HomeMy WebLinkAbout10/28/2025 - Regular Agenda Packet - Construction Board of AdjustmentsCollege Station, TX
Meeting Agenda
Construction Board of Adjustment and Appeals
1101 Texas Ave, College Station, TX 77840
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Meeting ID: 253 340 272 504 7 | Passcode: Px77Hn6s
Phone: 833-240-7855 | Phone Conference ID: 847 340 453#
The City Council may or may not attend this meeting.
October 28, 2025 6:00 PM City Hall Council Chambers
College Station, TX Page 1
Notice is hereby given that a quorum of the meeting body will be present in the physical location
stated above where citizens may also attend in order to view a member(s) participating by
videoconference call as allowed by 551.127, Texas Government Code. The City uses a thirdparty
vendor to host the virtual portion of the meeting; if virtual access is unavailable, meeting access
and participation will be in-person only.
1.Call meeting to order and consider absence requests.
2.Hear Visitors.
At this time, the Chairperson will open the floor to citizens wishing to address issues not already
scheduled on today's agenda. Each citizen’s presentation will be limited to three minutes in order to
allow adequate time for the completion of the agenda items. Comments will be received and city staff
may be asked to look into the matter, or the matter may be placed on a future agenda for discussion.
A recording may be made of the meeting; please give your name and address for the record.
3.Agenda Items.
3.1. Consideration, discussion, and possible action to approve meeting minutes.
Attachments: 1. April 30 2024
3.2. Public Hearing, presentation, discussion, and possible action on a recommendation to City
Council regarding the adoption of the 2024 International Building Code (IBC) and related
amendments.
Sponsors: Brian Binford
Attachments: 1. International Building Code Overview
2.International Building Code Amendments
3.3. Public Hearing, presentation, discussion, and possible action on a recommendation to City
Council regarding the adoption of the 2024 International Residential Code (IRC) and related
amendments.
Sponsors: Brian Binford
Attachments: 1. International Residential Code Overview
2.International Residential Code Amendments
3.4. Public Hearing, presentation, discussion, and possible action on a recommendation to City
Council regarding the adoption of the 2024 International Plumbing Code (IPC) and related
amendments.
Sponsors: Brian Binford
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Construction Board of Adjustment
and Appeals
Page 2 October 28, 2025
Attachments: 1. International Plumbing Code Overview
2.International Plumbing Code Amendments
3.5. Public Hearing, presentation, discussion, and possible action on a recommendation to City
Council regarding the adoption of the 2024 International Mechanical Code (IMC) and related
amendments.
Sponsors: Brian Binford
Attachments: 1. International Mechanical Code Overview
2.International Mechanical Code Amendments
3.6. Public Hearing, presentation, discussion, and possible action on a recommendation to City
Council regarding the adoption of the 2024 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) and related
amendments.
Sponsors: Brian Binford
Attachments: 1. International Fuel Gas Code Overview
2.International Fuel Gas Code Amendments
3.7. Public Hearing, presentation, discussion, and possible action on a recommendation to City
Council regarding the adoption of the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and
related amendments.
Sponsors: Brian Binford
Attachments: 1. International Energy Conservation Code Overview
2.International Energy Conservation Code Amendments
3.8. Public Hearing, presentation, discussion, and possible action on a recommendation to City
Council regarding the adoption of the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) and
related amendments.
Sponsors: Brian Binford
Attachments: 1. International Property Maintenance Code Overview
2.International Property Maintenance Code Amendments
3.9. Public Hearing, presentation, discussion, and possible action on a recommendation to City
Council regarding the adoption of the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC) and related
amendments.
Sponsors: Brian Binford
Attachments: 1. National Electrical Code Overview
2.National Electrical Code Amendments
3.10. Public Hearing, presentation, discussion, and possible action on a recommendation to City
Council regarding the adoption of the 2024 International Fire Code (IFC) and related
amendments.
Sponsors: Brian Binford
Attachments: 1. International Fire Code Overview
2.International Fire Code Amendments
4.Discussion and possible action on future agenda items.
A member may inquire about a subject for which notice has not been given. A statement of specific
factual information or the recitation of existing policy may be given. Any deliberation shall be limited to
a proposal to place the subject on an agenda for a subsequent meeting.
5.Adjourn.
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Construction Board of Adjustment
and Appeals
Page 3 October 28, 2025
The Board or Commission may adjourn into Executive Session to consider any item listed on the
agenda if a matter is raised that is appropriate for Executive Session discussion.
I certify that the above Notice of Meeting was posted on the website and at College Station City Hall,
1101 Texas Avenue, College Station, Texas, on October 20, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.
City Secretary
This building is wheelchair accessible. Persons with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting
and who may need accommodations, auxiliary aids, or services such as interpreters,
readers, or large print are asked to contact the City Secretary’s Office at (979) 764-3541, TDD
at 1-800-735-2989, or email adaassistance@cstx.gov at least two business days prior to the
meeting so that appropriate arrangements can be made. If the City does not receive notification
at least two business days prior to the meeting, the City will make a reasonable attempt to
provide the necessary accommodations.
Penal Code § 30.07. Trespass by License Holder with an Openly Carried Handgun.
"Pursuant to Section 30.07, Penal Code (Trespass by License Holder with an Openly
Carried Handgun) A Person Licensed under Subchapter H, Chapter 411,
Government Code (Handgun Licensing Law), may not enter this Property with a
Handgun that is Carried Openly."
Codigo Penal § 30.07. Traspasar Portando Armas de Mano al Aire Libre con Licencia.
“Conforme a la Seccion 30.07 del codigo penal (traspasar portando armas de mano al aire
libre con licencia), personas con licencia bajo del Sub-Capitulo H, Capitulo 411,
Codigo de Gobierno (Ley de licencias de arma de mano), no deben entrar a esta propiedad
portando arma de mano al aire libre.”
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April 30, 2024 Construction Board of Adjustments and Appeals Meeting Minutes Page 1 of 6
MINUTES CONSTRUCTION BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS
AND APPEALS April 30, 2024 6:00 p.m.
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Acting Chairperson Joe Fix, Board Members Tiona Broussard,
Jared Walther, Trevor Young, and Michael Martinez
BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT: Chairperson Cynthia Giedraitis CITY STAFF PRESENT: Chief Development Officer Michael Ostrowski, Assistant Director of
Planning & Development Services Molly Hitchcock, Building Official Brian Binford, Assistant
Building Official Bryce Trujillo, Assistant City Attorney II Aaron Longoria, Staff Planner Ashley Klein, Technology Services Specialist Trey Bransom, and Administrative Support Specialist Kristen Hejny
1. Call Meeting to Order, Pledge of Allegiance, Consider Absence Request.
Acting Chairperson Fix called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
2. Hear Visitors
No visitors spoke.
3. Agenda Items
3.1 Consideration, discussion, and possible action to approve meeting minutes.
• March 22 2022
Board Member Broussard motioned to approve the minutes, Board Member Walther seconded the motion, motion passed 5-0.
3.2 Presentation, discussion, and possible action regarding an Appeal to Administrator’s
Interpretation regarding the denial of a request to extend Building Permit Applications for a project at 2200 Metalmark Way.
Building Official Binford presented the appeal to the Board recommending denial.
Acting Chairperson Fix asked if there was a legal definition of “good faith”.
Building Official Binford clarified that there is no legal definition in the Code, however
the International Building Code (IBC) expands on reasoning in determining factors for the need for an extension, speaking toward construction processes.
Board Member Broussard asked if there have been significant changes to the Code since the initial application was submitted.
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April 30, 2024 Construction Board of Adjustments and Appeals Meeting Minutes Page 2 of 6
Building Official Binford clarified that there have been no code changes, however, there has been a change in the fee structure.
Applicant, Chessie Zimmerman, Stratus Properties, was available to present to and address
questions from the Board.
Acting Chairperson Fix asked if the civil site plan process is separate from the building permit process.
Ms. Zimmerman confirmed that there are two different processes, one being a set of
building plans and the other being the civil site plan.
Acting Chairperson Fix asked if the civil package has its own 180-day timeline, and if this part of the process has been approved and paid for.
Ms. Zimmerman stated that the civil package has a 90-day timeline and confirmed that they have paid the fees for the civil site plan submittal.
Board Member Young asked for clarification that the initial reason for the extension was
to secure construction financing, asking if that information had been relayed to staff.
Ms. Zimmerman confirmed that construction financing was the reason for requesting the extension, and that information was relayed to the City.
Board Member Walther asked for a timeline if the project had secured financing approval
given the February 2024 expiration date of the permit.
Ms. Zimmerman stated that the applicant is expecting to get final pricing by the end of June 2024 while expecting an extension on the permit to August 2024.
Acting Chairperson Fix asked at what point the applicant decided to use the additional 180 days to secure financing.
Ms. Zimmerman clarified that the applicant had decided to use the extension in August of
2023.
Board Member Martinez asked for clarification that the applicant used information from staff to extend the permit approval through August 2024, to secure financing.
Ms. Zimmerman confirmed that the applicant expected to be granted extensions through
August of 2024 to secure financing.
Acting Chairperson Fix asked if the plans examiner reviewing this permit was available to address the Board.
Building Official Binford stated that he would be speaking on behalf of the plans examiner. Mr. Binford further stated that once staff approves the drawings, the applicant is presented
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April 30, 2024 Construction Board of Adjustments and Appeals Meeting Minutes Page 3 of 6
with two options, paying for the permit, or applying for an extension, however the extension process is a determination and is not automatic.
Board Member Walther asked if there is a time frame in which an extension request must
be submitted.
Building Official Binford stated that applicants can apply for an extension at any time, the review criteria would be same.
Board Member Walther asked if the applicant could have filed for an extension on day one
and been granted a full year.
Building Official Binford confirmed that an applicant could file for an extension at any time before or after the permit expiration date. Mr. Binford also stated that the plans examiner is authorized to provide options to the applicant but is not authorized to make a determination.
Board Member Walther asked why the site development permit fees were not considered
as part of a good faith effort for the building permit.
Building Official Binford clarified that the building permit application and site development permit are two separate processes.
Board Member Young asked if the applicant viewed their payment of the site development
fees as a good faith effort.
Ms. Zimmerman confirmed that the applicant did see paying for the site development fees as a good faith effort.
Board Member Young asked for the applicant’s intentions if they were unable to get the financing within the extension time of 180 days.
Ms. Zimmerman clarified that portions of the fees are refundable if the project does not
move forward.
Chief Development Officer Ostrowski clarified that the building permit is comprised of building permit fees and impact fees which are paid at building permit approval, not up front. If the project does not move forward, the City would refund the impact fees, however
the building permit fees are subject to non-refunding per the department’s refund policy.
Board Member Broussard asked if the process had changed since phase one of the development.
Ms. Zimmerman clarified that phase one was completed before the City had impact fees.
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April 30, 2024 Construction Board of Adjustments and Appeals Meeting Minutes Page 4 of 6
Chief Development Officer Ostrowski further clarified that phase one was developed as the City was starting impact fees, however, impact fees are refundable and are not
collected up front during the permit review process.
Board Member Broussard asked for clarification that the procedure is the same, but the fees are different.
Ms. Zimmerman confirmed that the procedure is the same, but the fees are different.
Board Member Young asked for the time frame on the development of phase one, and if
an extension was granted or requested.
Ms. Zimmerman stated that the applicant had financing in place for phase one prior to the payment and issuance of the permits.
Board Member Walther asked when impact fees changed.
Chief Development Officer Ostrowski clarified that impact fee rates changed on January
1, 2024, stating that if the applicant paid for the permit in February 2024, they would
have been subject to prior impact fee rates. The expired permits are now subject to new impact fee rates.
Board Member Young asked if the applicant was aware of the fee increase.
Ms. Zimmerman confirmed that the applicant was aware of the fee increase, stating that
the fee increase was the reasoning for requesting an extension.
Board Member Broussard asked for the estimated expiration date of the permits if an additional extension were to be granted. Ms. Broussard also asked if the applicant has secured financing, and if there are any subsequent changes to the building plans.
Ms. Zimmerman stated that the plans include additional retail buildings with the additional
costs to be included in the construction loan.
Building Official Binford clarified that an additional extension would extend the permit 90 days.
