HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019-4075 - Ordinance - 02/25/2019
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 103, “BUILDING REGULATIONS,”
ARTICLE III, “TECHNICAL CODES,” DIVISION 1 “BUILDING CODES” AND
DIVISION 2 “ELECTRICAL CODE, OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY
OF COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS, BY AMENDING CERTAIN SECTIONS RELATING
TO BUILDING REGULATIONS; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE;
DECLARING A PENALTY; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLLEGE STATION,
TEXAS:
PART 1: That Chapter 103, “Building Regulations,” Article III, “Technical Codes,” Division
1 “Building Codes” and Division 2 “Electrical Code” of the Code of Ordinances of the City of
College Station, Texas, be amended as set out in Exhibit “A” attached hereto and made a part
of this Ordinance for all purposes.
PART 2: If any provision of this Ordinance or its application to any person or circumstances
is held invalid or unconstitutional, the invalidity or unconstitutionality does not affect other
provisions or application of this Ordinance or the Code of Ordinances of the City of College
Station, Texas, that can be given effect without the invalid or unconstitutional provision or
application, and to this end the provisions of this Ordinance are severable.
PART 3: That any person, corporation, organization, government, governmental subdivision
or agency, business trust, estate, trust, partnership, association and any other legal entity
violating any of the provisions of this Ordinance shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and
upon conviction thereof shall be punishable by a fine of not less than twenty five dollars
($25.00) and not more than five hundred dollars ($500.00) or more than two thousand dollars
($2,000) for a violation of fire safety, zoning, or public health and sanitation ordinances, other
than the dumping of refuse. Each day such violation shall continue or be permitted to continue,
shall be deemed a separate offense.
PART 4: This Ordinance is a penal ordinance and becomes effective April 1, 2019.
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PASSED, ADOPTED and APPROVED this 25TH day of February, 2019.
ATTEST: APPROVED:
_____________________________ _____________________________
City Secretary Mayor
APPROVED:
_______________________________
City Attorney
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EXHIBIT A
That Chapter 103, “Building Regulations,” Article III, “Technical Codes,” Division 1 “Building
Codes” and Division 2 “Electrical Code” is hereby amended to read as follows:
Sec. 103-131. - INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE ADOPTED
A booklet entitled 'International Building Code 2018 Edition' as amended and as hereafter may be
amended, at least one (1) copy of which is on file in the office of the Building Official of the City
of College Station, Texas, is hereby adopted and designated as the Building Code of the Ci ty of
College Station, Texas. In addition, Appendix D of the 2018 International Building Code is hereby
adopted.
AMENDMENTS TO INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE
A. The above referenced International Building Code is hereby amended as follows:
1. Section 105 (Permits) is amended by adding Section 105.1.3 to read as follows:
105.1.3 Registration of Contractors.
It shall be the duty of every individual who makes contracts to construct, enlarge,
alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure,
or to erect, install enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical,
gas, mechanical, or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this
code, or to cause any such work to be done, and every individual making such
contracts and subletting the same or any part thereof, to first register with the
Building Official, giving full name, residence, name and place of business, and in
case of removal from one place to another to have made corresponding change to
the Building Official.
Exception: Homeowner permits as provided per local amendment by added Section
R105.2.4, International Residential Code.
Plumbing Contractors - Plumbing contractors shall be licensed as prescribed by the
State of Texas and shall register their license with the City of College Station before
a plumbing permit is issued by the City.
Air Conditioning, Refrigeration and Heating Contractors - Air Conditioning,
Refrigeration and Heating Contractors shall be licensed by the State of Texas and
shall register their license with the City of College Station before a mechanical
permit is issued by the City.
Licensed Irrigators - Irrigation Contractors shall be licensed Irrigators by the State
of Texas shall register their license with the City of College Station before a lawn
irrigation permit is issued by the City.
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Electrical Contractors - Electrical Contractors shall be licensed by the State shall
register their license with the City of College Station before an electrical permit is
issued by the City.
Electrical Sign Contractors – Electrical Sign Contractors shall be licensed by the
State shall register their license with the City of College Station before a permit is
issued.
Before any license is registered with the City, the applicant shall have adequate
insurance coverage for general liability as provided for by State law for the
respective trade.
2. Section 105.2 (Work exempt from permit) is amended by deleting item #2 under
“Building” and replacing with the following:
“2. Fences of wood, chain link, or similar material, and less than eight feet in height,
and walls of brick, stone, concrete, or similar material, and less than six feet in
height, shall not be construed to be a structure, nor shall they require a building
permit.
3. Section 105.2 (Work exempt from permit) is amended by adding the following
under
“Electrical”:
Replacing Fuses: No permit shall be required for replacing fuses of like
rating.
Replacing Flush or Snap Switches: No permit shall be required for
replacing flush or snap switches, receptacles, lamp sockets, the installation
of lamps, or minor repairs on permanently connected electrical appliances.
Conveying Signals: No permit shall be required for the installation, main-
tenance or alteration of wiring, poles and down guys, apparatus, devices,
appliances or equipment for telegraph, telephone, signal service or central
station protective service used in conveying signals or intelligence, except
where electrical work is done on the primary side of the source of power at
a voltage over 50 volts and of more than 500 watts.
Wiring by Electric Public Service Company: No permit shall be required
for the installation, maintenance or alteration of electric wiring, apparatus
devices, appliances or equipment to be installed by an electric public service
company for the use of such company in the generation, transmission,
distribution, sale or utilization of electrical energy. However, an electric
public service company shall not do any wiring on a customer's distribution
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system, including metering equipment wherever located and transformer
vaults in which customer's transformers are located, nor shall any of its em-
ployees do any work other than done for said company as hereinbefore
provided for by virtue of this exception.
Temporary Wiring: No permit shall be required for the installation of
temporary wiring, apparatus, devices, appliances or equipment used by a
recognized electrical training school or college.
Railway Crossing Signal Devices: No permit shall be required for the
installation and maintenance of railway crossing signal devices, when such
is performed by due authority of the railroad and in accordance with the
standards of the American Railroad Association, and in collaboration with
and approval of the Department of Public Services of the City of College
Station.
4. Section 107.1 (General) is amended to include the following at the end of the
section and before the exception: “The design professional shall be an architect or
engineer legally registered and in compliance under the laws of Texas and shall
affix his official seal to the construction documents for the following:
1. All group A, E and I occupancies.
2. Building and structures three or more stories in height
3. Buildings and structures 5,000 square feet or more in total area
Exception: “Group R-3 buildings, regardless of size”
5. Section 109.4 (Work commencing before permit issuance) is amended by deleting
the existing text in its entirety and replacing it with the following:
“Any person who commences any work on a building, structure electrical, gas,
mechanical or plumbing system before obtaining the necessary permits shall be
subject to a penalty of 100% of the usual fee in addition to the required permit fees.”
6. Section 109.6 (Refunds) is amended by deleting the existing text in its entirety and
replacing it with the following:
“The City Manager or his designee is authorized to establish a refund policy.”
7. Section [A] 110.3.1 (Footing and foundation inspection) is amended by adding the
following to the end of said section:
“The Building Official shall have the authority to require a form survey to verify
building setbacks. Such survey shall be provided to the Building Official prior to
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placement of concrete and prepared by a surveyor licensed to perform work in the
State of Texas.”
8. Section 110.3.5 (Lath and gypsum board inspection) is amended by deleting the
section in its entirety.
9. Section 111.2 (Certificate issued) is amended by deleting items number 4, 5, 7, 10,
and 11.
10. Section 113 (Board of Appeals) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
11. Section 116.1 (Conditions) is amended by deleting the sentence, “Unsafe structures
shall be taken down and removed or made safe, as the building official deems
necessary and as provided for in this section.” and replacing it with the following:
“Unsafe structures shall be taken down, removed or made safe as provided for in
Section 1 (C), Chapter 3, Code of Ordinances.”
12. Section 202 (Definitions) is amended by adding “Porte-Cocheres”
1. A passageway through a building or screen wall designed to let vehicles pass
from street to an interior courtyard.
2. A roofed structure extending from the entrance of a building over an adjacent
driveway and sheltering those getting in or out of vehicles.
13. Section 202 (Definitions) is amended by deleting the Townhouse definition and
replacing it with the following:
“Townhouse. A single family dwelling unit constructed in a group of attached units
separated by property lines in which each unit extend from foundation to roof and
with open space on at least two sides.”
14. Section 303.1 (Assembly Group A-3) is amended by adding “tutorial services”.
15. Section 502.1 (Address identification) is amended by deleting the existing text in
its entirety and replacing it with the following:
“502.1 Address identification. An official address, assigned by the Building
Official or his designee, shall be provided and placed pursuant to this section in
such a position as to be clearly visible from the public street or roadway fronting
the property. Addresses placed pursuant to this section shall be a minimum four
(4) inches in height and stroke of minimum one-half (1/2) inch, composed of a
durable material and of a color that provides a contrast to the background itself. The
official address shall be placed a minimum of thirty-six (36) inches and a maximum
of thirty (30) feet in height measured from the ground level. Buildings or structures
located more than fifty (50) feet from the street curb shall have an official address
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at least five (5) inches in height. Durable materials used for the official address shall
include, but not be limited to, wood, plastic, metal, weather resistant paint, weather
resistant vinyl, or weather resistant material designed for outside use on a glass
surface. For single family residences, the requirement of this section may be met
by providing a minimum of two (2) inch high numbers on both sides of a U. S.
mailbox located near the curb in front of the house, or a freestanding structure with
numbers at least four (4) inches in height.
A building complex composed of multiple structures or dwellings shall have an
official suite or unit number assigned to each building, suite or tenant as well as a
street address number. If there is sufficient street frontage, each building, suite or
tenant may also be assigned an official street address number. The official street
address number of each structure must be prominently posted on the building so
that it is visible from the nearest public street or designated fire lane. Each number
designated by the Building Official, or his designee, for each individual suite or
unit must be conspicuously posted on each suite or unit.
Commercial buildings with side or rear access in addition to the main entrance,
shall also display the business name and official address on each side or rear door
with characters at least two (2) inches in height. Residential structures which
provide for rear vehicular access from a dedicated public alley, street or designated
fire lane shall conspicuously post an official address at least two (2) inches in height
so that it is visible from the public alley, street or designated fire lane.
The owner or manager of a building complex, which contains an enclosed shopping
mall, shall submit to the Fire Official four (4) copies of diagrams acceptable to the
Fire Marshal of the entire complex, indicating the location and number of each
business. When a change in a business name or location is made, the owner or
manager shall so advise the Fire Marshal in writing of the change.
When required by the Fire Code Official, address numbers shall be provided in
additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response.”
16. Table 803.13 (Interior Wall And Ceiling Finish Requirements by Occupancy) is
amended by deleting the existing text in footnote “d” and replacing it with the
following:
“Class A interior finish material shall be required in all areas of all assembly
occupancies, whether sprinklered or not, except as provided for in notes e and f
below.”
17. Section 902.1.2 (Marking on access doors). Is amended by replacing 2 inches with
4 inches.
18. Section 903.1 (General) is amended by adding the following text at the end of said
section:
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"For the purpose of this section, the term "fire area" shall be replaced with "building
area."
19. Section 903.2 (Where Required) is amended by adding the following text at the
end of the section:
In addition to the requirements of this section, an automatic sprinkler system shall
be provided throughout all new buildings and structures as follows:
1. Where the total building area exceeds 12,000 square feet in area.
2. Where the height exceeds two stories, regardless of area.
20. Section 903.2.1.6 (Assembly Occupancies on Roofs) is amended by deleting the
exception in its entirety.
