwise indicated, word and phrases used in this document have the same meanings as in The Technical Codes Schedule of the Code of
Ordinances("Foundation Ordinance')of the City of West University Place, Texas("City').
Subject: New foundation built at the site described below("New Foundation")
Address of site: Legal description of the site:
Building Permit No: Permittee:
CERTIFICATION: By signing below, I certify as follows(check applicable sections):
( ) I am an"RLPE"as defined in the Foundation Ordinance. ["RLPE"means a licensed or registered professional engineer of the State of
Texas who is:(I)listed with the State Board of Professional Engineers in either the civil or structural branch of engineering(but,from and after May I,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.. .)
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.]
( ) Observations of the New Foundation:
( ) were performed either by me or by one or more persons under my direct supervision and control whose
professional qualifications were approved by me;
( ) included actual measurement of piers, fill,compaction,reinforcement, forms, materials, dimensions,
structural elements, attachments, etc. before the work was covered or concrete was placed (Note:
dimensions of an underground element may have been measured or estimated from the forms, boring or
cavity for the element, before pouring or filling);
( ) were performed continuously during placement of concrete; and
( ) were documented in a form and manner approved by the building official of the City.
( ) Referring to and based upon the professional observations described above,the New Foundation complies with
the plans and specifications last approved by the building official(with any field changes that were ordered by me
and reported to the building official and that comply with applicable regulations). This is based upon my
professional opinion and does not constitute a guarantee or warranty,expressed or implied.
( ) This certification does not rely upon any other certification, except as indicated below:
optional, with attachment( ) This certification relies in part upon an attached certification by a RLGE, as to
geophysical matters.
optional, with attachment( ) This certification relies in part upon an attached certification by an A2LA Lab, as
to materials testing.
Name of certifying RLPE(printed): Date signed:
Employed by(name of registered engineering firm):
Signature of RLPE: Texas Registration Number:
ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF FILING. The building official of the
City acknowledges that this certification was duly filed as required by
the Foundation Ordinance.
By:
Date acknowledged:
(SEAL)must be legible
• •
Ordinance No. 1824
AN ORDINANCE RELATING TO STRUCTURAL FRAMING AND RELATED
ELEMENTS; AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF
WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE, TEXAS; AND CONTAINING FINDINGS AND
PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE SUBJECT.
WHEREAS, the building official of the City has proposed certain amendments to
the Technical Codes Schedule; and
WHEREAS, such amendments were referred to the Building & Standards
Commission, which has recommended them for consideration and adoption by the City
Council:
NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
UNIVERSITY PLACE:
Section 1. The Technical Codes Schedule of the Code of Ordinances of the City
of West University Place, Texas is hereby amended as set out in Appendix A, which is
attached to and made a part of this ordinance.
Section 2. All ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict with this Ordinance
are repealed to the extent of the conflict only.
Section 3. If any word, phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph, section or other
part of this Ordinance or the application thereof to any person or circumstance, shall
ever be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction,
neither the remainder of this Ordinance, nor the application of such word, phrase,
clause, sentence, paragraph, section or other part of this Ordinance to any other
persons or circumstances, shall be affected thereby.
Section 4. The City Council officially finds, determines and declares that a
sufficient written notice of the date, hour, place and subject of each meeting at which
this Ordinance was discussed, considered or acted upon was given in the manner
required by the Texas Open Meetings Act, as amended, and that each such meeting
has been open to the public as required by law at all times during such discussion,
consideration and action. The City Council ratifies, approves and confirms such notices
and the contents and posting thereof.
Section 5. This Ordinance shall take effect on the tenth day following its
publication, as provided in the City Charter ("Effective Date"). This Ordinance shall
apply to offenses committed on or after the Effective Date. For this purpose, an offense
Page 1
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is committed after the Effective Date if any element of the offense occurs on or after the
Effective Date. Other offenses are covered by the ordinances in effect at the time, and
such ordinances are continued in effect for that purpose.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED ON FIRST READING on
2006.
Councilmembers Voting Aye:
Councilmembers Voting No:
Councilmembers Absent:
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED ON SECOND AND FINAL READING
AND SIGNED on , 2006.
Councilmembers Voting Aye:
Councilmembers Voting No:
Councilmembers Absent:
Attest: Signed:
City Secretary (Seal) Mayor
Recommended:
City Manager
Approved as to legal form:
City Attorney
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Appendix A
Add a new section 5b to the list of special
provisions for the International Building Code,
2003 Ed., and re-title and renumber section 5a,
as follows:
International Building Code,2003 Ed., International Code Council, Inc.