Ms. Zimmerman asked for clarification that two 90-day extensions are allowed.
Building Official Binford clarified that the Building Official is authorized to grant one or
more extensions of time for additional periods not exceeding 90 days each, there is no
extension limit.
Board Member Martinez asked when the determination was made by the administrator, and when the determination was communicated to the applicant.
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April 30, 2024 Construction Board of Adjustments and Appeals Meeting Minutes Page 5 of 6
Building Official Binford stated that the official date of determination was relayed by staff to the applicant six days after the request was made. Mr. Binford also stated that
the intent of denial was always represented.
Board Member Martinez stated that information regarding an extension was made clear in in the applicants request for an extension.
Building Official Binford stated that the language in the Code is authorized to speak to determination being made.
Acting Chairperson Fix asked if the City has an official application for extensions.
Building Official Binford stated that the City is working on creating an official application for extensions, however one does not currently exist.
Acting Chairperson Fix recommended staff ensure that an extension application clearly outlines that extensions are subject to determination.
Board Member Broussard asked for clarification that if the appeal is denied, the building
plans would still be on file with the City, and an extension could be requested in the future, subject to any fee increases.
Building Official Binford clarified that this would be a final determination on this set of permits. Mr. Binford further clarified that there is an approved set of plans in the system,
and these permits would be closed. The applicant would apply for new building permits
using the approved sets of plans and be subject to applicable updated fees.
Acting Chairperson Fix asked if there would be an additional building permit fee.
Building Official Binford clarified that the building permit fees increase with the Consumer Price Index and increased by about $9,000, however no fees have been collected for
these permits.
Board Member Walther asked if it would have been possible for the applicant to pay some of the permit fees to show a good faith effort.
Building Official Binford clarified that permit fees are due in totality upon approval of the permit.
Acting Chairperson Fix asked if there are impact fees included in the civil package
apprvoal.
Building Official Binford clarified that all impact fees are collected with the building permit application.
Board Member Broussard asked if impact fees are refundable.
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April 30, 2024 Construction Board of Adjustments and Appeals Meeting Minutes Page 6 of 6
Building Official Binford confirmed that impact fees and connection fees are refundable.
Board Member Broussard asked for clarification that the applicant is asking for two
additional 90-day extensions.
Ms. Zimmerman stated that the applicant is requesting a 180-day extension.
Building Official Binford stated that the appeal is of the Building Official’s determination.
Board Member Young asked if the administrator made the determination because they felt that there was no good faith effort.
Building Official Binford confirmed that the administrator made that determination after a
six-month period of inactivity, amongst other factors.
Board Member Broussard motioned to approve the administrator’s determination, Board Member Fix seconded the motion, motion passed 5-0.
4. Discussion and possible action on future agenda items.
A Board Member may inquire about a subject for which notice has not been given. A statement of specific factual information or the recitation of existing policy may be given. Any deliberation shall be limited to a proposal to place the subject on an agenda for a
subsequent meeting.
There was no discussion. 5. Adjourn
The meeting adjourned at 6:59 p.m. Approved: Attest:
______________________________ ________________________________
Joe Fix, Acting Chairperson Kristen Hejny, Board Secretary Construction Board of Adjustments Planning & Development Services
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2024 International Building Code
Overview of Changes
The scope of the International Building Code (IBC) applies to the construction, alteration, movement,
enlargement, replacement, repair, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, and removal or demolition
of buildings and structures. The IBC establishes the minimum requirements to safeguard the public health,
safety and general welfare through structural strength, proper exits, and sanitation. The IBC is also
designed to provide safety for firefighters and emergency responders from fire and other hazards
associated with the building’s environment.
The 2024 IBC continues to establish minimum regulations for building systems using prescriptive and
performance-related provisions. The code changes in this cycle result in technical consistency with the
other International Codes.
New in the 2024 IBC Edition:
• For the first time ever, the 2024 IBC includes provisions for tornado loadings.
• Updated wind, earthquake, and snow loads.
• The updated design rain loads are now based on the summation of the static head, the hydraulic
head, and the ponding head.
• Updates to Risk Categories including Photovoltaic (PV) panel systems and facilities providing
power generation.
• Updated and expanded provisions for Temporary Structures.
• New provisions regarding the wind resistance of aggregate-surfaced roofs.
• Roof Coverings: Updated provisions for underlayment.
• New special inspection provisions for metal building systems.
• New provisions for structural concrete reinforced with glass-fiber reinforcement.
• Concrete: Chapter 19 on Concrete has been Updated and reformatted.
• Masonry: TMS 402 and TMS 602 references have been updated to the latest 2022 editions.
• Increased the allowable height of a Group R-2 occupancy building with an NFPA 13R sprinkler
system.
• Occupiable space requirements now apply if a roof is usable for anything more than maintenance
or repair and occupants must have access to multiple egress options from a story based on the
occupant load and the story requirements.
• Adult changing tables regulations are added where they are required in large assembly and
mercantile, college lecture hall/classroom buildings and highway rest stops, or provided.
• Fire-resistance-rated Wall Continuity: Updates on how supporting construction for exterior walls
is to be fire-resistance-rated, especially in the case of a parapet.
• Openings in Shaft Enclosures: Additional exceptions are provided for shaft enclosures, including
new allowances for openings and penetrations.
• Carbon Monoxide Detection: Carbon monoxide (CO) detection is now required in all occupancies
where a CO-producing device is present. Detection and notification can be addressed in several
ways.
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2024 International Building Code
The scope of the International Building Code (IBC) applies to the construction, alteration,
movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, and
removal or demolition of buildings and structures. The IBC establishes the minimum requirements
to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare through structural strength, proper exits,
and sanitation. The IBC is also designed to provide safety for firefighters and emergency
responders from fire and other hazards associated with the building’s environment.
The 2024 IBC continues to establish minimum regulations for building systems using prescriptive
and performance-related provisions. The code changes in this cycle result in technical consistency
with the other International Codes
Current Number of Amendments: 63
Proposed Number of Amendments: 60
The newly proposed amendments are to align language in Chapter 9 of the IBC, with amendments
made to the 2024 International Fire Code by the City of College Station Fire Marshal’s office.
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INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE ADOPTED
A booklet entitled 'International Building Code 2021 2024 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 City of College Station, Texas. In addition, Appendix D of the 2021 2024 International Building Code is hereby adopted.
AMENDMENTS TO INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE
Note: An asterisk at the beginning of a section identifies a new amendment with the 2021 code edition.
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.
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:
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“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, maintenance 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 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.”
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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 placement of concrete and prepared by a surveyor licensed to perform work in the State of Texas.”
8. Section 110.3.6 (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 (Means of Appeals) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
11. Section 116.1 (Unsafe 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 303.4 (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 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
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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:
"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. And adding item “4”
to read as follows: Group E, day care facilities, as defined in Section 203.4.2 of the International
Fire Code
22. Section 903.2.4 (Group F-1) is amended by deleting items "2" and "3."
23. *Section 903.2.4.2 (Group F-1 distilled spirits) is amended to add: An automatic sprinkler system
shall be provided throughout a Group F-1 fire area used for the manufacture of distilled spirits
involving more than 120 gallons of distilled spirits (>16% alcohol) in the fire area at any one
time
24. 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.
25. Section 903.2.8 (Group R) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
26.25. 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."
27.26. *Section 903.2.9.3 (Group S-1 Distilled spirits or wine) is amended to add: An automatic Page 15 of 91
sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a Group F-1 fire area used for the manufacture of
distilled spirits involving more than 120 gallons of distilled spirits (>16% alcohol) in the fire
area at any one time.
27. Section 903.2.10 (Group S-2 Parking Garages) is amended by deleting the exception in its entirety.
28. Section 903.2.11.7 is added:
28. Section 903.2.11.7 Buildings over 12,000 sq. ft. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
installed throughout all buildings over 12,000 sq. ft. and greater, and in all existing buildings that
are enlarged to be 12,000 sq. ft. or greater, and in buildings greater than 12,000 sq. ft. which are
enlarged. For the purpose of this provision, fire walls, fire barriers, or horizontal assemblies shall
not define separate buildings.
29. 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.
30. *Section 903.3.1.1.1 (Exempt locations) is amended by deleting item number 4.
31. *Section 903.3.1.2.2 (Corridors and balconies in the means of egress) is amended as follows:
903.3.1.2.2 (Corridors and balconies in the means of egress). Sprinkler protection shall be provided
in all corridors and for all balconies in the means of egress.
32. Section 903.3.1.2.3 (Attics). is amended by deleting items 3.4 and 4.5
32. Section 903.4 (Sprinkler systems supervision and alarms) is amended by adding the following:
Exceptions: 9. Valves located outside buildings or in a vault that are sealed or locked in the open
position.
33. Section 904.3.5, (Monitoring). is amended by deleting the section and replacing it with:
904.3.5 (Monitoring). All automatic fire extinguishing system shall be monitored with a system in
accordance with NFPA 72.
34. 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.
35. 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.
36. Section 906.1 (Where required) is amended by deleting exception 1 and 2 all others remain the
same.
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37. 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.
38. Section 907.2.7.1.1, (Occupant notification). is repealed in its entirety.
39. 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 has a means of egress door
opening directly to an exit or to an exterior exit access that leads directly to an exit.
40. Section 907.2.12.2, (System response), is hereby deleted in its entirety.
40.41. Section 907.2.13.2 (Fire department communication system) is deleted in its entirety
41.42. Section 907.2.1213.1.2, (Duct smoke detection), is amended to read as follows:
907.2.1213.1.2 (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.
42.43. 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.
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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.
43.44. Section 907.2, (Where Required) – is amended by adding Section 907.2.25, Fire alarm systems for
property protection, to read as follows:
907.2.25 907.2.25.1 (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 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
907.4.2.1 907.4.2.1 are not exceeded.
907.2.10.2 907.2.25.2 (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.
907.2.10.3 907.2.25.3 (Smoke alarms). Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be
installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
44.45. Section 907.3.1, (Duct smoke detectors), is amended to read as follows:
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
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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. 2021 International Building-
Related Code.
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.
45.46. 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 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).
46.47. 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).
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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 designee.
47.48. Section 907.5.1.1, (Presignal feature), is amended to read as follows:
907.5.1.1 (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 2021 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.
48. Section 907.5.2.1, (Audible alarms), is amended by adding Section 907.5.2.1.4, Testing of audible
alarms in occupancies other than Group R, and Section 907.5.2.1.5, Testing of audible alarms in
Group R occupancies, as follows:
907.5.2.1.4 (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.
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.
907.5.2.1.5 (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
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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.
49. 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
2021 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.
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.
50. Section 907.5.2.2.4, (Emergency voice/alarm communication captions), is repealed in its entirety.
51.49. 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
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the notification appliances required in the unit.
52.50. 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.
53.51. 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.
54.52. 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.
55.53. Section 912.2.2, (Existing buildings), is amended to read as follows:
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.
56.54. 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.
57.55. 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.
58.56. Section 912, (Fire Department Connections), is amended by adding Section 912.87, Location
and type, as follows:
912.8 7 (Location and type). Sprinkler system and standpipe fire department hose connections
shall be as follows:
1. Within 40 feet of a public street, approved fire lane, or access roadway
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2. Within 100 feet of an approved fire hydrant measured per hose lay.
3. All structures are required to have a five inch "Storz" connection.
a. Where provided, the five inch "Storz" inlet shall be installed at a 30-degree angle
pointing down.
i. Exception: NFPA 13R system requiring less than 250 gpm.
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. Fire department connections for H occupancies shall be freestanding, remote and located
as determined by the fire code official.
8. Fire department connections for systems protecting fuel storage tanks shall be
freestanding, remote and located as determined by the fire code official.
9. No FDC is required for projects designed per NFPA 13D.
59.57. Section 1004.5.1 (Increased occupant load) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
60.58. 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.”
61.59. 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.
62.60. Section 1907 (Minimum slab provisionsSlab-on-ground) is amended by adding Section 1907.2
1.1 to read as follows: “Section 1907.2 1.1 Minimum foundation standard. All slabs-on-grade
with turned-down
footings shall comply with the Minimum Foundation Standard as shown in figure 1.”
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1. APPENDIX D (FIRE DISTRICTS) is hereby adopted.
