HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOUNCIL - AGENDA ITEM - 05/06/2008 - ITEMS RELATING TO THE ADOPTION OF THE 2006 INTERNA ITEM NUMBER: 26 A-B
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY DATE: May 6, 2008
FORT COLLINS CITY COUNCIL STAFF: Felix Lee
Mike Gebo
SUBJECT
Items Relating to the Adoption of the 2006International Building Code (IBC), 2006International
Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and Local Amendments.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends adoption of the Ordinance on First Reading.
The Affordable Housing Board,the Commission on Disability,the Planning and Zoning Board,the
Electric Board, the Natural Resources Advisory Board, the Air Quality Advisory Board and the
Building Review Board voted to approve adoption of the proposed 2006IBC, 2006IECC codes and
local amendments.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
A. First Reading of Ordinance No. 049, 2008, Amending Chapter 5, Article II, Division 2, of
the City Code for the Purpose of Adopting the 20061nternational Building Coded with
Amendments.
B. First Reading of Ordinance No. 050, 2008, Amending Chapter 5, Article II, Division 2, of
the City Code For the Purpose of Adopting the 2006 International Energy Conservation
Code®, with Amendments.
The 20061nternational Building Code(IBC)and the 2006International Energy Conservation Code
(IECC) are the most up-to-date editions of the model building codes available that apply to newly
constructed commercial, industrial and multi-family buildings(3 or more units),and new additions
to such existing buildings. Staff is presenting these codes and local amendments for adoption to
replace the obsolete 1997 Uniform Building Code (UBC) and companion energy code regulating
multi-family and commercial buildings.
BACKGROUND
Fort Collins has a legacy of innovative local code provisions that enhance public health and safety,
offer construction flexibility, and improve energy efficiency and indoor air quality. In anticipation
of the eventual transition to the new model building codes — the International Codes (I-Codes)
developed by the International Code Council — several of these innovations were deliberately
included as local amendments into the City's current 1997 UBC, adopted mid-1998; and again in
2004,when the City adopted the first of the I-Code series. This last building-code package approved
May 6, 2008 -2. Item No. 26 A-B
by Council contains the 2003 International Residential Code (IRC) ® (covering any new, and
additions to, single-family and two-family dwellings and townhouses), as well as the ancillary I-
Codes applicable to all new and replacement HVAC (heating, ventilating, or cooling) systems,
plumbing systems, and gas-piping installations in multi-family buildings (three or more units) and
in all other types of nonresidential buildings.
In August 2006, the Code Review Committee began the task of reviewing the 2006 IBC and 2006
IECC as the replacement for the UBC, to regulate the construction of all new, and additions to,
nonresidential buildings and multi-family buildings. This committee is composed of members from
the Poudre Fire Authority, Building Review Board, Larimer County Building Department, private
developers,builders,architects,engineers and City staff. The team concluded its review of the 2006
IBC and 2006 IECC, plus the cumulative mid-cycle code update, the 2007 Supplements and local
amendments in early April. The Code Review Committee came to a final consensus recommending
the proposed codes and amendments to City Council for adoption.
Staff first presented the results of the Code Review Committee's recommendations on the 2006
IBC/IECC at the April 24,2007 Work Session. At that time,staff recommended the adoption of the
proposed 2006 IBC/IECC be postponed until review and incorporation of the 2007 Supplements,
published in July 2007. Furthermore, in line with current mandatory radon-resistant construction
standards in new single- and two-family dwellings and townhouses since 2005, Council directed
staff to investigate local amendments for mandatory radon-resistant construction in multi-family
housing containing three or more units in order to provide equal protection for all City residents.
At the January 22, 2008 Work Session, staff presented the proposed code and amendments,
including the 2007 Supplements, the 2006 IECC and radon-resistant construction amendments.
Council directed staff to provide additional information at the scheduled regular Council meeting.
Attachment 2 provides this additional information.
Significant Changes
The major improvements from the current code to the proposed 2006 IBC, 2006 IECC and local
amendments are:
• A fundamental strategic shift in protecting buildings and its occupants from the immediate
spread of fire through the use of fire sprinkler systems instead of using additional building
materials to detain the spread of fire;
• Mandatory radon-resistant construction in multi-family dwellings with three (3) or more
units; and
• More energy-conserving construction via the very latest technical standard available.
Costs
The estimated added construction costs include:
• Fire sprinkler systems initial cost offset by less expensive construction materials with added
benefit of greater occupant safety and insurance savings.
May 6, 2008 -3- Item No. 26 A-B
• Radon resistant construction in multi-family cost increase per dwelling unit $500 to $700.
• Insulation cost increase (roof and wall):
o Commercial roofs no attic - none
o Roof insulation attic - $0.90 per square foot
o Wall insulation wood frame— $0.18 per square foot
o Wall insulation metal frame - $1.00 per square foot
ISO Insurance Rating/Building Code Effectiveness
FEMA notified the City last November that Fort Collins was at risk of losing its long-standing,
highly desirable flood insurance discount rating for multi-family and business properties because
Fort Collins has not yet adopted the IBC. Insurance rates are largely determined by an individual
jurisdiction's"building code effectiveness"ranking using a standardized grading system known as
the"Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule (BCEGS)".
On April 15, 2008, at the City's request, a representative of the regional Insurance Service Office
(ISO) conducted an in-depth, on-site interview, documented by a 20-page evaluation instrument.
The representative indicated the City would likely obtain a favorable rating, conditional upon ISO
receiving notification of Fort Collins formally adopting the IBC within the next two months. ISO's
report,expected in about 90 days,will be newly formatted to identify areas where the City could or
might need improvement and what that improvement would look like.
Public Outreach& Recommendations
• Affordable Housing Board— 5/3/07; recommended unanimously
• Commission on Disability—6/14/07; recommended unanimously
• Planning and Zoning Board— 8/10/07; recommended unanimously
• Electric Board— 1/16/08; recommended unanimously
• Public Outreach Meeting— 1/9/08; general consensus for adoption
• Natural Resources Advisory Board— 1/16/08; recommended unanimously
• Building Review Board— 1/31/08; recommended unanimously
• Air Quality Advisory Board—3/24/08; recommended unanimously
Recommended Timeline and Effective Date
1. Second Reading 5/20/08.
2. Effective date: July 1,2008. Transition period for construction professionals,and for staff
to prepare educational material, workshops, and update license exams.
