HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015-3726 - Ordinance - 12/10/2015ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 3, `BUILDING REGULATIONS", SECTION 3-6,
"INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE ADOPTED", AND SECTION 3-7, "NATIONAL
ELECTRICAL CODE ADOPTED", OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF
COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS, AS SET OUT BELOW; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY
CLAUSE; DECLARING A PENALTY; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLLEGE STATION,
TEXAS:
PART 1:
That Chapter 3, "Building Regulations," of the Code of Ordinances of the City of
College Station, Texas, be amended as set out in Exhibit "A", attached hereto and
made a part of this ordinance for all purposes.
PART 2: That if any provisions of any section of this ordinance shall be held to be void or
unconstitutional, such holding shall in no way effect the validity of the remaining
provisions or sections of this ordinance, which shall remain in full force and effect.
PART 3: That any person, firm, or corporation violating any of the provisions of this chapter
shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof shall be
punishable by a fine of not less than Twenty-five Dollars ($25.00) nor more than
Two Thousand Dollars ($2,000.00). Each day such violation shall continue or be
permitted to continue shall be deemed a separate offense.
PART 4: That this ordinance shall become effective on 1 January 2016.
PASSED, ADOPTED and APPROVED this 10th day of December, 2015.
ATTEST:
City Secreta
APPROVE
Attorney
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726 Page 2 of 36
EXHIBIT A
That Chapter 3, "Building Regulations", Section 3-6, "International Building Code adopted", and
Section 3-7, "National Electrical Code adopted", of the Code of Ordinances of the City of
College Station, Texas, is hereby amended to read as follows:
SEC. 3-6. - INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE ADOPTED
A booklet entitled 'International Building Code, 2015 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.
INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE ADOPTED
A. The above referenced International Building Code is hereby amended as follows:
1. Section 105 (PERMITS) is amended by adding Section [A] 105.1.3 to read as follows:
[A] 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.
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726 Page 3 of 36
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 [A] 105.2 (work exempt from permit) is amended by deleting item #2 under
"Building" and replacing with the following:
"2. Fences of wood, chain link, or similar material, and less than eight feet in height, and
walls of brick, stone, concrete, or similar material, and less than six feet in height, shall not
be construed to be a structure, nor shall they require a building permit.
3. Section [A] 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 employees 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.
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726 Page 4 of 36
4. Section [A] 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 [A] 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 [A] 109.6 (Refunds) is amended by deleting the existing text in its entirety and
replacing it with the following:
"The City Manager or his designee is authorized to establish a refund policy."
7. Section [A] 110.3.1 (Footing and foundation inspection) is amended by adding the
following to the end of said section:
"The Building Official shall have the authority to require a form survey to verify building
setbacks. Such survey shall be provided to the Building Official prior to placement of
concrete and prepared by a surveyor licensed to perform work in the State of Texas."
8. Section [A] 110.3.5 (Lath, gypsum board and gypsum panel product inspection) is
amended by deleting the
section in its entirety.
9. Section [A] 111.2 (Certificate issued) is amended by deleting items number 4, 5, 7, 10,
and 11.
10. Section [A] 113 (Board of Appeals) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
11. Section [A] 116.1 (Conditions) is amended by deleting the sentence, "Unsafe structures
shall be taken down and removed or made safe, as the building official deems necessary
and as provided for in this section." and replacing it with the following: "Unsafe structures
shall be taken down, removed or made safe as provided for in Section 1 (C), Chapter 3,
Code of Ordinances."
12. Section 202 (DEFINITIONS) is amended by 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."
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726 Page 5 of 36
13. Section 303.1 (Assembly Group A) is amended by adding "tutorial services" under A-3.
14. Section 501.2 (Address identification) is amended by deleting the existing text in its
entirety and replacing it with the following:
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726
Page 6 of 36
"For the purposes of this section, the term 'fire area' shall be replaced with 'building area'."
17. Section [F] 903.2 (Where required) is amended by adding the following text at the end of
said 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."
18. Section [F] 903.2.1.6 (Assembly occupancies on roofs) is amended by deleting the
exception in its entirety.
19. Section [F] 903.2.3 (Group E) is amended by deleting the exception in its entirety.
20. Section [F] 903.2.4 (Group F-1) is amended by deleting the text in item "2" and "3".
21. Section [F] 903.2.7 (Group M) 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".
22. Section [F] 903.2.8 (Group R) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
23. Section [F] 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".
24. Section [F] 903.2.10 (Group S-2 enclosed parking garages) is amended by deleting the
exception in its entirety.
25. Section [F] 907.5.2.3.1 (Public use areas and common use areas) is amended by
deleting the exception in its entirety.
26. Section 907 (FIRE ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEMS) is amended by adding
Section [F] 907.5.2.3.1.1 to read as follows:
Section [F] 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."
27. Section 912 (FIRE DEPARTMENT CONNECTIONS) is amended by adding Section [F]
912.2.3 to read as follows:
Section [F] 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."
28. Section 1004.2 (Increased occupant Toad) is amended by deleting the section in its
entirety.