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2024 International Residential Code
Overview of Changes
The International Residential Code (IRC) is a standalone code that regulates the construction of
detached one-and-two family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories in height.
There have been significant changes made to the IRC since the initial 2000 edition. This
overview is intended to highlight the significant changes contained in the 2024 IRC.
New In the 2024 Edition:
• Imaginary lot lines are added for calculating fire separation distance when considering
multiple dwellings on a single lot
• Shared accessory rooms are an option in two-family dwellings.
• Many requirements for energy storage systems are added.
• New protection requirements for storage batteries in garages are added.
• Sleeping loft requirements added for habitable attic style lofts and tiny home style lofts
now have maximum size limits to meet an exception.
• Reinforcement of the floor below guards at a mezzanine is now required.
• The final test of the DWV system may be visual.
• Air exhaust openings now allowed near operable windows and doors.
• A2L refrigerants are added as an option for cooling equipment.
• Solvent cement joints for CPVC pipe are allowed above and below ground.
• Snow, wind, and seismic maps updated.
• Accessibility in care facilities clarified.
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2024 International Residential Code
The International Residential Code establishes minimum requirements for one- and two-family
dwellings and townhouses using prescriptive provisions.
The International Residential Code (IRC) is a standalone code that regulates the construction of
detached one-and-two family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories in height.
Current Number of Amendments: 37
Proposed Number of Amendments: 35
Page 26 of 91
20242021 International Residential Code Proposed Amendments
B. The International Residential Code adopted by reference in Section 101.2101.4, 2021 2024 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.” (Reason: The City of College Station has adopted the National Electrical Code to regulate electrical installations.) 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).” (Reason: this amendment allows a small accessory structure without utilities in the rear yard. Area restriction is consistent with language in the IBC.) 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.” (Reason: Guardrail provisions become effective on decks, porches or other raised surfaces that are located more than 30 inches from adjacent grade.) 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.” (Reason: Allows a homeowner to obtain a building permit for work on his homestead.) 5. Section R106.3.1 (Approval of construction documents) is amended by deleting the last sentence in said section. (Reason: The last sentence requires one set of construction documents be returned to the applicant and kept at the site during construction. It is not consistent with local practice to require two sets of construction documents, returning one set to the applicant, for 1 & 2 family dwellings.) 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 to meet the approval of the building official. Final permit valuation shall be set by the building official.” (Reason: Gives the building official final authority on permit valuations. This change also makes IRC language consistent with the IBC on this issue.)
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7.6. 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.”
(Reason: A refund policy for permit fees already exists. This amendment also makes the fee refund requirement consistent with the other I-Codes)
8.7. 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.” (Reason: Gives the building official the authority to require a form survey when building
placement is critical. A survey would likely be required for zero lot line construction and instances where the building is located on or near the building setback line on one or more sides.)
9.8. Section R112 (Board Means of Appeals) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety. (Reason: The City has already provided for the establishment of the Construction Board of
Adjustments and Appeals in Section 1(A), Chapter 3, College Station Code of Ordinances.) 10.9. 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
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
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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 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
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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.
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
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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.
11.10. 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.
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.
(Reason: Provides for protected overhangs on “zero lot line” construction.) 11. Section R302.5.1 Opening protection; change to read as follows: R302.5.1 Opening protection. Openings from a private garage directly into a room used for sleeping purposes shall not be permitted. Other openings between the garage and dwelling unit shall be equipped with solid wood doors not less than 1-3/8 inches (35 mm) in thickness, solid or honeycomb-core steel doors not less than 1-3/8 inches (35 mm) thick, or 20-minute fire-rated doors. Doors shall be self-latching and equipped with a self-closing or automatic closing device. (Reason: Absence of data linking self-closing devices to increased safety. Self-closing devices often fail to close the door entirely.) 12. Section R302.6 (Dwelling-unit 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 size) is amended by deleting this section in its entirety. (Reason: This change allows an egress opening to simply comply with the minimum opening dimensions - 20” wide X 24” high)
14.13. Section R311.7.8.4R320.5 (Continuity) is amended by deleting the following text in said section:
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“Handrail ends shall be returned or shall terminate in newel posts or safety terminals.”
(Reason: It is not consistent with local practice to require handrails to be returned in residential
construction.)
15.14. Section R313 R309 (Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems) is amended by deleting the section in its
entirety.
(Reason: State Law passed stating that municipalities could not require an automatic fire sprinkler
system to be installed in one-and-two family dwellings.)
16.15. Section R318.2R305.2 (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.”
(Reason: This will allow the Building Department to verify that the structure has been treated for
termites.)
17.16. Section R319.1R308.1 (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.”
(Reason: The IBC, as amended, provides a detailed standard for premises identification)
18.17. Section 322.2.1R306.2.1 (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).
(Reason: The revised language eliminates potential conflicts between the IRC and the City’s
Floodplain Ordinance.)
18. Section 328.1.1; add to read as follows:
Section 328.1.1 Adjacency to Structural Foundation. Depth of the swimming pool and spa shall
maintain a ratio of 1:1 from the nearest building foundation or footing of a retaining wall.
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Exception: A sealed engineered design drawing of the proposed new structure shall be submitted
for approval.
(Reason: To clarify specific distances for pools and spas.)
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.”
(Reason: Section 1907.2, IBC, references the minimum foundation standard specifically
developed for use in this area.)
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 2024 International Energy
Conservation Code as amended.”
(Reason: The International Energy Conservation Code and Chapter 11 read the same, and the
State Energy Lab recommended amendments to the International Energy Conservation Code. So
to keep from amending both parts we deleted Chapter 11.)
21. Section M1305.1.2; change to read as follows:
M1305.1.2 Appliances in attics. Attics containing appliances shall be provided . . . {bulk of paragraph
unchanged} . . . side of the appliance. The clear access opening dimensions shall be a minimum of 20
inches by 30 inches (508 mm by 762 mm), and large enough to allow removal of the largest appliance.
As a minimum, for access to the attic space, provide one of the following:
1. A permanent stair.
2. A pull down stair with a minimum 300 lb (136 kg) capacity.
3. An access door from an upper floor level.
Exceptions:
1. The passageway and level service space are not required where the appliance is capable of
being serviced and removed through the required opening with the approval of the code official.
2. Where the passageway is unobstructed and not less than 6 feet (1829 mm) high and 22 inches
(559 mm) wide for its entire length, the passageway shall be not greater than 50 feet (15,250 mm) in
length.
(Reason: To provide a safe means of accessibility to appliances in attics and to allow for different types
of construction limitations
21.22. Section M1411.3 9 (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.”
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(Reason: This amendment provides more specific requirements for the method of condensate
disposal.)
22.23. Section M1501.1 (Outdoor discharge) is amended by deleting the last sentence in said section.
(Reason: It is common local practice to run the exhaust vents to the soffit and ridge vent to
eliminate another roof penetration.)
23.24. 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.”
(Reason: This amendment provides specific requirements if the exhaust air is to discharge in the
attic, and will remain consistent with common local practice.)
24.25. Section G2408.3 (Private garages) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
(Reason: It is not consistent with local practice to require appliances located in private garages to
be installed 6 feet above the floor.)
25. Section G2414.4.3 (Copper or copper-alloy tubing) is amended by deleting said section in its entirety.
(Reason: Gas may have a corrosive effect on copper pipe and tubing.)
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.” (Reason: As written, the code would allow gas pipe repairs and additions to be tested with a soap solution. This amendment provides the code official with the discretion to require a pressure test if deemed appropriate. This amendment is also consistent with a similar amendment to the IFGC.)
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 2024 International Fuel Gas Code, as
amended.”
(Reason: This amendment provides for the use of the more accurate diaphragm gauge for gas tests
on systems operating at 5 psi or less.)
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 2024 International Fuel Gas Code, as amended.”
(Reason: This amendment provides for an elevated standard for gas pressure tests. It is also
consistent with pressure test amendments from previous code editions.)
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:
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“Inspection and testing of backflow prevention devices shall comply with Section 312.10, 2018 2024
International Plumbing Code, as amended.”
(Reason: Consistent with City Council’s direction concerning backflow prevention devices.) 30. 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.” (Reason: This removes the language that allows the discharge pipe to terminate to the pan serving the water heater.)
31. Section P2902.5.3 (Lawn irrigation systems) is amended by deleting the existing text in its entirety and
replacing it with the following:
“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
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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 twice the
diameter of the water supply outlet, whichever is greater.
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:
1. 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);
2. the test cocks are plugged with a non-ferrous material (brass, plastic, etc.) except
when the double check valve is being tested;
3. the test cock plugs are threaded, water-tight, and made of non-ferrous material;
4. a y-type strainer is installed on the inlet side of the double check valve;
5. 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
6. 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.
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.
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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 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;
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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 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.
Page 38 of 91
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
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.
P2902.5.3.7.13 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.
Page 39 of 91
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 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
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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;
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.
Page 41 of 91
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”
(Reason: The piping materials listed above are not commonly used in this area. Furthermore,
College Station has relatively high water pressure demanding the best water service piping material.
This amendment is also consistent with the Plumbing Code)
33. Table P2906.5 (Water distribution pipe) is amended by deleting the following materials:
“Polyethylene/aluminum/polyethylene (PE-AL-PE) composite pipe”
(Reason: The piping materials listed above are not commonly used in this area. Furthermore,
College Station has relatively high water pressure, demanding the best water distribution piping
material. This amendment is also consistent with the Plumbing Code)
34.32. Section P2906.5 (Water-distribution pipe.) is amended by adding the following text to the end of
the section:
Page 42 of 91
“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.”
(Reason: This amendment provides an elevated standard for water distribution piping installed
under concrete slabs. It is also consistent with the International Plumbing Code.)
35.33. 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.”
(Reason: This amendment provides added protection from liquid chemical termiticides that may
enter the void between the sleeve and piping/tubing.)
36.34. 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.”
(Reason: When field conditions do not allow at least 12 inches of ground cover over a sewer line, cast iron pipe provides an equivalent level of protection. This amendment is also consistent with
provisions in the International Plumbing Code.)
37.35. 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.”
(Reason: The City has adopted the National Electrical Code to regulate electrical installations.
This amendment also makes the IRC consistent with state law.)
Page 43 of 91
2024 International Plumbing Code
Overview of Changes
The 2024 International Plumbing Code (IPC) contains many changes that provide clarity of content and
resolve common interpretation problems. The scope of the 2021 IPC continues to encompass the initial
design of the plumbing system, the installation and construction of plumbing systems, and the
maintenance of operating systems. All plumbing systems which are provided for utilization by and for
the general safety and well-being of the occupants of a building are intended to be governed by the code.
Plumbing installations associated with one-and-two family dwellings are regulated by the International
Residential Code.
New in the 2024 Edition:
• Provisions added for support of buried piping beneath building where expansive soil conditions
exist.
• Requirement added for tracer wire for buried plastic sewer piping.
• Option added for vacuum testing of DWV piping.
• Plumbing fixture requirements significantly updated for various Group I occupancies.
• Exception added for allowing special locking mechanism for doors to multiple-user toilet
facilities.
• Plastic pans for gas-fired water heaters required to be tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL
723.
• Showerhead flow limited to 2.0 gpm with performance complying with high efficiency
requirements.
• Installation standards added for solvent-cemented plastic piping joints.
• Standards added for chemical waste piping materials.
Page 44 of 91
2024 International Plumbing Code
The scope of the 2024 IPC continues to encompass the initial design of the plumbing system, the
installation and construction of plumbing systems, and the maintenance of operating systems.
All plumbing systems which are provided for utilization by and for the general safety and well-
being of the occupants of a building are intended to be governed by the code. Plumbing
installations associated with one-and-two family dwellings are regulated by the International
Residential Code.
Current Number of Amendments: 19
Proposed Number of Amendments: 18
Page 45 of 91
2024 International Plumbing Code
Proposed Amendments
Note: An asterisk at the beginning of a section identifies a new amendment with the 2024 code
edition.
“E. The International Plumbing Code adopted by reference in Section 101.4.3, 2021
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.’
(Reason: The City of College Station has adopted the National Electrical Code to
regulate electrical installations.)
2 Section 106.3 105.3 (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.’
(Reason: The code as written, requires a written application for plumbing permits. This
amendment provides the flexibility of making written permit applications optional.)