3. Training for staff and construction professionals— Scheduled for June, Sept., Dec. 2008.
4. Reevaluation of building code rating when ISO officially notified of IBC's effective date.
May 6, 2008 -4- Item No. 26 A-B
ATTACHMENTS
1. Work Session Summary. January 25, 2008.
2. Staff responses toWork Session Summary questions
3. Board and commission minutes.
4. Power Point presentation.
Planning, Development and Transportation Services
Neighborhood and Building Services
City of Fort Collins
ATTACHMENT#1
Memorandum
Date: January 23, 2008
To: Mayor and City Councilmembers
Through: Darin Atteberry, City Manager
Joe Frank, Planning, Development& Transportation Director
From: Felix Lee, Neighborhood&Building Services Director
Mike Gebo, Building Codes Services Manager
Reference: January 22, 2008 Work Session Summary-Adoption of the:
20061nternational Building Code
2006International Energy Conservation Code
Associated Local Amendments
Joe Frank presented Council with a brief overview of, and rationale for, adopting of the 20061nternational
Building Code (061BQ and the 2006International Energy Conservation Code (06 IECQ.
At Council's Work Session on April 25, 2007, staff was directed to:
• Identify Fort Collins' placement to other jurisdictions in regards to adopted codes. Submitted as
Attachment # 3.
• Compare Fort Collins' codes to other Front Range communities in regards to more or less restrictive.
Submitted as Attachment # 3.
• Survey contractors in regards to Fort Collins' codes and services. Submitted as Attachment # 4.
• Provide cost analysis of proposed codes and amendments. Submitted as Attachment# 5.
• Provide comments from stakeholders relating to Fort Collins' building code regulations. Submitted as
Attachment #4.
Councilmembers reviewed and discussed the attachments and asked questions accordingly. There was Council
consensus that the requested items were provided and effectively answered.
For the regular Council meeting scheduled for March 4, 2008, Council directed staff to review and provide
additional information on:
• Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating for Fort Collins: 4 for residential and 9 for commercial with 1
being excellent. What does the rating mean for Fort Collins and what would it take to raise the rating to
1 for residential and commercial.
• Review and propose as a local amendment that bathrooms in commercial restaurants be provided with
"hands-free" operation of faucets, towel dispensers and exiting of the bathroom.
• Explain how the new code will interpret stories as it relates to mezzanines and the over-all height of the
building. Identify what changes would be required to address concerns for counting number of stories.
281 North College Avenue— P.O. Box 580 — Fort Collins, CO 80522-0580
Building—(970)416-2740, FAX (970) 224-6134 Neighborhood-(970)224-6046; FAX (970) 224-6050
• Evaluate the need and effectiveness of Radon Reduction Systems in general. Identify how many
passive systems have been installed in single-family dwellings, how many systems have been
"activated."
• Reevaluate the prohibition on unrated shake shingles and determine if still warranted.
• Reevaluate August 1, 2008 as the date that codes would go into effect. Move timeline much closer
taking into account those commercial projects that may be submitted for permit and designed in
accordance with the 1997 Uniform Building Code.
Next step in the adoption process is to bring the 06 IBC and 06 IECC with amendments to the regular Council
meeting for First Reading on March 4, 2008. Councilmembers present and supporting adoption of the proposed
codes:
Manvel, Roy, Brown, Poppaw, Hutchinson, Ohlson, Troxell.
2
ATTACHMENT
Responses to Council Work Session Summary Memo 1/25/08
2006IBC,2006IEEC and local amendments
1. Q: What do the current Insurance Services Office (ISO) ratings for Fort Collins
mean—"4" for residential and "9" for commercial—and what would it take to raise the
ratings to "1" for both residential and commercial?
A: The rating(Building Code Effectiveness Grading Systems—BCEGS )is the
insurance industry's standardized method for measuring a given community's
effectiveness achieving compliance with adopted building codes. It takes into account
current adopted codes, building code compliance staff experience, credentials, and
education, as well as work load and administrative tools available to ensure compliance.
The grading system range is from "1" to "10", with "1" being the highest. In
conversations with the regional ISO representative, a score of"4" is considered an
excellent score the community should be proud of. Throughout all of the jurisdictions
nationwide that utilize the BCEGS, only four have obtained a rating of"I". The
disparity between the residential and commercial rating is entirely the result of Fort
Collins not having adopted the current International Building Code. In order to receive
a rating of"I", because of the multitude of factors involved(as noted above), it is
difficult to establish specifics needed to achieve a perfect score. However, we can say
that more dedicated time for on site inspections (i.e.,fewer inspections per inspector per
day) coupled with technology to improve compliance reliability and accuracy (i.e.,
electronic inspection checklists) would improve our score.
2. Q: Propose a local amendment that requires "touch-free" operation of faucets, towel
dispensers and exiting of bathrooms in all newly constructed commercial restaurants and
buildings.
A: Added to the draft ordinance,
"Section 2902.1.2 Touch-free toilet facilities. Toilet facilities installed for occupancies
associated with food preparation or food service to the public shall be provided with:
1. Automatic touch-free water controls on lavatories.
2. Automatic touch-free paper towel dispensers.
3. Automatic flush controls on urinals and toilet stools.
4. Toilet facilities exit doors that allow exiting without requiring touching by hand, any
door hardware, such as knobs, levers, sliding bolts, latches and similar devices.
Exception: Toilet facilities designed as a single occupant use may be provided with
exit door locking hardware to afford privacy."
3. Q: Explain how the new code will interpret stories as it relates to mezzanines and the
height of the building. Identify which changes would be required to address concerns for
counting number of stories.