21. Section 903.2.3 (Group E) is amended by deleting the exception in its entirety.
22. Section 903.2.4 (Group F-1) is amended by deleting items "2" and "3."
23. Section 903.2.7 (Group M) No. 2 is amended by replacing "three stories above
grade" with "two stories in height" and by deleting No. 3 in its entirety.
24. Section 903.2.8 (Group R) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
25. Section 903.2.9 (Group S-1) is amended by replacing "three stories above grade"
with "two stories above grade" in item "2" and by replacing "24,000 square feet" with
"12,000 square feet" in item "3."
26. Section 903.2.10 (Group S-2 Enclosed Parking Garage) is amended by deleting the
exception in its entirety.
27. Section 903.2.13 (Porte-cocheres). All porte-cocheres shall be protected with fire
sprinklers.
Exception: Porte-cocheres of non-combustible construction or a distance of 10 foot
or greater.
28. Section 903.3.1.2.3 (Attics). is amended by deleting items 3.4 and 4.5
29. Section 903.4 (Sprinkler systems supervision and alarms) is amended by adding
the following:
Exceptions: 8. Valves located outside buildings or in a vault that are sealed or
locked in the open position.
30. Section 904.3.5, (Monitoring). is amended by deleting the section and replacing it
with:
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904.3.5 (Monitoring). Where a building fire alarm or sprinkler monitoring system
is installed, automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be monitored by the building
fire alarm or sprinkler monitoring system.
31. Section 905.1, (General). is amended by adding Section 905.1.1, Safety factor, as
follows:
905.1.1 (Safety factor). All standpipe systems with the exception of manual
standpipes shall be designed with a minimum safety factor of 5 PSI or 10% of
required pressure (whichever is greater) taken at the source for the hydraulically
most demanding system and/or outlet.
32. Section 905.4, (Location of Class I standpipe hose connections), is amended as
follows with all other code text to remain as written:
905.4 (Location of Class I standpipe hose connections). Class I standpipe hose
connections shall be provided in all of the following locations:
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] an intermediate [floor] landing between stories unless otherwise
approved by the fire code official.
Exception: A single hose connection shall be permitted to be installed in the open
corridor or open breezeway between open stairs that are not greater than 75 feet (22
860 mm) apart.
33. Section 906.1 (Where required) is amended by deleting exception 1 and 2 all others
remain the same.
34. Section 907.2.1 (Group A) is amended by adding the following section:
907.2.1.3 Group A-2. An automatic alarm system shall be provided for fire areas
containing Group A-2 occupancies that have an occupant load of 100 or more.
35. Section 907.2.7.1, (Occupant notification). is repealed in its entirety.
36. Section 907.2.8.2, (Automatic smoke detection system), is hereby amended to read
as follows:
907.2.8.2 (Automatic smoke detection system). An automatic smoke detection
system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section
907.5 shall be installed throughout all interior corridors serving sleeping units. The
automatic smoke detection system requirement is met only by the installation of
smoke or beam detectors whenever possible. If environmental conditions do not
allow the installation of smoke detectors, fire alarm heat detectors may be used on
a limited basis when approved by the fire code official.
Exception: An automatic smoke detection system is not required in buildings that
do not have interior corridors serving sleeping units and where each sleeping unit
has a means of egress door opening directly to an exit or to an exterior exit access
that leads directly to an exit.
Exception: An automatic smoke detection system is not required in buildings that
do not have interior corridors serving sleeping units and where each sleeping unit
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has a means of egress door opening directly to an exit or to an exterior exit access
that leads directly to an exit.
37. Section 907.2.12.2, (Fire department communication system), is hereby deleted in
its entirety.
38. Section 907.2.12.1.2, (Duct smoke detection), is amended to read as follows:
907.2.12.1.2 (Duct smoke detection). Duct smoke detectors complying with
Section 907.3.1 shall be located in accordance with the NFPA 90A: Standard for
the Installation of Air-Conditioning and Ventilating Systems or as follows:
1. In the main return air and exhaust air plenum of each air-conditioning
system having a capacity greater than 2,000 cubic feet per minute (cfm) (0.94
m3/s). Such detectors shall be located in a serviceable area downstream of the last
duct inlet.
2. At each connection to a vertical duct or riser serving two or more stories
from a return air duct or plenum of an air-conditioning system. In Group R-1 and
R-2 occupancies, a smoke detector is allowed to be used in each return air riser
carrying not more than 5,000 cfm (2.4 m3/s) and serving not more than 10 air-inlet
openings.
39. Section 907.2, (Where required) - new buildings and structures, is amended by
adding Section 907.2.24, Fire alarm systems for property protection, to read as
follows:
907.2.24 (Fire alarm systems for property protection). Fire alarm systems dedicated
solely to the protection of property are permitted to be installed in facilities where
a fire alarm system is not required by other sections of this code or the International
Building Code provided the following conditions are met:
1. Any and all automatic detection is installed, located and maintained in
accordance with the requirements of NFPA 72 and a documentation cabinet as
required by NFPA 72 is provided and installed.
2. The installed system is monitored by a supervising station which provides
remote and central station service.
3. One manual means of activation is installed in an approved location
4. Where the fire alarm system control unit is located in an area that is not
readily accessible to response personnel, a remote fire alarm system
annunciator panel is installed.
40. Section 907.2, (Where Required) – is amended by adding Section 907.2.25, Fire
alarm systems for property protection, to read as follows:
907.2.25 (Group R-4) Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms shall be installed in
Group R-4 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.10.1 through 907.2.10.3.
Section 907.2.10.1 Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system that
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activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall
be installed in Group R-4 occupancies.
Exceptions:
1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two
stories in height where all individual sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl
spaces to those units are separated from each other and public or common areas by
not less than 1-hour fire partitions and each individual sleeping unit has an exit
directly to a public way, egress court or yard.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required throughout the building where all
of the following conditions are met:
2.1. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system
installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
2.2. The notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler water flow.
2.3. Not fewer than one manual fire alarm box is installed at an approved
location.
3. Manual fire alarm boxes in resident or patient sleeping areas shall not be
required at exits where located at all nurses’ control stations or other constantly
attended staff locations, provided such stations are visible and continuously
accessible and that the distances of travel required in Section 907.4.2.1 are not
exceeded.
907.2.10.2 Automatic smoke detection system. An automatic smoke detection
system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section
907.5 shall be installed in corridors, waiting areas open to corridors and habitable
spaces other than sleeping units and kitchens.
Exceptions:
1. Smoke detection in habitable spaces is not required where the facility is
equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.1.
2. An automatic smoke detection system is not required in buildings that do
not have interior corridors serving sleeping units and where each sleeping unit has
a means of egress door opening directly to an exit or to an exterior exit access that
leads directly to an exit.
907.2.10.3 Smoke alarms. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be
installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
41. Section 907.3.1, (Duct smoke detectors), is amended to read as follows:
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907.3.1 (Duct smoke detectors). Smoke detectors installed in ducts shall be listed
for the air velocity, temperature and humidity present in the duct. Duct smoke
detectors shall be connected to the building's fire alarm control unit where a fire
alarm system is required by Section 907.2. Activation of a duct smoke detector shall
initiate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a Central monitoring station and
shall perform the intended fire safety function in accordance with this code, NFPA
90A: Standard for the Installation of Air-Conditioning and Ventilating Systems and
the International Mechanical Code. In facilities that are required to be monitored
by a supervising station, duct smoke detectors shall report only as a supervisory
signal and not as a fire alarm. They shall not be used as a substitute for required
open area detection. 2018 International Building-Related Codes
Exceptions:
1. In occupancies not required to be equipped with a fire alarm system,
actuation of a smoke detector shall activate a visible and an audible signal in an
approved location. Smoke detector trouble conditions shall activate a visible or
audible signal in an approved location and shall be identified as air duct
detector trouble.
2. For fire alarm systems which cannot be programmed for supervisory
signals, duct detectors shall be allowed to activate the alarm signal.
42. Section 907.3., (Fire safety functions), is amended by adding 907.3.5, Fire alarm
systems - emergency control, as follows:
907.3.5 (Fire alarm systems - emergency control). At a minimum, the following
functions, where provided, shall be activated by the fire alarm system:
1. Elevator capture and control in accordance with ASME/ANSI A17.1b,
Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators.
2. Release of automatic door closures and hold open devices
3. Stairwell and/or elevator shaft pressurization.
4. Smoke management and/or smoke control systems.
5. Initiation of automatic fire extinguishing equipment.
6. Emergency lighting control.
7. Unlocking of doors.
8. Emergency shutoff of gas and fuel supplies that may be hazardous provided
the continuation of service is not essential to the preservation of life.
9. Emergency shutoff of audio systems for sound reinforcement or
entertainment (i.e. music systems, systems for announcement and broadcast which
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are separate from public address systems) provided that such systems are not
used to issue emergency instructions.
10. Emergency shutoff of systems used for the creation of displays or special
effects (i.e. lighting effects, laser light shows, projection equipment).
43. Section 907.4.2.1, (Location), is amended to add the Exception to read as follows:
907.4.2.1 (Location). Manual fire alarm boxes shall be located not more than 5 feet
(1524 mm) from the entrance to each exit. In buildings not protected by an
automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2,
additional manual fire alarm boxes shall be located so that the distance of travel to
the nearest box does not exceed 200 feet (60 960 mm).
Exception: Where construction of the building prohibits the proper installation of a
pull station (e.g. glass walls, interior brick or rock walls), a pull station shall be
allowed to be located in the normal path of egress, where approved by the Fire
Marshal or his/her designee.
44. Section 907.5.1, (Presignal feature), is amended to read as follows:
907.5.1 (Presignal feature and positive alarm sequences). A presignal feature or
Positive Alarm Sequence as defined in NFPA 72 shall not be installed unless
approved by the fire code official. Request to use a presignal feature or a Positive
Alarm Sequence must be submitted in writing to the Fire Marshal and approval
granted before installation. Where a presignal feature or Positive Alarm Sequence
is provided, a signal shall be annunciated at a constantly attended location approved
by the fire code official, so that occupant notification can be activated in 2018
International Building-Related Codes the event of fire or other emergency. When
approved by the fire code official, the presignal feature or Positive Alarm Sequence
shall be implemented in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 72.
45. Section 907.5.2.1, (Audible alarms), is amended by adding Section 907.5.2.1.3,
Testing of audible alarms in occupancies other than Group R, and Section
907.5.2.1.4, Testing of audible alarms in Group R occupancies, as follows:
907.5.2.1.3 (Testing of audible alarms in occupancies other than Group R).
Audibility levels for all occupancies other than Group R shall be in accordance with
the public mode requirements of NFPA 72, and shall be tested utilizing the
following criteria:
1. A UL listed sound pressure level meter, which has been calibrated within
the last calendar year, and supplied by the fire alarm system installing
contractor, shall be utilized to obtain readings. The sound pressure level meter
will be held five feet above floor, pointed in the direction of the audible device.
2. All doors within the occupancy, including the bathroom and balcony doors
shall be in the closed position.
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3. Measurements shall be taken in the most remote areas of the occupancy
first, including bathrooms and balconies.
4. Initial measurements to confirm the average ambient sound level in each
area shall be taken.
5. The fire alarm system shall be activated and measurements in the tested
areas shall be retaken and compared with the requirements.