3 Section 109.2 108.2 (Schedule of permit fees) is amended by deleting this
section in its entirety.
(Reason: The City currently has a permit fee schedule that has been adopted by
resolution.)
4 Section 109.5 108.6 (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.’
(Reason: A refund policy for permit fees already exists. This amendment also makes the
IPC fee refund requirement consistent with section 109.6, 2021 IBC.)
5 Section 113.4 115.4 (Failure to comply) is amended by adding the following
sentence:
‘Fines shall be not less than twenty-five ($25.00) and not more than two-
thousand ($2,000.00)’
(Reason: The amounts above are consistent with the fines as outlined in the adopting
ordinance for violations.)
6 Section 114 112 (Means of Appeal) is amended by deleting the section in its
entirety.
(Reason: The City already provided for the establishment of the Construction Board of
Adjustments and Appeals)
Page 46 of 91
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.’
(Reason: When field conditions do not allow at least 12 inches of ground cover over a
sewer line, cast iron 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’
(Reason: This change allows an air test for plastic piping systems – a common practice
on job sites without access to water.)
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.’
(Reason: This change omits any reference to pressure testing the vent system. It is not
a common practice in this area to require a pressure test on the vent system.)
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.’
(Reason: This change omits any reference to pressure testing the vent system. It is not
common practice in this area to require a pressure test on the vent system.)
11 Section 312.6 312.7(Gravity sewer test) is amended by replacing “10-foot” with
“5-foot”.
(Reason: This change makes for uniform testing methods of DWV and gravity sewer
piping.)
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12. Section 312.10 312.11(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.”
(Reason: Consistent with City Council’s direction concerning backflow prevention
devices.)
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.’
“Small occupancies with an occupant load of less than 50 the required drinking
water can be provided by means of bottled water dispenser in lieu of a drinking
fountain device.”
(Reason: This change allows bottled water dispensers to be used in place of drinking
fountains.)
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
Polyethylene/aluminum/polyethylene (PE-AL-PE) pipe
(Reason: The piping materials listed above are not commonly used in this area.
Furthermore, College Station has relatively high water pressure demanding the best
water service piping material.)
15. Section 606 (Installation of the Building Water Distribution System) is amended
by adding section 606.7 to read as follows:
‘606.7 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.’
(Reason: This amendment provides an elevated standard for water distribution piping
installed under concrete slabs.)
16. Section 606 (Installation of the Building Water Distribution System) is amended
by adding section 606.8 to read as follows:
‘606.8 606.7 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
Page 48 of 91
sleeve must be caulked, foamed, or otherwise sealed to prevent the entrance of
termiticide.’
(Reason: This amendment provides added protection from liquid chemical termiticides
that may enter the void between the sleeve and piping /tubing.)
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.’
(Reason: Consistent with City Council’s direction concerning backflow prevention
devices.)
18. Section 701.2 (Connection to sewer required) is amended by deleting the section
in its entirety and replacing with the following:
‘701.2 Connection to 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.’
(Reason: This change requires private sewer system installations – treatment plants,
septic systems, etc. – to comply with state and county health department rules.)”
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:
(Reason: College Station Code of Ordinances contains detailed provisions for sizing
grease interceptors.)
Page 49 of 91
2024 International Mechanical Code
Overview of Changes
The latest code change cycle resolved common interpretation problems and provided clarity of content to
the 2021 International Mechanical Code (IMC). The code was also changed to reflect current design,
construction and inspection methods. In order to keep the IMC up to date on new technology,
requirements to assist designers, installers and inspectors as the demand for new energy sources increase.
The 2024 IMC is primarily intended to be a commercial code. Therefore, mechanical installations
associated with one-and-two family dwellings are regulated by the International Residential Code.
New in the 2024 Edition:
• Provisions prohibiting the use of domestic ductless range hoods in Groups I-1 and I-2 were
removed.
• An identification requirement was added for Group A2L and B2L refrigerants.
• The requirements for machinery rooms containing Group A2L refrigerants were changed and
Group B2L refrigerants were added to the provisions.
• Limits for the use of Group A1 and A2L refrigerants changed in high probability systems used
for human comfort, unless permitted as excepted.
• UL 2158A Standard was added to the requirements for commercial dryer exhaust.
• Ventilation requirements for outpatient healthcare facilities to match the requirements in
ASHRAE 62.1-2019.
• Addition of a new minimum landing at the roof hatch for personnel to safely use the hatch when
accessing the roof for repair and maintenance.
• Addition of a new testing option for grease ductwork.
• Requirements for steam baths were added.
• A new standard requirement for refrigeration systems containing carbon dioxide was added.
Page 50 of 91
2024 International Mechanical Code
The International Mechanical Code (IMC) establishes minimum requirements for mechanical
systems using prescriptive and performance-related provisions. It is founded on broad-based
principles that make possible the use of new materials and new mechanical designs.
The scope of the IMC regulates the design, installation, maintenance, alteration and inspection of
mechanical systems that are permanently installed and utilized to provide control of environmental
conditions and related processes within buildings. Mechanical installations associated with one-
and-two family dwellings are regulated by the International Residential Code.
Current Number of Amendments: 8
Proposed Number of Amendments: 8
Page 51 of 91
2024 International Mechanical Code
Proposed Amendments
“D. The International Mechanical Code adopted by reference in Section 101.4.2, 2024
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 106.3 105.3 (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 109.2 108.2 (Schedule of permit fees) is amended by deleting the
section in its entirety.
4 Section 109.6 108.6 (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 113.4 115.4 (Failure to comply) is amended by adding the following at
the end of said section:
‘Fines shall be not less than twenty-five ($25.00) and not more than two-
thousand ($2,000.00)’
6 Section 114 112 (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.
8 Section 1109.2.5 (Refrigerant pipe shafts) is amended by adding the following
exception:
“4. Where the design is in compliance with Ashrae 15 – 2024 Section 9.12.1.5.1
(Shaft alternative)”
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2024 International Fuel Gas Code
Overview of Changes
The 2024 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) consolidates all code changes from the fuel gas related
installations into one convenient document. It is a compilation of fuel gas-related text from the
International Mechanical Code, the International Plumbing Code, and the National Fuel Gas Code. The
code is designed to complement the family of International Codes, including the International
Mechanical Code, the International Plumbing Code, the International Fire Code, and the International
Building Code.
The IFGC regulates fuel gas distribution piping systems, gas-fired appliance installation and gas-fired
appliance venting systems for structures other than one-and-two family dwellings. Fuel gas installations
associated with one-and-two family dwellings are regulated by the International Residential Code.
New in the 2024 Edition:
• 403.11.3 Nonferrous. A reference is added for aluminum flanges.
• 406.5.1 Detection methods. The gas detector for leakage location is now required to be listed.
• 406.7.3.1 Abandoned fuel gas piping. Purging of fuel gas piping that will be abandoned in place
is required.
• 407.2 Design and Installation. Now allows non-metallic supports.
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2024 International Fuel Gas Code
The International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) consolidates all code changes from the fuel gas related
installations into one convenient document. It is a compilation of fuel gas related text from the
International Mechanical Code, the International Plumbing Code, and the National Fuel Gas Code.
The code is designed to complement the family of International Codes, including the International
Mechanical Code, the International Plumbing Code, the International Fire Code, and the
International Building Code.
The IFGC regulates fuel gas distribution piping systems, gas-fired appliance installation and gas-
fired appliance venting systems for structures other than one-and-two family dwellings. Fuel gas
installations associated with one-and-two family dwellings are regulated by the International
Residential Code.
Current Number of Amendments: 12
Proposed Number of Amendments: 10
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2024 Fuel Gas Code
Proposed Amendments
Note: An asterisk at the beginning of a section identifies a new amendment with the 20214 code
edition. “C. The International Fuel Gas Code adopted by reference in Section 101.4.1, 20214 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 106.3 105.3(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 109.2 108.2(Schedule of permit fees) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety. 4. Section 109.6108.6 (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 113 112 (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 403.3.3 (Copper and copper alloy) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety. 8. Section 403.4.3 (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 connections are tested with a noncorrosive leak-detecting fluid or other leak detecting methods. 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
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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.”
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2024 International Energy Conservation Code
Overview of Changes
The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) establishes regulations for the design of energy-
efficient residential and commercial buildings and structures, as well as portions of factory and industrial
occupancies designed for human comfort.
The State of Texas is divided into climate zones which are used in determining applicable requirements
for residential and commercial energy efficiency. Insulation, window and skylight requirements for the
thermal envelope for both residential and commercial buildings are based on the climate zones. The
performance criteria for compliance with residential energy efficiency requirements using simulated
energy analysis are also addressed.
New in the 2024 Edition:
• R402.1.3 Insulation Minimum R-Values. Is modified by reducing the ceiling R-value from R49
to R38.
• Updates to air leakage requirements. Climate zones 0-2 and 6-8 have increased their ACH 50
stringency compared to IECC 2021.
• Mechanical systems are now defined in the reference home as having the federal minimum
efficiency requirements for that location. This is the first time since 2006 a project can receive
credit for its mechanical system efficiency in the performance path of the IECC.
• There are many more options for R408 Additional Efficiency Requirements in 2024. There are
over 50 options for design changes that offer additional efficiency points.
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2024 International Energy Conservation Code
The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) establishes regulations for the design of
energy-efficient residential and commercial buildings and structures, as well as portions of factory
and industrial occupancies designed for human comfort.
The State of Texas is divided into climate zones which are used in determining applicable
requirements for residential and commercial energy efficiency. Insulation, window and skylight
requirements for the thermal envelope for both residential and commercial buildings are based on
the climate zones. The performance criteria for compliance with residential energy efficiency
requirements using simulated energy analysis are also addressed.
Current Number of Amendments:11
Proposed Number of Amendments: 11
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2021 2024 International Energy Conservation Code
Proposed Amendments
Note: An asterisk at the beginning of a section identifies a new amendment with the 2021 2024 code edition.
G. The International Energy Conservation Code adopted by reference in Section 101.4.6, 2021
International Building Code, is hereby amended as follows:
1. Section C&R108.1 102.4(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 C&R110 R109 (Board Means of Appeals) is amended by deleting the section in its
entirety.
3. Section C402.5C402.6 (Air leakage- building thermal envelope) is amended by adding an
exception:
“Exception: The air leakage – thermal envelope shall be considered acceptable when the items
listed in Table R402.4.1.1R402.5.1.1, 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 and
inserting:
“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 R402.4.1.2R402.5.1.2 (Air LeakageTesting) is amended by adding an exception:
“Exception: Building envelope tightness and insulation installation shall be considered acceptable
when the items listed in Table R402.4.1.1R402.5.1.1, 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 R402.4.6R402.5.5 (Air-Sealed Electrical and communication outlet boxes (air-sealed
boxes). Is amended by adding the following to the end of the section:
“On-site sealing of boxes is acceptable, when using approved sealant materials”
7. *Section R403.3.1R403.3.3 (Ducts Ductwork located outside conditioned space) is amended by
adding the following to the end of the section:
“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 16.”
8. Section R403.3.5R403.3.7 (Duct System Testing) is amended by adding an additional exception
below said section:
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Exception: 25. Duct tightness shall be considered acceptable when the items listed below,
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 .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.
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.
9. Section R403 (Systems) is amended by adding R403.13R403.14 to read as follows:
“403.13403.14 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.”
10. *Section R404.2 (Interior Lighting Controls) Is amended by deleting this section in its entirety.
11. Section R406.6 (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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2024 International Property Maintenance Code
Overview of Changes
The 2024 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) continues to emphasize protection of
health, safety and welfare while providing code requirements that are enforceable in the diverse types of
buildings that exist. Providing a safe means of egress, preventing hazardous structural conditions and
reducing health hazards by providing a clean, sanitary environment are the key components of the code.
The IPMC applies to all existing structures, including residential and nonresidential property and
addresses the following areas:
• Administration, enforcement and penalties associated with the code
• Determination and assignment of responsibility for code compliance among the owner, operator
and occupant of a property
• Minimum property maintenance conditions for existing structures and premises in regard to
structural safety, sanitation, health and comfort
• Regulating the use of existing dwelling through the establishment of occupancy limitations
• Maintenance of means of egress and fire safety, with appropriate references to the International
Fire Code
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2024 International Property Maintenance Code
The 2024 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) continues to emphasize protection of
health, safety and welfare while providing code requirements that are enforceable in the diverse
types of buildings that exist. Providing a safe means of egress, preventing hazardous structural
conditions and reducing health hazards by providing a clean, sanitary environment are the key
components of the code.