A: It should be noted that a "story" in the context of the building code has a
different purpose and is not the same as a "story" as defined in the City Land Use Code
(LUC). The building code focuses on health and life/fire safety. The LUC focuses on
contextual appropriateness and design. The building code does not correlate number of
stories and building height. In the building code, "mezzanine" is defined as: `an
intermediate level between the floor and ceiling of any story'. Theoretically, the building
code does not place a height limit on a story. Setting limits on the height of a story in the
building code would require numerous amendments to several chapters.
4. Q: Evaluate the need and effectiveness of radon-reduction systems in general (1);
identify how many passive systems have been installed in single-family dwellings, how
many systems have been "activated" (2).
A: (1) See attached memo from Brian Woodruff, City Environmental Planner.
(2) The total number ofpassive systems installed in single-family dwellings can be
estimated from ongoing statistics kept by Neighborhood&Building Services staff. From
the effective date of the adoption of the 2003 International Residential Code (with the
amendment for mandatory radon reduction systems in all single- and two-family
dwellings--attached and detached, and townhouses)January 1, 2005 through January
2008 there were a total of 1,641 dwelling units.
5. Q: Reevaluate the prohibition on unrated shake shingles and determine if still
warranted.
A: The use of non-fire-rated roof coverings would certainly have a negative effect on
our ISO BCEGS rating. We have and propose to continue requiring Class A roofing
materials with minor exceptions for existing buildings. We have required Class A roofing
materials for about 15 years.
6. Q: Reevaluate the effective date of August 1, 2008; move timeline much closer
taking into account those commercial projects that may be submitted for permit and
designed in accordance with the 1997 Uniform Building Code.
A: Staffproposes an effective date of July 1, 2008 in order to allow a transition
period for development of training, license exams and related materials for staff and
construction professionals.
Attachment: Memo from Brian Woodruff, City Environmental Planner 2/13/08
TO: Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Brian Woodruff, Environmental Planner,Natural Resources Department
DATE: 13 February 2008
SUBJECT: Background on Radon Requirements in New Construction
This memo reviews the justification for requiring Radon Resistant New Construction [RRNC] in
single-family homes and duplexes and for extending the requirement to include multi-family
buildings.
What is radon?
Radon is a radioactive gas created during the natural decay of uranium in the soil. Typical negative
pressure inside a building pulls radon gas in through cracks and openings in basements,crawl spaces, and
slabs. Radon levels vary from one building to the next and have nothing to do with age, quality, or upkeep
of the building.
Why is radon a concern?
Radon is known to cause lung cancer in humans. The National Academy of Sciences published
a peer-reviewed report, entitled: "Health Effects of Exposure to Radon: BEIR VI." The report is
the most definitive accumulation of scientific data on indoor radon as of 1999. It confirms that
radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. and that it is a serious public health
problem. The US Environmental Protection Agency best estimate of annual lung cancer deaths
from radon is about 21,000 (with an uncertainty range of 8,000 to 45,000), which is consistent
with the BEIR VI Report. A lifetime of exposure to radon concentrations typical of Fort Collins
homes would result in about 1-in-100 risk of lung cancer.
According to the U.S. Surgeon General, "Indoor radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the
United States. Breathing radon over prolonged periods can present a significant health risk to families all
over the country. It's important to know that this threat is completely preventable. Radon can be detected
with a simple test and fixed through well-established venting techniques."
The Environmental Protection Agency recommends buildings be mitigated if the radon level is 4 pCi/L
(Pico Curies per Liter)or more. Because there is no known safe exposure level, EPA also recommends
you consider mitigating your building for radon levels between 2 pCi/L and 4 pCi/L. Note also that
smokers have much higher risk of lung cancer if they are also exposed to radon.
What are radon levels in Fort Collins?
Thousands of Fort Collins buildings have been tested for radon. Test results indicate that 70%of Fort
Collins buildings have radon levels of 4 pCi/L or above.
What is Radon-Resistant New Construction?
RRNC incorporates a passive ventilation system that creates a pathway for radon to escape from
the soil to the outside air instead of entering the building. Its basic elements include:
A. Gas Permeable Layer—This layer is placed beneath the slab or flooring system to allow the
soil gas to move freely underneath the house. In many cases, the material used is a 4-inch layer
of clean gravel.
I
B. Plastic Sheeting—In crawlspaces, plastic sheeting is
placed over the crawlspace floor to help prevent the soil gas
from entering the home. E
C. Sealing and Caulking—All openings in the concrete
foundation floor are sealed to reduce soil gas entry into the
home.
D. Vent Pipe—A 3- or 4-inch gas-tight or PVC pipe
(commonly used for plumbing) runs from the gas permeable
layer through the house to the roof to safely vent radon and C B A
other soil gases above the house.
E. Junction Box—An electrical junction box is installed
in case an electric venting fan is needed later.
F. Notice to occupant—A placard is fixed to the building advising occupants to test for radon
and to install a fan if necessary.
How effective is RRNC?
The City has tested 65 single-family homes built in 2005 and later, which were required to
incorporate radon-resistant new construction methods. We found that the required passive
system reduces radon by half on average, and reduces the number of homes above 4 pCi/L by
half, as well. However, 35% of new homes still exceed 4 pCi/L with the required passive system
installed, and occupants encouraged to test for radon and activate their radon system if necessary.
What are the costs and benefits of RRNC?
In 2004 City staff evaluated the costs and benefits of requiring RRNC in single-family homes.
Using local data on cancer rates and indoor radon levels, we estimated that installing RRNC in
14,4000 homes at a cost of$1,000 per home, would result in avoiding about 150 lung cancers
over 70 years, at a cost of about$100,000 per cancer avoided.
The Poudre Health Services District staff also analyzed passive radon systems. They concluded
that the cost of passive systems is a reasonable value compared with other methods of preventing
disease and premature death. Based on these findings, the Poudre Health Services District Board
voted to recommend requiring passive systems in new single-family construction.
Extension to multi-family
Council members expressed an interest in extending RRNC requirements to multi-family
buildings at a study session in 2004, preferring to provide similar health prot4ections to both
single- and multi-family residents.