907.5.2.1.4 (Testing of audible alarms in Group R occupancies). Audibility levels
for all Group R occupancies shall be in accordance with the requirements of Section
907.5.2.1.1, and shall be tested utilizing the following criteria:
1. A UL listed sound pressure level meter, which has been calibrated within
the last calendar year, and supplied by the fire alarm system installing
contractor, shall be utilized to obtain readings. The sound pressure level meter will
be held five feet above floor, pointed in the direction of the audible device.
2. All doors within the occupancy, including the bathroom and balcony doors
shall be in the closed position.
3. Ambient sound level shall be established with the television set at 50% of
maximum volume, showers running, bathroom exhaust systems running,
and air conditioning units running.
4. Measurements shall be taken in the most remote area of the dwelling or
sleeping unit first, including bathrooms and balconies.
5. Initial measurements to confirm the ambient sound level in each area shall
be taken.
6. The fire alarm system shall be activated and measurements in the tested
areas shall be retaken and compared with the requirements.
46. Section 907.5.2.2, (Emergency voice/alarm communication systems), is amended
to read as follows:
907.5.2.2 (Emergency voice/alarm communication systems). Emergency
voice/alarm communication systems required by this code shall be designed and
installed in accordance with NFPA 72. The operation of any automatic fire detector,
sprinkler waterflow device or manual fire alarm box shall automatically sound an
alert tone followed by voice instructions giving approved information and
directions for a general or staged evacuation in accordance with the building's fire
safety and evacuation plans required by Section 404 of the International Fire Code.
In high-rise buildings, the system shall operate on at least the alarming floor, the
floor above and the floor below. If the system is not reset after five minutes, the
building shall sound the general evacuation signal 2018 International Building-
Related Codes and message in all zones unless an alternative Positive Alarm
Sequence has been approved by the Fire Marshal. Speakers shall be provided
throughout the building by paging zones. At a minimum, paging zones shall be
provided as follows:
1. Elevator groups.
2. Interior exit stairways.
3. Each floor.
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4. Areas of refuge as defined in Chapter 2.
Exception: In Group I-1 and I-2 occupancies, the alarm shall sound in a constantly
attended area and a general occupant notification shall be broadcast over the
overhead page.
47. Section 907.5.2.2.4, (Emergency voice/alarm communication captions), is repealed
in its entirety.
48. Section 907.5.2.3, (Visible alarms), is amended by adding a subsection 907.5.2.3.4,
Group R-2 sleeping areas, and Section 907.5.2.3.5, Combination devices, to read
as follows:
907.5.2.3.4 (Group R-2 sleeping areas). Living rooms in Group R-2 occupancies
shall have audible notification appliances that meet the sleeping area audible
requirements of NFPA 72, Chapter 18, Section 18.4.5, and Subsection 18.4.5.1.
When such units are required to be equipped with visible notification for the hearing
impaired or when such units are designated as accessible in accordance with
ICC/ANSI A117.1, combination audible and visible notification appliances that
meet both the sleeping area audible requirements of NFPA 72, Chapter 18, Section
18.4.5, Subsection 18.4.5.1 and the effective intensity settings of NFPA 72, Chapter
18.5.5.7.2 shall be installed.
907.5.2.3.5 (Combination devices). Combination 120 VAC single or multiple-
station smoke detectors with an onboard visible notification appliance if utilized to
meet the requirements of Section 907.2.11, will not be given credit for meeting the
visible alarm notification requirements of Section 907.5.2.3.3 if these devices do
not have the capability of supplying backup power for the visible notification
appliance portion of the device. Should such devices be utilized to comply with
Section 907.2.11, the visible appliance side of the device shall flash in
synchronization with the notification appliances required in the unit.
49. Section 907.5.2.3.1 (Public Use Areas and Common Use Areas) is amended by
deleting the exception and adding Section 907.5.2.3.1.1 to read as follows:
Section 907.5.2.3.1.1 (Employee Work Areas). Where a fire alarm and detection
system is required, employee work areas shall be provided with devices that provide
audible and visible alarm notification.
50. Section 907.6.3, (Initiating device identification), is amended to read as follows
with exceptions to remain as written:
907.6.3 (Initiating device identification). The fire alarm system shall identify the
specific initiating device address, location, device type, and floor level where
applicable and status including indication of normal, alarm, trouble and supervisory
status, to the fire alarm panel, annunciator panel and to the supervising station as
appropriate.
51. Section 912, (Fire Department Connections), is amended by adding Section 912.8,
Location and type, as follows:
912.8 (Location and type). Sprinkler system and standpipe fire department hose
connections shall be as follows:
1. Any riser 4” in diameter or larger are required to have a five inch “Storz”
connection.
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 16 of 50
2. Within 40 feet of a public street, approved fire lane, or access roadway.
3. Within 100 feet of an approved fire hydrant measured per hose lay.
4. Minimum of two feet above finished grade and a maximum of four feet
above finished grade for standard inlets and minimum of 30 inches at lowest point
above finished grade and maximum of four feet above finished grade for the five
inch "Storz" inlet.
5. Freestanding FDCs shall be installed a minimum of one foot and a
maximum of seven feet from the gutter face of the curb.
6. The Fire Code Official shall approve the location of freestanding fire
department connections. Freestanding FDCs must be physically protected against
impact per the requirements of Section 312 or other approved means.
7. Where provided, the five inch "Storz" inlet shall be installed at a 30 degree
angle pointing down.
8. Fire department connections for H occupancies shall be freestanding,
remote and located as determined by the fire code official.
9. Fire department connections for systems protecting fuel storage tanks shall
be freestanding, remote and located as determined by the fire code official.
10. There shall be no more than one “Storz” connection per riser in any
configuration.
11. One (1) 2.5 inch inlet is required for all systems designed per NFPA 13R.
If the system demand is greater than 250 GPM, two (2) 2.5 inch inlets are required
to be installed. No FDC is required for projects designed per NFPA 13D.
52. Section 912.2.1, (Visible location), is amended by adding the following sentence
to the end of that section to read as follows:
912.2.1 (Visible location). Fire department connections shall be located on the
street side of buildings or facing approved fire apparatus access roads, fully visible
and recognizable from the street, fire apparatus access road or nearest point of fire
department vehicle access or as otherwise approved by the fire code official. The
fire department connection shall be identified by a sign installed above the
connection with the letters “FDC” not less than 6 inches high and mounted at least
3 feet above the FDC to the bottom edge of the sign unless approved by the fire
code official and if multiple FDC’s a sign identifying the corresponding riser.
53. Section 912.2.2, (Existing buildings), is amended to read as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 17 of 50
912.2.2 (Existing buildings). On existing buildings, wherever the fire department
connection is not visible to approaching fire apparatus, the fire department
connection shall be indicated by an approved sign mounted on the street front or on
the side of the building. Such sign shall have the letters “FDC” not less than 6 inches
(152 mm) high and words in letters not less than 2 inches (51 mm) high or an arrow
to indicate the location. Signs shall be mounted no lower than 7 feet from grade to
the bottom edge of the sign and are subject to the approval of the fire code official.
54. Section 912.2 (Location), is amended to add the following:
Section 912.2.3 (Distance). Fire department connection shall not be located further
than 100 feet from the fire hydrant measured by lay of hose from the engine.
55. Section 912.4.1, (Locking fire department connection caps), is amended to read as
follows:
912.4.1 (Locking fire department connection caps). Locking caps are required on
all fire department connections for water-based fire protection systems including
but not limited to FDC’s and standpipes.
56. Section 1004.5.1 (Increased occupant load) is amended by deleting the section in
its entirety.
57. Section 1004.9 (Posting of occupant load) is amended by adding the following text
to the end of said section:
“For the purposes of this section, the occupant load shall be the number of
occupants computed at the rate of one occupant per unit of area as prescribed in
Table 1004.5.”
58. Section 1612.3 (Establishment of flood hazard areas) is amended by inserting
“Brazos County” for name of jurisdiction and “July 2, 1992 or February 9, 2000”
for the date of issuance.
59. Section 1907 (Minimum slab provisions) is amended by adding Section 1907.2 to
read as follows:
“Section 1907.2 Minimum foundation standard. All slabs-on-grade with turned-
down
footings shall comply with the Minimum Foundation Standard as shown in figure
1.”
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 18 of 50
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 19 of 50
1. APPENDIX D (FIRE DISTRICTS) is hereby adopted.
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 20 of 50
AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
B. the International Residential Code adopted by reference in Section 101.2, 2018 International
Building Code, is hereby amended as follows:
1. Section R102.4 (Referenced codes and standards) is amended by adding the
following to said section:
“Any reference to the ICC Electrical Code shall mean the National Electrical Code, as
adopted and amended by the City of College Station.”
2. Section R105.2 (Work exempt from permit) is amended by deleting number one
under “Building” and replacing it with the following:
“1. One detached accessory structure per residential lot, provided the floor area does not
exceed 120 square feet and the structure complies with all of the following:
a. The accessory structure is not located in a surface drainage easement.
b. The accessory structure is not permanently affixed to the ground.
c. The accessory structure is located in the rear yard.
d. The accessory structure is not provided with utilities (sewer, water, gas or
electricity).”
3. Section R105.2 (Work exempt from permit) is amended by deleting number ten under
“Building” and replacing with the following:
“10. Uncovered decks, patios or other raised floor surfaces located not more than 30
inches above adjacent grade and are not attached to a dwelling.”
4. Section R105.2.4 is added to read as follows:
“R105.2.4 Homeowner permit. A property owner may obtain a building permit to
perform work on a building owned and occupied by him as his homestead without
registering with the City as a contractor. However, work involving the electrical,
plumbing and mechanical systems must be permitted and installed by licensed
contractors.”
5. Section R106.3.1 (Approval of construction documents) is amended by deleting the
last sentence in said section.
6. Section R108.3 (Building permit valuations) is amended by adding the following to
said section:
“If, in the opinion of the building official, the valuation is underestimated on the
application, the permit shall be denied, unless the applicant can show detailed estimates
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 21 of 50
to meet the approval of the building official. Final permit valuation shall be set by the
building official.”
7. Section R108.5 (Refunds) is amended by deleting the text in said section and replacing
it with the following:
“The City Manager or his designee is authorized to establish a refund policy.”
8. Section R109.1.1 (Foundation Inspection) is amended by adding the following to the
end of said section:
“The Building Official shall have the authority to require a form survey to verify
building setbacks. Such survey shall be provided to the Building Official prior to
placement of concrete and prepared by a surveyor licensed to perform work in the State
of Texas.”
9. Section R112 (Board of Appeals) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
10. Section R202 (Definitions) is also amended by adding the following definitions:
Air Gap, Irrigation System. A complete physical separation between the free flowing
discharge end of a potable water supply pipeline and an open or non-pressure receiving
vessel.
Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker. An assembly containing an air inlet valve, a check seat,
and an air inlet port. The flow of water into the body causes the air inlet valve to close the
air inlet port. When the flow of water stops the air inlet valve falls and forms a check against
back-siphonage. At the same time it opens the air inlet port allowing air to enter and satisfy
the vacuum. Also known as an Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker Back- Siphonage Prevention
Assembly.
Backflow Prevention, Irrigation System. The mechanical prevention of reverse flow, or
back siphonage, of nonpotable water from an irrigation system into the potable water source.
Backflow Prevention Assembly. Any assembly used to prevent backflow into a potable
water system. The type of assembly used is based on the existing or potential degree of
health hazard and backflow condition.