The IPMC applies to all existing structures, including residential and nonresidential property and
addresses the following areas:
Administration, enforcement and penalties associated with the code
Determination and assignment of responsibility for code compliance among the owner,
operator and occupant of a property
Minimum property maintenance conditions for existing structures and premises in regard
to structural safety, sanitation, health and comfort
Regulating the use of existing dwelling through the establishment of occupancy
limitations
Maintenance of means of egress and fire safety, with appropriate references to the
International Fire Code
Current Number of Amendments: 13
Proposed Number of Amendments: 13
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2021 2024 International Property Maintenance Code
Proposed Amendments
Note: An asterisk at the beginning of a section identifies a new amendment with the 2021
2024 code edition.
F. The International Property Maintenance Code adopted by reference in Section 101.4.4,
2021 2024 International Building Code is hereby amended as follows:
1 Section 102.78 (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.’
(Reason: The City of College Station has adopted the National Electrical Code to
regulate electrical installations.)
2 Section 107 106 (Means of Appeal) is amended by deleting the section in its
entirety.
(Reason: College Station Code of Ordinances provides for the Construction Board of
Adjustments and Appeals.)
3 Section 111 109 (Unsafe Structures and Equipment) is amended by deleting the
section in its entirety.
(Reason: College Station Code of Ordinances contains detailed provisions concerning
dangerous structures, written in compliance with State law.)
4 Section 111.4109.4 (Notice) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
(Reason: College Station Code of Ordinances contains detailed provisions concerning
notices, written in compliance with State law.)
5 Section 112 110 (Emergency Measures) is amended by deleting the section in its
entirety.
(Reason: College Station Code of Ordinances contains detailed provisions concerning
emergency measures, written to comply with State law.)
6 Section 113 111 (Demolition) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
(Reason: College Station Code of Ordinances contains detailed provisions concerning
the demolition and/or repair of substandard structures, written to comply with State law.)
7 Section 302.4 (Weeds) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
(Reason: Code enforcement has requirements concerning the height of weeds/grass
and is responsible for enforcement.)
8 Section 304.3 (Premises identification) is amended by deleting the text in said
section and replacing it with the following:
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‘Premises identification shall be in compliance with Section 502.1, 2021 2024
International Building Code as amended.’
(Reason: The City has detailed addressing standard adopted by Section 502.1, IBC.)
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.’
(Reason: The new text requires screens year round and provides for an additional
exception allowing screens to be omitted on homes with central air and heat.)
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’
(Reason: The specified dates should cover the time of year that heat is needed in this
geographic area)
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’
(Reason: The specified dates should cover the time of year that heat is needed in this
geographic area)
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.’
(Reason: The added exception allows warehouses, storage rooms, and similar work
areas that are not occupied on a constant basis to be unheated.) “
13 Appendix A (Boarding Standard) is hereby adopted.
(Reason: The appendix provides the minimum specifications for boarding up a structure.
This can be utilized by a jurisdiction to set a consistent boarding quality standard.)
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2023 National Electrical Code
Overview of Changes
The National Electrical Code (NEC) is published by the National Fire Protection Association and updated
every three years by issuing a new edition. The City of College Station is currently operating under the
2020 Edition of the NEC.
The 2023 NEC contains several changes, most of which are designed to provide clarity for existing code
provisions. However, there are some new provisions and changes included in the 2020 NEC.
New in the 2023 Edition:
• GFCI protection for appliances has been expanded to include wall-mounted ovens, counter-
mounted cooking units, clothes dryers and microwave ovens. GFCI protection is also expanded
to include any cord- and plug-connected appliance in kitchens, not just on countertops.
• A GFCI update removes the distance limitation between kitchen receptacle outlets and the sink.
All receptacles in kitchen now need GFCI.
• Kitchen island countertop receptacles must be pop-ups installed in the countertop surface, not
under the edge of the countertop.
• AFCI protection is now required for sleeping quarters in such dwellings as police, fire and ranger
stations, in addition to previous requirements for hotels, dormitories and others.
• Surge protection is now required for multifamily dwelling units, dormitory units, guest rooms and
guest suites of hotels and motels, as well as patient sleeping rooms in nursing homes and limited
care facilities.
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2023 National Electrical Code
The National Electrical Code (NEC) is published by the National Fire Protection Association and
updated every three years by issuing a new edition. The City of College Station is currently
operating under the 2020 Edition of the NEC. The 2023 edition of the National Electrical Code
has been adopted by the State of Texas and should be the “minimum standard” for all work under
its scope.
The NEC covers the installation and removal of electrical conductors that connect to the supply
of electricity. The City of College Station uses the NEC to regulate electrical work associated
with commercial and residential properties.
Current Number of Amendments: 14
Proposed Number of Amendments: 9
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2020 2023 National Electrical Code
Proposed Amendments
1. Section 210.23 (AB) 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 And Work Surfaces shall be amended to include after
the words ‘…with 210.52 (C) (1) through (C) (3). 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(1) One-Family and Two-Family Dwelling. 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.” 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.
Page 67 of 91
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.
(Reason: This was an existing amendment that was changed to require a maintained contact type, shunt trip.
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.” (Reason: This amendment gives the City of College Station Electrical Department the
ability to lock the electrical service panel in the case of an emergency or delinquent bill.) 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.”
(Reason: This amendment was added to help correct the problem with multi-tenant lease centers having too many means of disconnect.)
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 310.3 (B) Conductor Material shall be amended by adding the following Exception:
“Exception: Aluminum and copper-clad aluminum is not allowed in branch circuits.”
(Reason: This amendment will allow the use of aluminum wiring for service conductors and feeders.)
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 and NMC. Shall be amended to include the following subsection:
“(11) In educational occupancies as defined by the City’s “adopted building code.”
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2024 International Fire Code
Overview of Changes
The 2024 International Fire Code (IFC)is a model code that regulates minimum fire safety requirements
for new and existing buildings, facilities, storage and processes.
The IFC addresses fire prevention, fire protection, life safety and storage, and use of hazardous materials
in new and existing buildings, facilities, and processes.
The IFC provides a total approach of controlling hazards in all buildings and sites regardless of hazards
being indoors or outdoors.
Significant Updates to 2024 IFC:
1. Addition of Sections 320, 322, 403.10.6
a. Lithium Battery Storage
b. Powered Micromobility Devices (scooters etc.)
c. Fire Safety Plans for Lithium Ion Batteries
2. Enhanced Fire Sprinkler requirements for Lithium Battery Storage
3. Modification and Additions to Section 915 Carbon Monoxide Detection
a. Carbon Monoxide Detection now required in all occupancies with fuel-burning
appliances. Previously was just Education and Residential
Summary of Proposed Amendment Changes
1. Repealed Amendments (Proposed)
a. Hose Lay Measurement:
The previous College Station amendment using the arc method for hose lay
measurement is proposed for repeal. The IFC’s standard method—measuring hose lay
around the building, would be used instead.
b. Fire Lane Length:
The amendment limiting fire lanes to 100 feet without a turnaround is proposed for
repeal. The 2024 IFC allows up to 150 feet without requiring a turnaround.
c. Residential Sprinkler Exemption:
The prior deletion of residential sprinkler requirements is proposed for repeal. Under
the 2024 IFC, all residential occupancies (except one- and two-family dwellings) would
require automatic fire sprinklers.
d. General Cleanup:
Several other amendments are proposed for repeal because they duplicate provisions
already covered in other codes such as NFPA 13 and NFPA 72.
2. New Amendments (Proposed)
a. Day Care Sprinklers:
All new day care facilities would be required to have an automatic fire sprinkler system.
i. Justification: During Annual Inspections we are finding that some day cares are
not following the fire code on placement of their kids. Fire Sprinklers will allow
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kids under 2.5 years in rooms without an exterior exit. This will also allow kids
to be placed in above or below grade rooms.
b. Post-Fire Re-occupancy Sprinkler Requirement:
Residential buildings required by current code to have fire sprinklers would need to
install a system before reoccupying if more than one dwelling unit is damaged by fire.
i. “Fire damage” is defined as damage caused by direct flame contact or extensive
heat, not by smoke, water, or firefighting operations.
c. Electric Vehicle Chargers in Parking Garages
i. Electric vehicle charges shall not be installed in open air or closed parking
garages.
d. Use of firewalls
i. Buildings over 12,000 sqft are required to have a fire sprinklers system. (Current
Code)
1. Proposed: Buildings requiring fire sprinkler system due to sq footage
may not be broken up by fire walls to get around the fire protection
systems.
2. Similar language already in building code.
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2024 International Fire Code
The 2024 International Fire Code (IFC)is a model code that regulates minimum fire safety requirements for new and existing buildings, facilities, storage and processes.
The IFC addresses fire prevention, fire protection, life safety and storage, and use of hazardous materials in new and existing buildings, facilities, and processes. The IFC provides a total approach of controlling hazards in all buildings and sites regardless of
hazards being indoors or outdoors.
Page 71 of 91
Subpart A - GENERAL ORDINANCES
Chapter 16 - FIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION
ARTICLE I. IN GENERAL
College Station, Texas, Code of Ordinances Created: 2024‐03‐11 10:26:02 [EST]
(Supp. No. 7)
Page 1 of 20
ARTICLE I. IN GENERAL
Sec. 16-1. Arson reward.
(a) Amount authorized. The Mayor of the City is hereby authorized and empowered to offer a reward of not less
than $250.00 payable to the person who shall be responsible for the arrest and conviction of any person
committing in said City the crime of arson as same is defined by the Penal Code of the State.
(b) Procedure for payment. Whenever the Mayor shall be informed that any fire occurring in said City was of an
incendiary origin, the Mayor shall call for a report of same by the City Fire Marshal, and if said Fire Marshal
shall report that such fire was caused by the commission of the crime of arson, it shall become the duty of
said Mayor to offer the reward above described, which reward shall be in the form of a proclamation duly
issued by said Mayor under the Mayor's official signature and attested by the seal of the City, and shall be
posted up in a conspicuous place, one of which shall be at the City office in accordance with the regulations
of the Texas Fire Insurance Department. Upon the information being given by any person who shall cause the
arrest and conviction of such persons so guilty of a specific crime of arson for which said reward shall be
offered, and after the indictment of said person or persons, the person so giving such information shall be
entitled to receive from said City such reward.
(Code 2011 (Repub.), § 6-3; Ord. No. 2016-3767, exh. A(6-3), 4-28-2016)
State law reference(s)—Arson, Texas Penal Code § 28.02.
Sec. 16-2. Emergency and rescue services.
(a) The City Council recognizes and supports the practice of College Station Fire Department to bill persons and
entities, including insurance companies providing coverage to said persons and entities, for the reasonable
costs that are related and incidental to any loss, damage, and wear to College Station Fire Department
apparatus, tools, equipment, and materials utilized to provide the emergency services to said persons and
entities.
(b) Fees shall be collected for services provided within the College Station Fire Department designated response
area that includes both inside and outside the City limits. Fees will not exceed the amount expended by the
College Station Fire Department. Fire Administration shall collect applicable incident report information that
will be forwarded to the College Station Fire Department's authorized agent responsible for collection of any
incurred fees. The fees shall be established in Section 2-117.
(c) The College Station Fire Department, or its authorized agent, shall submit an invoice to the appropriate
insurance company, person, or entity covering or responsible for the particular expenses as related to the
emergency services provided.
(d) If it can be reliably determined that there is no applicable insurance coverage for the emergency and rescue
services provided by the College Station Fire Department, or if the emergency and rescue services were
provided as a result of negligent and/or malicious acts or risky behavior on part of the recipient, then the City
may hold responsible the person or entity that received said emergency services for the costs.
(Code 2011 (Repub.), § 6-4; Ord. No. 2016-3767, exh. A(6-4), 4-28-2016; altered in 2017 recodification)
Page 72 of 91
Created: 2024‐03‐11 10:26:02 [EST]
(Supp. No. 7)
Page 2 of 20
Sec. 16-3. County issuance of burn ban.