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726
Page 7 of 36
29. Section 1004.3 (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 1004.1.2."
30. 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.
31. Section 1907 (MINIMUM SLAB PROVISIONS) is amended by adding Section 1907.2 to
read as follows:
"1907.2 Minimum foundation standard. All slabs -on -grade with turned -down
footings shall comply with the Minimum Foundation Standard as shown in figure 1."
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726
Figure 1
Page 8 of 36
/3 BARS
a 16' O.C.
6 MIL POLY
VAPOR
BARRIER
t M1a
E
0
v
N
14"
INTERIOR BEAM
STIRRUPS
IS BARS 048" O.C.
OR 4 ga. WWM 024" Q.C.
6 ga. WWM 018" O.C.
INTERIOR SLAB DROP
GENERAL NOTES:
EXTERIOR BEAM
Bar
Size
Min. Lap.
Inches
Min. Radius
of Bends
#3
12"
15/16"
#4
12"
1-1/4"
#5
15"
1-9/16"
#6
20"
2-1/4"
#7
26"
2-5/8"
#8
35"
3"
1. Exterior beam shall extend a minimum of 6 inches into undisturbed soil or fill
which is compacted to 95% Standard Proctor (ASTM D 698) within (±) 2% of optimum
moisture content. All fill material shall have a Plasticity Index (P.I.) between 5 and 18.
2. Interior beams that exceed 60 ft, in length must be a min. of 30" deep.
3. Maximum beam spacing shall be 15 feet and shall be continuous over the length
4. Sr width of the foundati n.
eel to be set to clear bare earth minimum 3", wood or steel forms
by 1-1/2".
5. Minimum concrete specified compression strength shall be 3000 psi ® 28 days.
6. Masonry fireplace footings shall be a minimum of 30" deep with 2 mats of
#5's 0 12" O.C. both ways.
These minimum standards shall apply .to all foundations.
Exceptions:
A. Foundations for temporary buildings and permanent buildings not exceeding one
story in height and 400 square feet in area.
B. Foundations designed by an Architect registered in the State of Texas or a
civil/structural Engineer registered in the State of Texas and approved for use
by the Building Official.
8. All foundations designed by an Architect or Engineer shall be installed as designed.
Revisions and exceptions must be submitted in writing by the Architect or Engineer
and approved by the Building Official.
9. Reinforcing steel shall be grade 60 (grade 40 allowed for stirrups only).
All deformations shall meet ASTM A615.
REV.
DESCRIPTION
DATE
CITY OF COJ-T.EGE STATION
BUILDING DNISION
MINIMUM FOUNDATION STANDARDS
A
PREPARED
9/98
1 of 1
3-48
Rev. 06/06
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726
Page 9 of 36
32. APPENDIX D (FIRE DISTRICTS) is hereby adopted.
AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
B. The International Residential Code adopted by reference in Section [A] 101.2, 2015 International
Building Code, is hereby amended as follows:
1. Section R102.4 (Referenced codes and standards) is amended by adding the following to
said section:
"Any reference to the ICC Electrical Code shall mean the National Electrical Code, as adopted
and amended by the City of College Station."
2. Section R105.2 (Work exempt from permit) is amended by deleting number one under
"Building" and replacing it with the following:
"1. One detached accessory structure per residential lot, provided the floor area does not exceed
120 square feet and the structure complies with all of the following:
a. The accessory structure is not located in a surface drainage easement.
b. The accessory structure is not permanently affixed to the ground.
c. The accessory structure is located in the rear yard.
d. The accessory structure is not provided with utilities (sewer, water, gas or
electricity)."
3. Section R105.2 under Building is amended by deleting the section in its entirety and replacing
with the following:
"10. Uncovered decks, patios or other raised floor surfaces located not more
than 30 inches above adjacent grade and are not attached to a dwelling."
4. Section R105.2.4 is added to read as follows:
"R105.2.4 Homeowner permit. A property owner may obtain a building permit to perform work
on a building owned and occupied by him as his homestead without registering with the City as
a contractor. However, work involving the electrical, plumbing and mechanical systems must
be permitted and installed by licensed contractors."
5. Section R106.3.1 (Approval of construction documents) is amended by deleting
the last sentence in said section.
6. Section R108.3 (Building permit valuations) is amended by adding the following to said
section:
"If, in the opinion of the building official, the valuation is underestimated on the application, the
permit shall be denied, unless the applicant can show detailed estimates to meet the approval
of the building official. Final permit valuation shall be set by the building official."
7. Section R108.5 (Refunds) is amended by deleting the text in said section and replacing it
with the following:
"The City Manager or his designee is authorized to establish a refund policy."
8. Section R109.1.1 (Foundation inspection) is amended by adding the following to the end of
said section:
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726
Page 10 of 36
"The Building Official shall have the authority to require a form survey to verify building
setbacks. Such survey shall be provided to the Building Official prior to placement of
concrete and prepared by a surveyor licensed to perform work in the State of Texas."