Completion of Irrigation System Installation. When the landscape irrigation system has
been installed, all minimum standards met, all tests performed, and the irrigator is satisfied
that the system is operating correctly.
Consulting, Irrigation System. The act of providing advice, guidance, review or
recommendations related to landscape irrigation systems.
Cross-Connection. An actual or potential connection between a potable water source and
an irrigation system that may contain contaminates or pollutants or any source of water that
has been treated to a lesser degree in the treatment process.
Design, Irrigation System. The act of determining the various elements of a landscape
irrigation system that will include, but not be limited to, elements such as collecting site
specific information, defining the scope of the project, defining plant watering needs,
selecting and laying out emission devices, locating system components, conducting
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 22 of 50
hydraulics calculations, identifying any local regulatory requirements, or scheduling
irrigation work at a site. Completion of the various components will result in an irrigation
plan.
Design Pressure, Irrigation System. The pressure that is required for an emission device
to operate properly. Design pressure is calculated by adding the operating pressure
necessary at an emission device to the total of all pressure losses accumulated from an
emission device to the water source.
Double Check Valve. An assembly that is composed of two independently acting, approved
check valves, including tightly closed resilient seated shutoff valves attached at each end of
the assembly and fitted with properly located resilient seated test cocks. Also known as a
Double Check Valve Backflow Prevention Assembly.
Emission Device. Any device that is contained within an irrigation system and that is used
to apply water. Common emission devices in an irrigation system include, but are not
limited to, spray and rotary sprinkler heads, and drip irrigation emitters.
Employed, Irrigation Systems. Engaged or hired to provide consulting services or perform
any activity relating to the sale, design, installation, maintenance, alteration, repair, or
service to irrigation systems. A person is employed if that person is in an employer-
employee relationship as defined by Internal Revenue Code, 26 United States Code Service,
§3212(d) based on the behavioral control, financial control, and the type of relationship
involved in performing employment related tasks.
Head-to-Head Spacing, Irrigation System. The spacing of spray or rotary heads equal to
the manufacturer’s published radius of the head.
Health Hazard, Irrigation System. A cross-connection or potential cross-connection with
an irrigation system that involves any substance that may, if introduced into the potable
water supply, cause death or illness, spread disease, or have a high probability of causing
such effects.
Hydraulics. The science of dynamic and static water; the mathematical computation of
determining pressure losses and pressure requirements of an irrigation system.
Installer, Irrigation System. A person who actually connects an irrigation system to a
private or public raw or potable water supply system or any water supply, who is licensed
according to Title 30, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 30 (relating to Occupational
Licenses and Registrations).
Irrigation Inspector. A person who inspects irrigation systems and performs other
enforcement duties for a municipality or water district as an employee or as a contractor and
is required to be licensed under Title 30, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 30 (relating
to Occupational Licenses and Registrations).
Irrigation Plan. A scaled drawing of a landscape irrigation system which lists required
information, the scope of the project, and represents the changes made in the installation of
the irrigation system.
Irrigation Services. Selling, designing, installing, maintaining, altering, repairing,
servicing, permitting, providing consulting services regarding, or connecting an irrigation
system to a water supply.
Irrigation System. An assembly of component parts, including the backflow device and all
equipment downstream, that is permanently installed for the controlled distribution and
conservation of water to irrigate any type of landscape vegetation in any location, and/or to
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 23 of 50
reduce dust or control erosion. This term does not include a system that is used on or by an
agricultural operation as defined by Texas Agricultural Code, §251.002.
Irrigation Technician. A person who works under the supervision of a licensed irrigator to
install, maintain, alter, repair, service or supervise installation of an irrigation system,
including the connection of such system in or to a private or public, raw or potable water
supply system or any water supply, and who is required to be licensed under Title 30, Texas
Administrative Code, Chapter 30 (relating to Occupational Licenses and Registrations).
Irrigation Zone. A subdivision of an irrigation system with a matched precipitation rate
based on plant material type (such as turf, shrubs, or trees), microclimate factors (such as
sun/shade ratio), topographic features (such as slope) and soil conditions (such as sand,
loam, clay, or combination) or for hydrological control.
Irrigator. A person who sells, designs, offers consultations regarding, installs, maintains,
alters, repairs, services or supervises the installation of an irrigation system, including the
connection of such system to a private or public, raw or potable water supply system or any
water supply, and who is required to be licensed under Title 30, Texas Administrative Code,
Chapter 30.
Irrigator-in-Charge. The irrigator responsible for all irrigation work performed by an
exempt business owner, including, but not limited to obtaining permits, developing design
plans, supervising the work of other irrigators or irrigation technicians, and installing,
selling, maintaining, altering, repairing, or servicing a landscape irrigation system.
Landscape Irrigation. The science of applying the necessary amount of water to promote
or sustain healthy growth of plant material or turf.
Irrigation License. An occupational license that is issued by the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality under Title 30, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 30 to an
individual that authorizes the individual to engage in an activity that is covered by Title 30,
Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 30.
Mainline, Irrigation System. A pipe within an irrigation system that delivers water from
the water source to the individual zone valves.
Maintenance Checklist, Irrigation System. A document made available to the irrigation
system’s owner or owner’s representative that contains information regarding the operation
and maintenance of the irrigation system, including, but not limited to: checking and
repairing the irrigation system, setting the automatic controller, checking the rain or
moisture sensor, cleaning filters, pruning grass and plants away from irrigation emitters,
using and operating the irrigation system, the precipitation rates of each irrigation zone
within the system, any water conservation measures currently in effect from the water
purveyor, the name of the water purveyor, a suggested seasonal or monthly watering
schedule based on current evapotranspiration data for the geographic region, and the
minimum water requirements for the plant material in each zone based on the soil type and
plant material where the system is installed.
Major Maintenance, Alteration, Repair, or Service (Irrigation System). Any activity
that involves opening to the atmosphere the irrigation main line at any point prior to the
discharge side of any irrigation zone control valve. This includes, but is not limited to,
repairing or connecting into a main supply pipe, replacing a zone control valve, or repairing
a zone control valve in a manner that opens the system to the atmosphere.
Master Valve, Irrigation System. A remote control valve located after the backflow
prevention device that controls the flow of water to the irrigation system mainline.
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 24 of 50
Matched Precipitation Rate. The condition in which all sprinkler heads within an
irrigation zone apply water at the same rate.
New Installation, Irrigation System. An irrigation system installed at a location where one
did not previously exist.
Pass-through Contract. A written contract between a contractor or builder and a licensed
irrigator or exempt business owner to perform part or all of the irrigation services relating
to an irrigation system.
Pressure Vacuum Breaker. An assembly containing an independently operating internally
loaded check valve and an independently operating loaded air inlet valve located on the
discharge side of the check valve. Also known as a Pressure Vacuum Breaker Back-
siphonage Prevention Assembly.
Reclaimed Water. Domestic or municipal wastewater which has been treated to a quality
suitable for beneficial use, such as landscape irrigation.
Records of Landscape Irrigation Activities. The irrigation plans, contracts, warranty
information, invoices, copies of permits, and other documents that relate to the installation,
maintenance, alteration, repair, or service of a landscape irrigation system.
Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Prevention Assembly. An assembly containing
two independently acting approved check valves together with a hydraulically operating
mechanically independent pressure differential relief valve located between the two check
valves and below the first check valve.
Static Water Pressure. The pressure of water when it is not moving.
Supervision, Landscape Irrigation. The on-the-job oversight and direction by a licensed
irrigator who is fulfilling his or her professional responsibility to the client and/or employer
in compliance with local or state requirements. Also a licensed installer working under the
direction of a licensed irrigator or an irrigation technician who is working under the
direction of a licensed irrigator to install, maintain, alter, repair or service an irrigation
system.
Water Conservation, Irrigation System. The design, installation, service, and operation
of an irrigation system in a manner that prevents the waste of water, promotes the most
efficient use of water, and applies the least amount of water that is required to maintain
healthy individual plant material or turf, reduce dust, and control erosion.
Zone Flow. A measurement, in gallons per minute or gallons per hour, of the actual flow of
water through a zone valve, calculated by individually opening each zone valve and
obtaining a valid reading after the pressure has stabilized. For design purposes, the zone
flow is the total flow of all nozzles in the zone at a specific pressure.
Zone Valve, Irrigation System. An automatic valve that controls a single zone of a
landscape irrigation system.
11. Section R302.1 (Exterior walls) is amended by deleting the existing text and replacing
it with the following:
R302.1 Exterior walls. Exterior walls with a fire separation distance less than 3 feet shall
have not less than a one hour fire-resistive rating with exposure from both sides. The above
provisions shall not apply to walls which are perpendicular to the line used to determine the
fire separation distance.
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 25 of 50
Exception: Tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar structures exempted from
permits by Section R105.2 are not required to provide wall protection based on location on
the lot.
Projections. Projections may extend beyond the exterior wall on zero lot line construction.
Projections shall be constructed from non-combustible material on the underside and may
allow manufactured perforated soffit material installed for attic ventilation.. The soffit may
project a maximum of 18 inches, excluding non-combustible gutters, over the adjacent
property line.
Exception: Tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar structures exempted from
permits by Section R 105.2 shall not extend over the lot line in zero lot line construction.
Combustibles in maintenance easement. The construction of any structure utilizing
combustible material or the storage of combustible material is prohibited within the
maintenance easement. The term “maintenance easement” is defined in Article 11 of the
UDO.
Exception: A wood fence may be installed in the maintenance easement.
12. Section R302.6 (Dwelling-garage fire separation) is amended by adding the following
exception:
“Exception: One unprotected attic access opening, not exceeding 30 inches by 54 inches
in size, is allowed per garage.”
13. Section R310.2.1 (Minimum opening area) is amended by deleting everything except
the last sentence.
14. Section R311.7.8.4 (Continuity) is amended by deleting the following text in said
section:
“Handrail ends shall be returned or shall terminate in newel posts or safety terminals.”
15. Section R313 (Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems) is amended by deleting the section
in its entirety.
16. Section R318.2 (Chemical termiticide treatment) is amended by adding the following
to the end of said section:
“The method of application and contractor hired to apply the chemicals shall submit to
the Building Department when applying for the Building Permit, and verification of the
application turned in prior to issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy.”
17. Section R319.1 (Address Identification) is amended by deleting the existing text in its
entirety and replacing it with the following:
“Premises identification shall comply with Section 502.1, International Building Code,
as amended.”
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 26 of 50
18. Section 322.2.1 (Elevation requirements) is amended by deleting the existing text,
save the exception, and replacing it with the following:
“1. Buildings and structures shall have the lowest floors elevated in accordance with the
City of College Station Code of Ordinances, Chapter 13 (Flood Hazard Protection) and
the City of College Station Drainage Policy and Design Standards (refer to Section II.D).
2. In areas of shallow flooding (AO Zones), buildings and structures shall have the
lowest floor (including basement) elevated above the highest adjacent grade as the depth
number specified in feet on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps, or at least 2 feet if a depth
number is not specified, plus the additional footage requirements in the City of College
Station Code of Ordinances, Chapter 13 (Flood Hazard Protection) and the City of
College Station Drainage Policy and Design Standards (refer to Section II.D).
3. Basement floors that are below grade on all sides shall be elevated in accordance with
the City of College Station Code of Ordinances, Chapter 13 (Flood Hazard Protection)
and the City of College Station Drainage Policy and Design Standards (refer to Section
II.D).