Upon the issuance of a burn ban by the County the City will assume the burn ban for the same timeframe.
(Code 2011 (Repub.), § 6-5; Ord. No. 2016-3767, exh. A(6-5), 4-28-2016)
Secs. 16-4—16-24. Reserved.
ARTICLE II. FIRE MARSHAL
Sec. 16-25. Investigate all fires.
The Fire Marshal, or designee shall investigate the cause, origin, and circumstances of every fire occurring
within this City by which property has been destroyed or damaged, and shall especially make investigation as to
whether such fire was the result of carelessness or design. Such investigation shall begin within 24 hours, not
including Sunday, of the occurrence of such fire. The Fire Marshal shall keep in the Fire Marshal's Office a record of
all fires, together with all facts, statistics, and circumstances, including the origin of the fires and the amount of the
loss, which may be determined by the investigation required by this section.
(Code 2011 (Repub.), § 6-2(B); Ord. No. 2016-3767, exh. A, 4-28-2016)
Sec. 16-26. Take testimony and furnish evidence.
The Fire Marshal, or designee, when in his or her opinion further investigation is necessary, shall take or
cause to be taken the testimony, on oath, of all persons supposed to be cognizant of any facts or to have means of
knowledge in relation to the matter under investigation, and shall cause the same to be reduced to writing; and if
the Fire Marshal shall be of the opinion that there is evidence sufficient to charge any person with the crime of
arson, or with the attempt to commit the crime of arson, or of conspiracy to defraud, or criminal conduct in
connection with such fire, the Fire Marshal shall cause such person to be lawfully arrested and charged with such
offense or either of them, and shall furnish to the proper prosecuting attorney all such evidence, together with the
names of witnesses and all of the information obtained, including a copy of all pertinent and material testimony
taken in the case.
(Code 2011 (Repub.), § 6-2(C); Ord. No. 2016-3767, exh. A, 4-28-2016)
Sec. 16-27. Summon witnesses.
The Fire Marshal shall have the power to summons witnesses before him or her to testify in relation to any
matter which is, by the provisions of this article, a subject of inquiry and investigation, and may require the
production of any book, paper, or document deemed pertinent thereto. The said Fire Marshal is hereby authorized
and empowered to administer oaths and affirm to any persons appearing as witnesses before him or her.
(Code 2011 (Repub.), § 6-2(D); Ord. No. 2016-3767, exh. A, 4-28-2016)
Sec. 16-28. Unlawful to disobey any lawful order.
Any witness who refuses to be sworn, or who refuses to appear to testify, or who disobeys any lawful order
of said Fire Marshal, or who fails or refuses to produce any book, paper, or document touching any matter under
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examination, or who is guilty of any contemptuous conduct during any of the proceedings of the Fire Marshal in
the matter of said investigation or inquiry, after being summonsed to give testimony in relation to any matter
under investigation as aforesaid, shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and it shall be the duty of the Fire
Marshal to cause all such offenders to be prosecuted; provided, however, that any person so convicted shall have
the right of appeal. Upon conviction, such person shall be punished in accordance with Section 1-7.
(Code 2011 (Repub.), § 6-2(E); Ord. No. 2016-3767, exh. A, 4-28-2016)
Sec. 16-29. Investigations may be private.
All investigations held by or under the direction of the Fire Marshal may be private, and persons other than
those required to be present may be excluded from the place where such investigation is held, and witnesses may
be kept separate and apart from each other and not allowed to communicate with each other until they have been
examined.
(Code 2011 (Repub.), § 6-2(F); Ord. No. 2016-3767, exh. A, 4-28-2016)
Sec. 16-30. May enter buildings where fire has occurred.
The Fire Marshal, or designee, shall have the authority at all times of day or night, when necessary, in the
performance to the duties imposed upon him or her by the provisions of this article, to enter upon and examine
any building and premises adjoining or near the same, which authority shall be exercised only with reason and
good discretion.
(Code 2011 (Repub.), § 6-2(G); Ord. No. 2016-3767, exh. A, 4-28-2016)
Sec. 16-31. Make periodic inspections and reports, aggrieved persons may appeal.
The Fire Marshal,or designee, upon complaint of any person having an interest in any building or property
adjacent and without any complaint, shall have a right at all reasonable hours, for the purpose of examination, to
enter into and upon all buildings and premises within the City, and it shall be the Fire Marshal's, or designee’s duty
to enter upon and make, or cause to be entered and made, a thorough examination of all mercantile,
manufacturing, and public buildings, together with the premises belonging thereto. Whenever the Fire Marshal
shall find any building or other structure which, for want of repair, or by reason of age, or dilapidated condition, or
for any cause, is especially liable to fire, the Fire Marshal, or designee, shall order the same to be removed or
remedied, and such order shall be forthwith complied with by the owner or occupant of said building or premises;
provided, however, that if said owner or occupant deems himself or herself aggrieved by such order, such person
may, within five days, appeal to the Construction Board of Adjustments and Appeals, which shall investigate the
cause of the complaint and, unless by the Fire Marshal's authority the order is revoked, such order shall remain in
force and be forthwith complied with by said owner or occupant.
(Code 2011 (Repub.), § 6-2(H); Ord. No. 2016-3767, exh. A, 4-28-2016)
Secs. 16-32—16-50. Reserved.
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Subpart A - GENERAL ORDINANCES
Chapter 16 - FIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION
ARTICLE III. FIRE CODE
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ARTICLE III. FIRE CODE
Sec. 16-51. International Fire Code adopted.
The 20241 Edition of the International Fire Code, including Appendix Chapters B through I, all as published by
the International Code Council, is hereby adopted to the same extent as though such Code were copied at length
herein, subject, however, to the omissions, additions, supplements, and amendments contained in this article.
(Code 2011 (Repub.), § 6-1(A)(1); Ord. No. 2016-3767, exh. A(6-1), 4-28-2016; Ord. No. 2019-4076 , Pt. 1(Exh. A), 2-
25-2019; Ord. No. 2022-4353 , Pt. 1(Exh. A), 4-28-2022)
Sec. 16-52. Amendments to the International Fire Code.
The International Fire Code, as referred to in Section 16-51, is hereby amended as follows:
(1) Section 101 (General) is amended by adding Section 101.6 to read as follows:
Section 101.6 (Emergency Vehicle Egress). No part of any commercial structure will be located outside the limits of
a 150-foot arc from a point where fire apparatus can operate. Fire apparatus will operate on surfaces
designed for such and may utilize public right-of-way, approved fire lanes and/or drive access ways to meet
this 150-foot limit but in no case shall the truck travel route be measured across grass, wooded, or
landscaped areas, over curbs, through fences, through ditches or across paved areas which are not designed
and maintained as fire lanes.
(1). 102.1 Construction and design provisions is amended by adding the following
5. Buildings that are classified as vacant for 90 days with no active building, remodel, or commercial tenant
finish out permits. Vacant is defined as temporarily unoccupied buildings, structures, or premises.
(2) Section 105 (Permits) is amended by adding Section 105.1.1.1 to read as follows:
Section 105.1.1.1 (Registration of Contractors). It shall be the duty of every individual who makes contracts
to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, or demolish any life safety systems to include, but not be limited
to, fire sprinkler systems, fire alarm systems, commercial cooking extinguishing systems, underground tanks,
underground piping and underground fire supply lines of which are regulated by this code, or cause 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.
(3) Section 107.3108.3 (Permit valuations) is amended by deleting this section in its entirety
(4) Section 107.6108.6 (Refunds) is amended by deleting the existing text in its entirety and replacing it with the
following: "The City Manager or designee is authorized to establish a refund policy."
(5) Section 109.6110.6 is amended by adding after the Fire Code Official "or any member of the Fire Department
designated by the Fire Code Official, the Chief of Police, or any member of the Police Department designated
by the Chief of Police."
(6) Section 109.6.1110.6.1 is added.
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109.6.1110.6.1 (Certificate of Occupancy Temporary Suspension). The Fire Code Official or any member of
the Fire Department designated by the Fire Code Official, the Chief of Police, or any member of the Police
Department designated by the Chief of Police is authorized, in writing, to immediately suspend a Certificate
of Occupancy for a twenty-four (24) hour period where it is determined that the building or structure or
portion thereof is Overcrowded, violating any life safety regulation or ordinance or violating any other
ordinance adopted by this code. Within one (1) business day after the suspension, a person may submit a
written appeal to the City Manager appealing the Certificate of Occupancy Temporary Suspension. The City
Manager's decision is final.
(7) Section 111 112 is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
(8) Section 112.4113.4 (Violation Penalties) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety and replacing with
the following:
Section 112.4113.4 (Violation Penalties). Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to
comply with any of the requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in violation
of the approved construction documents or directive of the Fire Official, or of a permit or certificate used
under provisions of this code, shall be punished as provided in with Section 1- 7.
(9) Section 202 is amended by adding [BG] AMBULATORY CARE FACILITY. Buildings or portions thereof used to
provide medical, surgical, psychiatric, nursing, or similar care on a less than 24-hour basis to persons who are
rendered incapable of self-preservation by the services provided or staff has accepted responsibility for care
recipients already incapable. This group may include but not be limited to the following:
- Dialysis centers
- Procedures involving sedation
- Sedation dentistry
- Surgery centers
- Colonic centers
- Psychiatric centers
(10) Section 202 is amended by adding [B] ATRIUM. An opening connecting three or more stories {remaining text
unchanged}
(11) Section 202 (Definitions) is amended by adding "Porte Cocheres ":
1. A passageway through a building or screen wall designed to let vehicles pass from the 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"
(12) Section 202 (Definitions) is amended by adding "tutorial services" under the definition of "Occupancy
Classification Assembly Group A-3"
(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 extend from foundation to roof and with open space on at least two sides."
(14) Section 307.4.2 (Recreational Fires) is amended by adding the following: "This code is to include
manufactured and non-manufactured fire pits/boxes."
(15) Section 307.4 (Location) is amended by adding Section 307.4.2.1 to read as follows: Section 307.4.2.1 Solid
fuels are strictly prohibited for recreational fires.
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Exception: One- and two-family dwellings.
(16) Section 307.4 (Location) is amended by adding the following:
Section 307.4.4 (Permanent outdoor fire pits or fire feature devices). Permanently installed outdoor fire pits
and similar fire feature devices, manufactured and non-manufactured, shall not be installed within 20 feet of
a structure or combustible materials. Exceptions:
1.Permanent outdoor fire pits or fire feature devices listed less more than 100,000 BTU/hr shall not be
installed within 10 feet of combustible materials (vertically and horizontally).
2.Permanently installed outdoor fireplaces constructed in accordance with the International Building
Code.
307.4.4.1 (Solid fuels). All solid fuels are strictly prohibited for fire pits and fire feature devices.
1. Exception: One- and two- family dwellings.
307.4.4.2 (Requirements for all fire pits or fire feature devices). Comply with all of the following
requirements:
1.Flame shall be fully enclosed by an approved permanent means to prevent debris from entering the
fire and to prevent occupants from becoming burned.
2.Provide an emergency fuel gas supply line shut-off device at least 20 feet from the fire pit device
location but not greater than 50 feet. Provide emergency fuel gas shut-off device signage clearly visible
from fire pit or fire feature device locations.
3.Floor surface shall be a solid continuous non-combustible material without any gaps and all joints
sealed.
4.Timer device on fuel gas line set to automatically shut-off gas supply and extinguishes flame at a set
time agreed upon by the fire code official.
(17) Section 308.1.4 (Open-Flamed Cooking Devices) is amended by deleting the section including exceptions in
its entirety and replacing with the following:
Section 308.1.4 (Open-Flame Cooking Devices). Charcoal burners, liquefied-petroleum-gas fueled cooking
devices, and other open-flamed cooking devices shall not be stored or operated on combustible balconies or
within ten feet (3048 mm) of combustible construction.
Exception: One- and two-family dwellings.
(18) Section 308.1.6.3 (Sky lanterns) is amended to read as follows: A person shall not release or cause to be
released an unmanned free-floating device containing an open flame or other heat source, such as but not
limited to a sky lantern.