9. Section R112 (BOARD OF APPEALS) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
10. Section R202 (DEFINTIONS) is 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
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
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726
Page 11 of 36
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
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.
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726 Page 12 of 36
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
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
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726 Page 13 of 36
flow is the total flow of all nozzles in the zone at a specific pressure.
Zone Valve, Irrigation System. An automatic valve that controls a single zone of a
landscape irrigation system.
11. Section R302.1 (Exterior walls) is amended by deleting the existing text and replacing it with
the following:
R302.1 Exterior walls. Exterior walls with a fire separation distance less than 3 feet shall
have not less than a one hour fire -resistive rating with exposure from both sides. The
above provisions shall not apply to walls which are perpendicular to the line used to
determine the fire separation distance.
Exception: Tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar structures exempted from
permits by Section R105.2 are not required to provide wall protection based on location
on the lot.
Projections. Projections may extend beyond the exterior wall on zero lot line
construction. Projections shall be constructed from non-combustible material on the
underside and may allow manufactured perforated soffit material installed for attic
ventilation.. The soffit may project a maximum of 18 inches, excluding non-combustible
gutters, over the adjacent property line.
Exception: Tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar structures exempted from
permits by Section R 105.2 shall not extend over the lot line in zero lot line construction.
Combustibles in maintenance easement. The construction of any structure utilizing
combustible material or the storage of combustible material is prohibited within the
maintenance easement. The term "maintenance easement" is defined in Article 11 of the
UDO.
Exception: A wood fence may be installed in the maintenance easement.
12. Section R302.5 (Dwelling -garage opening and penetration protection) is amended by
adding the following exception:
"Exception: One unprotected attic access opening, not exceeding 30 inches by 54 inches in
size, is allowed per garage."
13. Section R310.2.1 (Minimum opening area) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
14. Section R311.7.8.2 (Continuity) is amended by deleting the following text in said section:
"Handrail ends shall be returned or shall terminate in newel posts or safety terminals."
15. Section R313 (Automatic Sprinkler Systems) is amended by deleting the section in its
entirety.
16. Section R318.2 (Chemical termiticide treatment) is amended by adding the following to the
end of said section:
"The method of application and contractor hired to apply the chemicals shall submit to the
Building Department when applying for the Building Permit, and verification of the application
turned in prior to issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy."
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726 Page 14 of 36
17. Section R319.1 (Address identification) is amended by deleting the existing text in its
entirety and replacing it with the following:
"Premises identification shall comply with Section 501.2, International Building Code, as
amended."
18. Section 322.2.1 (Elevation requirements) is amended by deleting the existing text, save the
exception, and replacing it with the following:
"1. Buildings and structures shall have the lowest floors elevated in accordance with the
City of College Station Code of Ordinances, Chapter 13 (Flood Hazard Protection) and
the City of College Station Drainage Policy and Design Standards (refer to Section II.D).
2. In areas of shallow flooding (AO Zones), buildings and structures shall have the lowest
floor (including basement) elevated above the highest adjacent grade as the depth
number specified in feet on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps, or at least 2 feet if a depth
number is not specified, plus the additional footage requirements in the City of College
Station Code of Ordinances, Chapter 13 (Flood Hazard Protection) and the City of
College Station Drainage Policy and Design Standards (refer to Section II.D).
3. Basement floors that are below grade on all sides shall be elevated in accordance with
the City of College Station Code of Ordinances, Chapter 13 (Flood Hazard Protection)
and the City of College Station Drainage Policy and Design Standards (refer to Section
II.D).
19. Section R403.1.3.3 (Slabs -on -ground with turned -down footings) is amended by deleting
the existing text and replacing it with the following to read as follows:
33
"All slabs -on -ground with turned -down footings shall comply with the minimum foundation
standard in Section 1907.2, International Building Code."
20. Chapter 11 (ENERGY EFFICIENCY) is amended by deleting this chapter in its entirety and
replacing it with the following.
"One -and -two family dwellings shall comply with the 2015 International Energy Conservation
Code as amended."
21. Section M1411.3 (Condensate disposal) is amended by deleting the existing text and
replacing with the following:
"Condensate from all cooling coils or evaporators shall be conveyed from the drain pan outlet
to the sanitary sewer system, if available. The condensate drain shall be connected to the
sanitary sewer system in a manner approved by the code official.
Exception: When a sanitary sewer system is not available on the premises, or connection
thereto is not practical, the condensate shall discharge into an approved french drain."
22. Section M1501.1 (Outdoor discharge) is amended by deleting the last sentence in said
section.
23. Section M1507.2 (Recirculation of air) is amended by deleting the last sentence in said
section, and replacing it with the following:
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726
Page 15 of 36
"Exhaust air from bathrooms and toilet rooms shall discharge directly to the outdoors or the
vent termination shall be unobstructed and within 6 inches of the soffit vent or ridge vent."
24. Section G2408.3 (305.5) (Private garages) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
25. Section G2414.5.2 (403.5.2) (Copper copper alloy tubing) is amended by deleting said
section in its entirety.