19. Section R403.1.3.3 (Slabs-on-ground with turned-down footings) is amended by
deleting the existing text and replacing it with the following to read as follows:
“All slabs-on-ground with turned-down footings shall comply with the minimum
foundation standard in Section 1907.2, International Building Code.”
20. Chapter 11 (Energy Efficiency) is amended by deleting this chapter in its entirety and
replacing it with the following.
“One-and-two family dwellings shall comply with the 2018 International Energy
Conservation Code as amended.”
21. Section M1411.3 (Condensate disposal) is amended by deleting the existing text and
replacing with the following:
“Condensate from all cooling coils or evaporators shall be conveyed from the drain pan
outlet to the sanitary sewer system, if available. The condensate drain shall be connected
to the sanitary sewer system in a manner approved by the code official.
Exception: When a sanitary sewer system is not available on the premises, or
connection thereto is not practical, the condensate shall discharge into an approved
french drain.”
22. Section M1501.1 (Outdoor discharge) is amended by deleting the last sentence in said
section.
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23. Section M1505.2 (Recirculation of air) is amended by deleting the second sentence in
said section, and replacing it with the following:
“Exhaust air from bathrooms and toilet rooms shall discharge directly to the outdoors or
the vent termination shall be unobstructed and within 6 inches of the soffit vent or ridge
vent.”
24. Section G2408.3 (Private garages) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
25. Section G2414.5.3 (Copper or copper-alloy tubing) is amended by deleting said
section in its entirety.
26. Section G2417.1.2 (Repairs and additions) is amended by deleting the existing text in
its entirety and replacing it with the following:
“In the event repairs or additions are made after the pressure test, the affected piping
shall be tested. If approved by the code official, minor repairs and additions are not
required to be pressure tested provided the work is inspected and connections are tested
with a noncorrosive leak-detecting fluid or other leak detecting methods.”
27. Section G2417.4 (Test pressure measurement) is amended by deleting the existing text
in its entirety and replacing it with the following:
“Test pressure measurement shall comply with Section 406.4, 2018 International Fuel
Gas Code, as amended.”
28. Section G2417.4.1 (Test pressure) is amended by deleting the existing text in its entirety
and replacing it with the following:
“Test pressure shall comply with Section 406.4.1, 2018 International Fuel Gas Code, as
amended.”
29. Section P2503.8 (Inspection and testing of backflow prevention devices) is amended by
deleting the section in its entirety and replacing with the following:
“Inspection and testing of backflow prevention devices shall comply with Section
312.10, 2018 International Plumbing Code, as amended.”
30. Section P2804.6.1 (Requirements for discharge pipe) is amended by deleting the text
in number five and replacing it with the following:
“Discharge to an indirect waste receptor or to the outdoors.”
31. Section P2902.5.3 (Lawn irrigation systems) is amended by deleting the existing text in
its entirety and replacing it with the following:
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 28 of 50
“P2902.5.3 Lawn Irrigation Systems
P2902.5.3.1 Valid License Required. Any person who connects an irrigation system to the water
supply within the city or the city’s extraterritorial jurisdiction, commonly referred to as the ETJ,
must hold a valid license, as defined by Title 30, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 30 and
required by Chapter 1903 of the Texas Occupations Code, or as defined by Chapter 365, Title 22
of the Texas Administrative Code and required by Chapter 1301 of the Texas Occupations Code.
Exception: A property owner is not required to be licensed in accordance with Texas Occupations
Code, Title 12, §1903.002(c)(1) if he or she is performing irrigation work in a building or on a
premises owned or occupied by the person as the person’s home. A home or property owner who
installs an irrigation system must meet the standards contained in Title 30, Texas Administrative
Code, Chapter 344 regarding spacing, water pressure, spraying water over impervious materials,
rain or moisture shut-off devices or other technology, backflow prevention and isolation valves.
See Texas Occupations Code §1903.002 for other exemptions to the licensing requirement.
P2902.5.3.2 Permit Required. Any person installing an irrigation system within the territorial
limits or extraterritorial jurisdiction of the city is required to obtain a permit from the city prior to
beginning work on the irrigation system. A completed irrigation permit application and irrigation
plan must be a submitted to the city and approved before a permit will be issued by the city. The
irrigation plan must be in compliance with the requirements of this section.
Exceptions:
(1) An irrigation system that is an on-site sewage disposal system, as defined by Section 366.002,
Health and Safety Code; or
(2) An irrigation system used on or by an agricultural operation as defined by Section 251.002,
Agriculture Code; or
(3) An irrigation system connected to a groundwater well used by a property owner strictly for
domestic use.
P2902.5.3.3 Backflow Prevention Methods and Devices. Any irrigation system that is connected
to the potable water supply must be connected through a backflow prevention method approved
by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The backflow prevention device
must be approved by the Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research, the
University of Southern California, the International Plumbing Code, or any other laboratory that
has equivalent capabilities for both the laboratory and field evaluation of backflow prevention
assemblies. The backflow prevention device must be installed in accordance with the laboratory
approval standards or if the approval does not include specific installation information, the
manufacturer's current published recommendations. If conditions that present a health hazard exist,
one of the following methods must be used to prevent backflow;
(1) An air gap may be used if:
(a) there is an unobstructed physical separation; and
(b) the distance from the lowest point of the water supply outlet to the flood rim of the
fixture or assembly into which the outlet discharges is at least one inch or twi ce the
diameter of the water supply outlet, whichever is greater.
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 29 of 50
(2) Reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assemblies may be used if:
(a) the device is installed at a minimum of 12 inches above ground in a location that will
ensure that the assembly will not be submerged; and
(b) drainage is provided for any water that may be discharged through the assembly relief
valve.
(3) Atmospheric vacuum breakers may only be used as replacements on existing systems utilizing
atmospheric vacuum breakers if:
(a) no back-pressure will be present;
(b) there are no shutoff valves downstream from the atmospheric vacuum breaker;
(c) the device is installed at a minimum of six inches above any downstream piping and
the highest downstream opening. Pop-up sprinklers are measured from the retracted
position from the top of the sprinkler;
(d) there is no continuous pressure on the supply side of the atmospheric vacuum breaker
for more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period; and
(e) a separate atmospheric vacuum breaker is installed on the discharge side of each
irrigation control valve, between the valve and all the emission devices that the valve
controls.
(4) Pressure vacuum breakers may be used if:
(a) no back-pressure condition will occur; and
(b) the device is installed at a minimum of 12 inches above any downstream piping and the
highest downstream opening. Pop-up sprinklers are measured from the retracted position
from the top of the sprinkler.
All backflow prevention devices used in applications designated as health hazards must be tested
upon installation and annually thereafter.
If there are no conditions that present a health hazard, double check valve backflow prevention
assemblies may be used to prevent backflow if the device is tested upon installation and test cocks
are used for testing only. A double check valve may be installed below ground if:
(a) the double check valve assembly is installed in a vault or other approved enclosure that
which is constructed of a durable material. The vault or enclosure shall either be of solid
(waterproof) construction with an integral bottom or bottomless to facilitate drainage. If the vault
or enclosure is bottomless, a minimum of four (4) inches of washed gravel shall be installed below
the assembly. The washed gravel shall have a diameter of between 3/8 inch and 3/4 inch
(inclusive);
(b) the test cocks are plugged with a non-ferrous material (brass, plastic, etc.) except when
the double check valve is being tested;
(c) the test cock plugs are threaded, water-tight, and made of non-ferrous material;
(d) a y-type strainer is installed on the inlet side of the double check valve;
(e) a minimum clearance of three (3) inches is provided between any fill material and the
bottom of the double check valve to allow space for testing and repair; and
(f) a minimum clearance of four (4) inches is provided on the sides of the double check
valve to test and repair the double check valve.
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 30 of 50
If an existing irrigation system without a backflow-prevention assembly requires major
maintenance, alteration, repair, or service, the system must be connected to the potable water
supply through an approved, properly installed backflow prevention method before any major
maintenance, alteration, repair, or service is performed.
If an irrigation system is connected to a potable water supply through a double check valve,
pressure vacuum breaker, or reduced pressure principle backflow assembly and includes an
automatic master valve on the system, the automatic master valve must be installed on the
discharge side of the backflow prevention assembly.
The irrigator shall ensure the backflow prevention device is tested by a licensed Backflow
Prevention Assembly Tester prior to being placed in service. The tester must be registered with
the City of College Station and the test results must be provided to the local water purveyor and
the irrigation system's owner or owner's representative within ten business days of testing of the
backflow prevention device.
P2902.5.3.4 Specific Conditions and Cross-Connection Control. Before any chemical is added to
an irrigation system connected to the potable water supply, the irrigation system must be connected
through a reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assembly or air gap.
Connection of any additional water source to an irrigation system that is connected to the potable
water supply can only be done if the irrigation system is connected to the potable water supply
through a reduced-pressure principle backflow prevention assembly or an air gap.
Irrigation system components with chemical additives induced by aspiration, injection, or emission
system connected to any potable water supply must be connected through a reduced pressure
principle backflow device.
If an irrigation system is designed or installed on a property that is served by an on-site sewage
facility, as defined in Title 30, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 285, then:
(1) all irrigation piping and valves must meet the separation distances from the On-Site Sewage
Facilities system as required for a private water line in Title 30, Texas Administrative Code,
Section 285.91(10);
(2) any connections using a private or public potable water source that is not the city’s potable
water system must be connected to the water source through a reduced pressure principle backflow
prevention assembly as defined in Title 30, Texas Administrative Code, Section 344.50; and
(3) any water from the irrigation system that is applied to the surface of the area utilized by the
On-Site Sewage Facility system must be controlled on a separate irrigation zone or zones so as to
allow complete control of any irrigation to that area so that there will not be excess water that
would prevent the On-Site Sewage Facilities system from operating effectively.
P2902.5.3.5 Water Conservation. All irrigation systems shall be designed, installed, maintained,
altered, repaired, serviced, and operated in a manner that will promote water conservation as
defined in the Definitions section of this ordinance.
P2902.5.3.6 Irrigation Plan Design. An irrigator shall prepare an irrigation plan for each site where
a new irrigation system will be installed. A paper or electronic copy of the irrigation plan must be
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 31 of 50
on the job site at all times during the installation of the irrigation system. A drawing showing the
actual installation of the system is due to each irrigation system owner after all new irrigation
system installations. During the installation of the irrigation system, variances from the original
plan may be authorized by the licensed irrigator if the variance from the plan does not:
(1) diminish the operational integrity of the irrigation system;
(2) violate any requirements of this ordinance; and
(3) go unnoted in red on the irrigation plan.
The irrigation plan must include complete coverage of the area to be irrigated. If a system does not
provide complete coverage of the area to be irrigated, it must be noted on the irrigation plan.
All irrigation plans used for construction must be drawn to scale. The plan must include, at a
minimum, the following information:
(1) the irrigator's seal, signature, and date of signing;
(2) all major physical features and the boundaries of the areas to be watered;
(3) a North arrow;
(4) a legend;
(5) the zone flow measurement for each zone;
(6) location and type of each:
(a) controller; and
(b) sensor (for example, but not limited to, rain, moisture, wind, flow, or freeze);
(7) location, type, and size of each:
(a) water source, such as, but not limited to a water meter and point(s) of connection;
(b) backflow prevention device;
(c) water emission device, including, but not limited to, spray heads, rotary sprinkler heads,
quick-couplers, bubblers, drip, or micro-sprays;
(d) valve, including but not limited to, zone valves, master valves, and isolation valves;
(e) pressure regulation component; and
(f) main line and lateral piping.