(19) Section 311.5 (Placards) is amended by adding: The fire code official is authorized to require marking of any
vacant or abandoned buildings or structures determined to be unsafe pursuant to Section 114 of this code
relating to structural or interior hazards, as required by Section 311.5.1 through 311.5.5.
(20) Section 319.10.3 (Fuel gas system) is amended by adding certified plumber as an approved inspection
agency.
(21) Section 503.1.1; amend to read as follows: 503.1.1 Buildings and facilities. Approved fire apparatus access
roads shall be provided for every facility, building or portion of a building hereafter constructed or moved
into or within the jurisdiction. The fire apparatus access road shall comply with the requirements of this
section and shall extend to within 150 feet (45 720 mm) of all portions of the facility and all portions of the
exterior walls of the first story of the building as measured by an approved route around the exterior of the
building or facility. Exceptions: Unchanged
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1. The 150 feet shall be measured along a 3-foot wide unobstructed level pathway not exceeding a slope of
5:1, around the external walls of the structure.
(21) Section 501.4 (Timing of Installation) is amended by adding the following text at the end of the section:
"There shall be no combustible, job trailers, flammable or ignitable materials placed on a site, lot or
subdivision where water lines, fire hydrants and/or all weather access roads capable of supporting
emergency vehicles with an imposed load of at least 84,000 85,000 pounds as required by this code or other
adopted codes or ordinances are completed, accepted and in service."
(22) Section 503.2.1 (Dimensions) is amended by replacing "13 feet 6 inches" with "14 feet."
(23) Section 503.2.2 (Authority). Is amended by adding: The fire code official shall have the authority to require an
increase in the minimum access widths and vertical clearances where they are inadequate for fire or rescue
operations or where necessary to meet the public safety objectives of the jurisdiction.
(24) Section 503.2.3 (Surface). Fire apparatus access roads shall be designed and maintained to support imposed
loads of 85,000 Lbs. for fire apparatus and shall be surfaced so as to provide all-weather driving capabilities.
(25) Section 503.2.5 (Dead Ends) is amended by replacing "150 feet" with "100 feet."
(256) Section 503.3 (Marking) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety and replacing with the following:
Section 503.3 (Marking). The owner, manager, or person in charge of any building or property to which fire
lanes have been approved or required by engineering shall mark and maintain said fire lanes in the following
manner:
1. All curbs and curb ends shall be painted RED with four-inch white lettering stating "FIRE LANE - NO
PARKING - TOW AWAY ZONE." Wording may not be spaced more than 15 feet apart.
2. In areas where fire lanes are required but no continuous curb is available, the following method shall
be used, in conjunction with the curb markings, to indicate that the fire lane is continuous:
a. From the point the fire lane begins to the point the fire lane ends, including behind all parking
spaces which adjoin a fire lane, shall be marked with one continuous eight-inch red stripe painted
on the drive surface behind the parking spaces. All curbing adjoining a fire lane must be painted
red. Red stripes and curbs will contain the wording "FIRE LANE - NO PARKING-TOW AWAY ZONE,"
painted in four- inch white letters. ("Figure A" in Ordinance No. 1630 illustrates striping on drive
surface behind parking spaces.). Also, a sign 12 inches wide and 18 inches in height shall be
mounted in a conspicuous location at each entrance to the property. (See Diagram No. 1 for
specifications on colors and lettering.)
3. The use of the color RED to mark or stripe any curb or parking area (other than fire lanes) is prohibited
within the City.
(267) Section 503 is amended by adding Sections 503.3.1 (Fire Lane Signs; Tow-Away Zone Signs), 503.3.2
(Destruction of Fire Lane and Tow-Away Signs), 503.3.3 (Abandonment or Closing) and 503.3.4 (Authority
Under Emergency Conditions) to read as follows:
Section 503.3.1 (Fire Lane Signs; Tow-Away Zone Signs). The owner, manager, or person in charge of any
building to which fire lanes have been approved by the Planning and Development Services Department shall
post and maintain appropriate signs in conspicuous places along such fire lanes stating "No Parking - Fire
Lane." Such signs shall be 12 inches wide and 18 inches high, with a companion sign 12 inches wide and six
inches high stating "Tow-Away Zone."
Any "No Parking - Fire Lane" or "Tow-Away Zone" sign shall be painted on a white background with symbols,
letters and border in red. Drawings and samples of such signs may be obtained from the Fire Department of
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the City. Standards for mounting, including, but not limited to, the height above the grade at which such
signs are to be mounted, shall be as adopted by the Fire Official of the City.
Section 503.3.2 (Destruction of Fire Lane or Tow-Away Signs). It is hereby unlawful for any person without
lawful authority to attempt or in fact alter, destroy, deface, injure, knock down, or remove any sign
designating a fire lane or tow-away zone erected under the terms of this code, or to deface a curb marking in
any way.
Section 503.3.3 (Abandonment or Closing). No owner, manager, or person in charge of any premises served
by a required fire lane shall abandon or close such fire lane without written permission of the Fire Official of
the City.
Section 503.3.4 (Authority under Emergency Conditions). The Fire Marshal is hereby authorized to establish
fire lanes during any fire, and to exclude all persons other than those authorized to assist in extinguishing the
fire or the owner or occupants of the burning property from within such lanes.
(278) Section 503.4 (Obstruction of Fire Apparatus Access Roads) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety
and replacing with the following:
Section 503.4 (Obstruction of Fire Apparatus Access Roads). No person shall park, place, allow, permit, or
cause to be parked or placed, any motor vehicle, trailer, boat, or similar obstruction within or upon an area
designated as a fire lane and marked by an appropriate sign or curb marking.
(289) Section 503 (Fire Apparatus Access Roads) is amended by adding Sections 503.4.2 (Obstructing Fire Lanes)
and 503.4.3 (Enforcement; Issuance of Citations; Impoundment of Obstructions) to read as follows:
Section 503.4.2 (Obstructing Fire Lanes). Any motor vehicle, trailer, boat, or similar obstruction found parked
within an area designated as a fire lane as required by this section is hereby declared a nuisance per se and
any such motor vehicle, trailer, boat, or similar obstruction parked or unoccupied in such a manner as to
obstruct in whole or in part any such fire lane shall be prima facie evidence that the registered owner
unlawfully parked, placed, or permitted to be parked or placed such obstruction within a fire lane.
The records of the State Department of Transportation or the County Highway License Department showing
the name of the person to whom the State highway license or boat or trailer license is issued shall constitute
prima facie evidence of ownership by the named persons.
Section 503.4.3 (Enforcement; Issuance of Citations; Impoundment of Obstructions). The Fire Official or any
member of the Fire Department designated by the Fire Official, the Chief of Police, or any member of the
Police Department designated by the Chief of Police are hereby authorized to issue parking citations for any
motor vehicle, trailer, boat, or similar obstruction found parked or unattended in or upon a designated fire
lane and may have such obstruction removed by towing it away. Such vehicle or obstruction may be
redeemed by payment of the towage and storage charges at the owner's expense.
No parking citations shall be voided, nor shall the violator be relieved of any penalty assessed by a Judge of
the Municipal Court for any provision by the redemption of the obstruction from the storage facility.
(2930) Section 503 (Fire apparatus access roads) is amended by adding the following;
Section 503.7 (Fire access locks) Any fire apparatus access requiring a lock shall install a Knox Lock. Electric
gates must install a Knoxw Key switch with a manual override. An emergency access secondary gate must
install a Knox pad lock.
(301) Section 505.1 (Address Identification) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety and replacing with
the following:
Section 505.1 (Address Identification). An official building number placed pursuant to this section must be at
least four inches high, and have at least a one-half inch stroke in the main body of the number, and be
composed of a durable material and of a color which provides a contrast to the background. The number
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shall be mounted a minimum of 36 inches and a maximum of 30 feet in height measured from ground level.
Buildings located more than 50 feet from the curb of a street shall have numbers at least five inches in
height. For the purpose of this section, durable materials for use in numbering shall include, but not be
limited to, wood, plastic, metal, weather-resistant paint, weather-resistant vinyl, or weather-resistant
numbers designed for outside use on a glass surface. For single-family residences, the requirement of this
section may be met by providing two-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 inches in height.
(312) Section 505 (Premises Identification) is amended by adding Sections 505.1.1 (Building Complex
Identification), 505.1.2 (Rear Access Identification), 505.1.3 (Alley Premises Identification) and 505.1.4
(Building Complex Diagrams) to read as follows:
Section 505.1.1 (Building Complex Identification). A building complex composed of multiple structures shall
have an official suite/unit number assigned to each building as well as a street address number. If there is
sufficient street frontage, each unit or building may be assigned a separate official street address number.
The official street address number of each structure as designated by the Building Official must be
prominently posted on the building so that it is visible from the nearest public street. Each number
designated by the Building Official for each individual suite/unit must be conspicuously posted on the
suite/unit.
Section 505.1.2 (Rear Access Identification). Commercial buildings with rear access shall also display the
business name and designated street address and suite/unit number on the rear access door.
Section 505.1.3 (Alley Premises Identification). Residential structures that provide for rear vehicular access
from a dedicated public alley shall conspicuously post the designated numbers that comply with the size
requirements above so that it is visible to the alley.
Section 505.1.4 (Building Complex Diagrams). The owner of a building complex which contains an enclosed
shopping mall shall submit to the Fire Official four copies of diagrams acceptable to the Fire Official 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 of the structure shall so advise the Fire Official in writing of the
change.
(323) Section 505.2 (Street or Road Signs) is amended by adding the following:
Section 505.2.1. (Street and road signs) shall only be installed on streets or roadways that are approved
through the platting process.
(334) Section 507.5.1 (Where Required) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety and replacing with the
following:
Section 507.5.1 (Where Required). Public fire hydrants of the City standard design shall be installed as part of
the water distribution system for subdivisions and/or site developments. The Planning and Development
Services Department shall approve the appropriate hydrant locations accessible to firefighting apparatus and
within the maximum distances described in the following sections.
(345) Section 507.5.2 (Inspection, Testing and Maintenance) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety and
replacing with the following:
Section 507.5.2 (Inspection, Testing and Maintenance). Public fire hydrants shall be installed in districts
zoned for single-family and duplex at such locations that no part of any structure shall be more than 500 feet
from a fire hydrant as measured along the right-of-way of a public street as the fire hose is laid off the fire
truck.
(356) Section 507.5.3 (Private Fire Service Mains and Water Tanks) is amended by deleting the section in its
entirety and replacing with the following:
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Section 507.5.3 (Private Fire Service Mains and Water Tanks). Private fire hydrants shall be installed in
districts other than districts zoned single-family and duplex at such locations that no part of any structure,
aboveground tanks or fueling station, shall be more than 300 feet from a fire hydrant as measured along the
right-of-way of a public street or along an approved fire lane as the fire hose is laid off the fire truck.
(367) Section 508.1 (Location and access) is amended by adding the following:
Section 508.1.1.1 (Fire Command Center Access) Access to the Fire Command Center must be on the exterior
of the structure unless authorized by the Fire Code Official or designee.
(378) Section 509.2 (Equipment Access) is amended by adding the following:
Section 509.2.1 (Fire Sprinkler Riser Access) Access to the fire sprinkler riser must be on the exterior of the
structure unless authorized by the Fire Code Official or designee.
(38) 510.1 (Emergency Responder Communications Enhancement Systems) is amended by deleting item “1”
under exceptions
(39) Table 803.3 (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 a fire
sprinkler system is present or not, except as provided for in notes e and f below."
(40) Section 901.4.7.2 (Marking on access doors). Is amended by replacing 2 inches with 4 inches.
(41) Section 901.6 is amended by adding section 901.6.4 (False alarms and nuisance alarms) False alarms and
nuisance alarms shall not be given, signaled, or transmitted or caused or permitted to be given, signaled, or
transmitted in any manner.
(42) Section 901.7 (Systems out of service) is amended by adding: Where a required fire protection system is out
of service or in the event of an excessive number of activations, the fire department and the fire code official
shall be notified immediately and, where required by the fire code official, the building shall either be
evacuated or an approved fire watch shall be provided for all occupants left unprotected by the shut down
until the fire protection system has been returned to service. …
(43) Section 903.1 (General) is amended by adding the following text at the end of said section: "“For the purpose
of this section, the term "“fire area"” shall be replaced with "“building area."”