26. Section G2417.1.2 (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."
27. Section G2417.4 (406.4) (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, 2015 International Fuel Gas
Code, as amended."
28. Section G2417.4.1 (406.4.1) (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, 2015 International Fuel Gas Code, as
amended."
29. Section P2503.8 (Inspection and testing of backflow prevention devices) is amended by
deleting the section in its entirety and replacing with the following:
"Inspection and testing of backflow prevention devices shall comply with Section 312.10, 2015
International Plumbing Code, as amended."
30. P2804.6.1 (Requirements for discharge pipe) is amended by deleting number five and
replacing it with the following:
"Discharge to an indirect waste receptor or to the outdoors."
31. Section P2902.5.3 (Lawn irrigation systems) is amended by deleting the existing text in its
entirety and replacing it with the following:
"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
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726 Page 16 of 36
contained in Title 30, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 344 regarding spacing, water
pressure, spraying water over impervious materials, rain or moisture shut-off devices or
other technology, backflow prevention and isolation valves. See Texas Occupations
Code §1903.002 for other exemptions to the licensing requirement.
P2902.5.3.2 Permit Required. Any person installing an irrigation system within the
territorial limits or extraterritorial jurisdiction of the city is required to obtain a permit from
the city prior to beginning work on the irrigation system. A completed irrigation permit
application and irrigation plan must be a submitted to the city and approved before a
permit will be issued by the city. The irrigation plan must be in compliance with the
requirements of this section.
Exceptions:
(1) An irrigation system that is an on-site sewage disposal system, as defined by Section
366.002, Health and Safety Code; or
(2) An irrigation system used on or by an agricultural operation as defined by Section
251.002, Agriculture Code; or
(3) An irrigation system connected to a groundwater well used by a property owner
strictly for domestic use.
P2902.5.3.3 Backflow Prevention Methods and Devices. Any irrigation system that is
connected to the potable water supply must be connected through a backflow prevention
method approved by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The
backflow prevention device must be approved by the Foundation for Cross -Connection
Control and Hydraulic Research, the University of Southern California, the International
Plumbing Code, or any other laboratory that has equivalent capabilities for both the
laboratory and field evaluation of backflow prevention assemblies. The backflow
prevention device must be installed in accordance with the laboratory approval standards
or if the approval does not include specific installation information, the manufacturer's
current published recommendations. If conditions that present a health hazard exist, one
of the following methods must be used to prevent backflow;
(1) An air gap may be used if:
(a) there is an unobstructed physical separation; and
(b) the distance from the lowest point of the water supply outlet to the flood rim of the
fixture or assembly into which the outlet discharges is at least one inch or 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
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726
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(b) the device is installed at a minimum of 12 inches above any downstream piping
and the highest downstream opening. Pop-up sprinklers are measured from the
retracted position from the top of the sprinkler.
All backflow prevention devices used in applications designated as health hazards must
be tested upon installation and annually thereafter.
If there are no conditions that present a health hazard, double check valve backflow
prevention assemblies may be used to prevent backflow if the device is tested upon
installation and test cocks are used for testing only. A double check valve may be
installed below ground if:
(a) the double check valve assembly is installed in a vault or other approved enclosure
that which is constructed of a durable material. The vault or enclosure shall either be
of solid (waterproof) construction with an integral bottom or bottomless to facilitate
drainage. If the vault or enclosure is bottomless, a minimum of four (4) inches of
washed gravel shall be installed below the assembly. The washed gravel shall have a
diameter of between 3/8 inch and 3/4 inch (inclusive);
(b) the test cocks are plugged with a non-ferrous material (brass, plastic, etc.) except
when the double check valve is being tested;
(c) the test cock plugs are threaded, water -tight, and made of non-ferrous material;
(d) a y -type strainer is installed on the inlet side of the double check valve;
(e) a minimum clearance of three (3) inches is provided between any fill material and the
bottom of the double check valve to allow space for testing and repair; and
(f) a minimum clearance of four (4) inches is provided on the sides of the double check
valve to test and repair the double check valve.
If an existing irrigation system without a backflow -prevention assembly requires major
maintenance, alteration, repair, or service, the system must be connected to the potable
water supply through an approved, properly installed backflow prevention method before
any major maintenance, alteration, repair, or service is performed.
If an irrigation system is connected to a potable water supply through a double check
valve, pressure vacuum breaker, or reduced pressure principle backflow assembly and
includes an automatic master valve on the system, the automatic master valve must be
installed on the discharge side of the backflow prevention assembly.
The irrigator shall ensure the backflow prevention device is tested by a licensed Backflow
Prevention Assembly Tester prior to being placed in service. The tester must be
registered with the City of College Station and the test results must be provided to the
local water purveyor and the irrigation system's owner or owner's representative within
ten business days of testing of the backflow prevention device.
P2902.5.3.4 Specific Conditions and Cross -Connection Control. Before any chemical
is added to an irrigation system connected to the potable water supply, the irrigation
system must be connected through a reduced pressure principle backflow prevention
assembly or air gap.