We have anecdotal evidence that multi-family buildings can have elevated radon levels. Renters
and condominium owners have called upon City staff to help them reduce radon in their dwelling
units, with limited success. In the case of renters, their landlords are often not willing to install
radon mitigation, nor are they required to do so under local or state statute. Condo owners
sometimes find elevated radon levels in their units but can be forbidden by their homeowner
association [HOA] from installing a mitigation system. This conflict arises because condo
owners typically do not own exterior walls and roofs, rather they are property held in common,
and the HOA may forbid the roof or wall penetration that a radon mitigation system requires.
Installing RRNC in new multi-family buildings would benefit the occupants because the systems
provide some radon reduction without any further action from a landlord or HOA. In addition,
the presence of a passive radon reduction system would make it easy for a landlord or HOA to
reduce radon further by adding a fan, although neither would be required to do so.
Staff recommendation
Staff recommends that RRNC requirements be extended to new multi-family buildings. We
think this makes sense for a number of reasons. Experience in single-family homes has shown
that passive systems reduce radon by about half without any action on the part of the building
owner or occupants. They can be easily upgraded, if testing shows the need, by adding an in-line
fan in the location provided for it. Radon systems can have side benefits of energy savings and
controlling basement moisture. Costs of installing RRNC in multi-family is less than in single-
family, on a per-dwelling-unit basis.
Following are some of the more frequent questions regarding RRNC and responses by City staff.
Q: Why not fix radon problem after the building is finished?
A: A retrofit radon system is always an active system. Installing a passive system during
construction avoids the need for a continuously operating fan. The sub-slab area can be made
more permeable during construction. Running the vent pipe inside the building reduces aesthetic
impact and creates a natural stack effect that vents radon without using electricity. A cost
comparison shows electricity can be a substantial cost over the life of the building. Using data
on single family homes, a passive system costs about$1000 during construction, while a retrofit
system costs between$800 and $2500 plus about $62/year for electricity and maintenance, or
nearly $5000 over the life of the home.
Q: Aren't cancer risks overblown?Is this an example of'Junk science?"
A: We are persuaded by the many health authorities that say radon is the 2nd leading cause of
lung cancer after smoking. These include the Centers for Disease Control, the National
Academies of Science, and the American Medical Association, Environmental Protection
Agency, Department of Health and Human Services, Surgeon General,National Cancer Institute,
and the World Health Organization. An important part of their message is that these risks can
and should be reduced—an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In addition we note
the cancer risk from radon has been established in peer-reviewed reports, which is the gold
standard in scientific research. The community of scientists will normally include some who
disagree with the mainstream view, but that is a normal part of scientific endeavor and does not
mean the mainstream view is invalid or inconclusive.
Q: Why would the City regulate radon at all? Shouldn't the marketplace determine whether
people want radon systems or not?
A: Staff does not agree with this point of view. We are guided by the purpose of building codes,
which is to protect the health, safety, and property of City residents. Citizens expect the building
code to address known regional hazards --that is a key function of building codes and a duty of
municipal government. For example, hurricane-proof construction makes sense for communities
on Florida's Gulf Coast, but would be inappropriate in Fort Collins, because we don't have
hurricanes. But we do have radon. Local radon levels of radon, a known human carcinogen, are
several times the national average.
Q: "y mitigate every building, when about 30%of them do not need mitigation since they are
below 4PCi/L?
A: 4 PCi/L is the EPA-recommended "action level" for mitigation of existing buildings.
However,because there is no known safe exposure level, EPA also recommends that mitigation be
considered for radon levels between 2 pCi/L and 4 pCi/L. Therefore, reduction of radon in buildings
lower than 4 PCi/L contributes somewhat to lower risk of lung cancer. Also, expenditures to mitigate
the 30% of buildings that are below the action level must be balanced against the reduced cost of
mitigating the 70% of buildings that are above it, since it is more expensive to mitigate buildings
after construction.
ATTACHMENT
Planning,Development&Transportation
City Planning&Community Development fcgov.com/cityplarming
NOTE: These minutes were approved at the July 12,2007, meeting.
City of�.`:
CITY OF FORT COLLINS
AFFORDABLE HOUSING BOARD
MEETING MINUTES
281 N.College Ave.
Fort Collins,Colorado
May 3,2007
Dense Rogers,Chair
Ken Waldo,Staff Liaison,970-221-6753
City Council Liaison: Lisa Poppaw
Board Members Present: Denise Rogers,Jon Fairchild,Dan Byers,Jason Oldham,Robert Sullivan,and Ashley
Monahan.
Board Members Absent: None
Advance Planning Staff Present: Ken Waldo
Council Members Present: None
Board Vice-Chair Jon Fairchild called the meeting to order with a quorum present at 4:03 p.m.
Open Public Discussion
None.
Staff noted an additional item for the agenda,a presentation on the Mason Corridor Project.
Approval of the Minutes of the April 5.2007 Meeting
Robert Sullivan moved that the minutes of the April 5,2007,meeting be approved, Jason Oldham seconded the
motion. The motion passed unanimously 5-0(Denise Rogers arrived later in the meeting).
Mason Corridor Project—Dave Averill Transportation Planning.and Anne Aspen Development Center
Dave Averill gave a Powerpoint presentation on the Mason Corridor Project noting the transportation corridor must
be supported by sound land use planning. Staff has been working to assure the Land Use Code is in sync with the
Transportation Oriented Design(TOD)needs of the corridor. Mixed use,both horizontal and vertical,is being
encouraged. A zoning overlay district granting development incentives includes reduced parking requirements and
increased height for affordable housing developments.
The presentation covered many technical details of the bus rapid transit corridor,wto be funded funding from the
federal and local sources.
2006 Inc mational Building�Code—Mike Gebo,Building Services Manager.Neighborhood&Building Services
Department
Mike Gebo,Building Services Manager,attended the meeting to discuss and answer questions on the proposed new
building code,the 2006 International Building Code(IBC). The 2006 BBC is the commercial building code
regulating all construction,except for single family,duplex,and townhome dwelling units.Thus,all multi-family
projects will fall under the 2006 IBC and since most affordable housing projects are multi-family projects the code
will apply to affordable units. The City is expected to adopt the 2006 IBC this summer.
