HomeMy Public PortalAboutOrdinance No. 1110-08 05-27-2008 1110-08
CITY OF RICHLAND HILLS ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF RICHLAND HILLS ADOPTING THE
2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE, THE 2006 INTERNATIONAL
FIRE CODE, THE 2006 LIFE SAFETY CODE; AND THE 2006
INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE; PROVIDING FOR
THE MODIFICATION OF SUCH CODES TO INCORPORATE VARIOUS
LOCAL AMENDMENTS; PROVIDING FOR RECORDING OF THE CODES
AS A PUBLIC RECORD; PROVIDING THAT THIS ORDINANCE SHALL
BE CUMULATIVE OF ALL ORDINANCES; PROVIDING A
SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY FOR
VIOLATIONS; PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR
PUBLICATION IN PAMPHLET FORM; PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION
IN THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
WHEREAS, the City of Richland Hills is a home rule city acting under its charter adopted
by the electorate pursuant to Article XI, Section 5 of the Texas Constitution and Chapter 9 of the
Local Government Code; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Richland Hills desires to adopt the 2006 versions
of the International Building Code, International Fire Code, International Life Safety Code, and the
International Property Maintenance Code; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Richland Hills desires to provide for local
modifications reflecting the particular needs of the City of Richland Hills as deemed appropriate,
specifically, and amendment to ;and
WHEREAS, the North Central Texas Council of Governments has suggested and
promulgated proposed local amendments to the various above-referenced codes to provide for the
particular needs of area municipalities, and still provide uniformity in code regulation in the area;
and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Richland Hills desires to adopt the proposed
local amendments as provided herein;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
RICHLAND HILLS, TEXAS:
SECTION L
ADOPTION OF 2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE
The 2006 Edition of the International Building Code is hereby adopted as the official building
code of the City of Richland Hills, Texas, and is fully incorporated by reference as though copied
into this ordinance in its entirety. The material contained in such code shall not be included in the
formal municipal codification of ordinances but shall be maintained as a public record in the office
of the City Secretary and will be available for public inspection and copying during regular business
hours.
SECTION 2.
ADOPTION OF LOCAL AMENDMENTS TO INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE,
WITH SELECTION OF OPTION B
The 2006 Edition of the International Building Code, as adopted herein is hereby amended
by adoption of those local amendments shown on Exhibit A attached hereto and incorporated herein
by reference, and where options are indicated in such local amendments, Option B is hereby selected
in each instance.
SECTION 3.
ADOPTION OF 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE
The 2006 Edition of the International Fire Code is hereby adopted as the official fire code
of the City of Richland Hills, Texas, and is fully incorporated by reference as though copied into this
ordinance in its entirety. The material contained in such code shall not be included in the formal
municipal codification of ordinances but shall be maintained as a public record in the office of the
City Secretary and will be available for public inspection and copying during regularbusiness hours.
SECTION 4.
ADOPTION OF LOCAL AMENDMENTS TO INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE,
WITH SELECTION OF OPTION B
The 2006 Edition of the International Fire Code, as adopted herein is hereby amended by
adoption of those local amendments shown on Exhibit B attached hereto and incorporated herein by
reference, and where options are indicated in such local amendments, Option B is hereby selected
in each instance.
SECTION 5.
ADOPTION OF LOCAL AMENDMENTS
The 2006 Edition of the International Building Code and the 2006 Edition of the International
Fire Code, as adopted previously, are also hereby amended by adoption of the following additional
local amendments:
1. Notwithstanding any provision of the Fire Code or Building Code to the
contrary, any building which was constructed and for which a certificate of
occupancy was issued prior to October 25, 2005 and which contains 12,000
square feet or less under roof need not contain an automatic sprinkler system,
unless such building is used, in whole or in part, for the storage of hazardous
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materials as defined in the Fire Code, or is, in whole or in part, any of the
following occupancies, as defined in the Fire Code: Group F-1 (Moderate-
Hazard Factory Industrial), Group H (High Hazard) Group I, (Institutional),
or Group S-1 (Moderate-Hazard Storage);
2. Notwithstanding any provision of the Fire Code or Building Code to the
contrary, any building which was constructed and for which a certificate of
occupancy was issued prior to October 25, 2005 and which contains more
than 12,000 square feet under roof need not contain an automatic sprinkler
system, except in the following instances:
a. Such building is used, in whole or in part, for the storage of
hazardous materials as defined in the Fire Code, or is, in whole or in
part, any of the following occupancies, as defined in the Fire Code:
Group F-1 (Moderate-Hazard Factory Industrial), Group H (High
Hazard) Group I, (Institutional), or or Group S-1 (Moderate-Hazard
Storage);
b. Such building is determined to be or have been vacant, abandoned, or
which is not being currently occupied by the owner or a tenant, on a
continuous basis for a period of more than 180 consecutive days, as
determined by the Chief Building Official or the Fire Chief, or their
designees.
SECTION 6.
ADOPTION OF 2006 INTERNATIONAL LIFE SAFETY CODE
The 2006 International Life and Safety Code is hereby adopted as the official life safety code
of the City of Richland Hills, Texas, and is fully incorporated by reference as though copied into this
ordinance in its entirety. The material contained in such code shall not be included in the formal
municipal codification of ordinances but shall be maintained as a public record in the office of the
City Secretary and will be available for public inspection and copying during regular business hours.
SECTION 7.
ADOPTION OF 2006 INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE
The 2006 International Property Maintenance Code is hereby adopted as the official property
maintenance code of the City of Richland Hills, Texas, and is fully incorporated by reference as
though copied into this ordinance in its entirety. The material contained in such code shall not be
included in the formal municipal codification of ordinances but shall be maintained as a public
record in the office of the City Secretary and will be available for public inspection and copying
during regular business hours.
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SECTION 8.
MAINTENANCE OF CODES AS PUBLIC RECORDS
The material contained in Exhibits A, B and C to this ordinance, although fully adopted and
incorporated by reference, shall not be included in the formal municipal codification of ordinances.
The material contained in Exhibits A, B and C shall instead by maintained as a public record in the
office of the City Secretary and the Chief Building Official. These exhibits will be available for
public inspection and copying during regular business hours. The purpose of maintaining these
records separate and apart from the municipal codification is to avoid the inclusion of detailed
technical construction materials, subj ect to frequent change, which would unreasonably lengthen the
code.
SECTION 9.
ADDITIONAL LOCAL AMENDMENTS CONTEMPLATED
The City of Richland Hills may from time to time determine that additional local
modifications to the codes adopted herein are necessary and appropriate to meet the unique building
needs of the City of Richland Hills. To effectuate modifications, the city council may enact
individual ordinances amending this ordinance fully setting forth the change to be made in the
specific code. Such subsequent amendments shall be consolidated as an exhibit to this ordinance,
and shall be maintained as a public record in the office of the city secretary.
SECTION 10.
PROVISIONS CUMULATIVE BUT CONFLICTING ORDINANCES REPEALED
This Ordinance shall be cumulative of all provisions of all existing ordinances and of the
Code of Ordinances of the City of Richland Hills, Texas, as amended, except where the provisions
of this ordinance are in direct conflict with the provisions of such existing ordinances and code, in
which event the conflicting provisions of such ordinances and Code are hereby repealed.
SECTION 11.
PROVISIONS SEVERABLE
It is hereby declared to be the intention of the City Council that the phrases, clauses,
sentences, paragraphs and sections of this Ordinance are severable, and if any phrase, clause,
sentence, paragraph or section of this Ordinance shall be declared unconstitutional by the valid
judgment or decree of any court of competent jurisdiction, such unconstitutionality shall not affect
any of the remaining, phrase, clauses, sentences, paragraphs or sections of this Ordinance since the
same would have been enacted by the City Council without incorporation in this Ordinance of any
such unconstitutional phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph or section.
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SECTION 12.
PENALTY
Any person, firm or corporation who violates, disobeys, omits, neglects or refuses to comply
with or who resists the enforcement of any of the provisions of this Ordinance shall be fined no more
than Two Thousand Dollars and no cents ($2,000.00) for all violations involving zoning, fire safety
or public health and sanitation, including dumping or refuse, and shall be fined not more than Five
Hundred Dollars and no cents ($500.00) for all other violations of this Ordinance. Each day that a '
violation is permitted to exist shall constitute a separate offense.
SECTION 13.
PREVIOUSLY ACCRUING RIGHTS AND REMEDIES SAVED
All rights and remedies of the City of Richland Hills, Texas, are expressly saved as to any
and all violations of the provisions of the Building Code, Electrical Code, Energy Code or any other
ordinances affecting such codes which have accrued at the time of the effective date of this
Ordinance; and, as to such accrued violations and all pending litigation, both civil and criminal,
whether pending in court or not, under such ordinances same shall not be affected by this Ordinance
but maybe prosecuted until final disposition by the courts.
SECTION 14.
PUBLICATION
The City Secretary of the City of Richland Hills is directed to publish the caption, penalty
clause, publication clause and effective date of this ordinance in one issue of the official city
newspaper as authorized by Section 52.013 of the Local Government Code.
SECTION 15.
PUBLICATION IN PAMPHLET FORM
The City Secretary of the City of Richland Hills is hereby authorized to publish this
ordinance in book or pamphlet form for general distribution among the public, and the operative
provisions of this ordinance as so published shall be admissible in evidence in all courts without
further proof than the production thereof.
SECTION 16.
EFFECTIVE DATE
This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect form and after its passage and publication as
provided by law, and it is so ordained.
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PASSED AND APPROVED ON THISD~~ DAY OF , 2008.
HONORABLE DAVID . RAGAN, MAYOR
ATTEST:
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A CANTU, CITY SECRETARY ~
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EFFECTNE DATE: ~ ~ " r ~ ~ y=
APPROVED T FO AND LEGALITY. !~~~~,,,~llll~tt~~~~~~`
°
TIM G. SRALLA, CITY ATTORNEY
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EXHIBIT A
LOCAL AMENDMENTS OF
THE CITY OF RICHLAND HILLS, TEXAS
TO 2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE
Recommended Amendments to the
2006 International Building Code
North Central Texas Council of Governments region
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2006 International Building Code are hereby
amended as follows: Standard type is text from the IBC. Underlined type is text inserted. '
'^°^'~F~"^oy„
. A double asterisk at the beginning of a section identifies an amendment
carried over from the 2003 edition of the code and a triple asterisk identifies a new or revised amendment
with the 2006 code.
Explanation of Options A and B:
Please note that as there is a wide range in fire fighting philosophies /capabilities of cities across the
region, OPTION "A" and OPTION `B" are provided in the Fire and Building Code amendments.
Jurisdictions should choose one or the other based on their fighting philosophies /capabilities when
adopting code amendments
*~`Section 101.4• chan a to read as follows:
9
101.4 Referenced codes. The other codes listed in Sections 101.4.1 through 101.4.7 and referenced
elsewhere in this code, when specifically adopted, shall be considered part of the requirements of this
code to the prescribed extend of each such reference. Whenever amendments have been adopted to the
referenced codes and standards each reference to said code and standard shall be considered to
reference the amendments as well. Any reference to NFPA 70 or the ICC Electrical Code shall mean the
Electrical Code as adopted.
(Reason: Legal wording to recognize locally adopted codes and amendments adopted with referenced
codes.)
""`Section 109.3.5; delete.
(Reason: Lath or gypsum board inspections are not normally performed in this area.)
I~
Option A
'H`Secfion 202; add a new definition fo read as follows:
HIGH-RISE BUILDING. A building having any floor used for human occupancy located more than 75 feet
(22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
Option B
**Section 202; add a new definition to read as follows:
HIGH-RISE BUILDING. A building having any floor used for human occupancy located more than 55 feet
X16 764 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
(Reason: To define high-rise, as it influences sprinkler requirement thresholds based on the fire fighting
capabilities of a jurisdiction.)
North Central Texas 1 September 2007
2006 IBC amendments
***Section 304.1; add the following to the list of occupancies:
Fire stations
Police stations with detention facilities for 5 or less
(Reason: Consistent with regional practice dating back to the legacy codes.)
Option A
**Section 403.1; no change required:
403.1 Applicability. The provisions of this section shall apply to buildings with an occupied floor located
more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
I~
Option B
**5ection 403.1; change to read as follows:
403.1 Applicability. The provisions of this section shall apply to buildings with an occupied floor located
more than 75 55 feet (2~8 16 764 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
(Reason: To correct and clarify definition of high-rise for Option B jurisdictions.)
**Section 403.1, exception #3; change to read as follows:
3. Open air portions of buildings i~?iidiAgs with an occupancy in Group A-5 in accordance with
Section 303.1 '
(Reason: To clarify enclosed portions of skyboxes and restaurants shall still be considered as high-rise
construction.) '
**Section 403.2, exception #2; delete.
(Reason: To provide adequate fire protection to enclosed areas.)
**Section 404.1.1; change definition of "Atrium" as follows:
ATRIUM. An opening connecting i?wre three or more stories {Balance remains unchanged}
(Reason: Code is too restrictive. Section 1020 permits unenclosed two story stairways under certain
circumstances.)
North Central Texas 2 September 2007
2006 lBC amendments
'k''`Section 406.1.4; add item #4 to read as follows:
4. A separation is not reauired between a Group R-2 and U carport provided that the carport is
non-combustible and entirely open on all sides and that the distance between the two is at least
10 feet (3048 mm)
(Reason: Reflects regional practice.)
***Section 406.2.7 Change reference section as follows:
406.2.7 Mixed Separation. Parking garages shall be separated from other occupancies in accordance
with Section 508.
(Reason: Section 508 provides a more complete range of options for separation. Parking garages are
sometimes an incidental use and sometimes a separate occupancy.)
*"Secfion 406.6.1; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
This occupancy shall include garac1es involved in servicing of motor vehicles for items such as lube
changes inspections. windshield repair or replacement. shocks, minor part replacement and other such
non-major repair. When the repair garage is only involved in such minor repair. it need not comply with
Section 406.6.2.
(Reason: To further clarify types of service work allowed in a repair garage, as well as to correspond with
definition in the IFC.)
**Section 506.2.2; add a sentence to read as follows:
In order to be considered as accessible if not in direct contact with a street or fire lane a minimum 10-
foot wide pathwav from the street or approved fire lane shall be provided for hose lay measurement
pathwav reauirementsJ
(Reason: To define what is considered accessible. Consistent with regional amendment to IFC 503.1.1.) j
***Section 508.2.1, change to read as follows:
508.2.1 Occupancy Classification. An incidental use area shall be classified in accordance with the
occupancy of that portion of the building in which it is located_
Exception: Incidental use areas within and serving a dwellincl unit are not required to complywith
this section.
(Reason: To be consistent with 2006 I.B.C. reference sections.)
***Section 508.3.1 Exception #2: Change to read as follows:
Assembly areas that are accessory to Group E Occupancies are not considered separate occupancies
except when applying the assembly occupancy requirements of Chapters 10 and 11.
North Central Texas 3 September 2007
2006 IBC amendments
(Reason: The committee determined that the exiting requirements for Group A occupancies should apply
to assembly occupancies in schools.)
**Table 602; amend footnote b by the addition of the following sentence:
b. For special requirements for Group U occupancies see Section 406.1.2. Group R-3 and
Group U when used as accessory to Group R-3 as applicable in 101.2 shall not be
required to have afire-resistance rating where fire separation distance is 3 feet or more.
Grou~R-2 and Group U carport as applicable in 406.1.4 exception 4 shall be required to
have afire-resistance ratino where fire separation distance is 10 feet or less.
(Reason: Editorial; corresponds with regional amendment to 406.1.4).
**Section 705.11; change the exception to read as follows:
Exception: For other than hazardous exhaust ducts, °°°°^~,~t,=~,tio~ penetrations by ducts and air transfer
openings of {remainder of exception unchanged}.
(Reason: To distinguish that hazardous exhaust ducts are a special case to be treated differently.)
706.3.9; change to read as follows:
706.3.9 Fire areas. The fire barrier or horizontal assembly, or both, separating a
ess~aas~ occupancies into different fire areas shall have afire-resistance rating of not less than
that indicated in Table 706.3.9 for a sinole occupancy and the most restrictive value indicated in Table
706 3 9 shall apply to the entire building or portion thereof for a mixed occupancy.
(Reason: To address and to clearly define the minimum value of fire barriers separating mixed
occupancies fire areas.)
**Section 707.2; change exception number 7 as follows:
7. In other than Groups I-2 and I-3, a shaft enclosure is not required for a floor opening or an air transfer '
opening that complies with the following:
7.1. Does not connect more than two stories.
7.2. Is not part of the required means of egress system, except as permitted in Section 1020.1.
7.3. Is not concealed within the building construction.
7-6- 7.4 Is separated from floor openings and air transfer openings serving other floors by
construction conforming to required shaft enclosures.
7_5 Is limited to the same smoke compartment.
(Reason: To be consistent with regionally accepted practices.)
**Section 716.5.2; add exception #4 to read as follows:
4. In the duct penetration of the separation between the private oarape and its residence when
constructed in accordance with Section 406.1.4. exception #2.
(Reason: To exclude specific penetration from fire damper requirements.)
North Central Texas 4 September 2007
2006 IBC amendments
~"*i'Secfion 901.6.1.1 Standpipe Tesfing; add section fo read as follows:
901.6.1.1 Standpipe Testing. Building owners/managers must utilize a licensed fire protection
contractor to test and certify standpipe systems. In addition to the testing and maintenance requirements
of NFPA 25 applying to standpipe systems, the following additional requirements shall be applied to the
testing that is required every 5 years:
1. The _ piping between the Fire Department Connection (FDC) and the standpipe shall be
hydrostatically tested for all FDC's on any tvpe of standpipe system. Hydrostatic testing shall also
be conducted in accordance with NFPA 25 requirements for the different types of standpipe
systems.
2. For any manual (dry or wet) standpipe system not having an automatic water supply capable of
flowing water through the standpipe, the contractor shall connect hose from a fire hydrant or
portable pumping system (as approved by the fire code official) to each FDC. and flow water
through the standpipe svstem to the roof outlet to verify that each inlet connection functions
properly. There is no required pressure criteria at the outlet. Verify that check valves function
properly and that there are no closed control valves on the system.
3. Any pressure relief, reducing, or control valves shall be tested in accordance with the requirements
of NFPA 25.
4. If the FDC is not already provided with approved caps, the contractor shall install such caps for all
FDC's. Contact the Fire Marshal for additional information.
5. Upon successful completion of standpipe test, the contractor shall place a blue tap (as per "Texas
Administrative Code. Title 28. Insurance, Part I. Texas Department of Insurance. Chapter 34.
State Fire Marshal. Subchapter G. Fire Sprinkler Rules. 28 TAC § 34.720. Inspection, Test and
Maintenance Service (ITM) Tag") at the bottom of each standpipe riser in the building. An example
of this tap is located at the end of this SOP. The tag shall be check-marked as "Fifth Year" for Type
of ITM, and the note on the back of the tap shall read "5 Year Standpipe Test" at a minimum.
6. The contractor shall follow the procedures as required by "Texas Administrative Code, Title 28.
Insurance, Part I. Texas Department of Insurance. Chapter 34. State Fire Marshal, Subchapter G.
Fire Sprinkler Rules, 28 TAC" with regard to Yellow Taas and Red Tags or any deficiencies noted
during the testing, including the required notification of the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (Fire
Marshal .
7. Additionally, records of the testing shall be maintained by the owner and contractor. as required
by the State Rules mentioned above and NFPA 25.
8. Standpipe svstem tests where water will be flowed external to the building shall not be conducted
during freezing conditions or during the day prior to expected night time freezing conditions.
9. Contact the Fire Marshal for requests to remove existing fire hose from Class II and III standpipe
svstems where employees are not trained in the utilization of this fire fighting equipment. All
standpipe hose valves must remain in place and be provided with an approved cap and chain when
approval is given to remove hose by the fire code official.
(Reason: Increases the reliability of the fire protection system and re-emphasizes the requirements of
NFPA 25.)
North Central Texas 5 September 2007
2006 IBC amendments
'"'Section 901.7; change to read as follows:
901.7 Systems out of service. Where a required fire protection system is out of service or in the event
of an excessive number of activations, the fire department and the code official shall be notified
immediately and, where required by the code official, the building shall either be evacuated or an
approved fire watch shall be provided for all occupants left unprotected by the shut down until the fire
protection system has been returned to service.
(Reason: Gives Fire Chief more discretion. Requires adoption of definition amendment in Section 202.)
***Section 903.2; delete the exception.
(Reason: These areas pose a fire risk to the structural integrity of the building.)
**Add Section 903.2.8.3 to read as follows:
903 2 8 3Self-service storage facility. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all
self-service storage facilities.
Exception: One-story self-service storage facilities that have no interior corridors, with aone-
hourfire barrier separation wall installed between every storage compartment.
(Reason: Fire departments are unable to inspect these commercial occupancies and are unaware of the
contents being stored.)
Amend Section 903.2.10 to read as follows:
[F] 903.2.10 All occupancies except groups R-3 and U. An automatic
sprinkler system shall be installed in the locations set forth in Sections 903.2.10.1 through 903.2.10.1.3.
(Reason: Current title of windowless stories in all occupancies does not currently cover all the
subsections listed and referenced.
Option A
'"`Section 903.2.90; amend 903.2.10.3 and add 903.2.10.4, 903.2.10.5, and 903.2.10.6 as follows:
903.2.10.3 Buildings more than 55 feet in height. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed
throughout buildings with a floor level other than penthouses in compliance with Section 1509 of the
International Building Code. that is located 55 feet (16 764 mm) or
more above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
Exception:
2-0pen parking structures in compliance with Section 406.3.
North Central Texas 6 September 2007
2006 IBC amendments
903.2.10.4 Hiah-Piled Combustible Storage. For anv building with a clear height exceeding 12 feet
(4572 mm), see Chapter 23 to determine if those provisions apply
903.2.10.5 Spray Booths and Rooms. New and existing sprav booths and spraying rooms shall be
erotected bkan approved automatic fire-extinguishing svstem.
Option B
"'°Section 903.2.10; amend 903.2.10.3 and add 903.2.10.4, 903.2.10.5, and 903.2.10.6 as follows:
903.2.10.3 Buildings more than 5a 35 feet in height. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed
throughout buildings with a floor level, other than penthouses in compliance with Section 1509 of the
International Building Code, that is located a5 35 feet (~64 10
668mm) or more above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
Exception:
2-Open parking structures in compliance with Section 406.3.
903.2.10.4 Hiah-Piled Combustible Storage. For anv building with a clear height exceeding 12 feet
(4572 mm), see Chapter 23 to determine if those provisions apply.
903.2.10.5__Sprav Booths and Rooms. New and existing sprav booths and spraying rooms shall be
protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system.
903.2.10.6 Buildings Over 6.000 sg.ft. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all
buildings with a building area over 6,000 sa.ft. For the purpose of this provision, fire walls shall not define
separate buildings.
Exceptions:
1. Open parking garages in compliance with Section 406.3 of the International Building Code.
2. Group A-5 occupancies.
I~III
(Reason: Reflect local practices.)
**Section 903.3.1.1.1; change to read as follows:
903.3.1.1.1 Exempt locations. When approved by the code official, automatic A+~ternatis sprinklers shall
not be required in the following rooms or areas where such {bulk of section unchanged) ...because it
is damp, offire-resistance-rated construction or contains electrical equipment.
1. Any room where the application of water, or flame and water, constitutes a serious life or fire
hazard.
2. Any room or space where sprinklers are considered undesirable because of the nature of the
contents, when approved by the code official.
3. Generator and transformer rooms under the direct control of a public utility,, separated from the
remainder of the building by walls and floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assemblies having afire-
resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
(Reason: Gives more discretion to code official. Protects locations where fire risks are poorly addressed.)
North Central Texas 7 September 2007
2006 IBC amendments
**Section 903.3.5; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
Water supply as required for such systems shall be provided in conformance with the supply
requirements of the respective standards: however, every fire protection system shall be designed with a
10 psi safety factor.
(Reason: To define uniform safety factor.)
**Section 903.4; add a second paragraph after the exceptions to read as follows:
Sprinkler and standpipe system water-flow detectors shall be provided for each floor tap to the
sprinkler system and shall cause an alarm upon detection of water flow for more than 45 seconds. All
control valves in the sprinkler and standpipe svstems except for fire department hose connection valves
shall be electrically supervised to initiate a supervisory signal at the central station upon tampering
(Reason: To avoid significant water losses. Consistent with amendment to IFC 905.9.)
"`Section 903.4.2; add second paragraph to read as follows:
The alarm device required on the exterior of the building shall be a weatherproof horn/strobe notification
appliance with a minimum 75 candela strobe rating, installed as close as practicable to the fire
department connection.
(Reason: Fire department connections are not always located at the riser, this allows the fire department
faster access.)
**Add Section 903.6 to read as follows:
903.6 Spray booths and rooms. New and existing spray booths and spray rooms shall be protected by
an approved automatic fire-extin uishing system in accordance with Section 1504.
(Reason: Consistent with amendment to IFC 1504.)
*''`Section 905.2; change to read as follows:
905.2 Installation standards. Standpipe systems shall be installed in accordance with this section and
NFPA 14. Manual dry standpipe svstems shall be supervised with a minimum of 10 psig and a maximum
of 40 Asia air pressure with ahigh/low alarm.
(Reason: To define manual dry standpipe supervision requirements.)
"'H`Add Section 905.3.8: Building Area.
905.3.8: Building Area. In buildings exceeding 10.000 square feet in area per story, Class I automatic
wet or manual wet standpipes shall be provided where any portion of the building's interior area is more
than 200 feet (60960 mm) of travel, vertically and horizontally, from the nearest point of fire department
vehicle access.
North Central Texas 8 September 2007
2006 IBC amendments
Ex~e tion: Automatic dry and semi-automatic dry standpipes are allowed as provided for in
NFPA 14.
(Reason: Allows for the rapid deployment of hoselines to the body of the fire.)
Section 905.4, item #5; change to read as follows:
5. Where the roof has a slope less than four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33.3-percent slope),
each standpipe shall be provided with atwo-way hose connection located either {remainder of
paragraph unchanged}
(Reason: Reduced the amount of pressure required to facilitate testing, and provides backup protection
for fire fighter safety.)
**Section 905.9; add a second paragraph after the exceptions to read as follows:
Sprinkler and standpipe system water-flow detectors shall be provided for each floor tap to the
sprinkler system and shall cause an alarm upon detection of water flow for more than 45 seconds. All
control valves in the sprinkler and standpipe svstems except for fire department hose connection valves
shall be electrically supervised to initiate a supervisory signal at the central station upon tampering_
(Reason: To avoid significant water losses. Consistent with amendment to IFC 903.4.)
**Add Section 907.1.3 to read as follows:
907.1.3 Design Standards. All alarm svstems new or replacement serving 20 or more alarm actuating
devices shall be addressable fire detection systems. Alarm systems serving more than 40 smoke
detectors or more than 100 total alarm activating devices shall be analog intelligent addressable fire
detection systems.
Exception: Existing svstems need not comply unless the total building remodel or expansion
initiated after the effective date of this code, as adopted, exceeds 30% of the buildina. When
cumulative building remodel or expansion exceeds 50% of the building must comply within 18
months of permit application.
(Reason: Consistent with local practice.)
**Secfion 907.2.1 change to read as follows:
907.2.1 Group A. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group A occupancies having an
occupant load of 300 or more persons or more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit
discharae. Portions of Group E occupancies occupied for assembly purposes shall be provided with a
fire alarm system as required for the Group E occupancy.
(Reason: Increases the requirement is changed to be consistent with Group 8 requirement.)
North Central Texas 9 September 2007
2006 IBC amendments
**Section 907.2.3; change to read as follows:
907.2.3 Group E. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group E educational occupancies.
When automatic sprinkler systems or smoke detectors are installed, such systems or detectors shall be
connected to the building fire alarm system. An approved smoke detection svstem shall be installed in
Group E day care occupancies Unless separated by a minimum of 100' open space. all buildings,
whether portable buildings or the main building will be considered one building for alarm occupant load
consideration and interconnection of alarm systems.
(Reason: To distinguish educational from day care occupancy minimum protection requirements. Further,
to define threshold at which portable buildings are considered a separate building for the purposes of
alarm systems.)
**Secfion 907.2.3; change exception #1 and add exception #1.1 to read as follows:
1. Group E educational and day care occupancies with an occupant load of less than 50 when
provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
1 1 Residential In-Home daycare with not more than 12 children may use interconnected
single station detectors in all habitable rooms. (For care of more than five children 2 1/2
or less years of ape, see Section 907.2.6.)
(Reason: Consistent with Texas State laws concerning day care facility requirements.)
Option A
'"'Section 907.2.12; no change required:
907.2.12 High-rise buildings. Buildings having a floor used for human occupancy located more than 75
feet (22 860 mm} above the lowest level (balance unchanged)
Option B
**Section 907.2.12; change to read as follows:
907.2.12 High-rise buildings. Buildings having a floor used for human occupancy located more than 75
55 feet (2~8 16 764 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall be provided
with an automatic fire alarm system and an emergency voice/alarm communications system in
accordance with Section 907.2.12.2.
(Reason: To correct definition of high-rise for Option B jurisdictions.)
North Central Texas 10 September 2007
2006 IBC amendments
i`*Section 907.2.12, exception #3; change to read as follows:
3. Buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5 when used for open air seating: however, this exception
does not aggly to accessory uses including but not limited to sky boxes, restaurants and similarly
enclosed areas.
(Reason: To indicate that enclosed areas within open air seating type occupancies are not excepted from
automatic fire alarm system requirements.)
**Section 907.4; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
Manual alarm actuating devices shall be an approved double action type.
(Reason: Consistent with local requirements.)
Add Section 907.6.1 to read as follows:
907.6.1 Installation. All fire alarm systems shall be installed in such a manner that a failure of any single
initiating device or single open in an initiating circuit conductor will not interfere with the normal operation
of other such devices. All initiating circuit conductors shall be Class "A" wired with a minimum of six feet
separation between sugply and return circuit conductors. IDC -Class "A" Style D; SLC -Class "A" Style
6; NAC -Class "B" Style Y. The IDC from an addressable device used to monitor the status of a
suppression system may be wired Class B, Style B provided the distance from the addressable device is
within 10-feet of the suppression system device.
(Reason: To provide uniformity in system specifications and guidance to design engineers.)
Option A
'`*Section 907.8.2; no change required:
907.8.2 High-rise buildings. In buildings that have a floor located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above
the {remainder of section unchanged}.
Option B
**Section 907.8.2; change to read as follows:
907.8.2 High-rise buildings. In buildings that have a floor located more than ~5 55 feet (~9 16 764
mm) above the {remainder of section unchanged}.
(Reason: Correct definition of high-rise for Option B jurisdictions.)
North Central Texas 11 September 2007
2006 IBC amendments
***Section 910.1; Amend exception 2 to read as follows:
2. Where areas of buildings are equipped with early suppression fast-response (ESFR)
sprinklers, only manual smoke and heat vents shall be required within these areas~is
(Reason: Allows the fire department to control the smoke and heat during and after a fire event.)
***Secfion 910.2.4; Add Section 910.2.4 Group H, to read as follows:
910.2.4 Group H. Buildings and portions thereof used as a Group H occupancy as follows: '
1. In occupancies classified as Group H-2 or H-3. any of which are more than 15,000 square feet (1394
m2) in single floor area.
Exception: Buildinas of noncombustible construction containing only noncombustible materials.
2. In areas of buildings in Group H used for storing Class 2, 3 and 4 liquid and solid oxidizers, Class 1
and unclassified detonable organic peroxides. Class 3 and 4 unstable (reactive) materials, or Class 2
or 3water-reactive materials as required for ahigh-hazard commodity classification.
Exception: Buildings of noncombustible construction containina only noncombustible materials.
(Reason: Maintain the current level of protection as outlined in the 2003 Code.)
***Table 910.3; Change the title of the first row of the table to read as follows:
[Fi TABLE 910.3
REQUIREMENTS FOR DRAFT CURTAINS AND SMOKE AND HEAT VENTSe
MAXIMUM MAXIMUM
MINIMUM MAXIMUM
OCCUPANCY DESIGNATED AREA VENT- DISTANCE TO I
STORAGE DRAFT FORMED BY AREATO- SPACING OF
GROUP AND CURTAIN VENT VENTS FROM
COMMODITY HEIGHT DEPTH DRAFT FLOOR-AREA CENTERS WALL OR
(feet) CURTAINS RATIO DRAFT
CLASSIFICATION (feet) (feet) '
(square feet) CURTAINSb
(feet)
Group F-1 H - but ? 4d 50,000 1:100 120 60
and S-1
(Balance of
table remains
unchanged)
(Reason: Consistency with the amendment 910.2.4 to include Group H)
***Section 910.3.2.2; Add second paragraph to read as follows:
The automatic operating mechanism of the smoke and heat vents shall operate at a temperature
rating at least 100 degrees U (approximately 38 dearees CelsiusZgreaterthgn the temperature rating of
the sprinklers installed.
North Central Texas 12 September 2007
2006 IBC amendments
(Reason: Specifies a temperature range at which smoke and heat vents should activate in sprinklered
buildings to ensure that the sprinkler system has an opportunity to activate and control the fire prior to
vent operation. The intent is to allow the sprinkler system to operate prior to allowing the smoke and heat
vents to operate so as not to pose a detriment to the operation of the sprinkler system. This follows
recommendations indicated in NFPA 204, Section F.3 with regards to Design Considerations of smoke
and heat vents in sprinklered buildings. Full scale irre testing results have shown that smoke and heat
venting is potentially detrimental to the proper operation of the sprinkler system when vents are open prior
to sprinkler activation. This was a primary reason for removing smoke and heat venting requirements
with regards to ESFR sprinkler systems in Article 23 of the IFC for high-piled storage.)
'"'*Section 913• add secfion to read as follows: II'~
SECTION 913
FIRE PUMP ROOM
913.1 General. Where provided, fire pumps shall be installed in a room designed and constructed in
accordance with this section. Section 913 of the International Fire Code and NFPA 20.
When located on the around level at an exterior wall. the fire pump room shall be provided with an I,
exterior fire department access door that is not less than 3 ft. in width and 6 ft. - 8 in. in height. regardless I~
of any interior doors that are provided. A key box shall be provided at this door. as required by Section
506.1 of the International Fire Code.
Exception: When it is necessary to locate the fire pump room on other levels or not at an exterior
wall, the corridor leadindto the fire pump room access from the exterior of the building shall be
provided with equivalent fire resistance as that required for the pump room, or as approved by the fire
code official. Access keys shall be provided in the key box as required by Section 506.1 of the
International Fire Code.
(Reason: This requirement allows fire fighters safer access to the fire pump room. The requirement
allows access without being required to enter the building and locate the fire pump room interior access
door during a fire event. The exception recognizes that this will not always be a feasible design scenario
for some buildings, and as such, provides an acceptable alternative to protect the pathway to the fire
pump room.)
~I
***Section 1004.1.1; Delete exception as follows:
1004.1.1 Areas without fixed seating. The number of occupants shall be computed at the rate of one
occupant per unit of area as prescribed in Table 1004.1.1. For areas without fixed seating, the occupant
toad shall not be less than that number determined by dividing the floor area under consideration by the
occupant per unit of area factor assigned to the occupancy as set forth in Table 1004.1.1. Where an
intended use is not listed in Table 1004.1.1, the building ofFcial shall establish a use based on a listed
use that most nearly resembles the intended use.
(Reason: Consistent with local practice.)
North Central Texas 13 September 2007
2006 IBC amendments
**Section 1017.1; add an exception #5 to read as follows:
5.. In Group B office buildings, corridor walls and ceilings need not be of fire-resistive construction within
office spaces of a single tenant when the space is eauipped with an approved automatic fire alarm
system within the corridor. The actuation of any detector shall activate alarms audible in all areas served
by the corridor.
(Reason: To reduce redundant requirements in a single tenant situation. Consistent with regional
amendment to IFC 1017.1.)
Option A
**Section 1020.1.7; change to read as follows:
1020.1.7 Smokeproof enclosures. In buildings required to comply with Section 403 or 405, each of the
exits of a building that serves a storiesy where the floor surface is located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm)
above the lowest level of fire {remainder of section unchanged}
Option B
**Section 1020.1.7; change to read as follows:
1020.1.7 Smokeproof enclosures. In buildings required to comply with Section 403 or 405, each of the
exits of a building that serves a storiesy where the floor surface is located more than ~5 55 feet (~6
16 764 mm) above the lowest level of fire {remainder of section unchanged}.
(Reason: Correct dimension for Option 8 jurisdictions and clarify only one floor need be above the
threshold.)
**Section 1101.2; add an exception to read as follows:
Exception: Buildinas reoulated under State Law and built in accordance with State certified plans.
including any variances or waivers granted by the State, shall be deemed to be in compliance with the
reauirements of this Chapter.
(Reason: To accommodate buildings regulated under Texas State law.)
**Section 1109.2.1; change to read as follows:
1109.2.1 Unisex toilet and bathing rooms. In assembly and mercantile occupancies, an accessible
unisex toilet room shall be provided where an aggregate of six or more male aad or female water closets
is are ~ provided. In buildings of mixed occupancy, only those water closets {remainder of
section unchanged}.
(Reason: Amendment is necessary to coincide with amendments in IBC Chapter 29.)
North Central Texas 14 September 2007
2006 IBC amendments
**Section 1210.2, exception #2; change to read as follows:
2. Toilet rooms that are not accessible to the public and which have not more than one water closet,
provided that walls around urinals comply with the minimum surrounding material specified by Section
419.3 of the International Plumbing Code.
(Reason: Recognize the minimum wall material requirements of the IPC. Consistent with regional
amendment to IPC 419.3.)
**Table 1505.1; replace footnotes b and c with the following:
b. All individual replacement shingles or shakes shall be in compliance with the rating required III,
by this table.
c. Non-classified roof coverings shall be permitted on buildings of U occupancies having not
more than 120 sa.ft. of projected roof area. When exceeding 120 soft of projected roof area,
buildings of U occupancies may use non-rated non-combustible roof coverings.
(Reason: Conforms to local practice affording increased fire protection.)
~I
**Section 1505.7; delete.
(Reason: Conforms to local practice.)
**Add Section 2308.2.3 to read as follows:
2308.2.3 Application to engineered design. When accepted by the Building Official, any portion of this
section is permitted to apply to buildings that are otherwise outside the limitations of this section provided
that:
1. The resulting design will comply with the reauirements specified in Chapter 16:
2. The load limitations of various elements of this section are not exceeded; and i,
3. The portions of this section which will apply are identified by an engineer in the construction
documents.
(Reason: Allows engineer to reference Section 2308 for designs for wood structures like four story
apartment buildings; eliminates excessive engineering.)
**Section 2901.1; add a sentence to read as follows:
The provisions of this Chapter are meant to work in coordination with the provisions of Chapter 4 of the
International Plumbing Code. Should any conflicts arise between the two chapters, the Building Official
shall determine which provision applies.
(Reason: Gives building official discretion.)
North Central Texas 15 September 2007
2006 IBC amendments
Section 2902.1; change to read as follows and add sub sections:
2902.1 Minimum number of fixtures. Plumbing fixtures shall be provided for the type of occupancy and
in the minimum number as follows:
1. Assembly Occupancies: At least one drinking fountain shall be provided at each floor level in
an approved location.
Exception: A drinking fountain need not be provided in a drinking or dining
establishment.
2. Groups A, 8. F, H, I. M and S Occupancies: Buildings or portions thereof where persons are
employed shall be provided with at least one water closet for each sex except as provided for
in Section 2902.2.
3. Group E Occupancies: Shall be provided with fixtures as shown in Table 2902.1.
4. Group R Occupancies: Shall be provided with fixtures as shown in Table 2902.1.
It is recommended. but not required, that the minimum number of fixtures provided also comply
with the number shown in Table 2902.1. Types of occupancies not shown in Table 2902.1 shall be
considered individually by the g code official. The number of occupants shall be determined by this
code. Occupancy classification shalt be determined in accordance with Chapter 3.
(Reason: To allow flexibility for designer to consider speciilc occupancy needs.)
**Section 2902,6; add an exception to read as follows:
2902.6 Finish material. Finish materials shall comply with Section 1210.
(Reason: Consistent with regional amendments made to lPC Section 403.1.2.)
***Section 3109.1 ; add a section to read as follows:
3109.1 General. Swimming pools shall comply with the requirements of this section and other applicable
sections of this code. Provisions of this section shall not be deemed to nullify any provisions of state law
or state code.
(Reason: to recognize "state requirements')
END
North Central Texas 16 September 2007
2006 IBC amendments
II
~i
i
it
EXHIBIT B
LOCAL AMENDMENTS OF
THE CITY OF RICHLAND HILLS, TEXAS I~I
TO 2006 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE
Recommended Amendments to the
2006 International Fire Code
North Central Texas Council of Governments region
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2006 International Fire Code are hereby
amended as follows: Standard type is text from the IFC. Underlined tvpe is text inserted. t=+aed-~eugf~
A double asterisk at the beginning of a section identifies an amendment
carried over from the 2003 edition of the code and a triple asterisk identifies a new or revised amendment
with the 2006 code.
Explanation of Options A and B:
Please note that as there is a wide range in fire fighting philosophies /capabilities of cities across the
region, OPTION `A" and OPTION "B" are provided in the Fire and Building Code amendments.
Jurisdictions should choose one or the other based on their fighting philosophies /capabilities when
adopting code amendments.
Note: Fire sprinkler code provisions for single-family dwellings and duplexes may be found in the
International Residential Code.
***Section 102.1; add #5:
102.1 Construction and design provisions.
5. The provisions of this code apply to buildinQS built under the IRC and IBC.
(Reason: To clarify that the fire safety provisions of the fire code do apply to all construction.)
'"`Section 102.4; change fo read as follows:
102.4 Application of b~?ildiflg other codes. The design and construction of new structures shall comply
with this code, and other codes as applicable ,and any alterations,
additions, changes in use or changes in structures required by this code, which are within the scope of
the International Building Code, shall be made in accordance therewith.
(Reason: Clarification of requirements and that the IFC also applies to new residential construction.)
I
**Section 102.6; change fo read as follows:
102.6 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be
those that are listed in Chapter 45 and such codes, when specifically adopted, and standards shall be
considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference. Where
differences occur between the provisions of this code and the referenced standards, the provisions of this
code shall apply. Whenever amendments have been adopted to the referenced codes and standards.
each reference to said code and standard shall be considered to reference the amendments as well. Anv
reference to NFPA 70 or the ICC Electrical Code shall mean the Electrical Code as adopted.
(Reason: To be consistent with the State of Texas, other referenced codes must be specifically adopted.)
North Central Texas 1 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments
***Section 106.2; add Sections 106.2.1 and 106.2.2 as follows:
106.2.1 Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the permit holder or their duly authorized agent to
notify the fire code official when work is ready for inspection. It shall be the duty of the permit holder to
provide access to and means for inspections of such work that are required by this code.
106.2.2 Approval reauired. Work shall not be done beyond the point indicated in each successive
inspection without first obtaining the approval of the fire code official. The fire code official, upon
notification, shall make the requested inspections and shall either indicate the portion of the construction
that is satisfactory as completed, or notifythe permit holder or his or her agent wherein the same fails to
comply with this code. Anv portions that do not comply shall be corrected and such portion shall not be
covered or concealed until authorized by the fire code official.
(Reason: Clarifies that it is the permit holder's responsibility to notify the fire code official when fhe
installation is ready for appropriate inspection and before covering up any work.)
i`*Section 202; amend definition of Fire Watch as follows:
FIRE WATCH. A temporary measure intended to ensure continuous and systematic surveillance of a
building or portion thereof by one or more qualified individuals or standby personnel when reauired by the
fire code official, for the purposes of identifying and controlling fire hazards, detecting early signs of
unwanted fire, raising an alarm of fire and notifying the fire department.
(Reason: Clearly defines options to the fire department for providing a frre watch.)
Option A
**Section 202; add a new definition to read as follows:
HIGH-RISE BUILDING. A building having any floors used for human occupancy located more than 75
feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
Option B I~~,
'Section 202; add a new definition to read as follows:
HIGH-RISE BUILDING. A building having any floors used for human occupancy located more than 55
feet (16 764 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
(Reason: To provide a definition that does not exist in the code.)
North Central Texas 2 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments
***Section 202; add definitions as follows:
ADDRESSABLE FIRE DETECTION SYSTEM. Anv svstem capable of providing identification of each
individual alarm-initiating device. The identification shall be in plain English and as descriptive as possible
to specifically identify the location of the device in alarm. The svstem shall have the capability of alarm
verification.
ANALOG INTELLIGENT ADDRESSABLE FIRE DETECTION SYSTEM. Anv svstem capable of
calculating a change in value by directly measurable quantities (voltage, resistance, etc.) at the sensing
point. The physical analog may be conducted at the sensing point or at the main control panel. The
svstem shall be capable of compensating for long-term changes in sensor response while maintaining a
constant. sensitivity. The compensation shall have a preset point at which a detector maintenance signal
shall be transmitted to the control panel. The sensor shall remain capable of detecting and transmitting an
alarm while in maintenance alert.
SELF-SERVICE STORAGE FACILITY. Real property designed and used for the purpose of renting or
I_easina individual storage spaces to customers for the purpose of storing and removing personal property
on aself-service basis.
STANDBY PERSONNEL. Qualified fire service personnel, approved by the Fire Chief. When utilized, the
number required shall be as directed by the Fire Chief. Charges for utilization shall be as normally ~
calculated by the jurisdiction.
(Reason: To provide definitions that do not exist in the code.)
**Section 307.2; change to read as follows:
307.2 Permit required. A permit shall be obtained from the fire code official in accordance with Section
105.6 prior to kindling a fire for recognized silvicultural or range or wildlife management practices,
prevention or control of disease or pests, or open burning a-~ea€+re. Application for such approval shall
only be presented by and permits issued to the owner of the land upon which the fire is to be kindled.
Examples of state or local law, or regulations referenced elsewhere in this section may include but not be
limited to the following:
1. Texas Commission on Environmental Quality guidelines and/or restrictions.
2. State. County or Local temporary or permanent bans on open burning:
3. Local written policies as established by the Code Official
**Section 307.4; change to read as follows_
307.4 Location. The location for open burning shall not be less than S9 300 feet (a-d-~49 91 440 mm)
from any structure, and provisions shall be made to prevent the fire from spreading to within a8 300 feet
(4~~48 91 440 mm) of any structure.
(exceptions unchanged)
**Add Section 307.4.3 to read as follows:
307.4.3 Trench Burns. Trench burns shall be conducted in air curtain trenches and in accordance with I~
Section 307.2.
''"`Section 307.5; change to read as follows:
North Central Texas 3 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments
307.5 Attendance. Open burning, trench burns. bonfires or recreational fires shall be constantly
attended until the {remainder of section unchanged}.
(Reason: Amendments to 307.2, 307.4, 307.4.3 and 307.5 better explain current requirements and
recognize that jurisdictions have local established policies that best fit their environments.)
***Section 308.3.1; change to read as follows:
308.3.1 Open-flame cooking and heating devices. Open-flame cooking
devices, charcoal Grills, outdoor fireplaces and other similar devices used for cooking, heating or any
other purpose shalt not be eperated-located or used on combustible balconies, decks, or within 10 feet
(3048 mm) of combustible construction.
Exceptions:
1. One- and two-family dwellings.
2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an approved automatic
sprinkler system.
(Reason: Decrease fire risk in multi-family dwellings and minimizes ignition sources.)
***Section 308.3.1.1; Amended to add the following exceptions:
Exceptions:
1. One- and two-family dwellings ma~have containers with a water capacity not Greater than
20 pounds (9.08 kg) (nominal 8 pound (3.632 kg) LP-gas capacitvl with an aggregate
capacity not to exceed 100 Ibs (5 containers).
2. Other residential occupancies where buildings. balconies and decks are protected by an
approved automatic sprinkler system, may have containers with a water capacity not Greater
than 20 pounds (9.08 kg) (nominal 8 pound (3.632 kg) LP-gas capacityl, with an aggregate
capacity not to exceed 40 Ibs (2 containers).
(Reason: To clarify allowable limits for 1 & 2 family dwellings, and allow an expansion for sprinklered
multi-family uses. Clarification and defines container size residences are allowed.)
***Section 401.3; add Section 401.3.4 as follows:
401.3.4 Fire Alarms and Nuisance Alarms. False alarms and nuisance alarms shall not be given.
signaled or transmitted or caused or permitted to be Given, signaled or transmitted in any manner.
(Reason: Places the responsibility of the business or property owner to maintain their fire alarm systems
in approved condition. Allows the enforcement of `prohibition of false alarms". Replaces language lost
from the 1997 Code)
North Central Texas 4 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments
'`'*Section 503.1.1; add the following sentence to the first paragraph:
Except for single- or iwo-family residences, the path of measurement shall be along a minimum of a ten
feet (10'~wide unobstructed pathway around the external walls of the structure.
(Reason: Recognizes that the hose !ay provision can only be measured along a pathway that is wide
enough for fire fighter access.)
**Secfion 503.2.1; change to read as follows:
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 2A
24 feet 7315mm), except for approved security gates in accordance with Section 503.6, and an
unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 14 feet (4267 mm).
Exception: Vertical clearance may be reduced, provided such reduction does not impair access
by fire apparatus and approved signs are installed and maintained indicating the established
vertical clearance when approved.
*"`Section 503.2.2; change to read as follows: I
503.2.2 Authority. The fire code official shall have the authority to require an increase in the minimum
access widths and vertical clearances where they are inadequate for fire or rescue operations.
(Reason.• Amendments to 503.2.1 and 503.2.2 recognize that the equipment now used in fire fighting is
increasing in size. The code already recognizes that larger dimensions maybe required under Section
503.2.2. The amendments are to standardize fhe dimensions for this area. With the increase in fire
apparatus size, this will allow for the passage of two fire apparatus during a fire or EMS emergency.)
i"''Section 503.3; change fo read as follows:
503.3 Marking. Striping. signs, or other markings, when approved by the code official, shall be provided
for fire apparatus access roads to identify such roads or prohibit the obstruction thereof. Striping, signs
and other markings shall be maintained in a clean and legible condition at all times and be replaced or
repaired when necessary to provide adequate visibility.
L 1 Striping -Fire apparatus access roads shall be continuously marked by painted lines of red
traffic paint six inches (6") in width to show the boundaries of the lane. The words "NO PARKING
FIRE LANE" or "FIRE LANE NO PARKING" shall appear in four inch (4") white letters at 25 feet
intervals on the red border markings along both sides of the fire lanes. Where a curb is available.
the striping shall be on the vertical face of the curb.
f21 Signs -Signs shall read "NO PARKING FIRE LANE" or "FIRE LANE NO PARKING" and
shall be 12" wide and 18" high. Signs shall be painted on a white background with letters and
borders in red. using not less than 2" lettering. Signs shall be permanently affixed to a stationary
post and the bottom of the sign shall be six feet. six inches (6'6") above finished grade. Signs
shall be spaced not more than fifty feet (50') apart. Signs may be installed on permanent
buildings or walls or as approved by the Fire Chief.
(Reason: Establishes a standard method of marking.)
North Central Texas 5 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments
**Section 503.4; change to read as follows:
503.4 Obstruction of fire apparatus access roads. Fire apparatus access roads shall not be
obstructed in any manner, including the parking of vehicles. The minimum widths and clearances
established in Section 503.2.1 and any area marked as a fire lane as described in Section 503.3 shall be
maintained at all times.
(Reason: As originally worded, it implied that vehicles could be parked in the marked fire lane and not be
in violation if the minimum width is still maintained. Current accepted enforcement practice is to require
all of the marked fire lane to be maintained clear and unobstructed.)
***Section 505.1; replace to read as follows:
505.1 Address numbers. Approved numerals of a minimum 6" height and of a color contrasting with the
background designating the address shall be placed on all new and existing buildings or structures in a
position as to be plainly visible and legible from the street or road fronting the property and from all rear
alleyways /access.
Where buildings do not immediately front a street, approved 6 inch height building numerals or addresses
and 3-inch height suite /apartment numerals of a color contrasting with the background of the building
shall be placed on all new and existing buildings or structures. Numerals or addresses shall be posted on
a minimum 20 inch by 30 inch background on border.
Address numbers shall be Arabic numerals or alphabet letters. The minimum stroke width shall be 0.5
inches.
Exception: R-3 Single Family occupancies shall have approved numerals of a minimum 3'/
inches in height and a color contrasting with the background clearly visible and legible from the
street fronting the property and rear alleyway where such alleyway exists.
(Reason: To increase the minimum requirements for commercial and establish a minimum for single-
familyresidential.)
''**Add Section 511 Emergency Radio Communications to read as follows:
SECTION 511
EMERGENCY RADIO COMMUNICATIONS
511.1 Signal strength in buildings. In all new and existing buildings in which the type of construction or
distance from an operational emeraencv services antenna or dispatch site does not provide adequate
frequency or signal strength as determined by the code official, the building owner shall be responsible
for providing the equipment, installation and maintenance of said equipment in a manner to strengthen
the radio signal. The radio signal shall meet the minimum input /output strengths according to the
emergency radio system's provider and system manager.
(Reason: Ensure proper communication inside the building during emergency operations.)
North Central Texas 6 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments
**Section 704.1; change to read as follows:
704.1 Enclosure. Interior vertical shafts, including but not limited to stairways, elevator hoistways,
service and utility shafts, that connect two or more stories of a building shall be enclosed or protected in
accordance with the codes in effect at the time of construction but, regardless of when constructed, not
less than as specified in Table 704.1.
(Reason: Provides standard minimum protection retroactively, but clarifies that this section is not to be
used to reduce higher protection levels that were required when originally constructed.)
Section 807.4.3.2 and Section 807.4.4.2; add an exception to read as follows:
Exception: Corridors protected by an approved automatic sprinkler svstem installed in II
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 shall be limited to 50 percent of the wall area.
(Reason: This change allows an increase in wall coverage due to the presence of sprinklers.)
'`"`Section 909.6.1; add section to read as follows: III
901.6.1.1 Standpipe Testing. Building owners/managers must utilize a licensed fire protection
contractor to test and certify standpipe systems. In addition to the testing and maintenance requirements
of NFPA 25 applying to standpipe systems, the following additional requirements shall be applied to the
testing that is required every 5 years:
1. The piping between the Fire Department Connection (FDC) and the standpipe shall be
hydrostatically tested for all FDC's on any type of standpipe svstem. Hydrostatic testing shall also
be conducted in accordance with NFPA 25 requirements for the different types of standpipe
systems.
2. For any manual (dry or wet) standpipe svstem not having an automatic water supply capable of
flowing water through the standpipe, the contractor shall connect hose from a fire hydrant or
portable pumping svstem (as approved by the fire code official) to each FDC, and flow water
through the standppe svstem to the roof outlet to verify that each inlet connection functions
properly. There is no required pressure criteria at the outlet. Verify that check valves function
properly and that there are no closed control valves on the svstem.
3. Any pressure relief, reducing, or control valves shall be tested in accordance with the requirements
of NFPA 25.
4. If the FDC is not already provided with approved caps, the contractor shall install such caps for all
FDC's. Contact the Fire Marshal for additional information.
5. Upon successful completion of standpipe test. the contractor shall place a blue tap (as per 'Texas
Administrative Code, Title 28. Insurance. Part I. Texas Department of Insurance. Chapter 34.
State Fire Marshal. Subchapter G. Fire Sprinkler Rules, 28 TAC ~ 34.720. Inspection, Test and
Maintenance Service (ITM~ Tag") at the bottom of each standpipe riser in the building. An example
of this tag is located at the end of this SOP. The tag shall be check-marked as "Fifth Year" for Type
of ITM, and the note on the back of the tag shall read "5 Year Standpipe Test" at a minimum.
6. The contractor shall follow the procedures as required by "Texas Administrative Code. Title 28.
Insurance, Part I. Texas Department of Insurance, Chapter 34. State Fire Marshal, Subchapter G.
North Central Texas 7 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments
Fire Sprinkler Rules. 28 TAC" with regard to Yellow Tags and Red Taas or any deficiencies noted
during the testing, including the required notification of the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (Fire
Marshal .
7. Additionally, records of the testing shall be maintained by the owner and contractor, as required
by the State Rules mentioned above and NFPA 25.
8. Standpipe system tests where water will be flowed external to the building shall not be conducted
during freezing conditions or during the day prior to expected night time freezing conditions.
9. Contact the Fire Marshal for requests to remove existing fire hose from Class II and III standpipe
systems where employees are not trained in the utilization of this fire fighting equipment. All
standpipe hose valves must remain in place and be provided with an approved cap and chain when
approval is given to remove hose by the fire code official
(Reason: Increases the reliability of fhe fire protection system and re-emphasizes the requirements of
NFPA 25.)
**Section 901.7; amend to read as follows:
901.7 Systems out of service. Where a required fire protection system is out of service or in the event
of an excessive number of activations, the fire department and the code official shall be notified
immediately and, where required by the code official, the building shall either be evacuated or an
approved fire watch shall be provided for all occupants left unprotected by the shut down until the fire
protection system has been returned to service.
(Reason: Gives Fire Chief more discretion. Requires adoption of definition amendment in Section 202.)
*"Secfion 903.2; delete the exception.
(Reason: These areas pose a fire risk to the structural integrity of the building.)
*~Add Section 903.2.8.3 to read as follows:
903.2.8.3 Self-service storage facility. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all
self-service storage facilities.
Exception: One-story self-service storage facilities that have no interior corridors. with aone-
hourfire barrier separation wall installed between every storage compartment.
(Reason: Fire departments are unable to inspect these commercial occupancies and are unaware of the
contents being stored.)
Amend the title of Section 903.2.10 to read "Windowless stories in all occupancies except R-3
and U".
(Reason: Current title of windowless stories in all occupancies does not currently cover all the
subsections listed and referenced.
North Central Texas 8 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments
Option A
**Section 903.2.10; amend 903.2.10.3 and add 903.2.10.4, 903.2.10.5, and 903.2.10.6 as follows:
903.2.10.3 Buildings more than 55 feet in height. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed
throughout buildings with a floor level other than penthouses in compliance with Section 1509 of the
International Building Code, that is located 55 feet (16 764 mm) or
more above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
Exception:
Open parking structures in compliance with Section 406.3 of the Building Code.
903.2.10.4. High-Piled Combustible Storage. For anv building with a clear height exceeding 12 feet
(4572 mm), see Chapter 23 to determine if those provisions apply.
903.2.10.5 Spray Booths and Rooms. New and existing spray booths and spraying rooms shall be
protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishingsystem.
i
Option B
'*Section 903.2.10; amend 903.2.10.3 and add 903.2.10.4, 903.2.10.5, and 903.2.10.6 as follows:
903.2.10.3 Buildings more than a5 35 feet in height. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed
throughout buildings with a floor level, other than penthouses in compliance with Section 1509 of the
International Building Code, that is located 5a 35 feet (4~4 10
668mm) or more above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
Exception:
2-Open parking structures in compliance with Section 406.3 of the International Building Code.
903.2.10.4 High-Piled Combustible Storage. For anv building with a clear height exceeding 12 feet
(4572 mm), see Chapter 23 to determine if those provisions apply.
903.2.10.5 Spray Booths and Rooms. New and existing spray booths and spraying rooms shall be
protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system.
903.2.10.6 Buildings Over 6.000 sg.ft. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all
buildings with a building area over 6.000 sg.ft. For the purpose of this provision, fire walls shall not define
separate buildings.
Exceptions:
1. Open parking garages in compliance with Section 406.3 of the International Building Code.
2. Type A-5.
(Reason: Reflect local practices.)
i'''`Section 903.3.1.1.1; change to read as follows:
North Central Texas 9 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments
903.3.1.1.1 Exempt locations. When approved by the code official, automatic A~tea}at+s sprinklers shall
not be required in the following rooms or areas where such {bulk of section unchanged} ...because it
is damp, of fire-resistance-rated construction or contains electrical equipment.
1. Any room where the application of water, or flame and water, constitutes a serious life or fire
hazard.
2. Any room or space where sprinklers are considered undesirable because of the nature of the
contents, when approved by the code official.
3. Generator and transformer rooms, under the direct control of a public utility. separated from the
remainder of the building by walls and floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assemblies having afire-
resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
(Reason: Gives more discretion to code o~cial. Protects locations where fire risks are poorly addressed.)
**Secfion 903.3.5; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
Water supply as reauired for such systems shall be provided in conformance with the supply
requirements of the respective standards; however, every fire protection system shall be designed with a
10 psi safety factor.
(Reason: To define uniform safety factor.)
"`Section 903.4; add a second paragraph after the exceptions to read as follows:
Sprinkler and standpipe system water-flow detectors shall be provided for each floor tap to the
sprinkler system and shall cause an alarm upon detection of water flow for more than 45 seconds. All
control valves in the sprinkler and standpipe systems except for fire department hose connection valves
shall_be_electricall_y supervised to initiate a supervisory signal at the central station upon tampering.
(Reason: To avoid significant water losses. Consistent with amendment to IFC 905.9.)
***Section 903.4.2; add second paragraph to read as follows:
The alarm device reauired on the exterior of the building shall be a weatherproof horn/strobe
notification appliance with a minimum 75 candela strobe rating, installed as close as practicable to the fire
department connection.
(Reason: Fire department connections are not always located at the riser, this allows the fire department
faster access.)
**Add Section 903.6.2 fo read as follows:
903.6.2 Spray booths and rooms. New and existing spray booths and spray rooms shall be protected
by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system in accordance with Section 1504.
North Central Texas 10 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments
(Reason: Consistent with amendment to IFC 1504.)
Section 905.2; change to read as follows:
905.2 Installation standards. Standpipe systems shall be installed in accordance with this section and
NFPA 14. Manual dry standpipe systems shall be supervised with a minimum of 10 psis and a maximum
of 40 psis air pressure with a high/low alarm.
(Reason: To define manual dry standpipe supervision requirements.)
**"Add Section 905.3.8 and exce Lion to read as follows: II'~
p
905.3.8 Building Area. In buildings exceeding 10.000 square feet in area per story. Class I automatic wet I'~
or manual wet standpipes shall be provided where any portion of the building's interior area is more than
200 feet (60960 mm) of travel, vertically and horizontally. from the nearest point of fire department vehicle
access.
Exception: Automatic dry and semi-automatic dry standpipes are allowed as provided for in
NFPA 14.
(Reason: Allows for the rapid deployment of hoselines to the body of fhe fire.) I~~,
''``Section 905.4, item #5; change to read as follows: '
5. Where the roof has a slope less than four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33.3-percent slope),
each standpipe shall be provided with a two_wav hose connection located either {remainder of
paragraph unchanged} .
(Reason: Reduced the amount of pressure required to facilitate testing, and provides backup protection
for fire fighter safety.)
~'i`Section 905.9; add a second paragraph after the exceptions to read as follows:
Sprinkler and standpipe system water-flow detectors shall be provided for each floor tap to the
sprinkler system and shall cause an alarm upon detection of water flow for more than 45 seconds. All
control valves in the sprinkler and standpipe systems except for fire department hose connection valves
shall be electrically supervised to initiate a supervisory signal at the central station upon tampering.
(Reason: To avoid significant water losses. Consistent with amendment to IFC 903.4.)
**Add Section 907.1.3 to read as follows:
907.1.3 Design Standards. All alarm systems new or replacement serving 20 or more alarm actuating
devices shall be addressable fire detection systems. Alarm systems serving more than 40 smoke
detectors or more than 100 total alarm activating devices shall be analog intelligent addressable fire
detection systems.
North Central Texas 11 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments
Exception: Existing svstems need not comply unless the total building remodel or expansion
initiated after the effective date of this code, as adopted, exceeds 30% of the building. When
cumulativ_e_buildng remodel or expansion exceeds 50% of the building must comply within 18
months of permit application.
(Reason: Consistent with local practice.)
***Secfion 907.2.1; change to read as follows;
907.2.1 Group A. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group A occupancies having an
occupant load of 300 or more persons or more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit
discharge. Portions of Group E occupancies occupied for assembly purposes shall be provided with a
fire alarm system as required for the Group E occupancy.
(Reason: Increases the requirement is changed to be consistent with Group B requirement.)
'"tSection 907.2.3; change to read as follows;
907.2.3 Group E. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in Group E educational occupancies.
When automatic sprinkler systems or smoke detectors are installed, such systems or detectors shall be
connected to the building fire alarm system. An approved smoke detection svstem shall be installed in
Group E day care occupancies. Unless separated by a minimum of 100' open space. all buildings,
whether portable buildings or the main building, will be considered one building for alarm occupant load
consideration and interconnection of alarm svstems.
(Reason: To distinguish educational from day care occupancy minimum protection requirements. Further,
to define threshold at which portable buildings are considered a separate building for the purposes of
alarm systems.)
**Section 907.2.3; change exception #1 and add exception #1.1 to read as fo/lows;
1. Group E educational and day care occupancies with an occupant load of less than 50 when
provided with an approved automatic sprinkler svstem.
1.1. Residential In-Home day care with not more than 12 children may use interconnected
single station detectors in all habitable rooms. (For care of more than five children 2 1/2
or less years of age, see Section 907.2.6.)
(Reason: Consistent with Texas State laws concerning day care facility requirements.)
Option A
**Section 907.2.12; change to read as follows;
907.2.12 High-rise buildings. Buildings with ~ floor used for human occupancy located more than 75
feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level (balance unchanged)
North Central Texas 12 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments
Option B
**Section 907.2.12; change to read as follows:
907.2.12 High-rise buildings. Buildings with ~ floor used for human occupancy located more than 7a
55 feet (~6 16 764 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall be provided
with an automatic fire alarm system and an emergency voice/alarm communications system in
accordance with Section 907.2.12.2.
(Reason: To correct definition of high-rise for Option 8 jurisdictions.)
**Section 907.2.12, exception ~t3; change to read as follows:
3. Buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5 in accordance with Section 303.1 of the International I
Building Code, when used for open air seating; however, this exception does not apply to
accessory uses including but not limited to skv boxes, restaurants and similarly enclosed areas.
(Reason: To indicate that enclosed areas within open air seating type occupancies are not excepted from
automatic irre alarm system requirements.) 'i
VIII
**Section 907.4; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
Manual alarm actuating devices shall be an approved double action type.
(Reason: Consistent with local requirements.)
Add Section 907.6.1 to read as follows:
907.6.1 Installation. All fire alarm systems shall be installed in such a manner that a failure of any single
initiating device or single open in an initiating circuit conductor will not interfere with the normal operation
of other such devices. All initiating circuit conductors shall be Class "A" wired with a minimum of six feet
separation between supply and return circuit conductors. IDC -Class "A" Style D; SLC -Class "A" Style '
6: NAC -Class "B" Style Y. The IDC from an addressable device used to monitor_the status of a
suppression svstem may be wired Class B Style B provided the distance from the addressable device is
within 10-feet of the suppression svstem device.
(Reason: To provide uniformity in system specifications and guidance to design engineers.)
Option A
**Section 907.9.2; change to read as follows:
907.9.2 90:2 High-rise buildings. In buildings with ~ ~ floor used for human occupancy that is I'
located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level {remainder of section unchanged}.
North Central Texas 13 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments
Option B
**Section 907,9.2; change to read as follows:
907.9.2 High-rise buildings. In buildings that have a ~ floor used for human occupancy that is located
more than ~5 55 feet (~~8 16 764 mm) above the lowest level {remainder of section unchanged}.
(Reason: Correct definition of high-rise for Option B jurisdictions.)
***Section 910.1; Amend exception 2 to read as follows:
4. Where areas of buildings are equipped with early suppression fast-response (ESFR) I!
sprinklers, -only manual smoke and heat vents shall Abe required within these '
areas.
(Reason: Allows the fire department to control the smoke and heat during and after a fire event.)
***Section 910.2; Add subsection 910.2.4 and exceptions to read as follows:
910.2.4 Group H. Buildings and portions thereof used as a Group H occupancv as follows:
1. In occupancies classified as Group H-2 or H-3, any of which are more than 15.000 square feet (1394
m-) in single floor area.
Exceptions:
1. Buildings of noncombustible construction containing only noncombustible materials.
2. In areas of buildings in Group H used for storina Class 2, 3 and 4 liquid and solid oxidizers, Class
1 and unclassified detonable organic peroxides, Class 3 and 4 unstable (reactive) materials, or
Class 2 or 3water-reactive materials as required for ahigh-hazard commodity classification.
3. Buildings of noncombustible construction containing only noncombustible materials.
(Reason: Mainfain fhe current level of protection as outlined in the 2003 IFC.)
i
North Central Texas 14 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments
***Table 910.3; Change the title of the first row of the table from "Group F-1 and S-1" to include
"Group H" and to read as follows:
Group H F-1 and S-1
(Reason: Consistency with the amendment 910.2.4 to include Group H)
***Section 910.3.2.2; Add second paragraph to read as follows:
The automatic operating mechanism of the smoke and heat vents shall operate at a temperature
rating at least 100 decrees (F) (approximately 38 degrees Celsius) greater than the temperature rating of
the sprinklers installed.
(Reason: Specifies a temperature range at which smoke and heat vents should activate in sprinklered
buildings to ensure that the sprinkler system has an opportunity to activate and control the fire prior to
vent operation.)
***Section 913.1-Add second paragraph and exception fo read as follows:
When located on the around level at an exterior wall, the fire pump room shall be provided with an
exterior fire department access door that is not less than 3 ft. in width and 6 ft. - 8 in. in height, regardless
of anY interior doors that are provided. A key box shall be provided at this door, as required by Section
506.1.
Exception: When it is necessary to locate the fire pump room on other levels or not at an exterior
wall, the corridor leading to the fire pump room access from the exterior of the building shall be
provided with equivalent fire resistance as that required for the pump room, or as approved by the fire
code official. Access keys shall be provided in the key box as required by Section 506.1.
(Reason: This requirement allows fire fighters safer access to the fire pump room. The requirement
allows access without being required to enter the building and locate the fire pump room interior access
door during a fire event. The exception recognizes that this will not always be a feasible design scenario
for some buildings, and as such, provides an acceptable alternative to protect the pathway to the fire
pump room.)
***Section 1017.1; add an exception #5 to read as follows:
5. In Group B office buildings, corridor walls and ceilings need not be of fire-resistive construction
within office spaces of a single tenant when the space is equipped with an approved automatic
fire alarm svstem with corridor smoke detection. The actuation of any detector shall activate
alarms audible in all areas served by the corridor. The smoke-detection svstem shall be
connected to the building's fire alarm svstem where such a svstem is provided.
(Reason: Consistent with regions! amendment to IBC 1017.1.)
North Central Texas 15 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments
Option A
**Section 1020.1.7; change to read as follows:
1020.1.7 Smokeproof enclosures. In buildings required to comply with Section 403 or 405 of the IBC,
each of the exits of a building that serves stories where ttie ~ floor surface is located more than 75 feet
(22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire...{remainder of section unchanged}
Option B
i`*Section 1020.1.7; change to read as follows:
1020.1.7 Smokeproof enclosures. In buildings required to comply with Section 403 or 405 of the IBC,
each of the exits of a building that serves stories where tfie ~ floor surface is located more than ~ 55
feet (~8 16 764 mm) above the lowest level of fire {remainder of section unchanged}.
(Reason: Correct definition of high-rise for Option 8 jurisdictions.)
***Section 1028.2; change to read as follows:
1028.2 Reliability. Required exit accesses, exits or exit discharges shall be continuously maintained free
from obstructions or impediments to full instant use in the case of fire or other emergency
Security devices affecting means of egress shall be subject to
approval of the fire code official.
(Reason: Maintain a current level of protection as identified in the 2003 and provide firefighter safety.)
'"`Section 1504.4; change to read as follows:
1504.4 Fire Protection. New and existing sprav SpFay booths and spray rooms shall be protected by an
approved automatic fire-extinguishing system remainder ofsection unchanged}
(Reason: Consistent protection in all spray booths.)
***Section 2204.1; change to read as follows:
2204.1 Supervision of dispensing. The dispensing of fuel at motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall be
s#~all-be in accordance with ~°~4:~: the following:
1. Conducted by a aualified attendant: andlor,
2. Shall be under the supervision of a aualified attendant: and/or
3. Shall be an unattended self-service facility in accordance with Section 2204.3.
At any time the aualified attendant of item #1 or #2 above is not present, such operations shall be
North Central Texas 16 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments
considered as an Unattended self-service facility and shall also comply with Section 2204.3.
(Reason: Allows a facility to apply the attended and unattended requirements of the code when both are
met.)
Option A
'"`Section 2302; add a second paragraph to the definition of "High-Piled Combustible Storage" to
read as follows:
Any buildina exceeding 12 000 sa ft that has a clear height in excess of 12 feet, making it I!,
possible to be used for storage in excess of 12 feet shall be considered to be high-piled storage and shall ~
comply with the provisions of this section When a specific product cannot be identified, a fire protection ~i
svstem shall be installed as for Class IV commodities. to the maximum pile height.
ii
I
Option B
**Section 2302; add a second paragraph to the definition of "High-Piled Combustible Storage" to
read as follows:
An buildin exceedin 6 000 s .ft. that has a clear hei ht in excess of 12 feet makin it ossible II
~ g g
to be used for storage in excess of 12 feet shall be considered to be high-piled storage and shall comply
with the provisions of this section When a specific product cannot be identified afire protection svstem
shall be installed as for Class IV commodities. to the maximum pile height.
(Reason: To provide protection for worst-case scenario in flexible or unknown situations.)
'""''Table 2306.2; replace text of "footnote j" to read as follows:
i Where areas of buildings are equipped with early suppression fast-response (ESFR) sprinklers only
manual smoke and heat vents shall be required within these areas.
(Reason: Allows the fire department to control the smoke and heat during and after a fire event.)
**Section 3301.1.3; change fo read as follows:
3301.1.3 Fireworks. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling and use of fireworks are
prohibited.
Exceptions:
1. Only when approved for fireworks displays, storage and handling of fireworks as allowed in
Section 3304 and 3308.
2.
3-.-The use of fireworks for approved display as allowed in Section 3308.
4. The " fro ~rL~
r=
(Reason: Restricts to approved displays, which is consistent with local practice.)
North Central Texas 17 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments
**Section 3302; change the definition of "fireworks" to read as follows:
FIREWORKS. Any composition or device for the purpose of producing a visible or an audible effect for
entertainment purposes by combustion, deflagration, of detonation, and/or activated by ignition with a
match or other heat producing device that meets the definition of 1.4G fireworks or 1.3G fireworks as set
forth herein.
(Reason: Increased safety from fireworks related injuries.)
**Section 3403.6; add a sentence to read as follows:
An approved method of secondary containment shall be provided for underaround tank and piping
stems.
**Section 3404.2.11.5; add a sentence to read as follows: ~i
An approved method of secondary containment shall be provided for underground tank and piping
systems.
(Reason: Increased protection in response to underground leak problems and remediation difficulty in
underground applications
'Section 3404.2.11.5.2; change to read as follows:
3404.2.11.5.2 Leak detection. Underground storage tank systems (bulk of provision unchanged}
and installed in accordance with NFPA 30 and as specified in Section 3404.2.11.5.3.
(Reason: Reference to Section 3404.2.11.5.3 amendment.)
**Add Section 3404.2.11.5.3 to read as follows:
3404.2.11.5.3 Drv sumas. Approved sampling tubes of a minimum 6 inches in diameter shall be
installed in the backfill material of each underaround flammable or combustible liquid storage tank. The
tubes shall extend from a point 12 inches below the average grade of the excavation to ground level and
shall be provided with suitable surface access caps. Each tank site shall provide a sampling sump at the
corners of the excavation with a minimum of 4 sumps. Sampling tubes shall be placed in the product line
excavation within 10 feet of the tank excavation and one every 50 feet routed along product lines towards
the dispensers. a minimum of two are required.
(Reason: Provides an economical means of checking potential leaks at each tank site.)
**Delete Section 3406.5.4.5 and replace with the following:
3406.5.4.5 Commercial, industrial, governmental or manufacturing. Dispensing of Class II and III
motor vehicle fuel from tank vehicles into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles located at commercial.
industrial, governmental or manufacturing establishments is allowed where permitted. provided such
dispensing operations are conducted in accordance with Sections 3406.5.4.5.1 through 3406.5.4.5.3.
3406.5.4.5.1 Site requirements.
1. Dispensing may occur at sites that have been permitted to conduct mobile fueling.
North Central Texas 18 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments
2. A detailed site plan shall be submitted with each application for a permit The site plan must indicate:
a. all buildings structures and appurtenances on site and their use or function•
b. all uses adiacent to the property lines of the site;
c. the locations of all storm drain openings, adiacent waterways or wetlands;
d. information regarding slope natural drainage curbing impounding and how a spill will be
retained upon the site property; and.
e. The scale of the site plan.
3. The Code Official is authorized to impose limits upon: the times and/or days during which mobile
fueling operations are allowed to take place and specific locations on a site where fueling is
permitted.
4. Mobile fueling operations shall be conducted in areas not generally accessible to the public.
5. Mobile fueling shall not take place within 15 feet (4.572 m) of buildings, property lines, or combustible
stora e.
3406.5.4.5.2 Refueling Operator Requirements.
1. The owner of a mobile fueling operations shall provide to the jurisdiction a written response plan
which demonstrates readiness to respond to a fuel spill carer out appropriate mitigation measures
and to indicate its process to properly dispose of contaminated materials when circumstances
re uire. '
2. The tank vehicle shall comply with the requirements of NFPA 385 and Local State and Federal
requirements The tank vehicle's specific functions shall include that of supplying fuel to motor
vehicle fuel tanks The vehicle and all its equipment shall be maintained in good repair.
3. Signs prohibiting smoking or open flames within 25 feet (7.62 m) of the tank vehicle or the point of
fueling shall be prominently posted on 3 sides of the vehicle including the back and both sides.
4. Afire extinguisher with a minimum rating of 40:BC shall be provided on the vehicle with signage
clearly indicating its location.
5. The dispensing nozzles and hoses shall be of an approved and listed type.
6. The dispensing hose shall not be extended from the reel more than 100 feet (30.48m) in length.
7. Absorbent materials non-water absorbent pads a 10 foot (3.048 m) Iona containment boom, an
approved container with lid and anon-metallic shovel shall be provided to mitigate a minimum 5-
gallon fuel spill
8. Tanker vehicles shall be equipped with a fuel limit switch such as a count-back switch, limiting the
amount of a single fueling operation to a maximum of 500 gallons (1893 L) between resettings of the
limit switch.
Exception• Tankers utilizing remote emergency shut-off device capability where the operator
constantly carries the shut-off device which when activated immediately causes flow of fuel from
the tanker to cease.
9. Persons responsible for dispensing operations shall be trained in the appropriate mitigating_actions in
the event of a fire leak or spill Training records shall be maintained by the dispensing company and
shall be made available to the Code Official upon request.
10. Operators of tank vehicles used for mobile fueling operations shall have in their possession at all
times an emergency communications device to notify the proper authorities in the event of an
emergency.
3406.5.4.5.3 Operational Requirements.
1. The tank vehicle dispensing equipment shall be constantly attended and operated only by designated
personnel who are trained to handle and dispense motor fuels.
2. Prior to beginning dispensing operations precautions shall be taken to assure ignition sources are
not present.
3. The engines of vehicles being fueled shall be shut off during dispensing operations.
4. Night time fueling operations shall only take place in adequately lighted areas.
5. The tank vehicle shall be positioned with respect to vehicles being fueled so as to preclude traffic
from driving over the delivery hose and between the tank vehicle and the motor vehicle being fueled.
North Central Texas 19 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments
6. During fueling operations tank vehicle brakes shall be set, chock blocks shall be in place and
warning lights shall be in operation.
7. Motor vehicle fuel tanks shall not be topped off.
8. The dispensino hose shall be properly placed on an approved reel or in an approved compartment
prior to moving the tank vehicle.
9. The Code Official and other appropriate authorities shall be notified when a reportable spill or
unauthorized discharge occurs.
(Reason: Provides clarity and organization of the site, operation and use requirements.)
**Add Section 3803.2.1.8 to read as follows:
3803 2 1 8 Jewelry Repair Dental Labs and Similar Occupancies. Where natural pas service is not
available portable LP-Gas containers are allowed to be used to supply approved torch assemblies or
similar appliances Such containers shall not exceed 20-pound (9.0 ka) water capacity. Agclregate
capacity shall not exceed 60-pound (27 2 ka) water capacity Each device shall be separated from other
containers by a distance of not less than 20 feet.
(Reason: To provide a consistent and reasonable means of regulating the use of portable LP-Gas
containers in these situations.)
**Section 3804.2; add an exception #2 to read as follows:
Exceptions: ~I
1_{existing exception unchanged}
2 Except as permitted in 308 3 and 3804 3.2 LP-pas containers are not permitted in residential areas.
(Reason: To provide a consistent and reasonable means of regulating the use of portable LP-Gas
containers. References regional amendment to IFC 3804.3.2.) ~
**Add Section 3804.3.2 to read as follows:
3804 3 2 Spas Pool Heaters and other listed devices. Where natural pas service is not available, LP-
Gas containers are allowed to be used to supplerspa and pool heaters or other listed devices. Such
containers shall not exceed 250-gallon water capacity See Table 3804.3 for location of containers.
(Reason: Allows for an alternate fuel source.)
END
North Central Texas 20 September 2007
2006 IFC Amendments