Connection of any additional water source to an irrigation system that is connected to the
potable water supply can only be done if the irrigation system is connected to the potable
water supply through a reduced -pressure principle backflow prevention assembly or an
air gap.
Irrigation system components with chemical additives induced by aspiration, injection, or
emission system connected to any potable water supply must be connected through a
reduced pressure principle backflow device.
If an irrigation system is designed or installed on a property that is served by an on-site
sewage facility, as defined in Title 30, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 285, then:
(1) all irrigation piping and valves must meet the separation distances from the On -Site
Sewage Facilities system as required for a private water line in Title 30, Texas
Administrative Code, Section 285.91(10);
(2) any connections using a private or public potable water source that is not the city's
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726
Page 18 of 36
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;
(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
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726 Page 19 of 36
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.
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.
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726 Page 20 of 36
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.
P2902.5.313 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 bi6 (an outdoor water faucet that has hose threads on the spout) is
connected to an irrigation system for the purpose of providing supplemental water to an area,
the hose bib must be installed using a quick coupler key on a quick coupler installed in a
covered purple valve box and the hose bib and any hoses connected to the bib must be
labeled "non potable, not safe for drinking." An isolation valve must be installed upstream of a
quick coupler connecting a hose bib to an irrigation system.
P2902.5.3.7.14 Licensed Person On Site During Installation. Beginning January 1, 2010,
either a licensed irrigator or a licensed irrigation technician shall be on-site at all times while
the landscape irrigation system is being installed. When an irrigator is not onsite, the irrigator
shall be responsible for ensuring that a licensed irrigation technician is on-site to supervise
the installation of the irrigation system.
P2902.5.3.8 Completion of Irrigation System Installation. Upon completion of the irrigation
system, the irrigator or irrigation technician who provided supervision for the on-site
installation shall be required to complete the following four items:
(1) a final walk through with the irrigation system's owner or the owner's representative to
explain the operation of the system;
(2) The maintenance checklist on which the irrigator or irrigation technician shall obtain the
signature of the irrigation system's owner or owner's representative and shall sign, date, and
seal the checklist. If the irrigation system's owner or owner's representative is unwilling or
unable to sign the maintenance checklist, the irrigator shall note the time and date of the
refusal on the 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:
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726
Page 21 of 36
(a) the manufacturer's manual for the automatic controller, if the system is automatic;
(b) a seasonal (spring, summer, fall, winter) watering schedule based on either
current/real time evapotranspiration or monthly historical reference evapotranspiration
(historical ET) data, monthly effective rainfall estimates, plant landscape coefficient
factors, and site factors;
(c) a list of components, such as the nozzle, or pump filters, and other such components;
that require maintenance and the recommended frequency for the service; and
(d) the statement, "This irrigation system has been installed in accordance with all
applicable state and local laws, ordinances, rules, regulations or orders. I have tested the
system and determined that it has been installed according to the Irrigation Plan and is
properly adjusted for the most efficient application of water at this time."
(3) A permanent sticker which contains the irrigator's name, license number, company
name, telephone number and the dates of the warranty period shall be affixed to each
automatic controller installed by the irrigator or irrigation technician. If the irrigation
system is manual, the sticker shall be affixed to the original maintenance checklist. The
information contained on the sticker must be printed with waterproof ink and include:
(4) The irrigation plan indicating the actual installation of the system must be provided to
the irrigation system's owner or owner representative.
P2902.5.3.9 Maintenance, Alteration, Repair, or Service of Irrigation Systems. The
licensed irrigator is responsible for all work that the irrigator performed during the
maintenance, alteration, repair, or service of an irrigation system during the warranty
period. The irrigator or business owner is not responsible for the professional negligence
of any other irrigator who subsequently conducts any irrigation service on the same
irrigation system.
All trenches and holes created during the maintenance, alteration, repair, or service of an
irrigation system must be returned to the original grade with compacted select backfill.
Colored PVC pipe primer solvent must be used on all pipes and fittings used in the
maintenance, alteration, repair, or service of an irrigation system in accordance with the
adopted International Plumbing Code (Section 605).
When maintenance, alteration, repair or service of an irrigation system involves
excavation work at the water meter or backflow prevention device, an isolation valve shall
be installed, if an isolation valve is not present.
P2902.5.3.10 Reclaimed Water. Reclaimed water may be utilized in landscape irrigation
systems if:
(1) there is no direct contact with edible crops, unless the crop is pasteurized before
consumption;
(2) the irrigation system does not spray water across property lines that do not belong to
the irrigation system's owner;
(3) the irrigation system is installed using purple components;
(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
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726 Page 22 of 36
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.
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
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726 Page 23 of 36
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
Polybutylene (PB) plastic pipe and tubing
Polyethylene (PE) plastic pipe
Polyethylene (PE) plastic tubing
Polyethylene/aluminum/polyethylene (PE -AL -PE) pipe
33. Table P2906.5 (WATER DISTRIBUTION PIPE) is amended by deleting the following materials:
"Polybutylene (PB) plastic pipe and tubing
Polyethylene/aluminum/polyethylene (PE -AL -PE) composite pipe"
34. Section P2906.5 (Water -distribution pipe.) is amended by adding the following text to the
end of the section:
"Inaccessible water distribution piping under slabs shall be copper (minimum type K), cross-
linked polyethylene (PEX) tubing, or cross-linked polyethylene/aluminum/cross-linked
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."