281 Notch College Avenue a PO Box 580 a Fort Collins,CO 80522-0580 a 970-221-6376
Fax 970-224-6111 a TDD 970-224-6002 a cityplanning@tcgov,com
May 3,2007,Affordable Housing Board Meeting Minutes—pg,2
Hie Powerpoint presentation covered the major differences between the current code and proposed code
highlighting,noting where increased costs could be found,and the change in philosophy from passive fire resistance
("containment")to active fire suppression("put it ouf'),
1997 Uniform Building Code 2006International Buildin Code
Allowable area and increases based on sprinklers Basic allowable areas per table are larger to start,
a but not height and area, increases in height and area for sprinklers.
Area increase based on yards open per 2,3 or 4 Area increase determined by calculation and based
sides open. on percentage of perimeter open.
Occupancy separations required between Non-separated Occupancies allowed provided the
incompatible occupancies. building construction type,area and height are used
based on the most restrictive occupancy
No special area andheight increases for apartment Provides for increases in height and area of
buildings. apartment buildings under special construction
re uirementa,
Exterior wall fire rating based on distance to Exterior wall rating based on occupancy,highest
property line,determined by construction type and rating is 3 hours,with a 30 foot distance criteria.
occupancy,has a 4 hour rated wall and criteria at 20
feet and 40 feet
Fire suppressions systems required in multi-family Fire suppressions systems required in all multi-
buildings under certain criteria, family.Tri-plex and larger.
Egress windows required in sleeping rooms below Other than single-family dwellings,Egress windows
4th floor and basements. not required in fire-sprinkled buildings. (Review
committee agreed to amend this and proposes
requiring egress windows in all sleeping rooms
below the 4th floor).
In responses to questions Mike noted that wood framing was allowed up to 4 stories,instead of steel,a cost savings
and noted that menu buildings are already
! Development Impact Fee Freeze far Affordable Housing_ iects
The Board had a long discussion as to whether or not to pursue this issue. Staff explained what an impact"freeze"
would actually mean,i.e.,other funds would need to be found to cover any gaps in the differences between curr
and future impact fee levels. It was agreed that if the issue were going to be pursued,that a solution sh e
offered to the Council. The Board asked staff to research some data(affordable housing funding lev impact
fee increases for the last 10 years)that could be used for justification in a position to be takenl000ard. The
bottom line would be to place the Board in a position to advocate for additional fundin otdable housing
i purposes. Given the current policy focus of the Council,any recommendation sho connected to the issue of
economic development.
Periodic Review Procesa
The Board delayed discussion of this item until the eating where it will be discussed.Chair Denise Rogers
requested Board members come prepared to a questions of the questionnaire that is due to the City Clerk
by July 9 in time for the Council Work 5 on July 24.This item will continue to appear on the Board's agenda
until the questionnaire is completed
Liaison(torts
None.
one.
COMMISSION ON DISABILITY MINUTES
edited with corrections and approved 9/13/07
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Fort Collins City Hall
i Council Information Center: 12 : 15 p.m.
Present : Beverly Hageseth, Susan Williams, Steve
Rierson, Janie Bondhus Black, Mary Elizabeth Lenahan,
Rob Gerk, Amber (sign interpreter) , Bruce Bryne (City
Liaison) , Vivien Armendariz, Terry Schlichting.
Guests: Felix Lee, Fort Collins Neighborhood and
Building Services and Michael Gebo, Building Codes
Services Manager for the City of Fort Collins
Minutes from the May meeting were not available and
will be reviewed and approved at the July meeting.
4 GUEST PRESENTATION:
Fort Collins Neighborhood and Building Services is
in the process of reviewing the 2006 International
Building Code to replace the 1997 Uniform Building Code
currently in use. Mr. Gebo (Mike) supplied the
commissioners an outline of his presentation (copy
included) .
Mike addressed the changes that are recommended
for all new and re-modeled buildings that are larger
than two-family and single family dwellings (for
example, three-plexes and larger multi-family dwellings
and all commercial buildings) . Building Services has
been reviewing the code changes for the past year to
replace the 1997 code for commercial and multi-family
dwellings . Accessibility in 1997 dealt' with entrances;
in the current code accessibility also addresses
emergency evacuations (Section 10. 07) and how persons
in wheelchairs will be served in an emergency.
The number of exits per building will be
determined by occupant load: i . e . if serving greater
than 50 people, two exits are required and "all need to
be accessible from an accessible route" and have access
to a public right of way. For example, with two exits,
the first should have no step and the second ideally
would have no step, but have "an area of assisted
rescue to an outside area". This would be a smoke-
detected area of safety with 1 space for a person in a
wheel-chair per 200 people. The fire department could
then rescue those in need from this area of safety.
Also, one elevator in five-story buildings is required
to be fully accessible with and area of refuge and
emergency stand-by power. Stairways also will be
accessible by being 48 inches wide to allow rescuers to
carry a person and/or person in a wheelchair out
safely. Requirements also include flashing lights,
braille, and sounds to offer directions to safety
areas . These areas of safety will have two-way
communication. Platform lifts will now be part of an
accessible route . All requirements prior to the new
regulations will still be in effect . These changes
should only incur a reasonable cost increase .
More buildings will have fire-sprinkled systems .
All new buildings, additions, and remodels will be
impacted when the new code is implemented January 1,
2008 . Mr. Gebo would like the Commission on Disability
to review the code and changes and make a statement
reflecting our comments, additions, support, and/or
recommendations by August, 2007 . He is willing to
return should we have questions or clarifications . The
code approval will go before City Council in November.
The Commissioners thanked Mr. Gebo and Mr. Lee for
attending the meeting.
Action: Commission on Disability will review the
building code prior to the July meeting, at which we
will discuss and create a statement. Those
commissioners who cannot attend the July meeting,
please send your comments and questions via e-mail
before July loth to be incorporated in the discussion
on July 12th. The commission moved to draft a letter
for Mr. Gebo and Mr. Lee at the July meeting and all
were in favor .