(8) the scale used; and
(9) the design pressure.
P2902.5.3.7 Design and Installation. No irrigation design or installation shall require the use of
any component, including the water meter, in a way which exceeds the manufacturer's published
performance limitations for the component.
P2902.5.3.7.1 Spacing. The maximum spacing between emission devices must not exceed the
manufacturer's published radius or spacing of the device(s). The radius or spacing is determined
by referring to the manufacturer's published specifications for a specific emission device at a
specific operating pressure. New irrigation systems shall not utilize above-ground spray emission
devices in landscapes that are less than 48 inches not including the impervious surfaces in either
length or width and which contain impervious pedestrian or vehicular traffic surfaces along two or
more perimeters. If pop-up sprays or rotary sprinkler heads are used in a new irrigation system,
the sprinkler heads must direct flow away from any adjacent surface and shall not be installed
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 32 of 50
closer than four inches from a hardscape, such as, but not limited to, a building foundation, fence,
concrete, asphalt, pavers, or stones set with mortar.
Exception:
Narrow paved walkways, jogging paths, golf cart paths or other small areas located in cemeteries,
parks, golf courses or other public areas if the runoff drains into a landscaped area.
P2902.5.3.7.2 Water Pressure. Emission devices must be installed to operate at the minimum and
not above the maximum sprinkler head pressure as published by the manufacturer for the nozzle
and head spacing that is used. Methods to achieve the water pressure requirements include, but are
not limited to, flow control valves, a pressure regulator, or pressure compensating spray heads.
P2902.5.3.7.3 Piping. Piping in irrigation systems must be designed and installed so that the flow
of water in the pipe will not exceed a velocity of five feet per second for polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
pipe.
P2902.5.3.7.4 Irrigation Zones. Irrigation systems shall have separate zones based on plant
material type, microclimate factors, topographic features, soil conditions, and hydrological
requirements.
P2902.5.3.7.5 Matched Precipitation Rate. Zones must be designed and installed so that all of the
emission devices in that zone irrigate at the same precipitation rate.
P2902.5.3.7.6 Impervious Surfaces. Irrigation systems shall not spray water over surfaces made
of concrete, asphalt, brick, wood, stones set with mortar, or any other impervious material, such
as, but not limited to, walls, fences, sidewalks, streets, etc.
P2902.5.3.7.7 Master Valve. When provided, a master valve shall be installed on the discharge
side of the backflow prevention device on all new installations.
P2902.5.3.7.8 PVC Pipe Primer Solvent. All new irrigation systems that are installed using PVC
pipe and fittings shall be primed with a colored primer prior to applying the PVC cement in
accordance with the International Plumbing Code (Section 605).
P2902.5.3.7.9 Rain or Moisture Sensor. All new automatically controlled irrigation systems must
include sensors or other technology designed to inhibit or interrupt operation of the irrigation
system during periods of moisture or rainfall. Rain or moisture shut-off technology must be
installed according to the manufacturer's published recommendations. Repairs to existing
automatic irrigation systems that require replacement of an existing controller must include a
sensor or other technology designed to inhibit or interrupt operation of the irrigation system during
periods of moisture or rainfall.
P2902.5.3.7.10 Isolation Valve. All new irrigation systems must include an isolation valve
between the water meter and the backflow prevention device.
P2902.5.3.7.11 Depth Coverage of Piping. Piping in all irrigation systems must be installed
according to the manufacturer's published specifications for depth coverage of piping. If the
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 33 of 50
manufacturer has not published specifications for depth coverage of piping, the piping must be
installed to provide minimum depth coverage of six inches of select backfill, between the top of
the pipe and the natural grade of the topsoil. All portions of the irrigation system that fail to meet
this standard must be noted on the irrigation plan. If the area being irrigated has rock at a depth of
six inches or less, select backfill may be mounded over the pipe. Mounding must be noted on the
irrigation plan and discussed with the irrigation system owner or owner's representative to address
any safety issues. If a utility, man-made structure or roots create an unavoidable obstacle, which
makes the six-inch depth coverage requirement impractical, the piping shall be installed to provide
a minimum of two inches of select backfill between the top of the pipe and the natural grade of the
topsoil. All trenches and holes created during installation of an irrigation system must be backfilled
and compacted to the original grade.
P2902.5.3.7.12 Irrigation System Wiring. Underground electrical wiring used to connect an
automatic controller to any electrical component of the irrigation system must be listed by
Underwriters Laboratories as acceptable for burial underground. Electrical wiring that connects
any electrical components of an irrigation system must be sized according to the manufacturer's
recommendation. Electrical wire splices which may be exposed to moisture must be waterproof as
certified by the wire splice manufacturer. Underground electrical wiring that connects an automatic
controller to any electrical component of the irrigation system must be buried with a minimum of
six inches of select backfill.
P2902.5.3.13 Irrigation System Water. Water contained within the piping of an irrigation system
is deemed to be non-potable. No drinking or domestic water usage, such as, but not limited to,
filling swimming pools or decorative fountains, shall be connected to an irrigation system. If a
hose bib (an outdoor water faucet that has hose threads on the spout) is connected to an irrigation
system for the purpose of providing supplemental water to an area, the hose bib must be installed
using a quick coupler key on a quick coupler installed in a covered purple valve box and the hose
bib and any hoses connected to the bib must be labeled "non potable, not safe for drinking." An
isolation valve must be installed upstream of a quick coupler connecting a hose bib to an irrigation
system.
P2902.5.3.7.14 Licensed Person On Site During Installation. Beginning January 1, 2010, either a
licensed irrigator or a licensed irrigation technician shall be on-site at all times while the landscape
irrigation system is being installed. When an irrigator is not onsite, the irrigator shall be responsible
for ensuring that a licensed irrigation technician is on-site to supervise the installation of the
irrigation system.
P2902.5.3.8 Completion of Irrigation System Installation. Upon completion of the irrigation
system, the irrigator or irrigation technician who provided supervision for the on-site installation
shall be required to complete the following four items:
(1) a final walk through with the irrigation system's owner or the owner's representative to explain
the operation of the system;
(2) The maintenance checklist on which the irrigator or irrigation technician shall obtain the
signature of the irrigation system's owner or owner's representative and shall sign, date, and seal
the checklist. If the irrigation system's owner or owner's representative is unwilling or unable to
sign the maintenance checklist, the irrigator shall note the time and date of the refusal on the
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 34 of 50
irrigation system's owner or owner's representative's signature line. The irrigation system owner
or owner's representative will be given the original maintenance checklist and a duplicate copy of
the maintenance checklist shall be maintained by the irrigator.
The items on the maintenance checklist shall include but are not limited to:
(a) the manufacturer's manual for the automatic controller, if the system is automatic;
(b) a seasonal (spring, summer, fall, winter) watering schedule based on either current/real time
evapotranspiration or monthly historical reference evapotranspiration (historical ET) data,
monthly effective rainfall estimates, plant landscape coefficient factors, and site factors;
(c) a list of components, such as the nozzle, or pump filters, and other such components; that
require maintenance and the recommended frequency for the service; and
(d) the statement, "This irrigation system has been installed in accordance with all applicable
state and local laws, ordinances, rules, regulations or orders. I have tested the system and
determined that it has been installed according to the Irrigation Plan and is properly adjusted
for the most efficient application of water at this time."
(3) A permanent sticker which contains the irrigator's name, license number, company name,
telephone number and the dates of the warranty period shall be affixed to each automatic controller
installed by the irrigator or irrigation technician. If the irrigation system is manual, the sticker shall
be affixed to the original maintenance checklist. The information contained on the sticker must be
printed with waterproof ink and include:
(4) The irrigation plan indicating the actual installation of the system must be provided to the
irrigation system's owner or owner representative.
P2902.5.3.9 Maintenance, Alteration, Repair, or Service of Irrigation Systems. The licensed
irrigator is responsible for all work that the irrigator performed during the maintenance, alteration,
repair, or service of an irrigation system during the warranty period. The irrigator or business
owner is not responsible for the professional negligence of any other irrigator who subsequently
conducts any irrigation service on the same irrigation system. All trenches and holes created during
the maintenance, alteration, repair, or service of an irrigation system must be returned to the
original grade with compacted select backfill. Colored PVC pipe primer solvent must be used on
all pipes and fittings used in the maintenance, alteration, repair, or service of an irrigation system
in accordance with the adopted International Plumbing Code (Section 605). When maintenance,
alteration, repair or service of an irrigation system involves excavation work at the water meter or
backflow prevention device, an isolation valve shall be installed, if an isolation valve is not present.
P2902.5.3.10 Reclaimed Water. Reclaimed water may be utilized in landscape irrigation systems
if:
(1) there is no direct contact with edible crops, unless the crop is pasteurized before consumption;
(2) the irrigation system does not spray water across property lines that do not belong to the
irrigation system's owner;
(3) the irrigation system is installed using purple components;
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 35 of 50
(4) the domestic potable water line is connected using an air gap or a reduced pressure principle
backflow prevention device, in accordance with §290.47(i) of this title (relating to Appendices);
(5) a minimum of an eight inch by eight inch sign is prominently posted on/in the area that is being
irrigated, that reads, "RECLAIMED WATER – DO NOT DRINK" ; and
(6) backflow prevention on the reclaimed water supply line shall be provided in accordance with
the regulations of the city’s water provider.
P2902.5.3.11 Advertisement Requirements. All vehicles used in the performance of irrigation
installation, maintenance, alteration, repair, or service must display the irrigator's license number
in the form of "LI________" in a contrasting color of block letters at least two inches high, on both
sides of the vehicle. All forms of written and electronic advertisements for irrigation services must
display the irrigator's license number in the form of "LI___________." Any form of advertisement,
including business cards, and estimates which displays an entity's or individual's name other than
that of the licensed irrigator must also display the name of the licensed irrigator and the licensed
irrigator's license number. Trailers that advertise irrigation services must display the irrigator's
license number. The name, mailing address, and telephone number of the commission must be
prominently displayed on a legible sign and displayed in plain view for the purpose of addressing
complaints at the permanent structure where irrigation business is primarily conducted and
irrigation records are kept.
P2902.5.3.12 Contracts. All contracts to install an irrigation system must be in writing and signed
by each party and must specify the irrigator's name, license number, business address, current
business telephone numbers, the date that each party signed the agreement, the total agreed price,
and must contain the statement, "Irrigation in Texas is regulated by the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality (TCEQ), MC-178, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. TCEQ's
website is: www. tceq.state.tx.us." All contracts must include the irrigator's seal, signature, and
date. All written estimates, proposals, bids, and invoices relating to the installation or repair of an
irrigation system(s) must include the irrigator's name, license number, business address, current
business telephone number(s), and the statement: "Irrigation in Texas is regulated by the Texas
Commission On Environmental Quality (TCEQ) (MC-178), P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas
78711-3087. TCEQ's web site is: www.tceq.state.tx.us." An individual who agrees by contract to
provide irrigation services as defined in §344.30 of this title (relating to License Required) shall
hold an irrigator license issued under Title 30, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 30 (relating to
Occupational Licenses and Registrations) unless the contract is a pass-through contract as defined
in §344.1(36) of this title (relating to Definitions). If a pass-through contract includes irrigation
services, then the irrigation portion of the contract can only be performed by a licensed irrigator.