35. Section 2906.9.1.5.3 (Sleeved cross-linked polyethylene piping or tubing) is amended by
adding the following section:
Sleeved cross-linked polyethylene piping or tubing. "When a sleeve is provided for cross-
linked polyethylene (PEX) plastic piping or tubing installed under concrete slabs the annular
space between the piping or tubing and the sleeve must be caulked, foamed, or otherwise
sealed to prevent the entrance of termiticide."
36. Section P3002.2. (Building sewer) is amended by adding P3002.2.2 to read as follows:
"P3002.2.2 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."
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726 Page 24 of 36
37. Section E3401.1 (Applicability) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety and
replacing with the following:
"Electrical installations shall comply with the National Electrical Code, as adopted and
amended by the City of College Station."
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726 Page 28 of 36
AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE
E. The International Plumbing Code adopted by reference in Section [A] 101.4.3, 2015 International
Building Code is hereby amended as follows:
1 Section [A] 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 [A] 106.3 (Application for permit) is amended by deleting the text in said
section and replacing it with the following:
The code official may require a permit application for work regulated by this code.'
3 Section [A] 106.6,2 (Fee Schedule) is amended by deleting this section in its entirety.
4 Section [A] 106.6.3 (Fee refunds) is amended by deleting the text in said section and
replacing it with the following:
'The City Manager or designee is authorized to establish a refund policy.'
5 Section [A] 108.5 (Stop work orders) is amended by inserting the following amounts in
the blanks provided at the end of said section
'twenty-five ($25.00) in the first blank and two -thousand ($2,000.00) in the second blank'
6 Section 109 (MEANS OF APPEAL) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
7 Section 305.4.1 (Sewer depth) is amended by inserting "twelve (12)" in both blanks and
adding the following sentence to the end of said section.
'Where conditions prohibit the required amount of cover, cast iron pipe with approved
joints may be used unless other means of protecting the pipe is provided as approved by
the Building Official.'
8 Section 312.1 (Required tests) is amended by deleting the following text from said
section:
', for piping systems other than plastic, by'
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.'
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726 Page 29 of 36
10 Section 312.3 (Drainage and vent air test) is amended by deleting said section in its
entirety and replacing with the following:
'312.3 Drainage air test. An air test shall be applied to the drainage piping by forcing air
into the system until there is uniform gauge pressure of 5 pounds per square inch (psi) or
sufficient to balance a 10 -inch column of mercury. This pressure shall be held for a test
period of at least 15 minutes. Any adjustment to the test pressure required because of
changes in ambient temperature or the seating of gaskets shall be made prior to the
beginning of the test period.'
11 Section 312.6 (Gravity sewer test) is amended by deleting "10 -foot (3048 mm)" and
replacing it with "5 -foot".
12 Section 312.10 (Inspection and testing of backflow prevention assemblies.) is
amended by deleting said section in its entirety and replacing with the following:
'312.10 Inspection and testing of backflow prevention assemblies. Upon initial
installation, an inspection shall be made of all backflow prevention devices and
assemblies to determine whether they are operable. Testing of all backflow prevention
devices and assemblies shall be in accordance with Chapter 11, Section 10, Subsection
F, of the Code of Ordinances, City of College Station, Texas."
13 Section 410.4 (Substitution) is amended by deleting the last sentence in said section
and replacing it with the following:
'Where bottle water dispensers are provided in other occupancies, drinking fountains
shall not be required.'
14 Table 605.3 (WATER SERVICE PIPE) is amended by deleting the following materials:
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic pipe
Polyethylene (PE) plastic pipe
Polyethylene (PE) plastic tubing
Polyethylene/aluminum/polyethylene (PE -AL -PE) pipe
15 Section 606 (INSTALLATION OF THE BUILDING WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM)
is amended by adding section 606.8 to read as follows:
'606.8 Materials below slab. Water distribution piping installed under concrete slabs
shall be copper (minimum type K), cross-link polyethylene (PEX) tubing, or cross-linked
polyethylene/aluminum/ polyethylene (PEX-AL-PEX) pipe, all installed without joints or
connections. Materials subject to corrosion shall be protected when exposed to concrete
or corrosive soils.'
16 Section 606 (INSTALLATION OF THE BUILDING WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM)
is amended by adding section 606.9 to read as follows:
'606.9 Sleeved cross -polyethylene piping or tubing. 'When a sleeve is provided for
cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) plastic piping or tubing installed under concrete slabs the
annular space between the piping or tubing and the sleeve must be caulked, foamed, or
otherwise sealed to prevent the entrance of termiticide.'