(44) 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.
(45) Section 903.2.1.6 (Assembly Occupancies on Roofs) is amended by deleting the exception in its entirety.
(46) Section 903.2.3 (Group E) is amended by deleting the exception in its entirety. And adding item “4” to read
as the following: Group E, day care facilities, as defined in the 203.4.2 of the International Fire Code.
(47) Section 903.2.4 (Group F-1) is amended by deleting items "“2"” and "“3."”
Section 903.2.4 (Group F-1 distilled spirits) is amended to add: An automatic sprinkler system shall be
provided throughout a Group F-1 fire area used for the manufacture of distilled spirits involving more than
120 gallons of distilled spirits (>16% alcohol) in the fire area at any one time.
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Section 903.2.9.3 (Group S-1 distilled spirits or wine) is amended to add: An automatic sprinkler system shall
be provided throughout a Group F-1 fire area used for the manufacture of distilled spirits involving more
than 120 gallons of distilled spirits (>16% alcohol) in the fire area at any one time.
(48) Section 903.2.6 (Group I) is amended by deleting all exceptions
(498) 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.
(49) Section 903.2.8 (Group R) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
(50) 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." Section
903.2.9.3 is amended as follows:
903.2.9.3 Group S-1 (distilled spirits or wine). An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a
Group S-1 fire area used for the bulk storage of distilled spirits or wine involving more than 120 gallons of
distilled spirits or wine (>16% alcohol) in the fire area at any onetime.
(51) Section 903.2.10 (Group S-2 Enclosed Parking Garage) is amended by deleting the exception in its entirety.
(52) Section 903.2.11.7 is added
Section 903.2.11.7 Buildings Over 12,000 sq. ft. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout
all buildings over 12,000 sq. ft. and greater, and in all existing buildings that are enlarged to be 12,000 square
feet or greater, and in buildings greater than 12,000 square feet which are enlarged. For the purpose of this
provision, fire walls, fire barriers, or horizontal assemblies shall not define separate buildings.
(532) 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.
(543) Section 903.3.1.1.1 (Exempt locations) is amended by deleting item number 4
(554) Section 903.3.1.2.2 (Corridors and balconies) is amended as follows:
903.3.1.2.2 (Corridors and balconies in the means of egress). Sprinkler protection shall be provided in all
corridors and for all balconies. in the means of egress where any of the following conditions apply: {Delete
the rest of this section.}
(565) Section 903.3.1.2.3 (Attics) is amended by deleting sections 3.4 and 4.5
(56) 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.
(57) Section 904.3.5 is amended by deleting the section and replacing it with:
904.3.5 (Monitoring) All automatic fire extinguishing system shall be monitored with a system in accordance
with NFPA 72.
(58) 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.
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(59) 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.
(60) Section 906.1 (Where required) is amended by deleting exception 1 and 2 all others remain the same.
(61) 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.
(62) Section 907.2.7.1.1, (Occupant notification), is repealed in its entirety.
(63) 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.
(64) Section, 907.2.13.2(Fire department communication system), is hereby deleted in its entirety.
(65) Section, 907.2.13.1.2 (Duct smoke detection), is amended to read as follows:
907.2.13.1.2 (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.
(66) 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.
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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.
(67) Section 907.2, (Where Required) - is amended by adding Section 907.2.25, Fire alarm systems for property
protection, to read as follows:
907.2.25.1 (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. 907.2.10.1 Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire
alarm system that 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.
907.2.25.21 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.
907.2.25.2 Smoke alarms. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with
Section 907.2.11.
(68) Section 907.3.1, (Duct smoke detectors), is amended to read as follows:
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
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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. 2021 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.
(69) 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 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).
(70) 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.
(71) Section 907.5.1, (Presignal feature), is amended to read as follows:
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907.5.1.1 (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 2021 International Building-Related Codes the event of fire or other
emergencies. 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.
(72) Section 907.5.2.1, (Audible alarms), is amended by adding Section 907.5.2.1.4, Testing of audible alarms in
occupancies other than Group R, and Section 907.5.2.1.5, Testing of audible alarms in Group R occupancies,
as follows:
907.5.2.1.4 (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.
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.
907.5.2.1.5 (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.
(73) 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
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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 2021 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.
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.
(74) Section 907.5.2.2.4, (Emergency voice/alarm communication captions), is repealed in its entirety.
(725) Section 907.5.2.3, (Visible alarms), is amended by adding a subsection 907.5.2.3.3.1.1, Wired Equipment,
907.5.2.3.4, Group R-2 sleeping areas, and Section 907.5.2.3.5, Combination devices, to read as follows:
907.5.2.3.3.1.1 (Other Applications) is amended by adding:
907.5.3.3.1.1.1 (Multi-tenant commercial structures) multi-tenant commercial structures shall comply with
section 907.2.3.3.1 (1) through(4).
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.
(736) 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.
(747) 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 are required,
employee work areas shall be provided with devices that provide audible and visible alarm notification.
(758) Section 912.2.1, (Visible location), is amended by adding the following sentence to the end of that section to
read as follows:
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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.
(769) Section 912.2.2, (Existing buildings), is amended to read as follows:
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.
(7780) 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.
(7881) 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.
(7982) 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. Within 40 feet of a public street, approved fire lane, or access roadway.
2. Within 100 feet of an approved fire hydrant measured per hose lay.
3. All structures are required to have a five inch "Storz" connection.
a. Where provided, the five inch "Storz" inlet shall be installed at a 30-degree angle pointing down.
i. Exception: NFPA 13R system requiring less than 250 gpm.
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. Fire department connections for H occupancies shall be freestanding, remote and located as
determined by the fire code official.
8. Fire department connections for systems protecting fuel storage tanks shall be freestanding, remote
and located as determined by the fire code official.
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9. No FDC is required for projects designed per NFPA 13D.
(8083) Section 1004.5.1 (Increased Occupant Load) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
(8184) 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."
(825) Section 1103.5.1 (Group A-2) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety and replacing it with the
following:
1103.5.1 (Group A-2). A Group A-2 occupancy that is permitted "Alterations - Level 2" according to the
International Existing Building Code Chapter 8 and is dedicated predominantly to selling and consuming of
alcoholic beverages rather than food and have ing an occupant load of 100 or more shall be equipped
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with section 903.3.1.1.
(83) Section 1103.5.6 added
1103.5.6 (Fire sprinklers in fire damaged Residential Occupancies) Where required by a current code, in R-1,
R-2, R-3, and R-4 occupancies where a fire has occurred and more than one dwelling unit is damaged by fire,
the affected building shall be fire-sprinklered prior to the re-occupancy of the building. Fire damage is
described as damage by direct flame contact or extensive heat. Fire damage does not include smoke, water,
or damage created during firefighting operations.
(846) Section 1103.7(Fire alarm systems) is amended by adding the following section:
1103.7.7(Group A-2). A Group A-2 occupancy that is permitted "Alterations - Level 2" according to the
International Existing Building Code Chapter 8 and is dedicated predominantly to selling and consuming of
alcoholic beverages rather than food andand haveing an occupant load of 100 or more shall be equipped
throughout with an automatic alarm system in accordance with section 907.2.1.
(85) Section 1201 is amended by adding the following:
1201.6 Electric vehicle charging stations shall not be installed in Group S-2 Public parking garages, open or
closed.
(867) Section 2304.1 (Supervision of Dispensing) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety and replacing
with the following:
Section 2304.1 (Supervision of Dispensing). The dispensing of flammable or combustible liquids into the fuel
tank of a vehicle or into an approved container shall be under the supervision of a qualified attendant,
except service stations not open to the public. Such stations may be used by commercial, industrial
governmental or manufacturing establishments for fueling vehicles in connection with their business."
(878) Section 2304.3 (Unattended Self-Service Motor Fuel Dispensing Facilities) is amended by deleting the section
in its entirety.
(889) Section 2304.3.1 (General) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
(8990) Section 2304.3.2 (Dispensers) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
(9091) Section 2304.3.3 (Emergency Controls) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
(912) Section 2304.3.4 (Operating Instructions) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
(923) Section 2304.3.5 (Emergency Procedures) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
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(934) Section 2304.3.6 (Communications) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
(945) Section 2304.3.7 (Quantity Limits) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
(956) Section 3106.3.1 (Occupant Load) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
(967) Section 3106.4.2 (Weather monitoring person) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
(978) Section 5706.6.1.2 (Leaving Vehicle Unattended) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety and
replacing with the following:
Section 5706.6.1.2 (Leaving Vehicle Unattended). At no time while discharging flammable, combustible or
ignitable liquids shall the driver or operator be out of sight and reach of the discharge valves. If at any time
while discharging flammable, combustible or ignitable liquids, the driver or operator must leave the vehicle
for any reason, the driver or operator shall shut down all valves until the driver or operator returns and shall
be totally responsible for any and all spillage. When the delivery hose is attached to the vehicle it is
presumed to be discharging flammable, combustible or ignitable liquids.
(989) Chapter 80 (Referenced Standards) is amended by adding under NFPA, all referenced NFPA will be the most
current editions.
(99100) Appendix D, Section D102.1 (Required access) is amended by replacing 79,000 pounds (34050 kg) with
84,000 85,000 pounds (38101.76 kg).
(100101) Appendix D, Section D102 (Required Access) is amended by adding the following:
Section D102.2 (Alternative Approved Access). If a product is used other than asphalt or concrete for the
access surface it must be approved prior to installation. Once installed an installation certificate with an
engineer stamp confirming it was installed according to manufacturer's specification must be submitted. In
the case of base material a certificate with an engineer stamp stating that it has been tested and will support
the imposing load of a fire apparatus weighing at least 84,000 pounds (38101.76 kg).
(1012) Appendix D, Section D103.1 (Access road width with hydrant) is amended with replacing "26 feet" with
"20 feet".
(1023) Appendix D, Section D103.2 (Grade) is amended by adding the following:
Section 103.2.1 (Aerial Access Grade) where aerial access is required the aerial access portion of the road
shall not exceed 6 percent in grade.
(104) Appendix D, Section D103.4 (Dead Ends) and Table D103.4 are amended by replacing "150 feet" with "100
feet."
(Code 2011 (Repub.), § 6-1(B); Ord. No. 2016-3767, exh. A(6-1), 4-28-2016; Ord. No. 2017-3947 , Pt. 1(Exh. A), 10-
12-2017; Ord. No. 2018-3995 , Pt. 1(Exh. A), 3-22-2018; Ord. No. 2019-4076 , Pt. 1(Exh. A), 2-25-2019; Ord. No.
2022-4353 , Pt. 1(Exh. A), 4-28-2022)
Secs. 16-53—16-77. Reserved.
ARTICLE IV. LIFE SAFETY CODE
Sec. 16-78. Life Safety Code Handbook adopted.
The Life Safety Code Handbook, specifically the 20241 Edition published by the National Fire Protection
Association, a copy of which is on file in the Office of the City Secretary, is hereby adopted and designated as the
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Life Safety Code of the City. Said code is adopted to the same extent as though such code was copied at length
herein, subject, however, to the omissions, additions, supplements, and amendments contained in this article.
(Code 2011 (Repub.), § 6-1(A)(2); Ord. No. 2016-3767, exh. A(6-1), 4-28-2016; Ord. No. 2019-4076 , Pt. 1(Exh. A), 2-
25-2019; Ord. No. 2022-4353 , Pt. 1(Exh. A), 4-28-2022)
Sec. 16-79. Amendments to NFPA Life Safety Code.
The Life Safety Code Handbook is amended in the following respects:
(1) Section 24.3.5.1 is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
(2) Section 43.6.4.1 is amended by deleting this section in its entirety and replacing with the following:
Section 43.6.4.1. In a building with rehabilitation work areas involving over 50 percent of the
aggregate building area an automatic fire sprinkler system shall be installed to the code applicable to
new construction for this type of occupancy.
(3) Section 43.6.4.2 is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
(4) Section 43.6.4.4 is amended by replacing "up to and including the highest rehabilitation work area
floor" with "highest floor."
(Code 2011 (Repub.), § 6-1(C); Ord. No. 2016-3767, exh. A(6-1), 4-28-2016)
Secs. 16-80—16-101. Reserved.
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