NEW SUSn1ESS:
Steve and Susan will be exiting from the
Commission on Disability in December. Nominations fo
the executive committee could be made in August . 0
those who have served for one year are eligible nd
only Terry meets that criteria unless we change t by-
laws . Terry has indicated that he is avail le to
chair. Schedule for elections : August = no ations;
October = elections; January = new executiv committee
takes office.
SUB-COMrIITTEE REPORTS:
Community-Access Advisory Sub-Commit shared a DVD
"Ten Small Business Mistakes", pro ed by the Access
Video Fund under a grant from the S. Department of
Justice .
In summary, the DVD point out that over 50, 000, 000
people in the U. S . have d' abilities and half of
people over 65 have disab' ities. These citizens
annually spend $175 bil on dollars on discretionary
spending. Businesses a made some of these mistakes:
1. Thinking that the are "no people with disabilities
to serve in the ar " .
2 . Assuming thei roperty has been "grandfathered" and
is exempt from e law. Businesses are not exempt .
3. Simply havi "a new building" is enough.
Businesse need to look at their communication with
patrons, eeping aisles cleared, and operating
polici for serving persons with disabilities .
4 . Comp ing is "not affordable". Businesses should
re a barriers that are readily achievable over
e; there are tax credits & deductions available.
5 Using the excuse that the "landlord says NO" .
Commission on Disability
300 LaPorte Avenue
jjljjjjjjjlijij
PO Box 580
t Fort Collins,CO 80522
City Of Fort Collins .r. 970.221.6610
970.221.6534-fax
togov.0om
September 13,2007
To all City Council members:
Please see the attached outline explaining the updates to the International Building
Code as presented to the Commission on Disability by Felix Lee and Mike Gebo at our
June 141h meeting. Thank you to Mr. Lee and Mr. Gebo for their presentation. This code
is being reviewed for adoption to replace the existing universal building code from 1997.
The Commission on Disability urges the City Council of Fort Collins to voice your
approval of these new codes.
Having areas of refuge, accessible stairways and elevators, and emergency evacuation
plans are positive concepts for inclusion in commercial and multi-family buildings. These
codes are a step forward in securing ease of mind for every person living life from a
wheelchair.
Please excuse the tardiness of our correspondence since the original intention was to
supply this letter of support in July, 2007.
Cordially, �r---
Susan Williams,Chair
Commission on Disability
Updated, edited,and signed:Mary Elizabeth Lenahan,Commissio ember, February It,2008
L' C , l ike C)el 0
i t) 0 a- MCI M'C'�f
L
where renewal is a way of life
r >, Planning, Development and Transportation Services
Planning & Zoning
City of Fort Collins
August 11, 2007
Mike Gebo
Building Codes/Inspection Administrator
RE: Recommendation to City Council to Adopt the 2006 International Building Code
Thank you for the presentation to the Planning &Zoning Board at their work session on August
10, 2007. Because minutes are not taken at Board work sessions, I wanted to let you know the
Board appreciated the brief overview of the 20061ntemational Building Code(IBC)and the
2007 Supplement to the 2006 IBC and supports their adoption—providing Fort Collins with the
latest national standard mk1building1cod for commercial and multi-family projects.
Cameron Glos`s-
Planning &Zoning Director
281 North College Avenue—P.O.Box 580—Fort Collins,CO 80522-0580—(970)221-6750—FAX(970)224-6134
Fort Collins Utilities Electric Board Minutes
Wednesday,January 16,2008
Electric Board Chairperson City Conncil Liaison
John Morris,377-8221 Wade Trozell
Electric Board Vice Chairperson Staff Liaison
Dan Bihn,218-1962 Olivia Brown,221-6700
Roll Call
Board Present
Chairperson John Morris, Dan Bihn,John Harris,Steve Wolley and Jeff Lebesch
Absent
John Graham and Tom Bamish
Staff Present
Brian Janonis,Patty Bigner,Terri Bryant,Dana Leavitt,Tom Rock,Ellen Switzer,Dennis
Sumner,Eric Dahlgren, Brad Burke,Kraig Bader,Doug Swartz,Norm Weaver,DeEtta Carr and
Olivia Brown
Guests
Mike Gebo,Building Codes Services Manager and Eric Sutherland
Meeting Convened
Chairperson John Morris called the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m.
Citizen Participation
Eric Sutherland of Port Collins questioned the value of Renewable Energy Certificates(RECs)in
addressing climate change,renewable energy and reducing resource depletion. He encouraged
the Electric Board,Fort Collins Utilities and Platte River Power Authority to continue the
discussion of the cost benefit analysis of RECs.
Minutes of December 5.2007
Board Member Steve Wolley motioned to approve the minutes from the December 5,2007,
meeting. Board Member John Barris seconded the motion, and the motion passed unanimously.
2006 International Building Code—Amendments
Mike Gebo,Building Codes Services Manager with Neighborhood and Building Services,
presented on the 2006 International Building Code(IBC). He is proposing that the City adopt the
2006 IBC and the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code(IECC)to replace the current
code,the 1997 Uniform Building Code with local amendments that were adopted in 1998. The
State of Colorado has mandated all jurisdictions adopt at least the 2003 MCC by July 2008.
Electric Board Minutes
January 16,2008
Page 2
Adopting the 2006 IECC will conserve energy and keep City code in compliance with state law,
because it actually exceeds the 2003 IECC.He shared a handout that compares the current
commercial energy code to the 2006 IECC.This code increases insulation values and decreases
Watts allowed for general illumination.Another significant change from the current building
code is the promotion of fare-suppression systems (sprinklers)rather than fire-resistive -
construction, which only delays the spread of fire.
When asked by Utilities Executive Director Brian Janonis about the possibility of adding local
amendments to the new code,Mr.Gebo said he believes it will be relatively easy to do if the
need arises.A committee comprised of architects,engineers,developers,Latimer County
Building Department,Pottdre Fire Authority,Building Review Board members and City staff
convened in August 2006 to review the IBC.The committee members agreed to amend the IBC
as little as possible for consistency across jurisdictions along the Front Range. Board Member
Steve Wolley supports the adoption of the 2006 IBC and IECC,but wants Fort Collins to
continue to adopt local amendments as needed in order to be on the cutting edge of energy
conservation This code establishes a minimum standard that must be met by all builders;
LEED®(Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) accredited builders can differentiate
themselves in the market based on higher standards.