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726 Page 30 of 36
17 Section 608.16.5 (Connections to lawn irrigation systems) is amended by deleting
the first sentence in said section and replacing it with the following:
'The potable water supply to lawn irrigation systems shall be protected against backflow
by an atmospheric vacuum breaker, a pressure vacuum breaker assembly, a reduced
pressure principle backflow prevention assembly or a double check.'
18 Section 701.2 (Sewer required) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety and
replacing with the following:
`701.2 Sewer required. Every building in which plumbing fixtures are installed and all
premises having sanitary drainage piping shall be connected to an approved sewer.
Private sewage systems must comply with City of College Station's Code of Ordinances
(Chapter 11, Section 2). All private sewage disposal systems must comply with the latest
adopted standards of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and be installed
under the direction of the Brazos County Health Department. The installer shall be
licensed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.'
19 Section 1003.3.4 (Hydromechanical grease interceptors, fats, oils and greases
disposal systems and automatic grease removal devices) is amended by deleting the
first sentence in said section.
AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726 Page 31 of 36
F. The International Property Maintenance Code adopted by reference in Section [A] 101.4.4, 2015
International Building Code is hereby amended as follows:
1 Section [A] 102.7 (Referenced codes and standards) is amended by adding the
following exception:
`Exception: Any reference to the ICC Electrical Code shall mean the National Electrical
Code, as adopted and amended by the City of College Station.'
2 Section 107 (NOTICES AND ORDERS) is amended by deleting the section in its
entirety.
3 Section 108 (UNSAFE STRUCTURES AND EQUIPMENT) is amended by deleting the
section in its entirety.
4 Section 109 (EMERGENCY MEASURES) is amended by deleting the section in its
entirety.
5 Section 110 (DEMOLITION) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
6 Section 111 (MEANS OF APPEAL) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
7 Section 302.4 (Weeds) is amended by deleting the section in its entirety.
8 Section [F] 304.3 (Premises identification) is amended by deleting the text in said
section and replacing it with the following:
`Premises identification shall be in compliance with Section 501.2, 2015 International
Building Code as amended.'
9 Section 304.14 (Insect screens) is amended by deleting the existing text and replacing
it with the following:
`Every door, window, and other outside opening required for ventilation of habitable
rooms, food preparation areas, food service areas or any other areas where products to
be included or utilized in food for human consumption are processed, manufactured,
packaged or stored, shall be supplied with approved tightly fitting screens of not less than
16 mesh per inch (16 mesh per 25mm) and every swinging door shall have a self-closing
device in good working condition.
Exceptions:
1. Screens shall not be required where other approved means, such as air curtains or
insect repellant fans, are employed.
2. Screens shall not be required for windows and doors enclosing habitable spaces that
contain central heating and air conditioning equipment that provide mechanical
ventilation.'
10 Section 602.3 (Heat supply) is amended by adding the following dates in the blanks
provided:
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726 Page 32 of 36
1 October in first blank and 30 April in second blank'
11 Section 602.4 (Occupiable work spaces) is amended by adding the following dates in
the blanks provided:
'1 October in first blank and 30 April in second blank'
12 Section 602.4 (Occupiable work spaces) is amended by adding the following
exception:
'3. Warehouse, storage rooms and similar areas that are not occupied on a constant
basis.'
13 APPENDIX A (BOARDING STANDARD) is hereby adopted.
AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726 Page 33 of 36
G. The International Energy Conservation Code adopted by reference in Section [A] 101.4.6,
2015 International Building Code, is hereby amended as follows:
1. Section C&R106.1 (Referenced codes and standards) is amended by adding the
following to said section:
"Any reference to the ICC Electrical Code shall mean the National Electrical Code, as
adopted and amended by the City of College Station."
2. Section C&R109 (BOARD OF APPEALS) is amended by deleting the section in its
entirety.
3. Section C402.5 (Air leakage -thermal envelope (Mandatory)) is amended by adding an
exception:
"Exception: The air leakage -thermal envelope shall be considered acceptable when the
items listed in Table R402.4.1.1, applicable to the method of construction, are field
verified. Where required by the code official, an approved third party, independent from
the installer, shall inspect and approve the thermal envelope and insulation installation."
4. Table C403.3(2) (EQUIPMENT EFFICIENCY PERFORMANCE EXCEPTION FOR
ECONOMIZERS) is amended by adding 2A directly beside 2B under "CLIMATE ZONES"
in said table.
5. Section R401.3 (Certificate) is amended by deleting the existing text from said section:
"The certificate shall list the types and efficiencies of heating, cooling and service water
heating equipment. Where a gas-fired unvented room heater, electric furnace, or
baseboard electric heater is installed in the residence, the certificate shall list "gas-fired
unvented room heater," "electric furnace" or "baseboard electric heater." as appropriate.
An efficiency shall not be listed for gas-fired unvented room heaters, electric furnaces or
electric baseboard heaters."
6. Section R402.4.1.2 (Testing) is amended by adding an exception:
"Exception: Building envelope tightness and insulation installation shall be considered
acceptable when the items listed in Table R402.4.1.1, applicable to the method of
construction, are field verified. Where required by the code official, an approved third
party independent from the installer, shall inspect and approve the air barrier and
insulation installation."