If an irrigator installs a system pursuant to a pass-through contract, the irrigator shall still be
responsible for providing the irrigation system's owner or through contract, the irrigator shall still
be responsible for providing the irrigation system's owner or owner's representative a copy of the
warranty and all other documents required under this chapter. A pass-through contract must
identify by name and license number the irrigator that will perform the work and must provide a
mechanism for contacting the irrigator for irrigation system warranty work. The contract must
include the dates that the warranty is valid.
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 36 of 50
P2902.5.3.13 Warranties for Irrigation Systems. On all installations of new irrigation systems, an
irrigator shall present the irrigation system's owner or owner's representative with a written
warranty covering materials and labor furnished in the new installation of the irrigation system.
The irrigator shall be responsible for adhering to terms of the warranty. If the irrigator's warranty
is less than the manufacturer's warranty for the system components, then the irrigator shall provide
the irrigation system's owner or the owner's representative with applicable information regarding
the manufacturer's warranty period. The warranty must include the irrigator's seal, signature, and
date. If the warranty is part of an irrigator's contract, a separate warranty document is not required.
An irrigator's written warranty on new irrigation systems must specify the irrigator's name,
business address, and business telephone number(s), must contain the signature of the irrigation
system's owner or owner's representative confirming receipt of the warranty and must include the
statement: "Irrigation in Texas is regulated by the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality (TCEQ), MC-178, P.O. Box 130897, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. TCEQ's
website is: www.tceq.state.tx.us." On all maintenance, alterations, repairs, or service to existing
irrigation systems, an irrigator shall present the irrigation system's owner or owner's representative
a written document that identifies the materials furnished in the maintenance, alteration, repair, or
service. If a warranty is provided, the irrigator shall abide by the terms. The warranty document
must include the irrigator's name and business contact information.
P2902.5.3.14 Duties and Responsibilities of City Irrigation Inspectors. A licensed irrigation
inspector or plumbing inspector shall enforce the ordinance of the city, and shall be responsible
for:
(1) verifying that the appropriate permits have been obtained for an irrigation system and that the
irrigator and installer or irrigation technician, if applicable, are licensed;
(2) inspecting the irrigation system;
(3) determining that the irrigation system complies with the requirements of this section;
(4) determining that the appropriate backflow prevention device was installed and tested;
(5) investigating complaints related to irrigation system installation, maintenance, alteration,
repairs, or service of an irrigation system and advertisement of irrigation services; and
(6) maintaining inspection records according to this section.”
32. Table P2906.4 (Water service pipe) is amended by deleting the following materials:
“Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic pipe
Asbestos-cement pipe
Polyethylene/aluminum/polyethylene (PE-AL-PE) pipe
Polyethylene (PE) plastic pipe
Polyethylene (PE) plastic tubing”
33. Table P2906.5 (Water distribution pipe) is amended by deleting the following materials:
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 37 of 50
“Polyethylene/aluminum/polyethylene (PE-AL-PE) composite pipe”
34. Section P2906.5 (Water-distribution pipe.) is amended by adding the following text to
the end of the section:
“Inaccessible water distribution piping under slabs shall be copper (minimum type K)
or cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) tubing all installed without joints or connections.
Materials subject to corrosion shall be protected when exposed to concrete or corrosive
soils.”
35. Section 2906.10 (Cross-linked polyethylene plastic (PEX)) is amended by adding
P2906.10.3 to read as follows:
“P2906.10.3. Sleeving. When a sleeve is provided for cross-linked polyethylene (PEX)
plastic piping or tubing installed under concrete slabs the annular space between the
piping or tubing and the sleeve must be caulked, foamed, or otherwise sealed to prevent
the entrance of termiticide.”
36. Section P3002.2. (Building sewer) is amended by adding P3002.2.1 to read as follows:
“P3002.2.1 Depth of building sewer. Building sewer pipe shall be installed with a
minimum of twelve (12) inches of cover. Where conditions prohibit the required amount
of cover, cast iron pipe with approved joints may be used unless other means of
protecting the pipe is provided as approved by the Building Official.”
37. Section E3401.1 (applicability) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety and
replacing with the following:
“Electrical installations shall comply with the National Electrical Code, as adopted and
amended by the City of College Station.”
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 38 of 50
AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE
“C. The International Fuel Gas Code adopted by reference in Section 101.4.1, 2018
International Building Code is hereby amended as follows:
1. Section 102.8 (Referenced codes and standards) is amended by adding the
following exception:
“Exception: Any reference to the ICC Electrical Code shall mean the National
Electrical Code, as adopted and amended by the City of College Station.”
2. Section 106.3 (Application for permit) is amended by deleting the text in said
section and replacing it with the following:
“The code official may require a permit application for work regulated by this
code.”
3. Section 106.6.2 (Fee schedule) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
4. Section 106.6.3 (Fee refunds) is amended by deleting the text in said section and
replacing it with the following:
“The City Manager or his designee is authorized to establish a refund policy.”
5. Section 109 (Means of Appeal) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
6. Section 305.5 (Private garages) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
7. Section 403.4.3 (Copper and copper alloy) is amended by deleting the section in its
entirety.
8. Section 403.5.3 (Copper and copper alloy tubing) is amended by deleting the
section in its entirety.
9. Section 406.1.2 (Repairs and additions) is amended by deleting the existing text in
its entirety and replacing it with the following:
“In the event repairs or additions are made after the pressure test, the affected piping
shall be tested. If approved by the code official, minor repairs and additions are not
required to be pressure tested provided the work is inspected and connecti ons are
tested with a noncorrosive leak-detecting fluid or other leak detecting methods.
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 39 of 50
10. Section 406.4 (Test pressure measurement) is amended by adding the following to
the end of said section:
‘For gas systems with a working pressure up to and including five (5) psi., a
diaphragm gauge utilizing a dial with a minimum diameter of three and one-half
inches (3 ½”), a set hand, 2/10 pound incrementation and a pressure range not more
than twenty (20) psi shall be acceptable. A mechanical spring gauge is only
acceptable for use on gas systems requiring a pressure test of more than 20 psig.’
11. Section 406.4.1 (Test pressure) is amended by deleting the existing text in its
entirety and replacing it with the following:
‘The test pressure to be used shall be no less than twice the proposed maximum
working pressure, but no less than five (5) psig, irrespective of design pressure.’
12. Section 406.4.2 (Test duration) is amended by deleting the existing text in its
entirety and replacing it with the following:
“Gas piping systems shall withstand the required pressure test for a period of not
less than ten (10) minutes without showing any drop in pressure.”
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 40 of 50
AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL MECHANICAL CODE
“D. The International Mechanical Code adopted by reference in Section 101.4.2, 2018
International Building Code is hereby amended as follows:
1 Section 102.8 (Referenced codes and standards) is amended by adding the
following exception:
‘Exception: Any reference to the ICC Electrical Code shall mean the
National Electrical Code, as adopted and amended by the City of College
Station.’
2 Section 106.3 (Application for permit) is amended by deleting the text in
said section and replacing it with the following:
‘The code official may require a permit application for work regulated by
this code.’
3 Section 106.5.2 (Fee schedule) is amended by deleting the section in its
entirety.
4 Section 106.5.3 (Fee refunds) is amended by deleting the text in said section
and replacing it with the following:
“The City Manager or his designee is authorized to establish a refund
policy.’
5 Section 108.5 (Stop work orders) is amended by inserting the following
amounts in the blanks provided at the end of said section:
‘twenty-five ($25.00) in the first blank and two-thousand ($2,000.00) in the
second blank’
6 Section 109 (Means of Appeal) is amended by deleting the section in its
entirety.
7 Section 304.7 (Private garages) is amended by deleting the section in its
entirety.
8 Section 507.6.1 (Capture and containment test) is amended by deleting the
section in its entirety.
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 41 of 50
AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE
“E. The International Plumbing Code adopted by reference in Section 101.4.3, 2012
International Building Code is hereby amended as follows:
1 Section 102.8 (Referenced codes and standards) is amended by adding the
following exception:
‘Exception: Any reference to the ICC Electrical Code shall mean the National
Electrical Code, as adopted and amended by the City of College Station.’
2 Section106.3 (Application for permit) is amended by deleting the text in said
section and replacing it with the following:
‘The code official may require a permit application for work regulated by this
code.’
3 Section 106.6.2 (Fee Schedule) is amended by deleting this section in its entirety.
4. Section 106.6.3 (Fee refunds) is amended by deleting the text in said section and
replacing it with the following:
‘The City Manager or designee is authorized to establish a refund policy.’
5. Section 108.5 (Stop work orders) is amended by inserting the following amounts
in the blanks provided at the end of said section:
‘twenty-five ($25.00) in the first blank and two-thousand ($2,000.00) in the second
blank’
6. Section 109 (Means of Appeal) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
7. Section 305.4.1 (Sewer depth) is amended by inserting “twelve (12)” in both blanks
and adding the following sentence to the end of said section.
‘Where conditions prohibit the required amount of cover, cast iron pipe with
approved joints may be used unless other means of protecting the pipe is provided
as approved by the Building Official.’
8. Section 312.1 (Required tests) is amended by deleting the following text from said
section:
‘, for piping systems other than plastic, by’
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-4075 Page 42 of 50
9. Section 312.2 (Drainage and vent water test) is amended by deleting said section
in its entirety and replacing with the following:
‘312.2 Drainage water test. A water test shall be applied to the drainage system
either in its entirety or in sections. If applied to the entire system, all openings in
the piping shall be tightly closed, except the highest opening, and the system shall
be filled with water to the point of overflow. If the system is tested in sections,
each opening shall be tightly plugged except the highest opening of the section
under test, and each section shall be tested with not less than a 5-foot head of water.
This pressure shall be held for at least 15 minutes. The drainage system shall then
be tight at all points.’
10. Section 312.3 (Drainage and vent air test) is amended by deleting said section in
its entirety and replacing with the following:
‘312.3 Drainage air test. An air test shall be applied to the drainage piping by
forcing air into the system until there is uniform gauge pressure of 5 pounds per
square inch (psi) or sufficient to balance a 10-inch column of mercury. This
pressure shall be held for a test period of at least 15 minutes. Any adjustment to
the test pressure required because of changes in ambient temperature or the seating
of gaskets shall be made prior to the beginning of the test period.’
11 Section 312.6 (Gravity sewer test) is amended by replacing “10-foot” with “5-
foot”.
12. Section 312.10 (Inspection and testing of backflow prevention assemblies.) is
amended by deleting said section in its entirety and replacing with the following:
‘312.10 Inspection and testing of backflow prevention assemblies. Upon initial
installation, an inspection shall be made of all backflow prevention devices and
assemblies to determine whether they are operable. Testing of all backflow
prevention devices and assemblies shall be in accordance with Chapter 11, Section
10, Subsection F, of the Code of Ordinances, City of College Station, Texas.”
13. Section 410.4 (Substitution) is amended by deleting the last sentence in said section
and replacing it with the following:
‘Where bottle water dispensers are provided in other occupancies, drinking
fountains shall not be required.’
14. Table 605.3 (Water Service Pipe) is amended by deleting the following materials:
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic pipe
Polyethylene (PE) plastic pipe
Polyethylene (PE) plastic tubing
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Polyethylene/aluminum/polyethylene (PE-AL-PE) pipe
15. Section 606 (Installation of the Building Water Distribution System) is amended
by adding section 606.8 to read as follows:
‘606.8 Materials below slab. Water distribution piping installed under concrete
slabs shall be copper (minimum type K), cross-link polyethylene (PEX) tubing, or
cross-linked polyethylene/aluminum/ polyethylene (PEX-AL-PEX) pipe, all
installed without joints or connections. Materials subject to corrosion shall be
protected when exposed to concrete or corrosive soils.’