Mr. Gebo has presented to the Affordable Housing Board,Commission on Disability,and
Planning and Zoning.He will also present to Natural Resources,Building Review Board and Air
Quality before the upcoming City Council work session.After Mr.Gebo's presentation on the
2006 International Building Code to the Electric Board, Board Member Steve Wolley motioned
to support adoption of the new code.Board Member Jeff Lebesch seconded the motion, and it
was unanimously passed by the Electric Board.
Fall Liehtine Proeram—Preliminary Results
Energy Services Engineer Doug Swartz reported on the 2007 Residential Ligh ' gram.The
program began as a pilot in 2005,with full-fledged implementation in 2 erestingly,Platte
River Power Authority(PRPA)adopted the Fort Collins program expanded it to all four
of the PRPA owner-cities in 2007.The goal is to try to change on both the supply and
demand sides. The program was open to all retailers int m participating and included both
locally owned and big box retailers. The annual pro icka off near the beginning of October
and runs through mid-December.Typically,the hies offer a discount of$.50 to$2 per
compact fluorescent bulb(CFL),with a f a ENERY STAR®bulbs for easy recognition and
uniformity in standards, LED holida ' were also discounted and turn-in events for old,but
still working conventional light , offered an additional $2 coupon for a new string of LED
lights.In-store promotions educational events offered an opportunity for consumer
education.
Energy S Administrator Tiana Jennings made weekly visits to stores to establish standards
for t ck,promotion and sales reporting,which is key to the success of the program.
met demand,retailer confidence,local stock and variety of products offered have all
creased. All retailers sold out of the LED holiday lights,including those who had no
incentives.The retailers' CFL bulb sales were boosted,too.Even after the incentives ended, the
Excerpt from the Electric Board Meeting Minutes 4-16-08
Board Member Steven Wolley motioned to approve the Neighborhood and Building Services
Department's adoption of the 2007 ASHRAE 90.1 Commercial Energy Code. Board Member
John Harris seconded the motion and it was passed unanimously by the Electric Board.
MINUTES
Natural Resources Advisory Board
Regular Meeting
January 16, 2008
• As a final statement,Clint Skutchan said that he was not at the NRAB meeting for a
meal,but to help make the city a better place to live. If the members of the NRAB
choose a meal instead of donating the money to help National Resoruoes he
would be disappointed at the lack of their environmental commitment.
• In closing,Ryan Staychoek stated if individual members ofthe NRAB ed to forego
eating,that was their deeision,but he didn't think this board shout a policy that
would affect the interest and participation of future board m
• Glen Colton stated if Clint felt a board member wouldn't without having a meal,he
book that as a personal affront.
• Ryan Staychock tailed the vote.
Vote —5
M Fanedvvith
Ryan Staychock,Glen Colton, Dean,Rosernarie Russo,Liz Pruessner,opposing.
>Oen
S that he will not be eating any meals at the NRAB meeting for
xt F ,starting tonight and encouraged other members of the board to do
Knowlton indicated she would be eating at future meetings.
olton asked for smaller portions.
Update on Banding Cade
Mike Gebo,Building Code and Services Manager for the Neighborhood Building Services
Department addressed the NRAB regarding a proposed upgrade of the commercial Building
• Feat Collins currently uses the 1997 Uniform Building Code which has bad many local
amendments.
• The International Residential Code has already been adopted by the city of Fort Collins.
• The City is moving to adopt the 2006-09 International Building Code that would regulate
construction of all commercial buildings and all multi family buildings of tri-plex and
more.The IBC is the latest national standard.
• State law says all jurisdictions in the state of Colorado will have adopted the 2003
International Energy Conservation Codes by 2008. The City is looking to adopt the 2009
code,which is the next step up.
Mike gave the group some background on the current process:
• In 2006,the City established a committee composed of the Fort Collins Neighborhood
Building Services Department,architects,engineers,developers,builders,Larimer
County building department and Fire authority,to review the 1997 Uniform Building
Code and its atnendmetrts to determine if the City should amend it fiat=or adopt the
most ourtent building code.
• During the review process the group determined the 2006 International Standard Building
Code had sonic items that seemed incorrect,and when the supplement to the code was
issued,they discovered those errors had been corrected in a supplement.
• The committee therefore proposes to not adopt the amended 2006 code,but take portions
of the supplement to the 2006 code as local amendments and adopt major portions of the
upcoming 2009 International Building Code,thereby being ahead of most of the hunt
range in building codes.
4
• Fort Collins City Council agreed to this plan and asked the committee to study where
Fort Collins stands relative to services,provisions for multi-family building and radon
within this code.
Regarding those portions of the 2009 International Building Code that would affect the natural
resources of Fort Collins,Mike Gebo outlined what he thought the NRAB would be interested in.
• There was a philosophical change in thinking between the 1997 code and the 2009 code
regarding how to deal with fire in commercial buildings.
0 1997 code required fire to be contained by using multiple layers of sheet rock and
fits doors.
0 2009 code requires that sprinklers be installed to put out the fire without
containment and occupancy separations.
■ Because buildings would be sprinkled you can have bigger buildings
made from wood or concrete built to the highest hazard occupancy and
eliminating extra materials that aen't needed.
■ Multi family buildings of 3 or more will be required to have fire
sprinklers.
• The committee did a cost comparison of construction between the old and new code
relative to construction coats,labor,reduction of building materials and cost of a fire
suppression system and determine it was approximately equal.
• The 2009 code references`rooftop gardens"as a possible source of savings.
• The 2006 daumational Energy Conservation Code reflects the energy savings incurred by
building more energy efficient buildings.
o Requirements for greater wall insulation values.
o Slab an grades would have a perimeter insulation.
o Main entrances would require air locks.