7. Section R403.3.1 (Insulation (Prescriptive)) 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
14."
8. Section R403.3.3 (Duct Testing (Mandatory)) is amended by adding an additional
exception below said section:
"Exception: 2. Duct tightness shall be considered acceptable when the items listed
below, applicable to the method of construction, are field verified:
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726
Connections:
Page 34 of 36
a. Seal core to collar with UL listed mastic or at least 2 wraps of UL 181
listed tape.
b. Secure connection with mechanical clamp placed over the core and
tape.
c. Pull jacket and insulation back over core. Use a mechanical clamp, two
wraps of UL 181 listed tape or UL listed mastic to secure insulation.
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 R403.13 to read as follows:
"403.13 Heating equipment. Electrical resistance heat may be used as the primary
source of heating for residential use not exceeding five hundred (500) square feet in
area."
10. Section R406.5 (Verification by approved agency) is amended by replacing the
existing text with:
"The Code Official may require verification of compliance with Section R406 be
completed by an approved third party."
SEC. 3-7 - NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE ADOPTED
A booklet entitled `National Electrical Code 2014 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
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726
Page 35 of 36
College Station, Texas, is hereby adopted and designated as the Electrical Code of College Station,
Texas.
AMENDMENTS TO THE NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
1. Section 210.23 (A) 15- and 20- Ampere Branch Circuits. Shall be amended to delete the
reference to 15 ampere branch circuits. It shall also be amended to include the following
sentence after said section:
"However, a circuit of twenty (20) amperes shall not serve more than ten openings."
2. Table 210.24 Summary of Branch -Circuit Requirements shall be amended by placing
an asterisk next to all 14 AWG conductors indicated in the table and by adding this footnote
at the bottom of the table:
" * special note: Except for fixture wires in UL or other listed fixtures, no conductor of a
size smaller than 12 AWG copper is allowed in branch circuit wiring."
3. Section 210.52 (B) Small Appliances shall be amended by adding the following
subsection:
"(4) Separate Circuit Required. A separate circuit is required for each refrigerator, deep
freeze, dishwasher, disposal, trash compactor or any other load exceeding six (6)
amperes."
4. Section 210.52 (C) Countertops shall be amended to include after the words `...with
210.52 (C) (1) through (C) (5). the following sentence:
"However, a separate circuit is required for microwave ovens or any other counter top
appliance with a load exceeding six (6) amperes."
5. Section 210.52 (F) Laundry Areas. Shall be amended to include after the words '... for
the laundry.' the following sentence:
"However, a separate circuit is required for a washing machine or any other laundry
appliance with a load exceeding six (6) amperes."
6. Section 210.52 Dwelling Unit Receptacle Outlets. Shall be amended by adding the
following subsection:
"(J) Other Locations. A separate circuit is required for each well pump or other outdoor
loads exceeding six (6) amperes."
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:
"(0) 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
ORDINANCE NO. 2015-3726
Page 36 of 36
trip) shall be permitted for service disconnects rated 1000 amps or more. All shunt trip
disconnecting means shall be of the maintained contact type in an approved, lockable
enclosure. All service disconnects shall be clearly marked in a permanent manner.
Exception: A power operated disconnect switch (shunt trip) may be allowed on service
disconnects rated less than 1000 amps, if the applicant requests an exception from the
Electrical Division and Building Official and satisfies the official that one of the following
criteria has been met.
(a)
A power operated disconnect switch (shunt trip) may be used for a service
disconnect rated less than 1000 amps when the building or structure is served by
a single transformer and the transformer is not anticipated to be used for multiple
services; or
(b) A power operated disconnect switch (shunt trip) may be used for a service
disconnect rated less than 1000 amps on an existing building or structure when
space is not available to mount an external disconnect.
9. Article 230 Services. Shall be amended by adding the following section:
"230.70 (E) Outside Disconnect Locking Device. Factory installed key operated lock
shall have an alternate locking mechanism approved by the local jurisdiction."
10. Section 230.71 (A) General shall be amended to include the following sentence after said
section:
"Any multi -tenant building larger than 5,000 square feet shall have a service disconnect."
11. Section 250.52 (A) (5) Rod and Pipe Electrodes shall be amended by deleting the
section in its entirety and replacing with the following:
"Rod and Pipe Electrodes. Rod and pipe electrodes shall not be less than eight (8) feet
in length, not less than 5/8" in diameter and shall be copper coated."
12. Section 310.106 (B) Conductor Material shall be amended by adding the following
Exception:
"Exception: Aluminum and copper -clad aluminum is not allowed in branch circuits."
13. Section 320.12 Uses Not Permitted shall be amended by deleting the section in its entirety
and replacing with the following:
"Uses Not Permitted. Type AC cable shall not be permitted in commercial buildings as a
wiring method."
14. Section 334.12 (A) Types NM, NMC, and NMS. Shall be amended to include the following
subsection:
"(11) In educational occupancies as defined by the City's "adopted building code."