16. Section 606 (Installation of the Building Water Distribution System) is amended
by adding section 606.9 to read as follows:
‘606.9 Sleeved cross-polyethylene piping or tubing. ‘When a sleeve is provided
for cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) plastic piping or tubing installed under
concrete slabs the annular space between the piping or tubing and the sleeve must
be caulked, foamed, or otherwise sealed to prevent the entrance of termiticide.’
17. Section 608.17.5 (Connections to lawn irrigation systems) is amended by deleting
the first sentence in said section and replacing it with the following:
‘The potable water supply to lawn irrigation systems shall be protected against
backflow by an atmospheric vacuum breaker, a pressure vacuum breaker assembly,
a reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assembly or a double check.’
18. Section 701.2 (Sewer required) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety
and replacing with the following:
‘701.2 Sewer required. Every building in which plumbing fixtures are installed and
all premises having sanitary drainage piping shall be connected to an approved
sewer. Private sewage systems must comply with City of College Station’s Code
of Ordinances. All private sewage disposal systems must comply with the latest
adopted standards of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and be
installed under the direction of the Brazos County Health Department. The installer
shall be licensed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.’
19. Section 1003.3.5 (Hydromechanical grease interceptors, fats, oils and greases
disposal systems and automatic grease removal devices) is amended by deleting the
first sentence in said section:
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AMENDMENTS TO THE
INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE
F. The International Property Maintenance Code adopted by reference in Section 101.4.4,
2018 International Building Code is hereby amended as follows:
1. Section 102.7 (Referenced codes and standards) is amended by adding the following
exception:
‘Exception: Any reference to the ICC Electrical Code shall mean the National
Electrical Code, as adopted and amended by the City of College Station.’
2. Section 107 (Notices and orders) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
3. Section 108 (Unsafe Structures and Equipment) is amended by deleting the section in its
entirety.
4. Section 109 (Emergency Measures) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
5. Section 110 (Demolition) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
6. Section 111 (Means of Appeal) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
7. Section 302.4 (Weeds) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
8. Section 304.3 (Premises identification) is amended by deleting the text in said section and
replacing it with the following: Premises identification shall be in compliance with Section
502.1, 2018 International Building Code as amended.
9. Section 304.14 (Insect screens) is amended by deleting the existing text and replacing it
with the following:
‘Every door, window, and other outside opening required for ventilation of habitable
rooms, food preparation areas, food service areas or any other areas where products to be
included or utilized in food for human consumption are processed, manufactured, packaged
or stored, shall be supplied with approved tightly fitting screens of not less than 16 mesh
per inch (16 mesh per 25mm) and every swinging door shall have a self -closing device in
good working condition.
Exceptions:
1. Screens shall not be required where other approved means, such as air curtains or
Insect repellant fans, are employed.
2. Screens shall not be required for windows and doors enclosing habitable spaces that
contain central heating and air conditioning equipment that provide mechanical
ventilation.’
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10. Section 602.3 (Heat supply) is amended by adding the following dates in the blanks
provided:
‘1 October in first blank and 30 April in second blank’
11. Section 602.4 (Occupiable work space) is amended by adding the following dates in the
blanks provided:
‘1 October in first blank and 30 April in second blank’
12. Section 602.4 (Occupiable work spaces) is amended by adding the following exception:
‘3. Warehouse, storage rooms and similar areas that are not occupied on a constant basis.’
13. Appendix A (Boarding Standard) is hereby adopted.
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AMENDMENTS TO THE
INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE
G. The International Energy Conservation Code adopted by reference in Section 101.4.6,
2018 International Building Code, is hereby amended as follows:
1. Section C&R106.1 (Referenced codes and standards) is amended by adding the
following to said section:
“Any reference to the ICC Electrical Code shall mean the National Electrical Code,
as adopted and amended by the City of College Station.”
2. Section C&R109 (Board of Appeals) is amended by deleting the section in its
entirety.
3. Section C402.5 (Air leakage-thermal envelope (Mandatory)) is amended by adding
an exception:
“Exception: The air leakage – thermal envelope shall be considered acceptable
when the items listed in Table R402.4.1.1, applicable to the method of construction,
are field verified. Where required by the code official, an approved third party,
independent from the installer, shall inspect and approve the thermal envelope and
insulation installation.”
4. Section R401.3 (Certificate) is amended by deleting the existing text from said
section:
“The certificate shall list the types and efficiencies of heating, cooling and service
water heating equipment. Where a gas-fired unvented room heater, electric
furnace, or baseboard electric heater is installed in the residence, the certificate shall
list “gas-fired unvented room heater,” “electric furnace” or “baseboard electric
heater.” as appropriate. An efficiency shall not be listed for gas-fired unvented
room heaters, electric furnaces or electric baseboard heaters.”
5. Section R402.4.1.2 (Testing) is amended by adding an exception:
“Exception: Building envelope tightness and insulation installation shall be
considered acceptable when the items listed in Table R402.4.1.1, applicable to the
method of construction, are field verified. Where required by the code official, an
approved third party independent from the installer, shall inspect and approve the
air barrier and insulation installation.”
6. Section R403.3.1 (Insulation (Prescriptive)) is amended by adding the following to
the end of the section:
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“Supply and return air ducts in unconditioned spaces may have an insulation R-
Value of 6 when installed in conjunction with an air conditioner having a minimum
SEER rating of 15.”
7. Section R403.3.3 (Duct Testing (Mandatory)) is amended by adding an additional
exception below said section:
Exception: 2. Duct tightness shall be considered acceptable when the items listed
below, applicable to the method of construction, are field verified:
Connections:
a. Seal core to collar with UL listed mastic or at least 2 wraps of UL
181 listed tape .
b. Secure connection with mechanical clamp placed over the core and
tape.
c. Pull jacket and insulation back over core. Use a mechanical clamp,
two wraps of UL 181 listed tape or UL listed mastic to secure
insulation.a
Splices:
a. Butt two cores together on a 4” length metal sleeve.
b. Secure core and sleeve with UL listed mastic or two wraps of UL
181 listed tape
c. Secure connection with 2 clamps placed over the taped core ends.
d. Pull jacket and insulation back over core. Use two wraps of UL 181
listed tape or UL listed mastic to secure insulation.
8. Section R403 (Systems) is amended by adding R403.13 to read as follows:
“403.13 Heating equipment. Electrical resistance heat may be used as the primary
source of heating for residential use not exceeding five hundred (500) square feet
in area.”
9. Section R406.5 (Verification by approved agency) is amended by replacing the
existing
text with:
“The Code Official may require verification of compliance with Section R406 be
completed by an approved third party.”
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SEC. 103-162 - NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE ADOPTED
A booklet entitled ‘National Electrical Code 2017 Edition’ as amended and as hereafter may be
amended, at least one (1) copy of which is on file in the office of the Building Official of the City
of College Station, Texas, is hereby adopted and designated as the Electrical Code of College
Station, Texas.
AMENDMENTS TO THE NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
1. Section 210.23 (A) 15- and 20- Ampere Branch Circuits. Shall be amended to
delete the reference to 15 ampere branch circuits. It shall also be amended to include
the following sentence after said section:
“However, a circuit of twenty (20) amperes shall not serve more than ten openings.”
2. Table 210.24 Summary of Branch-Circuit Requirements shall be amended by
placing an asterisk next to all 14 AWG conductors indicated in the table and by
adding this footnote at the bottom of the table:
“ * special note: Except for fixture wires in UL or other listed fixtures, no conductor
of a size smaller than 12 AWG solid copper is allowed in branch circuit wiring.”
3. Section 210.52 (B) Small Appliances shall be amended by adding the following
subsection:
“(4) Separate Circuit Required. A separate circuit is required for each
refrigerator, deep freeze, dishwasher, disposal, trash compactor or any other load
exceeding six (6) amperes.”
4. Section 210.52 (C) Countertops shall be amended to include after the words
‘…with 210.52 (C) (1) through (C) (5). the following sentence:
“However, a separate circuit is required for microwave ovens or any other counter
top appliance with a load exceeding six (6) amperes.”
5. Section 210.52 (F) Laundry Areas. Shall be amended to include after the words
'. . . for the installation of laundry equipment.' the following sentence:
“However, a separate circuit is required for a washing machine or any other laundry
appliance with a load exceeding six (6) amperes.”
6. Section 210.52 Dwelling Unit Receptacle Outlets. Shall be amended by adding
the following subsection:
“(J) Other Locations. A separate circuit is required for each well pump or other
outdoor loads exceeding six (6) amperes.”
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7. Article 230 Services. Shall be amended by adding the following section:
“230.11 Meter Mounting Heights. Individual meters shall be mounted at a height
not greater than 5'-6” or less than 4'-6" above finished grade, measured to the center
line of the meter base. Meter packs shall be mounted with its horizontal centerline
not greater than 4'-6” or less than 4'-0" above finished grade.”
“Exception: Meters and meter packs may be mounted at a different height by
special permission of the Building Official or his designee when special conditions
make the installation at the above heights impractical. “
8. Section 230.70 General shall be amended by adding the following subsection:
“(D) Service Disconnecting Means for Commercial Buildings and Structures.
For commercial buildings and structures, the service disconnecting means shall be
installed on the outside of the building or structure. A power operated disconnect
switch (shunt trip) is permitted for service disconnects rated 1000 amps or more.
All shunt trip disconnecting means shall be of the maintained contact type in an
approved, lockable enclosure. All service disconnects shall be clearly marked in a
permanent manner.
Exception: A power operated disconnect switch (shunt trip) may be allowed on
service disconnects rated less than 1000 amps, if the applicant requests an exception
from the Electrical Division and Building Official and satisfies the official that one
of the following criteria has been met.
(a) A power operated disconnect switch (shunt trip) may be used for a service
disconnect rated less than 1000 amps when the building or structure is
served by a single transformer and the transformer is not anticipated to be
used for multiple services; or
(b) A power operated disconnect switch (shunt trip) may be used for a service
disconnect rated less than 1000 amps on an existing building or structure
when space is not available to mount an external disconnect.
9. Article 230 Services. Shall be amended by adding the following section:
“230.70 (E) Outside Disconnect Locking Device. Factory installed key operated
lock shall have an alternate locking mechanism approved by the local jurisdiction.”
10. Section 230.71 (A) General shall be amended to include the following sentence
after said section:
“Any multi-tenant building larger than 5,000 square feet shall have a service
disconnect.”
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11. Section 250.52 (A) (5) Rod and Pipe Electrodes shall be amended by deleting
the section in its entirety and replacing with the following:
“Rod and Pipe Electrodes. Rod and pipe electrodes shall not be less than eight
(8) feet in length, not less than 5/8” in diameter and shall be copper coated.”
12. Section 310.106 (B) Conductor Material shall be amended by adding the
following Exception:
“Exception: Aluminum and copper-clad aluminum is not allowed in branch
circuits.”
13. Section 320.12 Uses Not Permitted shall be amended by deleting the section in its
entirety and replacing with the following:
“Uses Not Permitted. Type AC cable shall not be permitted in commercial
buildings as a wiring method.”
14. Section 334.12 (A) Types NM, NMC, and NMS. Shall be amended to include the
following subsection:
“(11) In educational occupancies as defined by the City’s “adopted building code.”