* * *
5. a. Gypsum Board. All walls and ceilings within a R-1, R-2, R-3 and R-4 type
occupancy shall be sheathed with Type X gypsum board at least 5/8-inch (15.9 mm)
thick. Exception: Where this code (IBC, IRC) requires otherwise for moisture protection.
b. Structural Elements;Enzineering, Etc.
A. Scope.
(1) The structural elements for the following must meet the criteria in this
section, as applicable:
(a) each new building (and each addition to an existing building)
containing habitable space and having either a gross floor area of
485 square feet or more or a floor higher than four feet; and
(b) each accessible deck,porch, balcony, walkway and similar
structure with a finished floor height greater than four feet. (Note:
Unless otherwise defined, "height" is measured from the
"standard base level" as provided in the Zoning Ordinance.
c2) This section does not apply to foundation elements observed and certified
under another section.
B. Definitions. In this section:
"A2LA Lab"means a laboratory accredited by the American Association for
Laboratory Accreditation on the basis of ISO/IEC 17025:1999 ("general
requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories").
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"RLPE"means a registered or licensed professional engineer of the 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 May 1, 2006, listing
in the structural branch is required);
(h) 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 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.
C. Engineering; Plans &Specifications. Structural elements must be 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.
D. Specific Requirements.
(1) Framing; Sheathing. All framing must include full exterior 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.
(2) Trusses, Joists, Etc.
(a) The species and grade of all lumber used for trusses,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
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any other truss not already certified as meeting such TPI requirements).
must be included in the plans and specifications.
E. Observation & Certification. Structural elements must be professionally observed
and must be certified by an RLPE, as more fully described below:
(1) Observations must:
(a) be performed either by the certifying RLPE or by one or 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:
(a) refer to and be based upon the professional 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:
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(a) -rely in part upon attached certifications by: (i) an A2LA 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
(h) 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..
Before any a beam,joist, rafter,truss, weld, high-strength bolt or 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.
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. Special Exceptions. The BSC may issue a special exception from any
requirement in subsection"a"through"d", above, but only upon a showing that:
(1) the requirement will not affect life safety or the performance of 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 the
applicant provide supporting_engineering data and opinion, and the BSC may
impose conditions to carry out the purpose and intent of applicable regulations.
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FRAMING CERTIFICATE
Unless otherwise indicated, word and phrases used in this document have the same meanings as in The Technical Codes Schedule of the Code of Ordinances
("Foundation Ordinance')of the City of West University Place, Texas("City").
Subject: New structural frame built at the site described below ("New Structural Frame")
Address of site: Legal description of the site:
Building Permit No: Permittee:
CERTIFICATION: By signing below, I certify as follows(check applicable sections):
( ) I am an"RLPE"as defined in the Structural Framing Ordinance. ("RLPE"means a registered or licensed professional engineer of
the State of Texas who is:(I)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),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.]
( ) Observations of the New Structural Frame:
( ) were performed either by me or by one or more persons under my direct supervision and control whose
professional qualifications were approved by me;
( ) included actual observations of structural elements and attachments in crawl spaces before they are
covered by floors or other materials.
( ) include actual observations of each beam,joist, rafter, truss and similar element, including each related
weld and high-strength bolt:
a) 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
b) before the item is covered.
( ) were documented in a form and manner approved by the building official of the City.
( ) Referring to and based upon the professional observations described above,the New Structural Frame complies
with the plans and specifications last approved by the building official(with any field changes that were ordered
by me and reported to the building official and that comply with applicable regulations). This is based upon my
professional opinion and does not constitute a guarantee or warranty, expressed or implied.
( ) This certification does not rely upon any other certification, except as indicated below:
optional, with attachment( ) This certification relies in part upon an attached certification by an A2LA Lab, as
to materials testing.
optional, with attachment( ) This certification relies in part upon an attached certification by an inspector
certified by the City of Houston or in compliance with Section 1704.3.3 of the
IBC, as to welds or high-strength bolts.
Name of certifying RLPE(printed): Date signed:
Employed by (name of registered engineering firm):
Signature of RLPE: Texas Registration Number:
(SEAL)must be legible
ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF FILING.The building official of the City acknowledges that this
certification was duly filed as required by the Structural Framing Ordinance.
By:
Date acknowledged: