HomeMy Public PortalAboutOrdinance No. 1418-20 10-12-2020ORDINANCE NO. 1418-20
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF RICHLAND HILLS, TEXAS
AMENDING VARIOUS PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER 14, "BUILDINGS
AND BUILDING REGULATIONS", TO ADOPT THE 2018 EDITIONS OF
THE INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE, INTERNATIONAL FUEL
GAS CODE, INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE,
INTERNATIONAL MECHANICAL CODE, INTERNATIONAL
RESIDENTIAL CODE, INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE,
INTERNATIONAL EXISTING BUILDING CODE, INTERNATIONAL
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE, AND THE 2017 EDITION OF THE
NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE; PROVIDING FOR THE MODIFICATION
OF THE CODES TO INCORPORATE LOCAL AMENDMENTS;
PROVIDING FOR RECORDING OF THE CODES AS PUBLIC
RECORDS; PROVIDING THAT THIS ORDINANCE SHALL BE
CUMULATIVE OF ALL ORDINANCES; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY
CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR A PENAL TY FOR VIOLATIONS;
PROVIDING A SA VIN GS CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION IN
THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
WHEREAS, the City of Richland Hills, Texas 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 has previously adopted the 2012 Editions of the
International Building Code, International Fuel Gas Code, International Energy Conservation
Code, International Mechanical Code, International Residential Code, and International Plumbing
Code, and the 2011 Edition of the National Electric Code; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to update to and adopt the 2018 Editions of the
International Building Code, International Fuel Gas Code, International Energy Conservation
Code, International Mechanical Code, International Residential Code, International Plumbing
Code, International Existing Building Code, International Property Maintenance Code, and the
2017 Edition of the National Electric Code; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Richland Hills, Texas, desires to provide a
mechanism by which local modifications reflecting the unique needs of the City of Richland Hills
may be made when deemed appropriate; and
WHEREAS, the North Central Texas Council of Governments and City Staff have
recommended adoption of certain amendments to the Codes to reflect locally accepted practice;
and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Richland Hills, Texas, has determined that
the adoption of these Codes as amended herein is in the public interest and therefore deems it
advisable to enact this ordinance.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF RICHLAND HILLS, TEXAS:
SECTION 1.
The Code of Ordinances, City of Richland Hills, is hereby revised by amending sections
14-31 and 14-32 of Article II "Building Code" of Chapter 14 to read as follows:
"Sec. 14-31. Adopted.
The 2018 Edition of the International Building Code is hereby adopted as the official
building code of the City of Richland Hills, Texas. This building code is fully incorporated by
reference as though copied into this ordinance in its entirety. The material contained in the
International Building Code, and any local amendments thereto, shall not be included in any 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.
Sec. 14-32. Amendments.
The 2018 Edition of the International Building Code, as adopted herein, is hereby amended
as shown on Exhibit A attached hereto."
SECTION 2.
The Code of Ordinances, City of Richland Hills, is hereby revised by amending sections
14-441 and 14-442 of Article XII "Fuel Gas Code" of Chapter 14 to read as follows:
"Sec. 14-441. Adopted.
The 2018 Edition of the Fuel Gas Code is hereby adopted as the official fuel gas code of
the City of Richland Hills, Texas. This fuel gas code is fully incorporated by reference as though
copied into this ordinance in its entirety. The material contained in the International Fuel Gas Code,
and any local amendments thereto, shall not be included in any 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.
Sec. 14-442. Amendments.
The 2018 Edition of the International Fuel Gas Code, as adopted herein, is hereby amended
as shown on Exhibit B attached hereto."
SECTION 3.
The Code of Ordinances, City of Richland Hills, is hereby revised by amending sections
14-420 and 14-421 of Article XI "Energy Conservation Code" of Chapter 14 to read as follows:
"Sec. 14-420. Adopted.
The 2018 Edition of the International Energy Conservation Code is hereby adopted as the
official energy conservation code of the City of Richland Hills, Texas. This energy conservation
code is fully incorporated by reference as though copied into this ordinance in its entirety. The
material contained in the International Energy Conservation Code, and any local amendments
thereto, shall not be included in any 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.
Sec. 14-421. Amendments.
The 2018 Edition of the International Energy Conservation Code, as adopted herein, is
hereby amended as shown on Exhibit C attached hereto."
SECTION 4.
The Code of Ordinances, City of Richland Hills, is hereby revised by amending sections
14-276 and 14-277 of Article VII "Mechanical Code" of Chapter 14 to read as follows:
"Sec. 14-276. Adopted.
The 2018 Edition of the International Mechanical Code is hereby adopted as the official
mechanical code of the City of Richland Hills, Texas. This mechanical code is fully incorporated
by reference as though copied into this ordinance in its entirety. The material contained in the
International Mechanical Code, and any local amendments thereto, shall not be included in any
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.
Sec. 14-277. Amendments.
The 2018 Edition of the International Mechanical Code, as adopted herein, is hereby
amended as shown on Exhibit D attached hereto."
SECTIONS.
The Code of Ordinances, City of Richland Hills, is hereby revised by amending sections
14-400 and 14-401 of Article X "Residential Code" of Chapter 14 to read as follows:
"Sec. 14-400. Adopted.
The 2018 Edition of the International Residential Code is hereby adopted as the official
residential code of the City of Richland Hills, Texas. This residential code is fully incorporated by
reference as though copied into this ordinance in its entirety. The material contained in the
International Residential Code, and any local amendments thereto, shall not be included in any
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.
Sec.14-401. Amendments.
The 2018 Edition of the International Residential Code, as adopted herein, is hereby
amended as shown on Exhibit E attached hereto."
SECTION 6.
The Code of Ordinances, City of Richland Hills, is hereby revised by amending sections
14-146 and 14-147 of Article IV "Plumbing Code" of Chapter 14 to read as follows:
"Sec. 14-146. Adopted.
The 2018 Edition of the International Plumbing Code is hereby adopted as the official
plumbing code of the City of Richland Hills, Texas. This plumbing code is fully incorporated by
reference as though copied into this ordinance in its entirety. The material contained in the
International Plumbing Code, and any local amendments thereto, shall not be included in any
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.
Sec. 14-147. Amendments.
The 2018 Edition of the International Plumbing Code, as adopted herein, 1s hereby
amended as shown on Exhibit F attached hereto."
SECTION 7.
The Code of Ordinances, City of Richland Hills, is hereby revised by amending sections
14-531 and 14-532 of Article XVI "Existing Building Code" of Chapter 14 to read as follows:
"Sec. 14-531. Adopted.
The 2018 Edition of the International Existing Building Code is hereby adopted as the
official existing building code of the City of Richland Hills, Texas. This existing building code is
fully incorporated by reference as though copied into this ordinance in its entirety. The material
contained in the International Existing Building Code shall not be included in any 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.
Sec. 14-532. Amendments.
The 2018 Edition of the International Existing Building Code, as adopted herein, is hereby
amended as shown on Exhibit G attached hereto."
SECTIONS.
The Code of Ordinances, City of Richland Hills, is hereby revised by amending sections
14-461 and 14-462 of Article XIII "Property Maintenance Code" of Chapter 14 to read as follows:
"Sec.14-461. Adopted.
The 2018 Edition of the International Property Maintenance Code is hereby adopted as the
official property maintenance code of the City of Richland Hills, Texas. This property maintenance
code is fully incorporated by reference as though copied into this ordinance in its entirety. The
material contained in the International Property Maintenance Code, and any local amendments
thereto, shall not be included in any 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.
Sec. 14-462. Amendments.
Reserved."
SECTION 9.
The Code of Ordinances, City of Richland Hills, is hereby revised by amending sections
14-76 and 14-77 of Article III "Electrical" of Chapter 14 to read as follows:
Sec. 14-76. Adopted.
The 2017 Edition of the National Electrical Code is hereby adopted as the official electrical
code of the City of Richland Hills, Texas. This electrical code is fully incorporated by reference
as though copied into this ordinance in its entirety. The material contained in the National
Electrical Code, and any local amendments thereto, shall not be included in any 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.
Sec. 14-77. Amendments.
The 2017 Edition of the National Electrical Code, as adopted herein, is hereby amended as
shown on Exhibit H attached hereto."
SECTION 10.
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 needs
of the City of Richland Hills. To effectuate modifications, the City Council may enact individual
ordinances amending this ordinance fully setting forth the changes to be made. 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, available for public inspection and copying during
regular business hours.
SECTION 11.
This Ordinance shall be cumulative of all provisions of ordinances of the City of Richland
Hills, except where the provisions of this Ordinance are in direct conflict with the provisions of
such ordinances, in which event the conflicting provisions of such ordinances are hereby repealed.
SECTION 12.
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.
SECTION 13.
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 ($2,000.00) for all violations involving zoning, fire
safety or public health and sanitation, including dumping or refuse, and shall be fined not more
than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) for all other violations of this Ordinance. Each day that a
violation is permitted to exist shall constitute a separate offense.
SECTION 14.
All rights and remedies of the City of Richland Hills, Texas, are expressly saved as to any
and all violations of the provisions of any ordinances of the City of Richland Hills which have
accrued at the time of the effective date of this Ordinance; and, as to such accrued violations and
all pending litigation, both civil and criminal, whether pending in court or not, under such
ordinances same shall not be affected by this Ordinance but may be prosecuted until final
disposition by the courts.
SECTION 15.
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.
The City Secretary is directed to publish in the official newspaper of the City, the caption,
penalty clause, savings clause, publication clause and effective date clause of this Ordinance one
time as authorized by Chapter 5, Section 5.02(c) of the Charter of the City of Richland Hills.
SECTION 17.
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.
PASSED AND APPROVED 12 th DAY OF OCTOBER 2020.
ATTEST:
TH HONORABLE MAYOR
!/
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY:
Exhibit A – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 1 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Building Code
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2018 International Building Code are hereby
amended as follows: Standard type is text from the IBC. Underlined type is text inserted. Lined through
type is deleted text from IBC. A double asterisk (**) at the beginning of a section identifies an amendment
carried over from the 2015 edition of the code and a triple asterisk (***) identifies a new or revised
amendment with the 2018 code.
**Section 101.4; change to read as follows:
101.4 Referenced codes. The other codes listed in Sections 101.4.1 through 101.4.8 and referenced
elsewhere in this code, when specifically adopted, shall be considered part of the requirements of this
code to the prescribed extent 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 Electrical Code shall mean the
Electrical Code as adopted.
(Reason: Legal wording to recognize locally adopted codes and amendments adopted with referenced
codes. The former ICC Electrical Code is now Appendix K of this code but no longer called by that name.)
**Section 101.4.8; add the following:
101.4.8 Electrical. The provisions of the Electrical Code shall apply to the installation of electrical
systems, including alterations, repairs, replacement, equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and
appurtenances thereto.
(Reason: This was dropped when ICC quit publishing the ICC Electrical Code, but the Electrical Code still
should be referenced regardless of how it is adopted.)
** Section 103 and 103.1; amend to insert the Department Name
DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING SAFETY [INSERT OFFICIAL BUILDING DEPARTMENT
NAME OF JURISDICTION]
103.1 Creation of enforcement agency. The Department of Building Safety [INSERT OFFICIAL
BUILDING DEPARTMENT NAME OF JURISDICTION] is hereby created and the official in charge thereof
shall be known as the building official.
(Reason: Reminder to be sure ordinance reads the same as designated by the city.)
***Section [A] 104.2.1 Determination of substantially improved or substantially damaged existing
buildings and structures in flood hazard areas. (Jurisdictions may consider the option to amend or
delete depending on local enforcement and flood hazard ordinances.)
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
**Section 104.10.1; Flood hazard areas. (Jurisdictions may consider the option to amend or delete
depending on local enforcement and flood hazard ordinances.)
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
**Section 105.2 Work exempt from permit; under sub-title entitled “Building” delete items 1, 2, 10
and 11 and re-number as follows:
Building:
Exhibit A – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 2 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Building Code
1. One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar
uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet (11 m2).
2. Fences not over 7 feet (1829 mm) high.
3. 1. (Remainder Unchanged)
4. 2. (Remainder Unchanged)
5. 3. (Remainder Unchanged)
6. 4. (Remainder Unchanged)
7. 5. (Remainder Unchanged)
8. 6. ( Remainder Unchanged)
9. 7. (Remainder Unchanged)
10. Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, not including service
systems.
11. 8. (Remainder Unchanged)
12. 9. (Remainder Unchanged)
13. 10. (Remainder Unchanged)
(Reason: Items deleted are for one- and two-family dwellings regulated by the International Residential
Code. Accessory structures, fences and shade cloth structures would require a permit for commercial
properties to ensure compliance with local ordinance, egress, accessibility, flame spread of fabric,
wind/snow design load, etc.)
**Section 109; add Section 109.7 to read as follows:
109.7 Re-inspection Fee. A fee as established by city council resolution may be charged when:
1. The inspection called for is not ready when the inspector arrives;
2. No building address or permit card is clearly posted;
3. City approved plans are not on the job site available to the inspector;
4. The building is locked or work otherwise not available for inspection when called;
5. The job site is red-tagged twice for the same item;
6. The original red tag has been removed from the job site.
7. Failure to maintain erosion control, trash control or tree protection.
Any re-inspection fees assessed shall be paid before any more inspections are made on that job site.
(Reason: This fee is not a fine or penalty but is designed to compensate for time and trips when
inspections are called for when not ready.)
**Section 109; add Section 109.8, 109.8.1, 109.8.2 and 109.9 to read as follows:
109.8 Work without a permit.
109.8.1 Investigation. Whenever work for which a permit is required by this code has been
commenced without first obtaining a permit, a special investigation shall be made before a permit
may be issued for such work.
Exhibit A – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 3 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Building Code
109.8.2 Fee. An investigation fee, in addition to the permit fee, shall be collected whether or not a
permit is subsequently issued. The investigation fee shall be equal to the amount of the permit fee
required by this code or the city fee schedule as applicable. The payment of such investigation fee
shall not exempt the applicant from compliance with all other provisions of either this code or the
technical codes nor from penalty prescribed by law.
109.9 Unauthorized cover up fee. Any work concealed without first obtaining the required inspection in
violation of Section 110 shall be assessed a fee as established by the city fee schedule.
(Reason: This fee is not a fine or penalty but is designed to compensate for time and to remove incentive
to attempt to evade permits and code compliance. Text taken from former Uniform Administrative Code.)
***Section 110.3.5; Lath, gypsum board and gypsum panel product inspection; Delete exception
Exception : Gypsum board and gypsum panel products that are not part of a fire resistance rated
assembly or a shear assembly.
(Reason: Lath or gypsum board inspections are not typically performed in this area.)
***Section 202; amend definition of Ambulatory Care Facility as follows:
AMBULATORY CARE FACILITY. Buildings or portions thereof used to provide medical, surgical,
psychiatric, nursing or similar care on a less than 24-hour basis to individuals who are rendered incapable
of self-preservation by the services provided or staff has accepted responsibility for care recipients
already incapable. This group may include but not be limited to the following:
- Dialysis centers
- Sedation dentistry
- Surgery centers
- Colonic centers
- Psychiatric centers
(Reason: To clarify the range of uses included in the definition. [Explanatory note related to Ambulatory
Care Facilities: This group of uses includes medical or dental offices where persons are put under for
dental surgery or other services. Section 903.2.2 will now require such uses to be sprinklered if on other
than the floor of exit discharge or if four or more persons are put under on the level of exit discharge.
Recommend (1.) jurisdictions document any pre-existing non-conforming conditions prior to issuing a new
C of O for a change of tenant and, (2.) On any medical or dental office specify on C of O the maximum
number of persons permitted to be put under general anesthesia. It is recommended that before a
Certificate of Occupancy is issued, a letter of intended use from the business owner shall be included and
a C of O documenting the maximum number of care recipients incapable of self preservation allowed.)
**Section 202; add definition of Assisting Living Facilities to read as follows.
ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES. A building or part thereof housing persons, on a 24-hour basis, who
because of age, mental disability or other reasons, live in a supervised residential environment which
provides personal care services. The occupants are capable of responding to an emergency situation
without physical assistance from staff.
(Reason: The code references Assisted Living facilities and definition was deleted.)
**Section 202; change definition of “Atrium” as follows:
ATRIUM. An opening connecting two three or more stories… {Balance remains unchanged}
(Reason: Accepted practice in the region based on legacy codes. Section 1019 permits unenclosed two
story stairways under certain circumstances.)
***Section 202; add amend definition of “Repair Garage” as follows:
Exhibit A – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 4 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Building Code
REPAIR GARAGE. A building, structure or portion thereof used for servicing or repairing motor vehicles.
This occupancy shall also include garages involved in minor repair, modification and servicing of motor
vehicles for items such as lube changes, inspections, windshield repair or replacement, shocks, minor
part replacement and other such minor repairs.
(Reason: The code references aligns with fire code.)
**Section 202; amend definition of SPECIAL INSPECTOR to read as follows:
SPECIAL INSPECTOR. A qualified person employed or retained by an approved agency who shall prove
to the satisfaction of the registered design professional in responsible charge and approved by the
Building Official as having the competence necessary to inspect a particular type of construction requiring
special inspection.
(Reason: The registered design professional in responsible charge should be included.)
**Section 202; amend definition to read as follows:
HIGH-RISE BUILDING. A building with an occupied floor located more than 75 55 feet (22 860 mm)
(16 764 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.)
***Section 303.1.3; add a sentence to read as follows:
303.1.3 Associated with Group E occupancies. A room or space used for assembly purposes that is
associated with a Group E occupancy is not considered a separate occupancy, Except when applying the
assembly requirements of Chapters 10 and 11.
(Reason: To clarify that egress and accessibility requirements are applicable for assembly areas, i.e.
cafeteria, auditoriums, etc.)
**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.)
**Section 307.1.1; add the following sentence to Exception 4:
4. Cleaning establishments… {Text unchanged} …with Section 707 or 1-hour horizontal assemblies
constructed in accordance with Section 711 or both. See also IFC Chapter 21, Dry Cleaning Plant
provisions.
(Reason: To call attention to detailed requirements in the Fire Code.)
**Section 403.1, Exception 3; change to read as follows:
3. The open air portion of a building [remainder unchanged]
(Reason: To clarify enclosed portions are not exempt.)
Exhibit A – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 5 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Building Code
**Section 403.3, Exception; delete item 2.
(Reason: To provide adequate fire protection to enclosed areas.)
**Section 403.3.2; change to read as follows:
[F] 403.3.2 Water supply to required fire pumps. In buildings that are more than 420 120 feet (36.5 m)
in building height, required fire pumps shall be supplied by connections to no fewer than two water mains
located in different streets. Separate supply piping shall be provided between each connection to the
water main and the pumps. Each connection and the supply piping between the connection and the
pumps shall be sized to supply the flow and pressure required for the pumps to operate.
Exception: {No change to exception.}
(Reason: The 2009 edition of the IFC added this requirement based on a need for redundancy of the
water supply similar to the redundancy of the power supply to the fire pumps required for such tall
buildings, partially due to the fact that these buildings are rarely fully evacuated in a fire event. More
commonly, the alarm activates on the floor of the event, the floor above and the floor below. Back-up
power to the fire pump becomes critical for this reason. Certainly, the power is pointless if the water
supply is impaired for any reason, so a similar requirement is provided here for redundant water supplies.
The 2015 edition changed the requirement to only apply to very tall buildings over 420 ft. This
amendment modifies/lowers the requirement to 120 ft., based on this same height requirement for fire
service access elevators. Again, the language from the 2009 and 2012 editions of the code applied to
any high-rise building. This compromise at 120 ft. is based on the above technical justification of defend-
in-place scenarios in fire incidents in such tall structures.)
**Section 404.5; delete Exception.
(Reason: Consistent with amended atrium definition.)
**Section 406.3.3.1 Carport separation; add sentence to read as follows:
A fire separation is not required between a Group R-2 and U carport provided that the carport is
entirely open on all sides and that the distance between the two is at least 10 feet (3048 mm).
(Reason: Simplifies the fire separation distance and eliminates the need to obtain opening information on
existing buildings when adding carports in existing apartment complexes. Consistent with legacy codes in
effect in region for years and no record of problems with car fires spreading to apartments as a result.)
***Table 506.2; delete sentence from table
I. The maximum allowable area for a single-story non sprinklered Group U greenhouse is permitted to be
9000 square feet or the allowable area shall be permitted to comply with Table C102.1 of Appendix C.
(Reason: To eliminate the need for Appendix C adoption and remain consistent with 6000 sq. ft.
sprinklering provision.)
**Section 506.3.1; add sentence to read as follows:
506.3.1 Minimum percentage of perimeter. [Existing Text remains]
In order to be considered as accessible, if not in direct contact with a street or fire lane, a minimum 10-
foot wide pathway meeting fire department access from the street or approved fire lane shall be provided.
(Reason: To define what is considered accessible. Consistent with regional amendment to IFC 504.1.)
Exhibit A – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 6 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Building Code
***Section 602.1.1; add sentence to read as follows:
602.1.1 Minimum Requirements. [Existing Text to remain]
Where a building contains more than one distinct type of construction, the building shall comply with the
most restrictive area, height, and stories, for the lesser type of construction or be separated by fire walls.
(Reason: To create definite language that requires separation between dissimilar building types.)
***Section 708.4.2; change sentence to read as follows:
708.4.2 Fireblocks and draftstops in combustible construction. [Body of text unchanged]
Exceptions:
1. Buildings equipped with an automatic sprinkler system installed throughout in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.1, or in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 provided that sprinkler
protection is provided in the space between the top of the fire partition and the underside of
the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab above as required for systems complying with
Section 903.3.1.1. Portions of buildings containing concealed spaces filled with
noncombustible insulation as permitted for sprinkler omission shall not apply to this exception
for draftstopping. [Remainder unchanged]
Reason: (The most common exception used to eliminate the need for sprinklers in concealed spaces of
combustible construction is to fill the space with noncombustible insulation. This exception was changed
in 2010 to permit a 2-inch air gap at the top of the filled space. A space compliant with the permitted
omission above would allow hot gas and smoke to spread unimpeded throughout a building not provided
with draftstopping. For this reason, omission of sprinklers permitted in accordance with NFPA 13
referenced standard should not be permitted with IBC exception requiring draftstopping in combustible
construction.)
***Section 718.3; change sentence to read as follows:
718.3 Draftstopping in floors. [Body of text unchanged]
Exceptions: Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.1. and provided that in combustible construction, sprinkler protection is
provided in the floor space.
(Reason: To remain consistent with changes in 708.4.2 code.)
***Section 718.4; change sentence to read as follows:
718.4 Draftstopping in attics. [Body of text unchanged]
Exceptions: Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.1 and provided that in combustible construction, sprinkler protection is
provided in the attic space.
(Reason: To remain consistent with changes in 708.4.2 code.)
**Section 901.6.1; add Section 901.6.1.1 to read as follows:
Exhibit A – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 7 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Building Code
901.6.1.1 Standpipe Testing. Building owners/managers must maintain and test standpipe systems as
per NFPA 25 requirements. The following additional requirements shall be applied to the testing that is
required every 5 years:
1. The piping between the Fire Department Connection (FDC) and the standpipe shall be backflushed
or inspected by approved camera when foreign material is present or when caps are missing, and
also hydrostatically tested for all FDC’s on any type of standpipe system. Hydrostatic testing shall
also be conducted in accordance with NFPA 25 requirements for the different types of standpipe
systems.
2. For any manual (dry or wet) standpipe system not having an automatic water supply capable of
flowing water through the standpipe, the tester 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 system to the roof outlet to verify that each inlet connection functions properly. Confirm
that there are no open hose valves prior to introducing water into a dry standpipe. 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. All hose valves shall be exercised.
4. If the FDC is not already provided with approved caps, the contractor shall install such caps for all
FDC’s as required by the fire code official.
5. Upon successful completion of standpipe test, place a blue tag (as per Texas Administrative Code,
Fire Sprinkler Rules for Inspection, Test and Maintenance Service (ITM) Tag) at the bottom of
each standpipe riser in the building. The tag shall be check-marked as “Fifth Year” for Type of ITM,
and the note on the back of the tag shall read “5 Year Standpipe Test” at a minimum.
6. The procedures required by Texas Administrative Code Fire Sprinkler Rules with regard to Yellow
Tags and Red Tags or any deficiencies noted during the testing, including the required
notification of the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (fire code official) shall be followed.
7. Additionally, records of the testing shall be maintained by the owner and contractor, if applicable,
as required by the State Rules mentioned above and NFPA 25.
8. Standpipe system tests where water will be flowed external to the building shall not be conducted
during freezing conditions or during the day prior to expected night time freezing conditions.
9. Contact the fire code official for requests to remove existing fire hose from Class II and III standpipe
systems where employees are not trained in the utilization of this firefighting 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 relative to standpipe systems, as well as ensuring that FDC connections are similarly
tested/maintained to ensure operation in an emergency incident.)
**Section 903.1.1; change to read as follows:
903.1.1 Alternative Protection. Alternative automatic fire-extinguishing systems complying with Section
904 shall be permitted instead of in addition to automatic sprinkler protection where recognized by the
applicable standard and, or as approved by the fire code official.
(Reason: Such alternative systems do not provide the reliability of automatic sprinkler protection. Most
gaseous type systems are highly susceptible to open doors, ceiling or floor tile removal, etc. However, an
Exhibit A – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 8 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Building Code
applicant could pursue an Alternate Method request to help mitigate the reliability issues with these
alternative systems with the fire code official if so desired, or there may be circumstances in which the fire
code official is acceptable to allowing an alternate system in lieu of sprinklers, such as kitchen hoods or
paint booths.)
**Section 903.2; add paragraph to read as follows and delete the exception:
Automatic Sprinklers shall not be installed in elevator machine rooms, elevator machine spaces, and
elevator hoistways, other than pits where such sprinklers would not necessitate shunt trip requirements
under any circumstances. Storage shall not be allowed within the elevator machine room. Signage shall
be provided at the entry doors to the elevator machine room indicating “ELEVATOR MACHINERY – NO
STORAGE ALLOWED.”
(Reason: Firefighter and public safety. This amendment eliminates the shunt trip requirement of the
International Building Code Section 3005.5 for the purpose of elevator passenger and firefighter safety.
This amendment is contingent on the Building Code amendment eliminating the Exceptions to Section
3005.4, such that passive fire barriers for these areas are maintained. The exception deletion is due to
the fact that such telecom areas pose an undue fire risk to the structural integrity of the building.)
**Section 903.2.9; add Section 903.2.9.3 to read as follows:
903.2.9.3 Self-Service Storage Facility. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all
self-service storage facilities.
(Reason: Fire departments are unable to inspect these commercial occupancies and are unaware of the
contents being stored. Previous allowance to separate units by fire barriers is difficult to enforce
maintenance after opening.)
Section 903.2.11; change 903.2.11.3 and add 903.2.11.7, 903.2.11.8, and 903.2.11.9 as follows:
903.2.11.3 Buildings 55 35 feet or more in height. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed
throughout buildings that have one or more stories with an occupant load of 30 or more, other than
penthouses in compliance with Section 1510 of the International Building Code, located 55 35 feet
(16 764 10 668 mm) or more above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, measured to
the finished floor.
Exceptions:
1. Open parking structures in compliance with Section 406.5 of the International Building
Code, having no other occupancies above the subject garage.
2. Occupancies in Group F-2.
903.2.11.7 High-Piled Combustible Storage. For any building with a clear height exceeding 12 feet
(4572 mm), see Chapter 32 to determine if those provisions apply.
903.2.11.8 Spray Booths and Rooms. New and existing spray booths and spraying rooms shall be
protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system.
903.2.11.9 Buildings Over 6,000 sq. ft. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout
all buildings with a building area 6,000 sq. ft. or greater and in all existing buildings that are enlarged
to be 6,000 sq. ft. or greater. For the purpose of this provision, fire walls shall not define separate
buildings.
Exception: Open parking garages in compliance with Section 406.5 of the International Building
Code.
Exhibit A – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 9 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Building Code
(Reason: Provides jurisdictions options as to their desired level of sprinkler protection based on multiple
factors including firefighting philosophies/capabilities.)
**Section 903.3.1.1.1; change to read as follows:
903.3.1.1.1 Exempt Locations. When approved by the fire code official, automatic sprinklers shall not
be required in the following rooms or areas where such ...{text unchanged}… because it is damp, of fire-
resistance-rated construction or contains electrical equipment.
1. Any room where the application of water, or flame and water, constitutes a serious life or fire
hazard.
2. Any room or space where sprinklers are considered undesirable because of the nature of the
contents, when approved by the fire code official.
3. Generator and transformer rooms, under the direct control of a public utility, separated from the
remainder of the building by walls and floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assemblies having a fire-
resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
4. In rooms or areas that are of noncombustible construction with wholly noncombustible contents.
5. Fire service access Elevator machine rooms, and machinery spaces, and hoistways, other than
pits where such sprinklers would not necessitate shunt trip requirements under any
circumstances.
6. {Delete.}
(Reason: Gives clarification. Exception 4 deleted to provide protection where fire risks are poorly
addressed. Amendment 903.2 addresses Exception 5 above relative to the elimination of sprinkler
protection in these areas to avoid the shunt trip requirement.)
***Section 903.3.1.2.3; delete sections and replace as follows:
[F] Section 903.3.1.2.3 Attached Garages and Attics. Sprinkler protection is required in attached
garages, and in the following attic spaces:
1. [Remainder Unchanged]
2. [Remainder Unchanged]
3. Attic spaces of buildings that are two or more stories in height above grade plane or above
the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
4. Group R-4, Condition 2 occupancy attics not required by Item 1 or 3 to have sprinklers shall
comply with one of the following:
[Remainder Unchanged]
(Reason: Attic protection is required due to issues with fire exposure via soffit vents, as well as firefighter
safety. Several jurisdictions indicated experience with un-protected attic fires resulting in displacement of
all building occupants. NFPA 13 provides for applicable attic sprinkler protection requirements, as well as
exemptions to such, based on noncombustible construction, etc. Attached garages already require
sprinklers via NFPA 13R – this amendment just re-emphasizes the requirement.)
**Section 903.3.1.3; change to read as follows:
903.3.1.3 NFPA 13D Sprinkler Systems. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in one- and two-family
dwellings; Group R-3; Group R-4, Condition 1; and townhouses shall be permitted to be installed
throughout in accordance with NFPA 13D or in accordance with state law.
(Reason: To allow the use of the Plumbing section of the International Residential Code (IRC) and
recognize current state stipulations in this regard.)
**Section 903.3.1.4; add to read as follows:
Exhibit A – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 10 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Building Code
[F] 903.3.1.4 Freeze protection. Freeze protection systems for automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be
in accordance with the requirements of the applicable referenced NFPA standard and this section.
903.3.1.4.1 Attics. Only dry-pipe, preaction, or listed antifreeze automatic fire sprinkler systems
shall be allowed to protect attic spaces.
Exception: Wet-pipe fire sprinkler systems shall be allowed to protect non-ventilated attic
spaces where:
1. The attic sprinklers are supplied by a separate floor control valve assembly to
allow ease of draining the attic system without impairing sprinklers throughout the
rest of the building, and
2. Adequate heat shall be provided for freeze protection as per the applicable
referenced NFPA standard, and
3. The attic space is a part of the building’s thermal, or heat, envelope, such that
insulation is provided at the roof deck, rather than at the ceiling level.
903.3.1.4.2 Heat trace/insulation. Heat trace/insulation shall only be allowed where approved by
the fire code official for small sections of large diameter water-filled pipe.
(Reason: In the last few years, severe winters brought to light several issues with current practices for
sprinklering attics, not the least of which was wet-pipe sprinklers in ventilated attics provided with space
heaters, etc. for freeze protection of such piping. This practice is not acceptable for the protection of
water-filled piping in a ventilated attic space as it does not provide a reliable means of maintaining the
minimum 40 degrees required by NFPA, wastes energy, and presents a potential ignition source to the
attic space. Listed antifreeze is specifically included because NFPA currently allows such even though
there is no currently listed antifreeze at the time of development of these amendments. The intent of this
amendment is to help reduce the large number of freeze breaks that have occurred in the past with water-
filled wet-pipe sprinkler systems in the future, most specifically in attic spaces.)
**Section 903.3.5; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
Water supply as required for such systems shall be provided in conformance with the supply
requirements of the respective standards; however, every water-based fire protection system shall be
designed with a 10 psi safety factor. Reference Section 507.4 for additional design requirements.
(Reason: To define uniform safety factor for the region.)
**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
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.)
**Section 905.2; change to read as follows:
Exhibit A – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 11 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Building Code
905.2 Installation Standard. Standpipe systems shall be installed in accordance with this section and
NFPA 14. Manual dry standpipe systems shall be supervised with a minimum of 10 psig and a maximum
of 40 psig air pressure with a high/low alarm.
(Reason: To define manual dry standpipe supervision requirements. Helps ensure the integrity of the
standpipe system via supervision, such that open hose valves will result in a supervisory low air alarm.)
***Section 905.3; add Section 905.3.9 and exception to read as follows:
905.3.9 Buildings Exceeding 10,000 sq. ft. In buildings exceeding 10,000 square feet in area per story
and 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, Class I automatic wet or
manual wet standpipes shall be provided.
Exceptions:
1. Automatic dry, semi-automatic dry, and manual dry standpipes are allowed as provided for in
NFPA 14 where approved by the fire code official.
2. R-2 occupancies of four stories or less in height having no interior corridors.
(Reason: Allows for the rapid deployment of hose lines to the body of the fire. Manual dry option added
this edition.)
**Section 905.4, change Item 1, 3, and 5, and add Item 7 to read as follows:
1. In every required interior exit stairway, a hose connection shall be provided for each story above
and below grade plane. Hose connections shall be located at the main floor landing between
stories, unless otherwise approved by the fire code official.
2. {No change.}
3. In every exit passageway, at the entrance from the exit passageway to other areas of a building.
Exception: Where floor areas adjacent to an exit passageway are reachable from an interior exit
stairway hose connection by a {No change to rest.}
4. {No change.}
5. Where the roof has a slope less than four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33.3-percent slope),
each standpipe shall be provided with a two-way a hose connection shall be located to serve the
roof or at the highest landing of an interior exit stairway with stair access to the roof provided in
accordance with Section 1011.12.
6. {No change.}
7. When required by this Chapter, standpipe connections shall be placed adjacent to all required
exits to the structure and at two hundred feet (200’) intervals along major corridors thereafter, or as
otherwise approved by the fire code official.
(Reason: Item 1, 3, and 5 amendments to remove ‘interior’ will help to clarify that such connections are
required for all ‘exit’ stairways, to ensure firefighter capabilities are not diminished in these tall buildings,
simply because the stair is on the exterior of the building. Item 5 reduces the amount of pressure required
to facilitate testing, and provides backup protection for fire fighter safety. Item 7 allows for the rapid
deployment of hose lines to the body of the fire.)
**Section 905.9; add a second paragraph after the exceptions to read as follows:
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.
Exhibit A – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 12 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Building Code
(Reason: To avoid significant water losses. Consistent with amendment to IFC 903.4.)
**Section 907.1; add Section 907.1.4 to read as follows:
907.1.4 Design Standards. Where a new fire alarm system is installed, the devices shall be
addressable. Fire alarm systems utilizing more than 20 smoke detectors shall have analog initiating
devices.
(Reason: Provides for the ability of descriptive identification of alarms, and reduces need for panel
replacement in the future. Updated wording to match the language of the new requirement at 907.5.2.3.
Change of terminology allows for reference back to definitions of NFPA 72.)
**Section 907.2.1; change to read as follows:
907.2.1 Group A. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in
accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group A occupancies where the having an occupant
load due to the assembly occupancy is of 300 or more persons, or where the Group A occupant load is
more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge. Group A occupancies not
separated from one another in accordance with Section 707.3.10 of the International Building Code shall
be considered as a single occupancy for the purposes of applying this section. Portions of Group E
occupancies occupied for assembly purposes shall be provided with a fire alarm system as required for
the Group E occupancy.
Exception: {No change.}
Activation of fire alarm notification appliances shall:
1. Cause illumination of the means of egress with light of not less than 1 foot-candle (11 lux) at the
walking surface level, and
2. Stop any conflicting or confusing sounds and visual distractions.
(Reason: Increases the requirement to be consistent with Group B requirement. Also addresses issue
found in Group A occupancies of reduced lighting levels and other A/V equipment that distracts from fire
alarm notification devices or reduces ability of fire alarm system to notify occupants of the emergency
condition.)
**Section 907.2.3; change to read as follows:
907.2.3 Group E. A manual fire alarm system that initiates the occupant notification signal utilizing an
emergency voice/alarm communication system meeting the requirements of Section 907.5.2.2 and
installed in accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed in Group E educational occupancies. When
automatic sprinkler systems or smoke detectors are installed, such systems or detectors shall be
connected to the building fire alarm system. An approved smoke detection system 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.
Exceptions:
1. {No change.}
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.) {No change to remainder of exceptions.}
Exhibit A – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 13 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Building Code
(Reason: To distinguish educational from day care occupancy minimum protection requirements. Further,
to define threshold at which portable buildings are considered a separate building for the purposes of
alarm systems. Exceptions provide consistency with State law concerning such occupancies.)
**Section 907.2.12, Exception 3; change to read as follows:
3. Open air portions of buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5 in accordance with Section 303.1 of
the International Building Code; however, this exception does not apply to accessory uses including
but not limited to sky boxes, restaurants, and similarly enclosed areas.
(Reason: To indicate that enclosed areas within open air seating type occupancies are not exempted
from automatic fire alarm system requirements.)
**Section 907.4.2; add Section 907.4.2.7 to read as follows:
907.4.2.7 Type. Manual alarm initiating devices shall be an approved double action type.
(Reason: Helps to reduce false alarms.)
**Section 907.6.1; add Section 907.6.1.1 to read as follows:
907.6.1.1 Wiring Installation. All fire alarm systems shall be installed in such a manner that a failure of
any single initiating device or single open in an initiating circuit conductor will not interfere with the normal
operation of other such devices. All signaling line circuits (SLC) shall be installed in such a way that a
single open will not interfere with the operation of any addressable devices (Class A). Outgoing and
return SLC conductors shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 72 requirements for Class A circuits
and shall have a minimum of four feet separation horizontal and one foot vertical between supply and
return circuit conductors. The initiating device circuit (IDC) from a signaling line circuit interface device
may be wired Class B, provided the distance from the interface device to the initiating device is ten feet or
less.
(Reason: To provide uniformity in system specifications and guidance to design engineers. Improves
reliability of fire alarm devices and systems.)
**Section 907.6.3; delete all four Exceptions.
(Reason: To assist responding personnel in locating the emergency event for all fire alarm systems.)
**Section 907.6.6; add sentence at end of paragraph to read as follows:
See 907.6.3 for the required information transmitted to the supervising station.
(Reason: To assist responding personnel in locating the emergency event for all fire alarm systems.)
(Reason: Deleted Previous code amendment Section 909.22, For removal because it is already in the
code in Sections 909.20.5, 909.20.6, 909.20.6.1, 909.20.6.2, and 909.20.6.3.)
**Section 910.2; change Exception 2 and 3 to read as follows:
2. Only manual smoke and heat removal shall not be required in areas of buildings equipped with
early suppression fast-response (ESFR) sprinklers. Automatic smoke and heat removal is
prohibited.
3. Only manual smoke and heat removal shall not be required in areas of buildings equipped with
control mode special application sprinklers with a response time index of 50(m*S)1/2 or less that
are listed to control a fire in stored commodities with 12 or fewer sprinklers. Automatic smoke
and heat removal is prohibited.
Exhibit A – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 14 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Building Code
(Reason: Allows the fire department to control the smoke and heat during and after a fire event, while still
prohibiting such systems from being automatically activated, which is a potential detriment to the
particular sprinkler systems indicated.)
**Section 910.2; add subsections 910.2.3 with exceptions to read as follows:
910.2.3 Group H. Buildings and portions thereof used as a Group H occupancy as follows:
1. In occupancies classified as Group H-2 or H-3, any of which are more than 15,000 square feet
(1394 m2) in single floor area.
Exception: Buildings of noncombustible construction containing only noncombustible materials.
2. In areas of buildings in Group H used for storing Class 2, 3, and 4 liquid and solid oxidizers,
Class 1 and unclassified detonable organic peroxides, Class 3 and 4 unstable (reactive)
materials, or Class 2 or 3 water-reactive materials as required for a high-hazard commodity
classification.
Exception: Buildings of noncombustible construction containing only noncombustible materials.
(Reason: Maintains a fire protection device utilized in such occupancies where it is sometimes necessary
to allow chemicals to burn out, rather than extinguish.)
**Section 910.3; add section 910.3.4 to read as follows:
910.3.4 Vent Operation. Smoke and heat vents shall be capable of being operated by approved
automatic and manual means. Automatic operation of smoke and heat vents shall conform to the
provisions of Sections 910.3.2.1 through 910.3.2.3.
910.3.4.1 Sprinklered buildings. Where installed in buildings equipped with an approved automatic
sprinkler system, smoke and heat vents shall be designed to operate automatically.
The automatic operating mechanism of the smoke and heat vents shall operate at a temperature rating at
least 100 degrees F (approximately 38 degrees Celsius) greater than the temperature rating of the
sprinklers installed.
Exception: Manual only systems per Section 910.2.
910.3.4.2 Nonsprinklered Buildings. Where installed in buildings not equipped with an approved
automatic sprinkler system, smoke and heat vents shall operate automatically by actuation of a heat-
responsive device rated at between 100°F (56°C) and 220°F (122°C) above ambient.
Exception: Listed gravity-operated drop out vents.
(Reason: Amendment continues to keep applicable wording from prior to the 2012 edition of the IFC.
Specifically, automatic activation criteria is no longer specifically required in the published code.
Specifying a temperature range at which smoke and heat vents should activate in sprinklered buildings
helps to ensure that the sprinkler system has an opportunity to activate and control the fire prior to vent
operation.)
**Section 910.4.3.1; change to read as follows:
910.4.3.1 Makeup Air. Makeup air openings shall be provided within 6 feet (1829 mm) of the floor level.
Operation of makeup air openings shall be manual or automatic. The minimum gross area of makeup air
inlets shall be 8 square feet per 1,000 cubic feet per minute (0.74 m2 per 0.4719 m3/s) of smoke exhaust.
Exhibit A – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 15 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Building Code
(Reason: Makeup air has been required to be automatic for several years now in this region when
mechanical smoke exhaust systems are proposed. This allows such systems to be activated from the
smoke control panel by first responders without having to physically go around the exterior of the building
opening doors manually. Such requires a significant number of first responders on scene to conduct this
operation and significantly delays activation and/or capability of the smoke exhaust system.)
**Section 912.2; add Section 912.2.3 to read as follows:
912.2.3 Hydrant Distance. An approved fire hydrant shall be located within 100 feet of the fire
department connection as the fire hose lays along an unobstructed path.
(Reason: To accommodate limited hose lengths, improve response times where the FDC is needed to
achieve fire control, and improve ease of locating a fire hydrant in those situations also. Also, consistent
with NFPA 14 criteria.)
***Section 913.2.1; add Section 913.2.1.1 and exception to read as follows:
913.2.1.1 Fire Pump Room Access. When located on the ground level at an exterior wall, the fire pump
room shall be provided with an exterior fire department access door that is not less than 3 ft. in width and
6 ft. – 8 in. in height, regardless of any interior doors that are provided. A key box shall be provided at
this door, as required by IFC 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 IFC 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 1006.2.2.7; add Section 1006.2.2.7 as follows:
1006.2.2.7 Electrical Rooms. For electrical rooms, special exiting requirements may apply. Reference
the electrical code as adopted.
(Reason: Cross reference necessary for coordination with the NEC which has exiting requirements as
well.)
**Section 1009.8; add the following Exception 7:
1009.8 Two Way Communication. A two-way communication system complying with Sections 1009.8.1
and 1009.8.2 shall be provided at the landing serving each elevator required to be accessible on each
accessible floor that is one or more stories above or below the level of exit discharge.
Exceptions:
7. Buildings regulated under State Law and built in accordance with State registered plans, including
variances or waivers granted by the State, shall be deemed to be in compliance with the requirements of
Section 1009 and chapter 11.
(Reason: To accommodate buildings regulated under Texas State Law and to be consistent with
amendments in Chapter 11.)
Exhibit A – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 16 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Building Code
**Section 1010.1.9.5 Bolt Locks; amend exceptions 3 and 4 as follows:
Exceptions:
3. Where a pair of doors serves an occupant load of less than 50 persons in a Group B, F, M or S
occupancy. (remainder unchanged)
4. Where a pair of doors serves a Group A, B, F, M or S occupancy (remainder unchanged)
(Reason: Application to M occupancies reflects regional practice; No. 4 expanded to Group A due to it
being a similar scenario to other uses; No. 4 was regional practice.)
**Section 1020.1 Construction; add exception 6 to read as follows:
6. In group B occupancies, corridor walls and ceilings need not be of fire-resistive construction within a
single tenant space when the space is equipped with approved automatic smoke-detection within the
corridor. The actuation of any detector must activate self-annunciating alarms audible in all areas within
the corridor. Smoke detectors must be connected to an approved automatic fire alarm system where such
system is provided.
(Reason: Regionally accepted alternate method.)
**Section 1029.1.1.1 Spaces under grandstands and bleachers; delete this section.
(Reason: Unenforceable.)
**Section 1101.1 Scope; add exception to Section 1101.1 as follows:
Exception: Components of projects regulated by and registered with Architectural Barriers Division of
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation shall be deemed to be in compliance with the
requirements of this chapter.
(Reason: To accommodate buildings regulated under state law. Further clarified in 2015 to mean
components that are specifically addressed by TDLR shall be exempt.)
**Section 2901.1; add a sentence to read as follows:
[P] 2901.1 Scope. {existing text to remain} 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.)
**Section 2902.1; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
In other than E Occupancies, the minimum number of fixtures in Table 2902.1 may be lowered, if
requested in writing, by the applicant stating reasons for a reduced number and approved by the Building
Official.
(Reason: To allow flexibility for designer to consider specific occupancy needs.)
**Table 2902.1; add footnote g to read as follows:
g. Drinking fountains are not required in M Occupancies with an occupant load of 100 or less, B
Occupancies with an occupant load of 25 or less, and for dining and/or drinking establishments.
(Reason: Adjustment meets the needs of specific occupancy types.)
Exhibit A – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 17 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Building Code
**Add new Section 2902.1.4 to read as follows:
2902.1.4 Additional fixtures for food preparation facilities. In addition to the fixtures required in this
Chapter, all food service facilities shall be provided with additional fixtures set out in this section.
2902.1.4.1 Hand washing lavatory. At least one hand washing lavatory shall be provided for use by
employees that is accessible from food preparation, food dispensing and ware washing areas. Additional
hand washing lavatories may be required based on convenience of use by employees.
2902.1.4.2 Service sink. In new or remodeled food service establishments, at least one service sink or
one floor sink shall be provided so that it is conveniently located for the cleaning of mops or similar wet
floor cleaning tool and for the disposal of mop water and similar liquid waste. The location of the service
sink(s) and/or mop sink(s) shall be approved by the <Jurisdiction’s> health department.
(Reason: Coordinates Health law requirements with code language for consistent regional practice.)
***Section 3001.2 Emergency Elevator Communication Systems for the deaf, hard of hearing and
speech impaired; delete this section.
(Reason: Per Elevator manufacturers input, they were not consulted prior to code approval and
technology of elevator provisions as submitted are not currently available to provide this feature.)
***Section 3002.1 Hoistway Enclosure Protection required. Add exceptions to Section 3002.1 as
follows:
Exceptions:
4. Elevators completely located within atriums shall not require hoistway enclosure protection.
5. Elevators in open or enclosed parking garages that serve only the parking garage, shall not
require hoistway enclosure protection.
(Reason: Provides specific Code recognition that elevators within atriums and within parking garages do
not require hoistway enclosure protection. Amendment needed since specific Code language does not
currently exist.)
**Section 3005.4 Machine rooms, control rooms, machinery spaces and control spaces; delete text
as follows:
Elevator machine rooms, control rooms, control spaces and machinery spaces outside of but attached to
a hoistway that have openings into the hoistway shall be enclosed with fire barriers constructed in
accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or
both.
Revise text to read:
Elevator machine rooms, control rooms, control spaces and machinery spaces shall be enclosed with fire
barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance
with Section 711, or both.
(Remainder unchanged)
(Reason: This amendment eliminates code language to be consistent with the regional goal to require
passive enclosures of these areas unless a hoistway enclosure is not required by other Code provisions.
See companion change to eliminate fire sprinklers thereby eliminating shunt trip.)
Exhibit A – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 18 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Building Code
***Section 3005.4 Machine rooms, control rooms, machinery spaces and control spaces;
Delete exceptions and add two new exceptions to Section 3005.4 as follows:
Exceptions:
1. Elevator machine rooms, control rooms, machinery spaces and control spaces completely
located within atriums shall not require enclosure protection.
2. Elevator machine rooms, control rooms, machinery spaces and control spaces in open or
enclosed parking garages that serve only the parking garage, shall not require enclosure
protection.
(Reason: This amendment eliminates the Exceptions to Section 3005.4 such that passive enclosures for
these areas are to be provided and maintained. The fire rating of these enclosures is permitted to be
omitted by the above added exceptions where allowed by other provisions of the code such as in atriums
and parking structures. See companion change to eliminate fire sprinklers to eliminate the need for shunt
trip system.)
**Section 3005.7 add a Section 3005.7 as follows:
3005.7 Fire Protection in Machine rooms, control rooms, machinery spaces and control spaces.
3005.7.1 Automatic sprinkler system. The building shall be equipped throughout with an automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, except as otherwise permitted by Section
903.3.1.1.1 and as prohibited by Section 3005.7.2.1.
3005.7.2.1 Prohibited locations. Automatic sprinklers shall not be installed in machine rooms, elevator
machinery spaces, control rooms, control spaces and elevator hoistways.
3005.7.2.2 Sprinkler system monitoring. The sprinkler system shall have a sprinkler control valve
supervisory switch and water-flow initiating device provided for each floor that is monitored by the
building’s fire alarm system.
3005.7.3 Water protection. An approved method to prevent water from infiltrating into the hoistway
enclosure from the operation of the automatic sprinkler system outside the elevator lobby shall be
provided.
3005.7.4 Shunt trip. Means for elevator shutdown in accordance with Section 3005.5 shall not be
installed.
(Reason: Firefighter and public safety. This amendment eliminates the shunt trip requirement of the
International Building Code Section 3005.5 for the purpose of elevator passenger and firefighter safety.
The new section above is intended to be identical to Sections 3007.2, 3007.3, and 3007.4 for Fire Service
Access Elevators and Sections 3008.2, 3008.3 and 3008.4 for Occupant Evacuation Elevators.)
**Section 3005.8; add Section 3005.8 as follows:
3005.8 Storage. Storage shall not be allowed within the elevator machine room, control room, machinery
spaces and or control spaces. Provide approved signage at each entry to the above listed locations
stating: "No Storage Allowed.
(Reason: Reinforces the need to maintain space clean and free of combustibles. See companion change
to eliminate fire sprinklers therein, to always require an enclosure - with IBC 3005.4 exceptions deleted -
resulting in the limited need for a shunt trip system.)
Exhibit A – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 19 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Building Code
Section 3006.2, Hoistway opening protection required; Revise text as follows:
5. The building is a high rise and the elevator hoistway is more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) 55 feet (16 764
mm) in height. The height of the hoistway shall be measured from the lowest floor at or above grade to
the highest floors served by the hoistway.”
(Reason: 2018 IBC text does not address hoistways that are greater than 75’-0” in height that are both
below grade and above grade but not located above the high rise classification nor does the IBC address
hoistways wholly located above grade such as those that serve sky lobbies".)
End
Exhibit B – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 1 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Fuel Gas Code
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2018 International Fuel Gas Code are hereby
amended as follows: Standard type is text from the IFGC. Underlined type is text inserted. Lined through
type is deleted text from IFGC. A double asterisk at the beginning of a section identifies an amendment
carried over from the 2015 edition of the code and a triple asterisk identifies a new or revised amendment
with the 2018 code.
**Section 101.2
{Local amendments to Section 101.2 may be necessary to correspond with the State Plumbing
Licensing Law.}
**Section 102.2; add an exception to read as follows:
Exception: Existing dwelling units shall comply with Section 621.2.
(Reason: Previous code provisions made unvented heater provisions retroactive except as provided for
in local amendment. This amendment and amendment to IFGC 621.2 better clarify what the code
already states: existing systems may stay unless considered unsafe.)
**Section 102.8; change to read as follows:
102.8 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be
those that are listed in Chapter 8 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 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. 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 306.3; change to read as follows:
[M] 306.3 Appliances in attics. Attics containing appliances shall be provided . . . {bulk of paragraph
unchanged} . . . side of the appliance. The clear access opening dimensions shall be a minimum of 20
inches by 30 inches (508 mm by 762 mm), and large enough to allow removal of the largest appliance.
As a minimum, for access to the attic space, provide one of the following:
1. A permanent stair.
2. A pull down stair with a minimum 300 lb (136 kg) capacity.
3. An access door from an upper floor level.
4. Access Panel may be used in lieu of items 1, 2, and 3 with prior approval of the code official due
to building conditions.
Exceptions:
1. The passageway and level service space are not required where the appliance is
capable of being serviced and removed through the required opening.
2. Where the passageway is not less than … {bulk of section to read the same}.
Exhibit B – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 2 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Fuel Gas Code
(Reason: To provide a safe means of accessibility to appliances in attics and to allow for different types
of construction limitations. Consistent with regional amendment to IMC 306.3.)
***Section 306.5; change to read as follows:
[M] 306.5 Equipment and Appliances on Roofs or Elevated Structures. Where equipment requiring
access or appliances are located on an elevated structure or the roof of a building such that personnel will
have to climb higher than 16 feet (4877 mm) above grade to access, an interior or exterior means of
access shall be provided. Exterior ladders providing roof access need not extend closer than 12 feet
(2438 mm) to the finish grade or floor level below and shall extend to the equipment and appliances' level
service space. Such access shall . . . {bulk of section to read the same} . . . on roofs having a slope
greater than four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33-percent slope). ... {remainder of text unchanged}.
(Reason: To assure safe access to roof appliances. Consistent with IMC amendments.)
**Section 306.5.1; change to read as follows:
[M] 306.5.1 Sloped roofs. Where appliances, equipment, fans or other components that require service
are installed on a roof having a slope of 3 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (25-percent slope) or greater
and having an edge more than 30 inches (762 mm) above grade at such edge, a catwalk at least 16
inches in width with substantial cleats spaced not more than 16 inches apart shall be provided from the
roof access to a level platform at the appliance. The level platform shall be provided on each side of the
appliance to which access is required for service, repair or maintenance. The platform shall be not less
than 30 inches (762 mm) in any dimension and shall be provided with guards. The guards shall extend
not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) above the platform, shall be constructed so as to prevent the passage
of a 21-inch-diameter (533 mm) sphere and shall comply with the loading requirements for guards
specified in the International Building Code.
(Reason: To assure safe access to roof appliances. Consistent with IMC amendments.)
**Section 401.5; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
Both ends of each section of medium pressure gas piping shall identify its operating gas pressure with an
approved tag. The tags are to be composed of aluminum or stainless steel and the following wording shall
be stamped into the tag:
"WARNING
1/2 to 5 psi gas pressure
Do Not Remove"
(Reason: To protect homeowners and plumbers.)
**Section 404.12; change to read as follows:
404.12 Minimum burial depth. Underground piping systems shall be installed a minimum depth of 12 18
inches (305 458 mm) top of pipe below grade, except as provided for in Section 404.12.1.
404.12.1 Delete in its entirety
(Reason: To provide increased protection to piping systems and address reference number change.)
**Section 406.4; change to read as follows:
406.4 Test pressure measurement. Test pressure shall be measured with a monometer or with a
pressure-measuring device designed and calibrated to read, record, or indicate a pressure loss caused
by leakage during the pressure test period. The source of pressure shall be isolated before the pressure
Exhibit B – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 3 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Fuel Gas Code
tests are made. Mechanical gauges used to measure test pressures shall have a range such that the
highest end of the scale is not greater than five times the test pressure.
(Reason: To require the use of more accurate diaphragm gauges. Spring gauges do not provide
accurate measurement below approximately 17 psig.)
**Section 406.4.1; change to read as follows:
406.4.1 Test pressure. The test pressure to be used shall be no less than 1 1/2 times the proposed
maximum working pressure, but no less than 3 3 psig (20 kPa gauge), or at the discretion of the Code
Official, the piping and valves may be tested at a pressure of at least six (6) inches (152 mm) of mercury,
measured with a manometer or slope gauge, irrespective of design pressure. Where the test pressure
exceeds 125 psig (862 kPa gauge), the test pressure shall not exceed a value that produces a hoop
stress in the piping greater than 50 percent of the specified minimum yield strength of the pipe. For tests
requiring a pressure of 3 psig, diaphragm gauges shall utilize a dial with a minimum diameter of three and
one half inches (3 ½”), a set hand, 1/10 pound incrementation and pressure range not to exceed 6 psi for
tests requiring a pressure of 3 psig. For tests requiring a pressure of 10 psig, diaphragm gauges shall
utilize a dial with a minimum diameter of three and one-half inches (3 ½”), a set hand, a minimum of 2/10
pound incrementation and a pressure range not to exceed 20 psi. For welded piping, and for piping
carrying gas at pressures in excess of fourteen (14) inches water column pressure (3.48 kPa) (1/2 psi)
and less than 200 inches of water column pressure (52.2 kPa) (7.5 psi), the test pressure shall not be
less than ten (10) pounds per square inch (69.6 kPa). For piping carrying gas at a pressure that exceeds
200 inches of water column (52.2 kPa) (7.5 psi), the test pressure shall be not less than one and one-half
times the proposed maximum working pressure.
Diaphragm gauges used for testing must display a current calibration and be in good working condition.
The appropriate test must be applied to the diaphragm gauge used for testing.
(Reason: To provide for lesser pressures to coordinate with the use of more accurate diaphragm
gauges.)
**Section 409.1; add Section 409.1.4 to read as follows:
409.1.4 Valves in CSST installations. Shutoff valves installed with corrugated stainless steel (CSST)
piping systems shall be supported with an approved termination fitting, or equivalent support, suitable for
the size of the valves, of adequate strength and quality, and located at intervals so as to prevent or damp
out excessive vibration but in no case greater than 12-inches from the center of the valve. Supports shall
be installed so as not to interfere with the free expansion and contraction of the system's piping, fittings,
and valves between anchors. All valves and supports shall be designed and installed so they will not be
disengaged by movement of the supporting piping.
(Reason: To provide proper security to CSST valves. These standards were established in this region in
1999 when CSST was an emerging technology.)
**Section 410.1; add a second paragraph and exception to read as follows:
Access to regulators shall comply with the requirements for access to appliances as specified in Section
306.
Exception: A passageway or level service space is not required when the regulator is capable of
being serviced and removed through the required attic opening.
(Reason: To require adequate access to regulators.)
**Section 621.2; add exception as follows:
621.2 Prohibited use. One or more unvented room heaters shall not be used as the sole source of
comfort heating in a dwelling unit.
Exhibit B – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 4 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Fuel Gas Code
Exception: Existing approved unvented heaters may continue to be used in dwelling units, in
accordance with the code provisions in effect when installed, when approved by the Code Official
unless an unsafe condition is determined to exist as described in Section 108.7.
(Reason: Gives code official discretion.)
END
Exhibit C – Ordinance 1418-20
1
North Central Texas Council of
Governments Amendments
Approved September 2018
2018 International Energy Conservation Code
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code
(IECC) are hereby amended as follows: Standard type is text from the IECC. Underlined type is text
inserted. Lined through type is deleted text from IECC. A double (**) asterisk at the beginning of a section
identifies an amendment carried over from the 2015 edition of the code and a triple (***) asterisk identifies
a new or revised amendment with the 2018 code. Section numbers in parenthesis represent the
corresponding numbers of the energy provisions of the 2018 International Residential Code for parallel
amendments.
2018 IECC (Energy Provisions of the 2018 IRC)
**Section C102/R102 General; add Section C102.1.2 and R102.1.2 (N1101.4.1) to read as follows:
C102.1.2 Alternative compliance. A building certified by a national, state, or local accredited energy
efficiency program and determined by the Energy Systems Laboratory to be in compliance with the
energy efficiency requirements of this section may, at the option of the Code Official, be considered in
compliance. The United States Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star Program certification of
energy code equivalency shall be considered in compliance.
R102.1.2 (N1101.4.1) Alternative compliance. A building certified by a national, state, or local
accredited energy efficiency program and determined by the Energy Systems Laboratory to be in
compliance with the energy efficiency requirements of this section may, at the option of the Code Official,
be considered in compliance. The United States Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star
Program certification of energy code equivalency shall be considered in compliance. Regardless of the
program or the path to compliance, each 1- and 2-family dwelling shall be tested for air and duct leakage
as prescribed in Section R402.4.1.2 (N1102.4.1.2) and R403.3.3 (N1103.3.3) respectively.
(Reason: This amendment is added to allow alternative compliance in accordance with Texas HB 1365,
78th Legislature. Codified in Chapter 388 Texas Building Energy Performance Standards: §388.003(i).
The last sentence to Section R102.1.2 (N1101.4.1) was added to insure that every house is tested in
accordance with the mandatory provisions of the code.)
Section R202 (N1101.6) Definitions; add the following definition:
**PROJECTION FACTOR. The ratio of the horizontal depth of the overhang, eave or permanently
attached shading device, divided by the distance measured vertically from the bottom of the fenestration
glazing to the underside of the overhang, eave or permanently attached shading device.
(Reason: The amendment to Section 402.3.2 (N1102.3.2) Glazed fenestration SHGC was proposed by
the TAB. ESL determined the proposal to be not less restrictive than the 2015 IECC. This added
definition is necessary as part of that amendment. The amendment will provide additional options for
SHGC selection.)
Section R202 (N1101.6) Definitions; add the following definition:
**DYNAMIC GLAZING. Any fenestration product that has the fully reversible ability to change it
performance properties, including U-factor, solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), or visible transmittance
(VT).
(Reason: This term is referenced in Section R402.3.2. This definition of DYMANIC GLAZING is also
found in the Commercial provisions of the code.)
Exhibit C – Ordinance 1418-20
2
North Central Texas Council of
Governments Amendments
Approved September 2018
2018 International Energy Conservation Code
***Table 402.1.2 (N1102.1.2) INSULATION AND FENESTRATION REQUIREMENTS BY
COMPONENT; the Fenestration U-factor for Climate Zone 3 is amended as follows:
CLIMATE
ZONE
FENESTRATION
U-FACTOR
3 0.32 0.35
(Reason: Carries forward the value in the 2015 IECC/IRC.)
***Table 402.1.4 (N1102.1.4) EQUIVALENT U-FACTORS; the Fenestration U-factor for Climate Zone
3 is amended as follows:
CLIMATE
ZONE
FENESTRATION
U-FACTOR
3 0.32 0.35
(Reason: Carries forward the value in the 2015 IECC/IRC.)
**Section R402.3.2 (N1102.3.2) Glazed fenestration SHGC; amend by adding a paragraph and table
following the exception to read as follows:
Where vertical fenestration is shaded by an overhang, eave, or permanently attached shading device, the
SHGC required in Table R402.1.2 shall be reduced by using the multipliers in Table R402.3.2 SHGC
Multipliers for Permanent Projections.
Table R402.3.2 SHGC Multipliers for Permanent Projections a
Projection
Factor
SHGC Multiplier
(all Other Orientation)
SHGC Multiplier
(North Oriented)
0 - 0.10 1.00 1.00
>0.10 – 0.20 0.91 0.95
>0.20 – 0.30 0.82 0.91
>0.30 – 0.40 0.74 0.87
>0.40 – 0.50 0.67 0.84
>0.50 – 0.60 0.61 0.81
>0.60 – 0.70 0.56 0.78
>0.70 – 0.80 0.51 0.76
>0.80 – 0.90 0.47 0.75
>0.90 – 1.00 0.44 0.73
a North oriented means within 45 degrees of true north.
(Reason: The amendment to Section 402.3.2 Glazed fenestration SHGC was proposed by the TAB
and ESL determined the proposal to be not less restrictive than the 2015 IECC. This added definition is
necessary as part of that amendment. The amendment will provide additional options for SHGC
selection.)
**R402.4.1.2 (N1102.4.1.2) Testing; add a last paragraph to read as follows:
Mandatory testing shall only be performed by individuals that are certified to perform air infiltration testing
certified by national or state organizations as approved by the building official. The certified individuals
must be an independent third-party entity, and may not be employed; or have any financial interest in the
company that constructs the structure.
Exhibit C – Ordinance 1418-20
3
North Central Texas Council of
Governments Amendments
Approved September 2018
2018 International Energy Conservation Code
(Reason: The 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) and International Energy Conservation Code
(IECC) includes enhanced emphasis on envelope infiltration and duct leakage. Significant changes in the
residential energy requirements include more frequent requirement of performance testing for leakage.
Residential Duct systems must be tested unless all ducts and equipment are located within the
conditioned space. Envelope testing is required to demonstrate compliance with maximum allowable
leakage rate. This language puts the regulatory authority on notice that the testing requires specialized
credentials and establishes a conflict of interest baseline.)
***Section R402.4 (N1102.4) Air leakage (Mandatory); add a new section and table to read as
follows:
R402.4.1.3 (N1102.4.1.3) Testing option – ACH tradeoff. As an option to the air leakage rate set out in
Section R402.4.1.2 (N1102.4.1.2), 1- and 2-family homes meeting all of the listed criteria below and the
thermal envelope requirements in Table R402.4.1.3 (N1102.4.1.3) will be considered compliant when
tested and verified as having an air leakage rate to not less than or equal to four air changes per hour
when tested and reported in accordance with the testing standards and reporting criteria listed in Section
R402.4.1.2 (N1102.4.1.2).
The compliance equivalency is limited as follows:
1. Limited to a conditioned floor area between 1,000 and 6,000 square feet,
2. Limited to between 2 to 6 bedrooms,
3. Assumes all ductwork and mechanical equipment is located in the unconditioned attic,
4. Assumes typical wood framing in the walls and roof, and
5. Assumes one of the following heating/cooling systems:
a. All electric system with a heat pump for heating, or
b. A system with electric cooling and natural gas heating.
Dwellings using electric resistance strip heating do not qualify for this tradeoff.
TABLE R402.4.1.3 (N1102.4.1.3)a
Envelope Component Option #1 Option #2
R402.4 Air Leakage < 4 ACH50 < 4 ACH50
Wall Insulation R-value R13 + R3b R13 + R3 b
Fenestration U-factor < 0.32 < 0.32
Fenestration SHGC < 0.25 < 0.25
Ceiling R-value > R49 > R49
Duct Insulation R-value R8 R6
Radiant Barrier Required No Yes
Exhibit C – Ordinance 1418-20
4
North Central Texas Council of
Governments Amendments
Approved September 2018
2018 International Energy Conservation Code
a Except for the values listed in the table, all other mandatory code provisions are applicable.
b The first value listed is the R-value of cavity insulation, the second value is the R-value of the
continuous insulation or insulated siding.
(Reason: This provides a viable option to the single-family residential builder. The Energy Systems
Laboratory determined that this tradeoff option to be not less stringent than the residential provisions of
the 2015 IECC and the energy provisions of the 2015 IRC.)
*** Section R402.4 Air leakage (Mandatory); add a new section to read as follows:
R402.4.1.4 Testing options for R2 multifamily dwelling units. As an option to the air leakage rate set
out in Section R402.4.1.2, multifamily dwelling units will be considered compliant when tested and verified
as having an air leakage rate to the air leakage rate set out in either Section R402.4.1.4.1 or Section
R402.4.1.4.2 when tested and reported in accordance with the testing standards and reporting criteria
listed in Section R402.4.1.2
R402.4.1.4.1 Total air leakage rate for interior multifamily dwelling units. Interior
multifamily dwelling units with a measured, “unguarded” total air leakage result of 5.3 ACH50 or
less shall be considered compliant.
R402.4.1.4.2 Total air leakage rate for corner multifamily dwelling units. Corner
multifamily units with a measured, “unguarded” total leakage result of less than 5.0 ACH50 shall
be considered compliant.
(Reason: The Mandatory Section R402.4 Air Leakage of the 2015 IECC requires that the building
thermal envelope be tested and verified in accordance with R402.4.1.2. Measuring air leakage for
multifamily buildings or dwelling units using an air leakage to outside test (i.e. guarded) can be costly and
time prohibitive. This is because in order to isolate leakage only through the building thermal envelope,
all leakage to adjacent units through adiabatic surfaces must be pressure neutralized. The methodology
below therefore allows for the use of total air leakage testing for multifamily dwelling units that includes air
leakage to the exterior and to adjacent units (i.e. unguarded) to show compliance with R402.4.1.2. This
increases the flexibility of the code without affecting stringency. This methodology has been approved for
use by ESL, and the methodology applies only to jurisdictions in the NCTCOG area.)
*** Section R402.4 Air leakage (Mandatory); add a new section to read as follows:
R402.4.1.5 Sampling options for R2 multifamily dwelling units. For buildings having three or more
dwelling units, a minimum of 15% of the dwelling units in each building must be tested as required by
Section R402.4.1.2. Prior to beginning sampling for testing, “Initial Testing” is required for each
multifamily property. “Initial Testing” shall consist of the 3rd party testing contractor performing the
required tests on at least three consecutive dwelling units. Test results from the “Initial Testing” must
satisfy minimum code requirements before sampling is permitted. Dwelling units selected for the “Initial
Testing” must be within the same building. Dwelling units selected for “Initial Testing” shall not be
included in a “sample group” or counted toward the minimum 15% of dwelling units tested. The
building official shall randomly select the three dwelling units for “Initial Testing.” The building official
may delegate the random selection to the designated 3rd party testing contractor.
R402.4.1.5.1 Sample group Identification and Sampling. The builder shall identify a "sample
group" which may be a building, floor, fire area or portion thereof. All of the dwelling units
within the “sample group” must be at the same stage of construction and must be ready for
testing. The building official shall randomly select at least 15% of dwelling units from each
Exhibit C – Ordinance 1418-20
5
North Central Texas Council of
Governments Amendments
Approved September 2018
2018 International Energy Conservation Code
“sample group” for testing. The building official may delegate the random selection to the
designated 3rd party testing contractor.
If each tested dwelling unit within a “sample group” meets the minimum code requirements,
then all dwelling units in the “sample group” are considered to meet the minimum code
requirements.
Before a building may be deemed compliant with the testing as required, each “sample group”
must be deemed compliant with the minimum code requirements. The sum total of all of the
tested dwelling units across all “sample groups” shall not be less than a minimum of 15% of the
dwelling units in a building.
R402.4.1.5.2 Failure to Meet Code Requirement(s). If any dwelling units within the identified
“sample group” fail to meet a code requirement as determined by testing, the builder will be
directed to correct the cause(s) of failure, and 30% of the remaining dwelling units in the
“sample group” will be randomly selected for testing by the building official, or third-party testing
contractor, regarding the specific cause(s) of failure.
If any failures occur in the additional dwelling units, all remaining dwelling units in the sample
group must be individually tested for code compliance.
A multifamily property with three failures within a 90-day period is no longer eligible to use
the sampling protocol in that community or project until successfully repeating "Initial
Testing." Sampling may be reinstated after at least three consecutive dwelling units are
individually verified to meet all code requirements.
A Certificate of Occupancy may not may be issued for any building until testing has been
performed and deemed to satisfy the minimum code requirements on the dwelling unit(s)
identified for testing.
(Reason: For many multifamily (R2 classifications) projects, it is very costly and time consuming to test
each dwelling unit for projects where there may be dozens of dwelling units in each building. Considering
that the same tradesman generally constructs a building, it is reasonable to deem that construction
practices are consistent and that if a reasonable sampling of units tested pass then all units would pass.
These amendments are very similar to other ordinances/policies from Austin and San Antonio.)
** R403.3.3 (N1103.3.3) Duct Testing (Mandatory); add a last paragraph to read as follows:
Mandatory testing shall only be performed by individuals that are certified to perform duct testing leakage
testing certified by national or state organizations as approved by the building official. The certified
individuals must be an independent third-party entity, and may not be employed; or have any financial
interest in the company that constructs the structure.
(Reason: The 2015 International Residential Code (IRC) and International Energy Conservation Code
(IECC) includes enhanced emphasis on envelope infiltration and duct leakage. Significant changes in the
residential energy requirements include more frequent requirement of performance testing for leakage.
Residential Duct systems must be tested unless all ducts and equipment are located within the
conditioned space. Envelope testing is required to demonstrate compliance with maximum allowable
leakage rate. This language puts the regulatory authority on notice that the testing requires specialized
credentials and establishes a conflict of interest baseline).
*** Section R403.3 Ducts; add a new section to read as follows:
Exhibit C – Ordinance 1418-20
6
North Central Texas Council of
Governments Amendments
Approved September 2018
2018 International Energy Conservation Code
R403.3.4.1 Sampling options for R2 multifamily dwelling units. For buildings having three or more
dwelling units, a minimum of 15% of the dwelling units in each building must be tested as required by
Section R403.3.3. Prior to beginning sampling for testing, “Initial Testing” is required for each
multifamily property. “Initial Testing” shall consist of the 3rd party testing contractor performing the
required tests on at least three consecutive dwelling units. Test results from the “Initial Testing” must
satisfy minimum code requirements before sampling is permitted. Dwelling units selected for the “Initial
Testing” must be within the same building. Dwelling units selected for “Initial Testing” shall not be
included in a “sample group” or counted toward the minimum 15% of dwelling units tested. The
building official shall randomly select the three dwelling units for “Initial Testing.” The building official
may delegate the random selection to the designated 3rd party testing contractor.
R403.3.4.1.1 Sample group Identification and Sampling. The builder shall identify a "sample
group" which may be a building, floor, fire area or portion thereof. All of the dwelling units
within the “sample group” must be at the same stage of construction and must be ready for
testing. The building official shall randomly select at least 15% of dwelling units from each
“sample group” for testing. The building official may delegate the random selection to the
designated 3rd party testing contractor.
If each tested dwelling unit within a “sample group” meets the minimum code requirements,
then all dwelling units in the “sample group” are considered to meet the minimum code
requirements.
Before a building may be deemed compliant with the testing as required, each “sample group”
must be deemed compliant with the minimum code requirements. The sum total of all of the
tested dwelling units across all “sample groups” shall not be less than a minimum of 15% of the
dwelling units in a building.
R403.3.4.1.2 Failure to Meet Code Requirement(s). If any dwelling units within the identified
“sample group” fail to meet a code requirement as determined by testing, the builder will be
directed to correct the cause(s) of failure, and 30% of the remaining dwelling units in the
“sample group” will be randomly selected for testing by the building official, or third-party testing
contractor, regarding the specific cause(s) of failure.
If any failures occur in the additional dwelling units, all remaining dwelling units in the sample
group must be individually tested for code compliance.
A multifamily property with three failures within a 90-day period is no longer eligible to use
the sampling protocol in that community or project until successfully repeating "Initial
Testing." Sampling may be reinstated after at least three consecutive dwelling units are
individually verified to meet all code requirements.
A Certificate of Occupancy may not may be issued for any building until testing has been
performed and deemed to satisfy the minimum code requirements on the dwelling unit(s)
identified for testing.
(Reason: For many multifamily (R2 classifications) projects, it is very costly and time consuming to test
each dwelling unit for projects where there may be dozens of dwelling units in each building. Considering
that the same tradesman generally constructs a building, it is reasonable to deem that construction
practices are consistent and that if a reasonable sampling of units tested pass then all units would pass.
These amendments are very similar to other ordinances/policies from Austin and San Antonio.)
Exhibit C – Ordinance 1418-20
7
North Central Texas Council of
Governments Amendments
Approved September 2018
2018 International Energy Conservation Code
**Section C402.2/R402.2 (N1102.2) Specific insulation requirements (Prescriptive); add Section
C402.2.8 and R402.2.14 (N1102.2.14) to read as follows:
Section C402.2.8/R402.2.14 (N1102.2.14) Insulation installed in walls. Insulation installed in walls
shall be totally enclosed on all sides consisting of framing lumber, gypsum, sheathing, wood structural
panel sheathing or other equivalent material approved by the building official.
(Reason: This will increase the performance of the insulation.)
***Section C403.7.4 Energy recovery ventilation systems (Mandatory); add exception #12 to read
as follows:
12. Individual ventilation systems that serve an individual dwelling unit or sleeping unit.
(Reason: This will clarify the intent of the section without requiring the user or the code official to analyze
the numbers in the table. So a ventilation system that serves only an individual dwelling unit or sleeping
unit does not require an energy recovery system.)
***Section C403.11.1 Duct and Plenum Insulation and Sealing (Mandatory); is amended by adding
a second paragraph to read as follows:
Environmental ducts and plenums installed in vertical chases, both supply and exhaust, where the ducts
or plenums will not be accessible after construction completion, shall be leak tested in accordance with
the SMACNA HVAC Air Leakage Test Manual to the installed ductwork class and pressure requirements.
Documentation shall be furnished demonstrating that representative sections totaling not less than 25
percent of the duct area have been tested and that all tested sections comply with the requirements of
this section.
(Reason: Ductwork installed in chases is not accessible after construction completion. Leakage in these
ducts will increase the energy use of the buildings and systems for the life of the building and reduce the
system performance. Since the leakage in the chase enclosed ductwork would be difficult if not
impossible to locate and correct, testing at the time of installation would assure that the ducts are properly
installed and efficient.)
***Section R404.1 (N1104.1); revised in its entirety to read as follows:
Section R404.1 (N1104.1) Lighting equipment (Mandatory). Not less than 75 percent of the lamps in
permanently installed lighting fixtures or not less than 75 percent of the permanently installed lighting
fixtures shall contain only high-efficacy lamps.
(Reason: This retains the 2015 language will allows for more flexibility.)
**Section 405.2 (N1105.2); add the exception to read as follows:
Section 405.2 (N1105.2) Mandatory requirements. Compliance with the section requires that the
mandatory provisions identified in Section 401.2 be met. Supply and return ducts not completely inside
the building thermal envelope shall be insulated to an R-value of not less than R-6.
Exceptions:
1. For one and two family dwellings the maximum envelope leakage of 4 ACH50 is permitted
provided the envelope leakage in the Standard Reference Design is 3 ACH50 and all other
requirements of Section R405 are met, including all other mandatory measures. The annual
Exhibit C – Ordinance 1418-20
8
North Central Texas Council of
Governments Amendments
Approved September 2018
2018 International Energy Conservation Code
energy cost or source energy usage of the Proposed Design must be equal to or less than
that of the Standard Reference Design.
2. For multifamily or townhomes and buildings classified as Group R2 and Group R4 of three
stories or less the maximum envelope leakage of less than 5 ACH50 is permitted provided
the envelope leakage in the Standard Reference Design is 3 ACH50 and all other
requirements of Section R405 are met, including all other mandatory measures. The annual
energy cost or source energy usage of the Proposed Design must be equal to or less than
that of the Standard Reference Design.
(Reason: This ACH tradeoff is approved by ESL and will require additional energy efficiencies to be
implemented. This tradeoff is incorporated in ESL’s IC3 Code Compliance Calculator as the 2015
NCTCOG path in the code drop down menu. Builders using IC3 will receive a code compliant notification
if their designs meet the requirements of this tradeoff and all other energy code requirements.
Other compliance software products have not incorporated this tradeoff into their compliance reports.
Building Officials receiving Section R405 submittals from software other than IC3 may approve a R405
compliance report that designates the building as not in compliance due to noncompliance with the 3
ACH50 envelope leakage mandatory measure, provided the report also states that the envelope leakage
is no greater than 4 ACH50 for single family homes. REScheck™ does not have the flexibility to
accommodate this tradeoff.)
**Section R405.6.2 (N1105.6.2); add the following sentence to the end of paragraph:
Acceptable performance software simulation tools may include, but are not limited to, REM
RateTM; Energy Gauge®; ICF International Beacon Residential; Ekotrope, HERS Module; Right-
Energy HERS and IC3. Other performance software programs as listed by RESNET® and
having the ability to provide a report as outlined in R405.4.2 may also be deemed acceptable
performance simulation programs and may be considered by the building official.
(Reason: These performance software tools are listed by RESNET at the time of recommendation.)
***Section C405.9. Voltage drop in feeders; deleted in its entirety.
(Reason: There are similar provisions in the NEC where this type of requirement is best managed.)
**TABLE R406.4 (N1106.4) MAXIMUM ENERGY RATING INDEX; amend to read as follows:
TABLE R406.4 (N1106.4) 1
MAXIMUM ENERGY RATING INDEX
CLIMATE ZONE ENERGY RATING INDEX
3 65
1 This table is effective until August 31, 2019.
TABLE R406.4 (N1106.4) 2
MAXIMUM ENERGY RATING INDEX
CLIMATE ZONE ENERGY RATING INDEX
3 63
2 The table is effective from September 1, 2019 to August 31, 2022.
TABLE R406.4 (N1106.4) 3
MAXIMUM ENERGY RATING INDEX
Exhibit C – Ordinance 1418-20
9
North Central Texas Council of
Governments Amendments
Approved September 2018
2018 International Energy Conservation Code
CLIMATE ZONE ENERGY RATING INDEX
3 59
3 This table is effective on or after September 1, 2022.
(Reason: The tables reflect the values and time table set forth in HB1736, 84th Regular Session Codified
in Chapter 388 Texas Building Energy Performance Standards: §388.003.)
***Section C408.3.1 Functional Testing; amend to read as follows:
C408.3.1 Functional Testing. Prior to passing final inspection, the registered design professional or
approved agency shall provide evidence that the lighting control systems have been tested to ensure that
control hardware and software are calibrated, adjusted, programmed, and in proper working condition in
accordance with the construction documents and manufacturer’s instructions. Functional testing shall be
in accordance with Sections C408.3.1.1 through C408.3.1.3 for the applicable control type.
(Reason: The addition of ‘or approved agency’ will make the lighting systems requirements match the
mechanical system requirements in C 408.2.1. This will facilitate and add flexibility to the enforcement of
the commissioning requirements.)
END
Exhibit D – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 1 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Mechanical Code
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2018 International Mechanical Code (IMC) are
hereby amended as follows: Standard type is text from the IMC. Underlined type is text inserted. Lined
through type is deleted text from the IMC. A double asterisk at the beginning of a section identifies an
amendment carried over from the 2015 edition of the code and a triple asterisk identifies a new or revised
amendment of the 2018 edition of the code.
Note: Historically the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) has limited Chapter 1
amendments in order to allow each city to insert their local policies and procedures. We now have
suggested certain items to be brought to the attention of cities considering adoption of the code that may
be of concern to several jurisdictions. It is still intended to be discretionary to each city to determine
which Chapter 1 amendments to include.
***Section 102.8; change to read as follows:
102.8 Referenced Codes and Standards. The codes and standards referenced herein shall be those
that are listed in Chapter 15 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 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 adopted amendments.
Any reference to NFPA 70 shall mean the Electrical Code as adopted.
(Reason: Legal wording to recognize locally adopted codes and amendments adopted with referenced
codes.)
***Section 306.3; change to read as follows:
306.3 Appliances in Attics. Attics containing appliances shall be provided . . . {bulk of paragraph
unchanged} . . . side of the appliance. The clear access opening dimensions shall be a minimum of
20 inches by 30 inches (508 mm by 762 mm), and large enough to allow removal of the largest appliance.
As a minimum, for access to the attic space, provide one of the following:
1. A permanent stair.
2. A pull-down stair with a minimum 300 lb. (136 kg) capacity.
3. An access door from an upper floor level.
4. Access Panel may be used in lieu of items 1, 2, and 3 with prior approval of the code official due
to building conditions.
Exceptions:
1. The passageway and level service space are not required where the appliance is capable
of being serviced and removed… {remainder of section unchanged}
(Reason: To provide a safe means of accessibility to appliances in attics and to allow for different types
of construction limitations. Consistent with regional amendment to International Fuel and gas Code
(IFGC) 306.3.)
***Section 306.5; change to read as follows:
306.5 Equipment and Appliances on Roofs or Elevated Structures. Where equipment requiring
access or appliances are located on an elevated structure or the roof of a building such that personnel will
have to climb higher than 16 feet (4877 mm) above grade to access, an interior or exterior means of
Exhibit D – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 2 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Mechanical Code
access shall be provided. Exterior ladders providing roof access need not extend closer than 12 feet
(2438 mm) to the finish grade or floor level below and shall extend to the equipment and appliances' level
service space. Such access shall . . . {bulk of section to read the same} . . . on roofs having a slope
greater than four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33-percent slope). ... {remainder of text unchanged}.
(Reason: To assure access to roof appliances and provide options to not extend exterior ladders to
grade. Consistent with IFGC amendments.)
**Section 306.5.1; change to read as follows:
306.5.1 Sloped Roofs. Where appliances, equipment, fans or other components that require service are
installed on a roof having a slope of three units vertical in 12 units horizontal (25-percent slope) or greater
and having an edge more than 30 inches (762 mm) above grade at such edge, a catwalk at least 16
inches in width with substantial cleats spaced not more than 16 inches apart shall be provided from the
roof access to a level platform at the appliance. The level platform shall be provided on each side of the
appliance to which access is required for service, repair or maintenance. The platform shall be not less
than 30 inches (762 mm) in any dimension and shall be provided with guards. The guards shall extend
not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) above the platform, shall be constructed so as to prevent the passage
of a 21-inch-diameter (533 mm) sphere and shall comply with the loading requirements for guards
specified in the International Building Code…{remainder of text unchanged}.
(Reason: To assure safe access to roof appliances. Consistent with IFGC amendments.)
**Section 306; add Section 306.6 to read as follows:
306.6 Water Heaters Above Ground or Floor. When the mezzanine or platform in which a water heater
is installed is more than eight (8) feet (2438 mm) above the ground or floor level, it shall be made
accessible by a stairway or permanent ladder fastened to the building.
Exception: A maximum 10 gallon water heater (or larger with approval) is capable of being accessed
through a lay-in ceiling and the water heater installed is not more than ten (10) feet (3048 mm) above
the ground or floor level and may be reached with a portable ladder.
(Reason: To provide safe access to water heaters and to provide lighting and receptacle for maintenance
of equipment. Consistent with regional amendments to IFGC 306.7 and International Plumbing Code
(IPC) 502.5.)
**Section 307.2.3; amend item 2 to read as follows:
2. A separate overflow drain line shall be connected to the drain pan provided with the equipment. Such
overflow drain shall discharge to a conspicuous point of disposal to alert occupants in the event of a
stoppage of the primary drain. The overflow drain line shall connect to the drain pan at a higher level
than the primary drain connection. However, the conspicuous point shall not create a hazard such as
dripping over a walking surface or other areas so as to create a nuisance.
(Reason: Greater specificity in prohibited locations for condensate discharge. Consistent with regional
amendment to IPC 314.2.1.)
**Section 403.2.1; add an item 5 to read as follows:
5. Toilet rooms within private dwellings that contain only a water closet, lavatory, or combination
thereof may be ventilated with an approved mechanical recirculating fan or similar device
designed to remove odors from the air.
(Reason: Consistent with common regional practice. Consistent with regional amendment to International
Residential Code (IRC) R303.3.)
**Section 501.3; add an exception to read as follows:
Exhibit D – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 3 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Mechanical Code
501.3 Exhaust Discharge. The air removed by every mechanical exhaust system shall be discharged
outdoors at a point where it will not cause a public nuisance and not less than the distances specified in
Section 501.3.1. The air shall be discharged to a location from which it cannot again be readily drawn in
by a ventilating system. Air shall not be exhausted into an attic, crawl space, or be directed onto
walkways.
Exceptions:
1. Whole-house ventilation-type attic fans shall be permitted to discharge into the attic space of
dwelling units having private attics.
2. Commercial cooking recirculating systems.
3. Where installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and where mechanical or
natural ventilation is otherwise provided in accordance with Chapter 4, listed and labeled
domestic ductless range hoods shall not be required to discharge to the outdoors.
4. Toilet room exhaust ducts may terminate in a warehouse or shop area when infiltration of
outside air is present.
(Reason: Provide a reasonable alternative in areas where a large volume of outside air is present.)
**Section 607.5.1; change to read as follows:
607.5.1 Fire Walls. Ducts and air transfer openings permitted in fire walls in accordance with Section
705.11 of the International Building Code shall be protected with listed fire dampers installed in
accordance with their listing. For hazardous exhaust systems see Section 510.1-510.9 IMC.
(Reason: Correspond with un-amended IBC 710.7.)
END
Exhibit E – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 1 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Residential Code
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2018 International Residential Code are hereby
amended as follows: Standard type is text from the IRC. Underlined type is text inserted. Lined through
type is deleted text from IRC. A double asterisk at the beginning of a section identifies an amendment
carried over from the 2015 edition of the code and a triple asterisk identifies a new or revised amendment
with the 2018 code.
In 2009, the State Legislature enacted SB 1410 prohibiting cities from enacting fire sprinkler
mandates in residential dwellings. However, jurisdictions with ordinances that required sprinklers for
residential dwellings prior to and enforced before January 1, 2009, may remain in place. Reference;
Section R313 Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems.
The energy provisions in IRC Chapter 11 is deleted in its entirety.
Reference the 2018 IECC for energy code provisions and recommended amendments.
**Section R102.4; change to read as follows:
R102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes, when specifically adopted, and standards
referenced in this code shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent
of each such reference and as further regulated in Sections R102.4.1 and R102.4.2. 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 made to NFPA 70
or the Electrical Code shall mean the Electrical Code as adopted.
(Reason: Legal wording to recognize locally adopted codes and amendments adopted with referenced
codes.)
** Section R103 and R103.1 amend to insert the Department Name
DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING SAFETY [INSERT OFFICIAL BUILDING DEPARTMENT
NAME OF JURISDICTION]
R103.1 Creation of enforcement agency. The Department of Building Safety [INSERT OFFICIAL
BUILDING DEPARTMENT NAME OF JURISDICTION] is hereby created and the official in charge thereof
shall be known as the building official.
(Reason: Reminder to be sure ordinance reads the same as designated by the city.)
**Section R104.10.1 Flood Hazard areas; delete this section.
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
**Section R105.3.1.1& R106.1.4; delete these sections.
(Reason: Floodplain provisions are addressed locally.)
**Section R110 (R110.1 through R110.5); delete the section.
(Reason: Issuing CO's for residences is not a common practice in the area.)
**Section R202; change definition of "Townhouse" to read as follows:
TOWNHOUSE. A single-family dwelling unit constructed in a group of three or more attached units
separated by property lines in which each unit extends from foundation to roof and with a yard or public
way on at least two sides.
(Reason: To distinguish Townhouses on separate lots.)
Exhibit E – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 2 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Residential Code
***Table R301.2 (1); fill in as follows:
Delete remainder of table Manual J Design Criteria and footnote N
(Reason: To promote regional uniformity. Manual J is utilized by third party and not part of performed
plan reviews. This is reference table only, not needed.)
**Section R302.1; add exception #6 to read as follows:
Exceptions: {previous exceptions unchanged}
6. Open non-combustible carport structures may be constructed when also approved within
adopted ordinances.
(Reason: Refers to other ordinances, such as zoning ordinances.)
**Section R302.3; add Exception #3 to read as follows:
Exceptions:
1. {existing text unchanged}
2. {existing text unchanged}
3. Two-family dwelling units that are also divided by a property line through the structure shall
be separated as required for townhouses.
(Reason: Provide guidance for a common construction method in this area. Correlates with amendment
to IRC Section R202 Townhouse definition.)
**Section R302.5.1; change to read as follows:
R302.5.1 Opening protection. Openings from a private garage directly into a room used for sleeping
purposes shall not be permitted. Other openings between the garage and residence shall be equipped
with solid wood doors not less than 13/8 inches (35 mm) in thickness, solid or honeycomb core steel
doors not less than 13/8 inches (35 mm) thick, or 20-minute fire-rated doors. Equipped with a self-closing
or automatic closing device.
(Reason: Absence of data linking self-closing devices to increased safety. Self-closing devices often fail
to close the door entirely.)
**Section R303.3, Exception; amend to read as follows:
Exception: {existing text unchanged} Spaces containing only a water closet or water closet and a
lavatory may be ventilated with an approved mechanical recirculating fan or similar device designed
to remove odors from the air.
(Reason: Consistent with common local practice as recirculating fans are recognized as acceptable air
movement.)
GROUND
SNOW
LOAD
WIND DESIGN
SEISMIC
DESIGN
CATEGORYf
A
SUBJECT TO
DAMAGE FROM WINTER DESIGN TEMPe ICE BARRIER UNDER-LAYMENT h FLOOD HAZARDSg AIR FREEZING INDEXi MEAN ANNUAL TEMPj
SPEEDd
(MPH) Topographic Effectsk Special Wind RegionL Windborne Debris Zonem
Weathering
a
Frost
Line
Depthb
Termitec
5 lb/ft
220 F
No
Local
Code
150
64.90
F
115
(3 sec-
gust)/ 76
fastest
mile
No
No
No
Moderate
6”
Very
Heavy
Exhibit E – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 3 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Residential Code
**Section R313.2 One and Two Family Dwellings; Delete this section and subsection in their
entirety.
(Reason: In 2009, the State Legislature enacted SB 1410, amending section 1301.551 subsection I of
the occupation code, prohibiting cities from enacting fire sprinkler mandates one or two family dwellings
only. However, jurisdictions with ordinances that required sprinklers for one or two family dwellings prior
to and enforced before January 1, 2009, may remain in place.)
***Section R315.2.2 Alterations, repairs and additions; amend to read as follows:
Exception:
1. [existing text remains]
2. Installation, alteration or repairs of all electrically powered mechanical systems or plumbing
appliances.
(Reason: Revised exception for clarity. Code intent is to protect against the products of combustion.)
**Section R322 Flood Resistant Construction; deleted section.
(Reason: Floodplain hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
**Section R401.2; amended by adding a new paragraph following the existing paragraph to read as
follows.
Section R401.2. Requirements. {existing text unchanged} …
Every foundation and/or footing, or any size addition to an existing post-tension foundation, regulated by
this code shall be designed and sealed by a Texas-registered engineer.
(Amendment to 2015 IRC carried forward to 2018 IRC.)
**Section R602.6.1; amend the following:
R602.6.1 Drilling and notching of top plate. When piping or ductwork is placed in or partly in an
exterior wall or interior load-bearing wall, necessitating cutting, drilling or notching of the top plate by more
than 50 percent of its width, a galvanized metal tie not less than 0.054 inch thick (1.37 mm) (16 Ga) and 1
½ inches (38) mm 5 inches (127 mm) wide shall be fastened across and to the plate at each side of the
opening with not less than eight 10d (0.148 inch diameter) having a minimum length of 1 ½ inches (38
mm) at each side or equivalent. Fasteners will be offset to prevent splitting of the top plate material. The
metal tie must extend a minimum of 6 inches past the opening. See figure R602.6.1. {remainder
unchanged}
(Amendment to 2015 IRC carried forward to 2018 IRC.)
**Figure R602.6.1; delete the figure and insert the following figure:
Exhibit E – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 4 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Residential Code
(Amendment to 2015 IRC carried forward to 2018 IRC also provides additional assurance of maintaining
the integrity of the framing by spreading the nailing pattern.)
***Add section R703.8.4.1.2 Veneer Ties for Wall Studs; to read as follows:
R703.8.4.1.2 Veneer Ties for Wall Studs. In stud framed exterior walls, all ties may be anchored to
studs as follows:
1. When studs are 16 in (407 mm) o.c., stud ties shall be spaced no further apart than 24 in (737
mm) vertically starting approximately 12 in (381 mm) from the foundation; or
2. When studs are 24 in (610 mm) o.c., stud ties shall be spaced no further apart than 16 in (483
mm) vertically starting approximately 8 in (254 mm) from the foundation.
(This amendment had been a carry over amendment for years to provide clear instruction for placement
of brick ties. It is now retained with changes to reflect its correct placement and use for clarity when
attachment to framing lumber (studs). It should remain for those purposes. It is in addition to the new
new Table in 2018 which provides for brick ties directly to sheathing.)
**Section R902.1; amend and add exception #5 to read as follows:
R902.1 Roofing covering materials. Roofs shall be covered with materials as set forth in Sections R904
and R905. Class A, B, or C roofing shall be installed in designated by law as requiring their use or when
the edge of the roof is less than 3 feet from a lot line. {remainder unchanged}
Exceptions:
1. {text unchanged}
2. {text unchanged}
3. {text unchanged}
4. {text unchanged}
5. Non-classified roof coverings shall be permitted on one-story detached accessory structures
used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided the floor area does
not exceed (area defined by jurisdiction).
(Reason: to address accessory structures Group U exempt from permits per Section R105.2)
*** Chapter 11 [RE] – Energy Efficiency is deleted in its entirety; Reference the 2018 IECC for
energy code provisions and recommended amendments.
(Reason: The recommended energy code changes from the Energy and Green Advisory Board update
the amendments for Chapter 11. The 2018 International Energy Conservation Code should be
referenced for residential energy provisions. This approach simply minimizes the number of amendments
to the IRC.)
***Section M1305.1.2; change to read as follows:
M1305.1.2 Appliances in attics. Attics containing appliances shall be provided . . . {bulk of paragraph
unchanged} . . . side of the appliance. The clear access opening dimensions shall be a minimum of
20 inches by 30 inches (508 mm by 762 mm), and large enough to allow removal of the largest appliance.
As a minimum, for access to the attic space, provide one of the following:
1. A permanent stair.
Exhibit E – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 5 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Residential Code
2. A pull down stair with a minimum 300 lb (136 kg) capacity.
3. An access door from an upper floor level.
Exceptions:
1. The passageway and level service space are not required where the appliance can be
serviced and removed through the required opening.
2. Where the passageway is unobstructed…{remaining text unchanged}
(Reason: To provide a safe means of accessibility to appliances in attics and to allow for different types
of construction limitations. Consistent with regional amendment to IFGC and IMC 306.3.)
**Section M1411.3; change to read as follows:
M1411.3 Condensate disposal. Condensate from all cooling coils or evaporators shall be conveyed from
the drain pan outlet to an approved place of disposal a sanitary sewer through a trap, by means of a
direct or indirect drain. {remaining text unchanged}
(Reason: Reflects regional practice and to reduce excessive runoff into storm drains.)
**Section M1411.3.1, Items 3 and 4; add text to read as follows:
M1411.3.1 Auxiliary and secondary drain systems. {bulk of paragraph unchanged}
1. {text unchanged}
2. {text unchanged}
3. An auxiliary drain pan… {bulk of text unchanged}… with Item 1 of this section. A water level
detection device may be installed only with prior approval of the building official.
4. A water level detection device… {bulk of text unchanged}… overflow rim of such pan. A water
level detection device may be installed only with prior approval of the building official.
(Reason: Reflects standard practice in this area.)
**Section M1411.3.1.1; add text to read as follows:
M1411.3.1.1 Water-level monitoring devices. On down-flow units …{bulk of text unchanged}… installed
in the drain line. A water level detection device may be installed only with prior approval of the building
official.
(Reason: Reflects standard practice in this area.)
***M1503.6 Makeup Air Required; amend and add exception as follows:
M1503.6 Makeup air required. Where one or more gas, liquid or solid fuel-burning appliance that is
neither direct-vent nor uses a mechanical draft venting system is located within a dwelling unit’s air
barrier, each exhaust system capable of exhausting in excess of 400 cubic feet per minute (0.19 m3/s)
shall be mechanically or passively provided with makeup air at a rate approximately equal to the
difference between exhaust air rate and 400 cubic feet per minute. Such makeup air systems shall be
equipped with not fewer than one damper complying with Section M1503.6.2.
Exception: Makeup air is not required for exhaust systems installed for the exclusive purpose of space
cooling and intended to be operated only when windows or other air inlets are open. Where all appliances
in the house are of sealed combustion, power-vent, unvented, or electric, the exhaust hood system shall
be permitted to exhaust up to 600 cubic feet per minute (0.28 m3/s) without providing makeup air.
Exhibit E – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 6 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Residential Code
Exhaust hood systems capable of exhausting in excess of 600 cubic feet per minute (0.28 m3/s) shall be
provided with a makeup air at a rate approximately to the difference between the exhaust air rate and 600
cubic feet per minute.
(Reason: Exception requires makeup air equaling the amount above and beyond 400 cfm for larger fan
which will address concerns related to “fresh” air from the outdoors in hot humid climates creating a
burden on HVAC equipment and negative efficiency impacts from back-drafting and wasted energy.)
**Section M2005.2; change to read as follows:
M2005.2 Prohibited locations. Fuel-fired water heaters shall not be installed in a room used as a
storage closet. Water heaters located in a bedroom or bathroom shall be installed in a sealed enclosure
so that combustion air will not be taken from the living space. Access to such enclosure may be from the
bedroom or bathroom when through a solid door, weather-stripped in accordance with the exterior door
air leakage requirements of the International Energy Conservation Code and equipped with an approved
self-closing device. Installation of direct-vent water heaters within an enclosure is not required.
(Reason: Corresponds with the provisions of IFGC Section 303.3, exception #5.)
**Section G2408.3 (305.5)Private Garages; delete this section in its entirety.
(Reason: This provision does not reflect standard practice in this area.)
**Section G2415.2.1 (404.2.1) CSST; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
Both ends of each section of medium pressure gas piping shall identify its operating gas pressure with an
approved tag. The tags are to be composed of aluminum or stainless steel and the following wording
shall be stamped into the tag:
"WARNING: 1/2 to 5 psi gas pressure - Do Not Remove"
(Reason: To protect homeowners and plumbers.)
***Section G2415.12 (404.12) and G2415.12.1 (404.12.1); change to read as follows:
G2415.12 (404.12) Minimum burial depth. Underground piping systems shall be installed a minimum
depth of 12 inches (305 mm) 18 inches (457 mm) below grade, except as provided for in Section
G2415.12.1.
G2415.12.1 (404.12.1) Individual Outdoor Appliances; Delete in its entirety
(Reason: To provide increased protection to piping systems.)
**Section G2417.1 (406.1); change to read as follows:
G2417.1 (406.1) General. Prior to acceptance and initial operation, all piping installations shall be
inspected and pressure tested to determine that the materials, design, fabrication, and installation
practices comply with the requirements of this code. The permit holder shall make the applicable tests
prescribed in Sections 2417.1.1 through 2417.1.5 to determine compliance with the provisions of this
code. The permit holder shall give reasonable advance notice to the building official when the piping
system is ready for testing. The equipment, material, power and labor necessary for the inspections and
test shall be furnished by the permit holder and the permit holder shall be responsible for determining that
the work will withstand the test pressure prescribed in the following tests.
(Reason: To utilize language used in the IPC regarding who is responsible for testing procedures.)
**Section G2417.4; change to read as follows:
G2417.4 (406.4) Test pressure measurement. Test pressure shall be measured with a monometer or
with a pressure-measuring device designed and calibrated to read, record, or indicate a pressure loss
Exhibit E – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 7 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Residential Code
caused by leakage during the pressure test period. The source of pressure shall be isolated before the
pressure tests are made. Mechanical gauges used to measure test pressures shall have a range such
that the highest end of the scale is not greater than five times the test pressure.
(Reason: To require the use of more accurate diaphragm gauges. Spring gauges do not provide
accurate measurement below approximately 17 psig.)
**Section G2417.4.1; change to read as follows:
G2417.4.1 (406.4.1) Test pressure. The test pressure to be used shall be no less than 3 psig (20 kPa
gauge), or at the discretion of the Code Official, the piping and valves may be tested at a pressure of at
least six (6) inches (152 mm) of mercury, measured with a manometer or slope gauge, irrespective of
design pressure. Where the test pressure exceeds 125 psig (862 kPa gauge), the test pressure shall not
exceed a value that produces a hoop stress in the piping greater than 50 percent of the specified
minimum yield strength of the pipe. For tests requiring a pressure of 3 psig, diaphragm gauges shall
utilize a dial with a minimum diameter of three and one half inches (3 ½”), a set hand, 1/10 pound
incrementation and pressure range not to exceed 6 psi for tests requiring a pressure of 3 psig. For tests
requiring a pressure of 10 psig, diaphragm gauges shall utilize a dial with a minimum diameter of three
and one-half inches (3 ½”), a set hand, a minimum of 2/10 pound incrementation and a pressure range
not to exceed 20 psi. For welded piping, and for piping carrying gas at pressures in excess of fourteen
(14) inches water column pressure (3.48 kPa) (1/2 psi) and less than 200 inches of water column
pressure (52.2 kPa) (7.5 psi), the test pressure shall not be less than ten (10) pounds per square inch
(69.6 kPa). For piping carrying gas at a pressure that exceeds 200 inches of water column (52.2 kPa)
(7.5 psi), the test pressure shall be not less than one and one-half times the proposed maximum working
pressure.
Diaphragm gauges used for testing must display a current calibration and be in good working condition.
The appropriate test must be applied to the diaphragm gauge used for testing
(Reason: To provide for lesser pressures to coordinate with the use of more accurate diaphragm gauges.)
**Section G2417.4.2; change to read as follows:
G2417.4.2 (406.4.2) Test duration. The test duration shall be held for a length of time satisfactory to the
Building Official, but in no case for be not less than 10 fifteen (15) minutes. For welded piping, and for
piping carrying gas at pressures in excess of fourteen (14) inches water column pressure (3.48 kPa), the
test duration shall be held for a length of time satisfactory to the Building Official, but in no case for less
than thirty (30) minutes.
(Reason: To comply with accepted regional practices.)
**Section G2420.1 (406.1); add Section G2420.1.4 to read as follows:
G2420.1.4 Valves in CSST installations. Shutoff valves installed with corrugated stainless steel (CSST)
piping systems shall be supported with an approved termination fitting, or equivalent support, suitable for
the size of the valves, of adequate strength and quality, and located at intervals so as to prevent or damp
out excessive vibration but in no case greater than 12-inches from the center of the valve. Supports shall
be installed so as not to interfere with the free expansion and contraction of the system's piping, fittings,
and valves between anchors. All valves and supports shall be designed and installed so they will not be
disengaged by movement of the supporting piping.
(Reason: To provide proper security to CSST valves. These standards were established in this region in
1999 when CSST was an emerging technology.)
**Section G2420.5.1 (409.5.1); add text to read as follows:
G2420.5.1 (409.5.1) Located within the same room. The shutoff valve…{bulk of paragraph
unchanged}… in accordance with the appliance manufacturer’s instructions. A secondary shutoff valve
must be installed within 3 feet (914 mm) of the firebox if appliance shutoff is located in the firebox.
Exhibit E – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 8 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Residential Code
(Reason: Reflects regional practice and provides an additional measure of safety.)
**Section G2421.1 (410.1); add text and Exception to read as follows:
G2421.1 (410.1) Pressure regulators. A line pressure regulator shall be … {bulk of paragraph
unchanged}… approved for outdoor installation. Access to regulators shall comply with the requirements
for access to appliances as specified in Section M1305.
Exception: A passageway or level service space is not required when the regulator is capable of
being serviced and removed through the required attic opening.
(Reason: To require adequate access to regulators.)
**Section G2422.1.2.3 (411.1.3.3) Prohibited locations and penetrations; delete Exception 1 and
Exception 4.
(Reason: To comply with accepted regional practices.)
**Section G2445.2 (621.2); add Exception to read as follows:
G2445.2 (621.2) Prohibited use. One or more unvented room heaters shall not be used as the sole
source of comfort heating in a dwelling unit.
Exception: Existing approved unvented room heaters may continue to be used in dwelling units, in
accordance with the code provisions in effect when installed, when approved by the Building Official
unless an unsafe condition is determined to exist as described in International Fuel Gas Code Section
108.7 of the Fuel Gas Code.
(Reason: Gives code official discretion.)
**Section G2448.1.1 (624.1.1); change to read as follows:
G2448.1.1 (624.1.1) Installation requirements. The requirements for water heaters relative to access,
sizing, relief valves, drain pans and scald protection shall be in accordance with this code.
(Reason: To clarify installation requirements. Also corresponds with amendments regarding water heater
access.)
***Section P2603; add to read as follows:
P2603.3 Protection against corrosion. Metallic piping, except for cast iron, ductile iron and galvanized
steel, shall not be placed in direct contact with steel framing members, concrete or cinder walls and floors
or other masonry. Metallic piping shall not be placed in direct contact with corrosive soil. Where sheathing
is used to prevent direct contact, the sheathing shall have a thickness of not less than 0.008 inch (8 mil)
(0.203 mm) and the sheathing shall be made of approved material plastic. Where sheathing protects
piping that penetrates concrete or masonry walls or floors, the sheathing shall be installed in a manner
that allows movement of the piping within the sheathing.
(Reason: Allows for other materials to be accepted.)
***Section P2603.5.1 Sewer Depth; change to read as follows:
P2603.5.1 Sewer depth. Building sewers that connect to private sewage disposal systems shall be a
minimum of [number] inches (mm) below finished grade at the point of septic tank connection. Building
sewers shall be a minimum of 12 inches (304 mm) below grade.
Exhibit E – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 9 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Residential Code
(Reason: Provides sewer depth that is common in this region. Deleted reference to private sewage
disposal because a private sewage disposal code is not typically adopted in this region.)
***Section P2604; add to read as follows:
P2604.2.1 Plastic sewer and DWV piping installation. Plastic sewer and DWV piping installed
underground shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Trench
width shall be controlled to not exceed the outside the pipe diameter plus 16 inches or in a trench which
has a controlled width equal to the nominal diameter of the piping multiplied by 1.25 plus 12 inches. The
piping shall be bedded in 4 inches of granular fill and then backfilled compacting the side fill in 6-inch
layers on each side of the piping. The compaction shall be to minimum of 85 percent standard proctor
density and extend to a minimum of 6 inches above the top of the pipe.
(Reason: To follow manufacturer backfill requirements and to be clear to Inspectors out in the field.)
*** Section P2801; change to read as follows:
P2801.6 Required pan.
Where a storage tank-type water heater or a hot water storage tank is installed in a location where water
leakage from the tank will cause damage, the tank shall be installed in a pan constructed of one of the
following:
1. Galvanized steel or aluminum of not less than 0.0236 inch (0.6010 mm) in thickness.
2. Plastic not less than 0.036 inch (0.9 mm) in thickness.
3. Other approved materials.
A plastic pan beneath a gas-fired water heater shall be constructed of material having a flame spread
index of 25 or less and a smoke-developed index of 450 or less when tested in accordance with ASTM
E84 or UL 723.
(Reason: Plastic burns degrading material over time on gas fired water heaters and to maintaining
protection level.)
] **Section P2801.6.1; change to read as follows:
Section P2801.6.1 Pan size and drain. The pan shall be not less than 11/2 inches (38 mm) in depth and
shall be of sufficient size and shape to receive all dripping or condensate from the tank or water heater.
The pan shall be drained by an indirect waste pipe having a diameter of not less than 3/4 inch (19 mm).
Piping for safety pan drains shall be of those materials listed in Table P2906.5.
Multiple pan drains may terminate to a single discharge piping system when approved by the
administrative authority and permitted by the manufactures installation instructions and installed with
those instructions. {existing text unchanged}
(Reason: Regionally accepted practice.)
*** Section P2804.6.1; change to read as follows:
Section P2804.6.1 Requirements for discharge piping. The discharge piping serving a pressure relief
valve, temperature relief valve or combination thereof shall:
1. Not be directly connected to the drainage system.
2. Discharge through an air gap located in the same room as the water heater.
3. Not be smaller than the diameter of the outlet of the valve served and shall discharge full size to
the air gap.
4. Serve a single relief device and shall not connect to piping serving any other relief device or
equipment.
Exhibit E – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 10 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Residential Code
Exception: Multiple relief devices may be installed to a single T & P discharge piping system
when approved by the administrative authority and permitted by the manufactures installation
instructions and installed with those instructions.
5. Discharge to the floor, to the pan serving the water heater or storage tank, to a waste receptor an
approved location or to the outdoors.
[remainder unchanged]
(Reason: To ensure the T&P is ran to the exterior.)
**Section P2902.5.3; change to read as follows:
P2902.5.3 Lawn irrigation systems. The potable water supply to lawn irrigation systems shall be
protected against backflow by an atmospheric-type vacuum breaker, a pressure-type vacuum breaker, a
double-check assembly or a reduced pressure principle backflow preventer. A valve shall not be installed
downstream from an atmospheric vacuum breaker. Where chemicals are introduced into the system, the
potable water supply shall be protected against backflow by a reduced pressure principle backflow
preventer.
(Reason: To provide clarity.)
***Section P3003.9; change to read as follows:
P3003.9.2 Solvent cementing. Joint surfaces shall be clean and free from moisture. A purple primer that
conforms to ASTM F 656 shall be applied. Solvent cement not purple in color and conforming to ASTM D
2564, CSA B137.3, CSA B181.2 or CSA B182.1 shall be applied to all joint surfaces. The joint shall be
made while the cement is wet and shall be in accordance with ASTM D 2855. Solvent cement joints shall
be permitted above or below ground.
Exception: A primer is not required where both of the following conditions apply:
1. The solvent cement used is third-party certified as conforming to ASTM D 2564
2. The solvent cement is used only for joining PVC drain, waste, and vent pipe and
fittings in not pressure applications in sizes up to and including 4 inches (102mm) in
diameter.
(Reason: to keep the “process of joining PVC pipe”.)
**Section P3111Combination waste and vent systems; delete this section in its entirety.
(Reason: A combination waste and vent system is not approved for use in residential construction.)
**Section P3112.2 Vent Collection; delete and replace with the following:
P3112.2 Installation. Traps for island sinks and similar equipment shall be roughed in above the floor
and may be vented by extending the vent as high as possible, but not less than the drainboard height and
then returning it downward and connecting it to the horizontal sink drain immediately downstream from
the vertical fixture drain. The return vent shall be connected to the horizontal drain through a wye-branch
fitting and shall, in addition, be provided with a foot vent taken off the vertical fixture vent by means of a
wye-branch immediately below the floor and extending to the nearest partition and then through the roof
to the open air or may be connected to other vents at a point not less than six (6) inches (152 mm) above
the flood level rim of the fixtures served. Drainage fittings shall be used on all parts of the vent below the
floor level and a minimum slope of one-quarter (1/4) inch per foot (20.9 mm/m) back to the drain shall be
maintained. The return bend used under the drain-board shall be a one (1) piece fitting or an assembly of
a forty-five (45) degree (0.79 radius), a ninety (90) degree (1.6 radius) and a forty-five (45) degree (0.79
radius) elbow in the order named. Pipe sizing shall be as elsewhere required in this Code. The island
sink drain, upstream of the return vent, shall serve no other fixtures. An accessible cleanout shall be
installed in the vertical portion of the foot vent.
Exhibit E – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 11 Approved September 2018
Amendments 2018 International Residential Code
(Reason: To clarify the installation of island venting and to provide a regional guideline on a standard
installation method for this region.)
END
Exhibit F – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 1 Approved September 2018 IPC
Amendments 2018 International Plumbing Code
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2018 International Plumbing Code are hereby
amended as follows: Standard type is text from the IPC. Underlined type is text inserted. Lined through
type is deleted text from the IPC. A double asterisk at the beginning of a section identifies an amendment
carried over from the 2015 edition of the code and a triple asterisk identifies a new or revised amendment
with the 2018 edition of the code.
Note: Historically NCTCOG has limited Chapter 1 amendments in order to allow each city to insert their
local policies and procedures. We now have suggested certain items to be brought to the attention of
cities considering adoption of the code that may be of concern to several jurisdictions. It is still intended
to be discretionary to each city to determine which Chapter 1 amendments to include.
**Table of Contents, Chapter 7, Section 714; change to read as follows:
714 Engineered Computerized Drainage Design . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
(Reason: Editorial change to make compatible with amendment to Section 714.1.)
***Section 102.8; change to read as follows:
102.8 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be
those that are listed in Chapter 15 and such codes, when specifically adopted, and standards shall be
considered as part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference.
Where the differences occur between provisions of this code and the referenced standards, the
provisions of this code shall be the minimum requirements. Whenever amendments have been adopted
to the referenced codes and standards, each reference to said code and standard shall be considered to
reference the adopted amendments. Any reference to NFPA 70 shall mean the Electrical Code as
adopted.
(Reason: Legal wording to recognize locally adopted codes and amendments adopted with referenced
codes.)
**Sections 106.6.2 and 106.6.3; change to read as follows:
106.6.2 Fee schedule. The fees for all plumbing work shall be as indicated in the following schedule:
(JURISDICTION TO INSERT APPROPRIATE SCHEDULE) adopted by resolution of the governing body
of the jurisdiction.
106.6.3 Fee Refunds. The code official shall establish a policy for authorize authorizing the refunding of
fees as follows. {Delete balance of section}
(Reason: This calls to attention of local jurisdictions considering adoption that they need a fee schedule
and a refund policy.)
**Section 109; delete entire section and insert the following:
SECTION 109
MEANS OF APPEAL
Exhibit F – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 2 Approved September 2018 IPC
Amendments 2018 International Plumbing Code
109.1 Application for appeal. Any person shall have the right to appeal a decision of the code official to
the board of appeals established by ordinance. The board shall be governed by the enabling ordinance.
(Reason: Most jurisdictions already have an ordinance establishing and governing an appeals board for
this code. This also calls to the attention of jurisdictions not having such a board that it needs to be
established.)
***Section 305; change to read as follows:
305.1 Protection against contact. Metallic piping, except for cast iron, ductile iron and galvanized steel,
shall not be placed in direct contact with steel framing members, concrete or cinder walls and floors or
other masonry. Metallic piping shall not be placed in direct contact with corrosive soil. Where sheathing is
used to prevent direct contact, the sheathing shall have a thickness of not less than 0.008 inch (8 mil)
(0.203 mm) and the sheathing shall be made of approved material plastic. Where sheathing protects
piping that penetrates concrete or masonry walls or floors, the sheathing shall be installed in a manner
that allows movement of the piping within the sheathing.
(Reason: Allows for other materials to be accepted.)
305.4.1 Sewer depth. Building sewers that connect to private sewage disposal systems shall be a
minimum of [number] inches (mm) below finished grade at the point of septic tank connection. Building
sewers shall be a minimum of 12 inches (304 mm) below grade.
(Reason: Provides sewer depth that is common in this region. Deleted reference to private sewage
disposal because a private sewage disposal code is not typically adopted in this region.)
**Section 305.7; change to read as follows:
305.7 Protection of components of plumbing system. Components of a plumbing system installed
within 3 feet along alleyways, driveways, parking garages or other locations in a manner in which they
could be exposed to damage shall be recessed into the wall or otherwise protected in an approved
manner.
(Reason: Provide a common cutoff point to designate a general separation distance at which plumbing
systems should be safe for consistency in enforcement.)
***Section 306; change to read as follows:
***306.2.4 Plastic sewer and DWV piping installation. Plastic sewer and DWV piping installed
underground shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Trench
width shall be controlled to not exceed the outside the pipe diameter plus 16 inches or in a trench which
has a controlled width equal to the nominal diameter of the diameter of the piping multiplied by 1.25 plus
12 inches. The piping shall be bedded in 4 inches of granular fill and then backfilled compacting the side
fill in 6-inch layers on each side of the piping. The compaction shall be to minimum of 85 percent
standard proctor density and extend to a minimum of 6 inches above the top of the pipe.
(Reason: To follow manufacturer backfill requirements and to be clear to Inspectors out in the field)
**Section 314.2.1; change to read as follows:
Exhibit F – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 3 Approved September 2018 IPC
Amendments 2018 International Plumbing Code
314.2.1 Condensate disposal. Condensate from all cooling coils and evaporators shall be conveyed
from the drain pan outlet to an approved place of disposal. ... {text unchanged} ... Condensate shall not
discharge into a street, alley, sidewalk, rooftop, or other areas so as to cause a nuisance.
(Reason: Greater specificity in prohibited locations for condensate discharge. It is the intent of this
amendment to send condensate discharge into a sanitary sewer drain. Consistent with regional
amendment to IMC 307.2.1.)
**Section 409.2; change to read as follows:
409.2 Water connection. The water supply to a commercial dishwashing machine shall be protected
against backflow by an air gap or backflow preventer in accordance with Section 608. (Remainder of
section unchanged).
(Reason: Domestic dishwashing machines would be difficult to enforce and should already come
equipped with backflow preventers. Consistent with regional amendments in IPC Section 608.)
**Section 413.4; change to read as follows:
413.4 Required location for floor drains Public laundries and central washing facilities. Floor
drains shall be installed in the following areas:
1. In public laundries and in the central washing facilities of multiple family dwellings, the rooms
containing automatic clothes washers shall be provided with floor drains located to readily drain
the entire floor area. Such drains shall have a minimum outlet of not less than 3 inches (76 mm)
in diameter.
2. Commercial kitchens. In lieu of floor drains in commercial kitchens, the Code Official may accept
floor sinks.
3. Public restrooms.
(Reason: To make more compatible with local health code practices.)
***Section 502.3; change to read as follows:
502.3 Water heaters installed in attics. Attics containing a water heater shall be provided . . . {bulk of
paragraph unchanged} . . . side of the water heater. The clear access opening dimensions shall be not
less than 20 inches by 30 inches (508 mm by 762 mm) where such dimensions are large enough to allow
removal of the water heater. As a minimum, for access to the attic space, provide one of the following:
1. A permanent stair.
2. A pull-down stair with a minimum 300 lb (136 kg) capacity.
3. An access door from an upper floor level.
4. Access Panel may be used in lieu of items 1, 2, and 3 with prior approval of the Code Official
due to building conditions.
Exceptions:
Exhibit F – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 4 Approved September 2018 IPC
Amendments 2018 International Plumbing Code
1. The passageway and level service space are not required where the appliance is capable
of being serviced and removed… {remainder of text unchanged}
(Reason: To provide a safe means of accessibility to appliances in attics and to allow for different types
of construction limitations. Consistent with regional amendment to IMC and IFGC)
**Section 502.6; add Section 502.6 to read as follows:
502.6 Water heaters above ground or floor. When the attic, roof, mezzanine or platform in which a
water heater is installed is more than eight (8) feet (2438 mm) above the ground or floor level, it shall be
made accessible by a stairway or permanent ladder fastened to the building.
Exception: A max 10-gallon water heater (or larger with approval) is capable of being accessed
through a lay-in ceiling and a water heater is installed is not more than ten (10) feet (3048 mm)
above the ground or floor level and may be reached with a portable ladder.
(Reason: To provide safe access to water heaters. (Consistent with regional amendments to IFGC 306.7
and IMC 306.3. Note reference to amendment above.)
***Section 504.6; change to read as follows:
504.6 Requirements for discharge piping. The discharge piping serving a pressure relief valve,
temperature relief valve or combination thereof shall:
1. Not be directly connected to the drainage system.
2. Discharge through an air gap. located in the same room as the water heater.
3. Not be smaller than the diameter of the outlet of the valve served and shall discharge full size to
the air gap.
4. Serve a single relief device and shall not connect to piping serving any other relief device or
equipment.
Exception: Multiple relief devices may be installed to a single T & P discharge piping system
when approved by the administrative authority and permitted by the manufacture’s
installation instructions and installed with those instructions.
5. Discharge to the floor, to the pan serving the water heater or storage tank, to a waste receptor an
approved location or to the outdoors.
6. Discharge in a manner that does not cause personal injury or structural damage.
7. Discharge to a termination point that is readily observable by the building occupants.
8. Not be trapped.
9. Be installed so as to flow by gravity.
Exhibit F – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 5 Approved September 2018 IPC
Amendments 2018 International Plumbing Code
10. Terminate not more than 6 inches above and not less than two times the discharge pipe diameter
above the floor or flood level rim of the waste receptor.
11. Not have a threaded connection at the end of such piping.
12. Not have valves or tee fittings.
13. Be constructed of those materials listed in Section 605.4 or materials tested, rated and approved
for such use in accordance with ASME A112.4.1.
14. Be one nominal size larger than the size of the relief valve outlet, where the relief valve
discharge piping is installed with insert fittings. The outlet end of such tubing shall be
fastened in place
(Reason: To provide a higher degree of safety.)
**Section 504.7.1; change to read as follows:
Section 504.7.1 Pan size and drain to read as follows: The pan shall be not less than 11/2 inches (38
mm) in depth and shall be of sufficient size and shape to receive all dripping or condensate from the tank
or water heater. The pan shall be drained by an indirect waste pipe having a diameter of not less than 3/4
inch (19 mm). Piping for safety pan drains shall be of those materials listed in Table 605.4. Multiple pan
drains may terminate to a single discharge piping system when approved by the administrative authority
and permitted by the manufactures installation instructions and installed with those instructions.
**Section 608.1; change to read as follows:
608.1 General. A potable water supply system shall be designed, installed and maintained in such a
manner so as to prevent contamination from non-potable liquids, solids or gases being introduced into the
potable water supply through cross-connections or any other piping connections to the system. Backflow
preventer applications shall conform to applicable local regulations, Table 608.1, except and as
specifically stated in Sections 608.2 through 608.16.10.
(Reason: To recognize local requirements.)
**Section 608.17.5; change to read as follows:
608.17.5 Connections to lawn irrigation systems.
The potable water supply to lawn irrigation systems shall be protected against backflow by an
atmospheric-type vacuum breaker, a pressure-type vacuum breaker, a double-check assembly or a
reduced pressure principle backflow preventer. A valve shall not be installed downstream from an
atmospheric vacuum breaker. Where chemicals are introduced into the system, the potable water supply
shall be protected against backflow by a reduced pressure principle backflow preventer.
(Reason: To recognize regional practices.)
**Section 608.18; change to read as follows:
Exhibit F – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 6 Approved September 2018 IPC
Amendments 2018 International Plumbing Code
608.18 Protection of individual water supplies. An individual water supply shall be located and
constructed so as to be safeguarded against contamination in accordance with applicable local
regulations. Installation shall be in accordance with Sections 608.17.1 through 608.17.8.
(Reason: To allow local requirements to govern.)
Section 703.6; Delete
(Reason: not a standard practice in this region)
**Section 704.5; added to read as follows:
704.5 Single stack fittings. Single stack fittings with internal baffle, PVC schedule 40 or cast iron single
stack shall be designed by a registered engineer and comply to a national recognized standard.
(Reason: to allow owners, installers, inspectors, and design professionals to ready identify product
markers to determine they meet all required standards.)
**Section 712.5; add Section 712.5 to read as follows:
712.5 Dual Pump System. All sumps shall be automatically discharged and, when in any “public use”
occupancy where the sump serves more than 10 fixture units, shall be provided with dual pumps or
ejectors arranged to function independently in case of overload or mechanical failure. For storm drainage
sumps and pumping systems, see Section 1113.
(Reason: To address dual pump system. To provide reference for storm drainage systems.)
**Section 713, 713.1; change to read as follows:
SECTION 713
ENGINEERED COMPUTERIZED DRAINAGE DESIGN
713.1 Design of drainage system. The sizing, design and layout of the drainage system shall be
permitted to be designed by a registered engineer using approved computer design methods.
(Reason: Code was too restrictive.)
**Section 803.3; added to read as follows:
803.3 Special waste pipe, fittings, and components. Pipes, fittings, and components receiving or
intended to receive the discharge of any fixture into which acid or corrosive chemicals are placed shall be
constructed of CPVC, high silicone iron, PP, PVDF, chemical resistant glass, or glazed ceramic materials.
(Reason: To clarify the allowable materials which are specifically listed for chemical drainage
applications.)
**Section 903.1; change to read as follows:
903.1 Roof extension. Open vent pipes that extend through a roof shall terminate not less than six (6)
inches (152 mm) above the roof. Where a roof is to be used for assembly or as a promenade, observation
Exhibit F – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 7 Approved September 2018 IPC
Amendments 2018 International Plumbing Code
deck, sunbathing deck or similar purposes, open vent pipes shall terminate not less than 7 feet (2134
mm) above the roof.
(Reason: To provide regional guideline on standard installation method for this area and address
reference number correction.)
***Section 918.8; change to read as follows.
918.8 Where permitted. Individual, branch and circuit vents shall be permitted to terminate with a
connection to an individual or branch-type air admittance valve in accordance with Section 918.3.1. Stack
vents and vent stacks shall be permitted to terminate to stack-type air admittance valves in accordance
with Section 918.3.2. Air admittance valves shall only be installed with the prior approval of the building
official.
(Reason: Mechanical Device that is subject to fail and not installed per manufacturer)
**Section 1003; see note below:
{Until the Health and Water Departments of the area can coordinate a uniform grease interceptor section,
each city will have to modify this section individually.}
**Section 1106.1; change to read as follows:
1106.1 General. The size of the vertical conductors and leaders, building storm drains, building storm
sewers, and any horizontal branches of such drains or sewers shall be based on six (6) inches per hour
the 100-year hourly rainfall rate indicated in Figure 1106.1 or on other rainfall rates determined from
approved local weather data.
(Reason: Specify the roof drain size normally used in the area.)
**Section 1108.3; change to read as follows:
1108.3 Sizing of secondary drains. Secondary (emergency) roof drain systems shall be sized in
accordance with Section 1106 based on the rainfall rate for which the primary system is sized in Figure
1106.1 or on other rainfall rates determined from approved local weather data. Scuppers shall be sized to
prevent the depth of ponding water from exceeding that for which the roof was designed as determined by
Section 1101.7. Scuppers shall not have an opening dimension of less than 4 inches (102 mm). The flow
through the primary system shall not be considered when sizing the secondary roof drain system.
(Reason: Specify that overflow drainage is to be the same size as the normal roof drains.)
**Section 1109; delete this section.
***Section 1202.1; delete Exceptions 1 and 2.
(Reason: State law already specifies that Med Gas systems must comply with NFPA 99.)
END
North Central Texas Council of Governments
Amendments
1 Approved September 2018
2018 International Existing Building Code
Exhibit G – Ordinance 1418-20
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2018 International Existing Building Code are
hereby amended as follows: Standard type is text from the IEBC. Underlined type is text inserted. Lined
through type is deleted text from IEBC. A double asterisk (**) at the beginning of a section identifies an
amendment carried over from the 2015 edition of the code and a triple asterisk (***) identifies a new or
revised amendment with the 2018 code.
**Section 102.4; change to read as follows:
[A] 102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes, when specifically adopted, and standards
referenced in this code shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent
of each such reference and as further regulated in Sections 102.4.1 and 102.4.2.
(Reason: To not inadvertently adopt other codes (i.e. Wildland Urban Interface Code etc…) by
reference.)
**Section 202; amend definition of Existing Building as follows:
Existing Building - A building, structure, or space, with an approved final inspection issued under a code
edition which is at least 2 published code editions preceding the currently adopted building code; or a
change of occupancy.
**Section 202; amend definition of Existing Structure as follows:
Existing Structure- A building, structure, or space, with an approved final inspection issued under a code
edition which is at least 2 published code editions preceding the currently adopted building code; or a
change of occupancy.
(Reason: To prevent potential abuses in new construction and shell buildings.)
**Section 305.1; adds an exception to read as follows:
Exception: Components of projects regulated by and registered with Architectural Barriers Division of
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation shall be deemed to be incompliance with the
requirements of this chapter.
(Reason: To coordinate with the IEBC and State Law.)
**Section 305.4.2; add Number 7 to the list of requirements as follows:
7. At least one accessible family or assisted use toilet room shall be provided in accordance with
Chapter 11 of the International Building Code.
(Reason: Accessible toilet rooms should be available for disabled occupants.)
***Section 401.3 Flood Hazard Areas; delete this section:
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
***Section 405.2.5 Flood Hazard Areas; delete this section:
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
**Section 406.1; add a code reference to read as follows:
406.1 Material. Existing electrical wiring and equipment undergoing repair shall be allowed to be repaired
North Central Texas Council of Governments
Amendments
2 Approved September 2018
2018 International Existing Building Code
Exhibit G – Ordinance 1418-20
or replaced with like material, in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 70.
(Reason: To ensure compliance with the NEC relative to any electrical repairs/replacement.)
***Section 502.3 Flood Hazard Areas; delete this section:
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city)
**Section 504.1.2; change to read as follows:
504.1.2 Existing fire escapes. Existing fire escapes shall continue to be accepted as a component in the
means of egress in existing buildings only. Existing fire escapes shall be permitted to be repaired or
replaced.
(Reason: To add clarity and help reduce confusion associated with the amendment preventing new fire
escapes.)
**Section 504.1.3; delete entire section:
504.1.3 New fire escapes. New fire escapes for existing buildings shall be permitted only where exterior
stairways cannot be utilized due to lot lines limiting stairway size or due to the sidewalks, alleys or roads
at grade level. New fire escapes shall not incorporate ladders or access by windows.
(Reason: To generally require a higher level of egress protection.)
***Section 507.3 Flood Hazard Areas; delete this section:
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
***Section 701.3 Flood Hazard Areas; delete this section:
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
**Section 702.6; add a code reference to read as follows:
702.6 Materials and methods. All new work shall comply with the materials and methods requirements
in the International Building Code, International Energy Conservation Code, International Mechanical
Code, National Electrical Code, and International Plumbing Code, as applicable, that specify material
standards, detail of installation and connection, joints, penetrations, and continuity of any element,
component, or system in the building.
(Reason: To provide a more complete list of potentially adopted codes.)
***Section 802.5.1; change to read as follows:
802.5.1 Minimum requirement. Every portion of a floor, such as a balcony or a loading dock, open-
sided walking surfaces, including mezzanines, equipment platforms, aisles, stairs, ramps and landings
that is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below and is not provided with guards, or
those in which the existing guards are judged to be in danger of collapsing, shall be provided with
guards.
(Reason: To be consistent with Building Code requirements for guards and unsafe conditions.)
**Section 803.1; add sentence to read as follows:
For the purpose of fire sprinkler protection and fire alarm requirements included in this section, the work
North Central Texas Council of Governments
Amendments
3 Approved September 2018
2018 International Existing Building Code
Exhibit G – Ordinance 1418-20
area shall be extended to include at least the entire tenant space or spaces bounded by walls capable of
resisting the passage of smoke containing the subject work area, and if the work area includes a corridor,
hallway, or other exit access, then such corridor, hallway, or other exit access shall be protected in its
entirety on that particular floor level.
(Reason: The intent is to avoid work area protection that would result in partial sprinkler or fire alarm
protection. Partial sprinkler protection not delineated by walls would be a clear violation of NFPA 13 and
would not allow the sprinkler to perform or function as intended. Also, partial fire alarm coverage is a
clear violation of the Fire Code, NFPA 72, and ADA.)
**Section 803.2.4; change exception to read as follows:
Exception: Supervision is not required where the Fire Code does not require such for new construction
for the following:
1. Underground gate valve with roadway boxes.
2. Halogenated extinguishing systems.
3. Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems.
4. Dry- and wet-chemical extinguishing systems.
5. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance
with NFPA 13R where a common supply
main is used to supply both domestic and automatic
sprinkler systems and a separate shutoff
valve for the automatic sprinkler system is not
provided.
(Reason: The published exceptions are over-reaching and will result in inconsistencies among
supervised protection systems and cause confusion for first responders as well.)
**Section 803.3; change section to read as follows:
803.3 Standpipes. Refer to Section 1103.6 of the Fire Code for retroactive standpipe requirements.
{Delete rest of Section 804.3.}
(Reason: The Fire Code already requires standpipes in these buildings (greater than 50 ft.) retroactively
in Section 1103.6. This new section would negate/lessen those retroactive provisions already contained
in the Fire Code.)
**Section 805.2; remove Exception #1
Exception 1. W here the work area and the means of egress serving it complies with NFPA101.
(Reason: NFPA 101 is not a commonly adopted code in the region and enforcement could be
problematic.)
**Section 805.3.1.2; change to read as follows:
805.3.1.2 Fire Escapes required. For other than Group I-2, where more than one exit is required an
existing or newly constructed fire escape complying with section 805.3.1.2.1 shall be accepted as
providing one of the required means of egress.
(Reason: Higher level of safety by not allowing new fire escapes.)
**Section 805.3.1.2.1; change to read as follows:
805.3.1.2.1 Fire Escape access and details - …
1. [Remain unchanged]
2. Access to a new fire escape shall be through a door...
3. Item Deleted
4. [Remain unchanged]
North Central Texas Council of Governments
Amendments
4 Approved September 2018
2018 International Existing Building Code
Exhibit G – Ordinance 1418-20
5. In all buildings of Group E occupancy up to and including the 12th grade, buildings of Group I
occupancy, rooming boarding houses, and childcare centers, ladders of any type are
prohibited on fire escapes used as a required means of egress.
(Reason: Higher level of safety by not allowing new fire escapes. Consistency with language and defined
term in IBC.)
***Section 805.5.2 Transoms; add language to read as follows:
805.5.2 Transoms. In all buildings of Group B, E, [Remainder unchanged]
(Reason: Transom windows were historically a common practice in school buildings and each jurisdiction
should evaluate the impact on their stakeholders and their community with regards to section.)
**Section 904.1; add sentence to read as follows:
For the purpose of fire sprinkler protection and fire alarm requirements included in this section, the work
area shall be extended to include at least the entire tenant space or spaces bounded by walls containing
the subject work area, and if the work area includes a corridor, hallway, or other exit access, then such
corridor, hallway, or other exit access shall be protected in its entirety on that particular floor level.
(Reason: The intent is to avoid work area protection that would result in partial sprinkler or fire alarm
protection. Partial sprinkler protection not delineated by walls would be a clear violation of NFPA 13 and
the Fire Code and would not allow the sprinkler system to perform or function as intended. Also, partial
fire alarm coverage is a clear violation of the Fire Code, NFPA 72, and ADA.)
**Section 904.1.1; change sentence to read as follows:
904.1.1 High-rise buildings. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in work areas of where the
high-rise buildings. has a sufficient municipal water supply for the design and installation of an automatic
sprinkler system at the site.
(Reason: Level 3 alterations are affecting more than 50% of the existing high-rise building, and as such,
sprinkler protection is more than justifiable, even when fire pumps, etc., are necessary. It is noted that
the work area method is one of three different methods available to the designer/owner in the IEBC.)
***Section 1103.3 Flood Hazard Areas; delete this section:
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
***Section 1201.4 Flood Hazard Areas; delete this section:
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
***Section 1301.3.2; change to read as follows:
1301.3.2 Compliance with other codes. Buildings that are evaluated in accordance with this section
shall comply with the International Fire Code. and International Property Maintenance Code.
(Reason: NCTCOG does not currently review the IPMC for recommended amendments at this time.)
***Section 1301.3.3 Compliance with Flood Hazard Provisions; delete this section:
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
***Section 1402.6 Flood Hazard Areas; delete this section:
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
North Central Texas Council of Governments
Amendments
5 Approved September 2018
2018 International Existing Building Code
Exhibit G – Ordinance 1418-20
END
Exhibit H – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 1
2017 NEC Regional Amendments
Recommended Amendments to the
2017 National Electrical Code
North Central Texas Council of Governments
The following articles, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2017 National Electrical Code (NEC)
are hereby amended as follows: Standard type is text from the NEC. Highlighted with gray
shading is text inserted. Lined through type is deleted text from NEC. A double asterisk (**) at
the beginning of an article identifies an amendment carried over from the 2014 edition of the
code and a triple asterisk (***) identifies a new or revised amendment with the 2017 code.
**Article 100; add the following to definitions:
Engineering Supervision. Supervision by a Qualified State of Texas Licensed Professional
Engineer engaged primarily in the design or maintenance of electrical installations.
(REASON FOR CHANGE: To better define the qualifications for engineering supervision. This
term is used twenty four times in the 2017 National Electrical Code.)
***Article 100; remove the amendment to the following definition:
Intersystem Bonding Termination. A device that provides a means for connecting intersystem
bonding conductors for communication systems and other systems such as metallic gas piping
systems to the grounding electrode system. Bonding conductors for other systems shall not be
larger than 6 AWG.
(REASON FOR CHANGE: Remove the above amendment. Updates to the 2017 National
Electrical Code Article 250.94(A) only accommodate connecting communication systems to an
intersystem bonding termination device, but Article 250.94(B) provides an alternative or other
means. To allow for a termination point for other bonding conductors in addition to
communication systems that are required by the various model codes. 6 AWG was chosen to
coincide with the minimum size of bonding conductor required to the intersystem bonding
jumper.)
**Article 110.2; change the following to read as follows:
110.2 Approval. The conductors and equipment required or permitted by this Code shall be
acceptable only if approved. Approval of equipment may be evident by listing and labeling of
Exhibit H – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 2
2017 NEC Regional Amendments
equipment by a Nationally Recognized Testing Lab (NRTL) with a certification mark of that
laboratory or a qualified third party inspection agency approved by the AHJ.
Exception: Unlisted equipment that is relocated to another location within a jurisdiction or is field
modified is subject to the approval by the AHJ. This approval may be by a field evaluation by a
NRTL or qualified third party inspection agency approved by the AHJ.
Manufacturer’s self-certification of any equipment shall not be used as a basis for approval by
the AHJ.
Informational Note No. 1: See 90.7, Examination of Equipment for Safety, and 110.3,
Examination, Identification, Installation, and Use of Equipment. See definitions of Approved,
Identified, Labeled, and Listed.
Informational Note No. 2: Manufacturer’s self-certification of equipment may not necessarily
comply with U.S. product safety standards as certified by an NRTL.
Informational Note No. 3: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 790 and 791 provide an
example of an approved method for qualifying a third party inspection agency.
(REASON FOR CHANGE: To add clarity and provide more positive options for enforcement and
approval of unlisted equipment.)
***Article 210.52(G) (1) Garages: remove the amendment that deleted the following:
(1) Garages. In each attached garage and in each detached garage with electric power. The
branch circuit supplying this receptacle(s) shall not supply outlets outside of the garage. At least
one receptacle outlet shall be installed for each car space.
(REASON FOR CHANGE: Installations in compliance with this Code are not necessarily
efficient, convenient, or adequate for good service or future expansion of electrical use.)
(REASON FOR CHANGE: Updates to this section in the 2017 National Electrical Code provided
relief by removing “shall not supply outlets outside of the garage.”)
***Article 230.71(A); remove the amendment that added the following exception:
Exception: Multi-occupant buildings. Individual service disconnecting means is limited to six for
each occupant. The number of individual disconnects at one location may exceed six.
(REASON FOR CHANGE: This is currently the accepted installation practice of the region. No
noteworthy complaints have surfaced. It is more reasonable than the current NEC requirements.
It allows more than six disconnects grouped at one location. This also allows designers more
flexibility in the placement of electrical meters and main service disconnects.)
Exhibit H – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 3
2017 NEC Regional Amendments
(REASON FOR CHANGE: This is below the minimum standard of the 2017 National Electrical
Code adopted by the State of Texas.)
***Article 300.11; remove the amendment that added the following exception:
Exception: Ceiling grid support wires may be used for structural supports when the associated
wiring is located in that area, not more than two raceways or cables supported per wire, with a
maximum nominal metric designation 16 (trade size 1/2”).
(REASON FOR CHANGE: To provide limited support of raceways and cables by ceiling grid
support wire.)
(REASON FOR CHANGE: This is below the minimum standard of the 2017 National Electrical
Code adopted by the State of Texas.)
***Article 310.15(B) (7); remove the amendment that changed the following to read as
follows:
(7) This Article shall not be used in conjunction with 220.82.
(REASON FOR CHANGE: 310.15(B) (7) has been revised and the table has been deleted.)
(REASON FOR CHANGE: Upon review of the 2014 and 2017 code-making panel 6 and in
conjunction with the wire manufacturing industry, based on the diversification of loads in modern
construction, this amendment becomes irrelevant.)
**Article 500.8 (A) (3); change to read as follows:
500.8 Equipment.
Articles 500 through 504 require equipment construction and installation that ensure safe
performance under conditions of proper use and maintenance.
Informational Note No. 1: It is important that inspection authorities and users exercise more than
ordinary care with regard to installation and maintenance.
Informational Note No. 2: Since there is no consistent relationship between explosion properties
and ignition temperature, the two are independent requirements.
Informational Note No. 3: Low ambient conditions require special consideration. Explosion proof
or dust-ignition proof equipment may not be suitable for use at temperatures lower than -25°C
Exhibit H – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 4
2017 NEC Regional Amendments
(-13°F) unless they are identified for low-temperature service. However, at low ambient
temperatures, flammable concentrations of vapors may not exist in a location classified as Class
I, Division 1 at normal ambient temperature.
(A) Suitability. Suitability of identified equipment shall be determined by one of the following: (1) Equipment listing or labeling;
(2) Evidence of equipment evaluation from a qualified testing laboratory or inspection
agency concerned with product evaluation; or,
(3) Evidence acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction such as a manufacturer's self-
evaluation or an owner's engineering judgment. an engineering judgment signed and
sealed by a qualified Registered licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Texas.
Informational Note: Additional documentation for equipment may include certificates
demonstrating compliance with applicable equipment standards, indicating special conditions of
use, and other pertinent information.
(REASON FOR CHANGE: Carry over from previous amendment with change to better define
the qualifications for an engineering judgment.)
**Article 505.7 (A) changed to read as follows:
505.7 Special Precaution.
Article 505 requires equipment construction and installation that ensures safe performance
under conditions of proper use and maintenance.
Informational Note No. 1: It is important that inspection authorities and users exercise more than
ordinary care with regard to the installation and maintenance of electrical equipment in
hazardous (classified) locations.
Informational Note No. 2: Low ambient conditions require special consideration. Electrical
equipment depending on the protection techniques described by 505.8(A) may not be suitable
for use at temperatures lower than -20°C (-4°F) unless they are identified for use at lower
temperatures. However, at low ambient temperatures, flammable concentrations of vapors may
not exist in a location classified Class I, Zones 0, 1, or 2 at normal ambient temperature.
(A) Implementation of Zone Classification System. Classification of areas, engineering
and design, selection of equipment and wiring methods, installation, and inspection shall
be performed by a qualified persons Registered licensed Professional Engineer in the
State of Texas.
(REASON FOR CHANGE: Carry over from previous amendment with change to better define
the qualifications for an engineering judgment.)
Exhibit H – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 5
2017 NEC Regional Amendments
***Article 517.30 Essential Electrical Systems for Hospitals; remove the amendment that
created a new (H) and added the following language:
(G) Coordination. Overcurrent protective devices serving the equipment branch of the essential
electrical system shall be coordinated for the period of time that a fault’s duration extends
beyond 0.1 second.
Exception No. 1: Between transformer primary and secondary overcurrent protective devices,
where only one overcurrent protective device or set of overcurrent protective
devices exists on the transformer secondary.
Exception No. 2: Between overcurrent protective devices of the same size (ampere rating) in
series.
Informational Note: The terms coordination and coordinated as used in this section do not cover
the full range of overcurrent conditions.
(H) Selective Coordination. Overcurrent protective devices serving the life safety, and critical
branches of the essential electrical system shall be selectively coordinated with all supply-side
overcurrent protective devices.
Exception No. 1: Between transformer primary and secondary overcurrent protective devices,
where only one overcurrent protective device or set of overcurrent protective
devices exists on the transformer secondary.
Exception No. 2: Between overcurrent protective devices of the same size (ampere rating) in
series.
Informational Note: The terms coordination and coordinated as used in this section do not cover
the full range of overcurrent conditions.
(REASON FOR CHANGE: Changes made by deleting the definition of emergency systems in
Article 517 Health Care Facilities and removing emergency systems as “Essential Electrical
Systems for Hospitals in 517.30(B) (2), plus the new addition of section 517.30(G) for
“Coordination” instead of using selective coordination, has diminished the reliability of the “Life
Safety and Critical Branches of the Essential Electrical System” to deliver power to vital loads.
By providing only “coordination,” the instantaneous portion of the time-current curve has been
eliminated from the overcurrent device settings.)
(REASON FOR CHANGE: Due to no action by the 2017 code-making panel 15 and NFPA 99,
this amendment is not applicable.)
***Article 600.6(A) (1) At Point of Entry to a Sign; Exception 1 changed to read as follows:
Exception No.1: A disconnect shall not be required for branch circuits(s) or feeder conductor(s)
passing through the sign where enclosed in a Chapter 3 listed raceway or metal-jacketed cable
Exhibit H – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 6
2017 NEC Regional Amendments
identified for the location. The conductor(s) shall not serve the sign body or sign enclosure
where passing through.
***Article 600.6(A) (1) At Point of Entry to a Sign; create a new Exception No. 2 to add the
following language:
Exception No. 2. A disconnect shall not be required at the point of entry to a sign body, sign
enclosure, or pole for branch circuit conductor(s). The conductors shall be enclosed in a
Chapter 3 listed raceway or metal-jacketed cable identified for the location. The conductor(s)
shall be routed to a device box which contains the disconnect. A field-applied permanent
warning label that is visible during servicing shall be applied to the raceway at or near the point
of entry into the sign enclosure or sign body. The warning label shall comply with 110.21(B) and
state the following: “Danger. This raceway contains energized conductors.” The marking shall
include the location of the disconnecting means for the energized conductor(s). The
disconnecting means shall be capable of being locked in the open position in accordance with
110.25.
***Article 600.6(A) (1) At Point of Entry to a Sign; move the original Exception 2 to create
a new Exception No. 3 and add the following language:
Exception No. 3: A disconnect shall not be required at the point of entry to a sign enclosure or
sign body for branch circuit(s) or feeder conductor(s) that supply an internal panelboard(s) in a
sign enclosure or sign body. The conductors shall be enclosed in a Chapter 3 listed raceway or
metal-jacketed cable identified for the location. A field-applied permanent warning label that is
visible during servicing shall be applied to the raceway at or near the point of entry into the sign
enclosure or sign body. The warning label shall comply with 110.21(B) and state the following:
“Danger. This raceway contains energized conductors.” The marking shall include the location
of the disconnecting means for the energized conductor(s). The disconnecting means shall be
capable of being locked in the open position in accordance with 110.25.
(2017 Code) Informational Note: The location of the disconnect is intended to allow service or
maintenance personnel complete and local control of the disconnecting means.
(REASON FOR CHANGE: This is a modification of the nationwide sign manufacturing practice
that was standard before the 2014 Code revision. It is more reasonable but not less than the
current Code requirements. It provides local control of the disconnect by service personnel as
the informational note suggests, while requiring a sign disconnect to be at or within sight of the
sign. This also allows sign designers more flexibility in the placement of the disconnecting
means in relation to the location of the sign.)
***Article 680.25(A) remove the amendment that added the following language and
exception:
680.25 Feeders.
These provisions shall apply to any feeder on the supply side of panelboards supplying branch
circuits for pool equipment covered in Part II of this article and on the load side of the service
equipment or the source of a separately derived system.
(A) Wiring Methods.
Exhibit H – Ordinance 1418-20
North Central Texas Council of Governments 7
2017 NEC Regional Amendments
(1) Feeders. Feeders shall be installed in rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit. The
following wiring methods shall be permitted if not subject to physical damage:
(1) Liquidtight flexible nonmetallic conduit
(2) Rigid polyvinyl chloride conduit
(3) Reinforced thermosetting resin conduit
(4) Electrical metallic tubing where installed on or in a building
(5) Electrical nonmetallic tubing where installed within a building
(6) Type MC Cable where installed within a building and if not subject to corrosive environment
(7) Nonmetallic-sheathed cable
(8) Type SE cable
Exception: A feeder within a one-family dwelling or two-family dwelling unit between remote
panelboard and service equipment shall be permitted to run in flexible metal conduit or an
approved cable assembly that includes an insulated equipment grounding conductor within its
outer sheath. The equipment grounding conductor shall comply with 250.24(A) (5).
(REASON FOR CHANGE: Carry over from previous amendments. Text changed to reflect 2014
National Electrical Code. Exception deleted per Errata No.70-14-2)
(REASON FOR CHANGE: Updates to this section in the 2017 National Electrical Code provided
relief by recognizing these wiring methods.)
END