In summary,Mike Gebo stated that by adopting the 2009 International Building Code,the city
would be saving energy by saving on building materials,building more energy efficient buildings
and fuel consumption to produce electricity for the buildings. He asked the NRAB to comment on
the code so he can relay that to the City Council when he meets with them next week.
The Beard discussed Mike's presentation and asked questions.
• Ryan Staychock commented momaing R values insulation was a positive thing,but
wondered about the"wash"between the costs of fire sprinklers versus containment and
the additional construction costa.
o Mike Gebo stated the"wash"on cost of fire centaimnent vs.sprinklers is mainly
in multi family dwellings which are currently required to have fire resistant
structures. Regarding commercial buildings,he felt there would be a cost
mormse to provide more insulation,air locks and sprinklers.The committee has
not done a cost per kilowatts study,but Mike felt there would be substantial
energy savings in the long run.
• Clint Skutchan wondered what local changes in the code go above and beyond in multi-
family buildings and how does increase building costs affordable housing complexes.
o Mike pointed out,locally,Fort Collins will be ahead with life,health safety
options for multi family dwellings by requiring special fro-rated air locks on the
second floor for wheel chair access in a sprinkled building and radon reduction
systems in multi family buildings.The per-family cost of the radon abatement
systems is less in multi-family buildings.
5
o Mike also pointed out that the home owners and renters in Fort Collins are
already quite savvy regarding radon and having radon mitigation systems.
• In response to a question by Joe Piesman if all commercial buildings would be required
to have sprinkler systems,Mike Gebo said the mandate is for multi family buildings only
because that is where the greatest loss of life is.
• Clint Skutchan wondered how fool proof the sprinkler systems are and if they are
inspected.
o MikeGebo stated the Poudre Fire Authority is very much pro sprinkler systems.
They have surveys that show significant life and property savings because the
fire was put out much quicker.
o Glen Colton stated be is proud that Ft.Collins is an the leading edge of this and
that energy conservation is always a good thing.
Linda Knowlton moved to recommend to the Fort Collins City Council that they approve the
2006International Building Code with amendments and the 20061E CC proposed by the
Neighborhood and Building Services. Joe Piesman seconded the motion.
The board voted 7-1 to support the motion.
Clint Skutchan voted against,citing lack of information about local amendments
Motion Passed
Trash Services Study
Susie Gordon of the Natural Resources Department and Ann 1lanquist,Policy and Project
Manager from the City Manager's Office addressed the NRAB regarding the current Trash
Services Study.
Ann Tumquiat noted that she will be project managing the trash study that was funded'
2008 budget. City Manager Darin Atteberry added it to the mix ofprc jeots for$75 to
complete a study on trash issues in Fort Collins. She gave the board a memo s ve the City
Council at their January 8 mating that outlined the study and then talked a the highlights of
the project.
The problem statement: In what ways can the City reduce acts of trash collection
services in Fort Collins,addressing issues of air quality,n ' hood aesthetics,noise,
neighborhood safety and the cost of local street wear? there ways that we might also
improve diversion rates for recyclables?
The project Scopes The project will rcvi kground information regarding trash collection
issues in Feat Collins,identification of' as(causes and effects),past studies,legal issues,and
options for addressing issues which
identified. Options under consideration will include: no
changes to the existing system, tional regulatory actions towards identified problems or
dimicting of trash services City billing.
Project Scheduler
• City Cc il agreed with the focus of this study.Ann Tumquist pointed out that Fort
Col ' 'd a similar study 10 years ago,but only focused on trash districting. The
t study will also focus on recycling and opportunities for improved waste stream
iversions.
6
Mike GBb0-Re: NRAB raga 7
1e/
From: John Armstrong
To: Gebo, Mike
Date: Friday,April 18, 2008 10:01:00 AM
Subject: Re: NRAB
Hi Mike,
Alexis was out yesterday, sorry for the delay.
"On 18 April 2008,the NRAB voted 7-1 to support adoption of the 2006 International Building Code,
including the 2007 ASHRE 90.1 Commercial Energy Code."
Let me know If you need anything else.
Cheers,
John
>>> Mike Gebo 4/18/2008 9:51 AM>>>
HI John,
sending a reminder for a quick sentence or two addressing the boards recommendation to council to
approve the ASHRAE 2007 along with the 2008 IECC.
Thanks
Have a great weekend
Mike
MINUTES
Building Review Board
Regular Meeting BRB January 31,2009 Pg,6
January 31, 2008
5. IBC Presentation.
!� Mike(lobo, the City's Building Code Services Manager,presented information to the Board on
current IBC efforts. The following items were noted:
• The 2006 IBC is the latest nationally recognized standard adopted by many jurisdictions
along the Front Range. The 2006 IBC will replace the current 1997 UBC adopted in
1998.
• The Code Review Committee started its review in August 2006. Architects, developers,
builders, Larimer County, Poudre Fire Authority and City staff were all asked to
volunteer to sit on the Committee. Committee members agreed to amend the 113C as little
as possible for consistency across jurisdictions. The Committee was able to eliminate
nearly 25 local amendments that were in place under the 1997 UBC.
• Code update information was given to City Council at a work session in April 2007.
Council requested that staff study radon reduction in multi-family structures, survey
contractors and jurisdictions, review the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code,
review the 2007 supplement published in July of 2007 and do additional public outreach.
• The Code Review Committee reconvened in the fall of 2007 and reviewed the 2007
supplement to the 2006 IBC. Based on this review, 30 supplement items were proposed
as local amendments to the 2006 IBC.
• The Committee also reviewed radon reduction systems in multi-family units, LEEDS
Accreditation,and the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code.
• The single most important change between the UBC and IBC is the change in
construction philosophy. The 1997 UBC used a passive approach that delayed the spread
of fire through fire-resistive construction. The 2006 IBC uses an active approach that
stops the spread of fire through the use of fire suppression systems.
• Under the IBC, occupancies will now be classified based on use, not just occupant load.
Occupancies are more clearly defined. High rise provisions are not just limited to office
and residential use.It includes additional requirements for fire and smoke control.
• The IBC contains provisions for spaces located more than 30 feet below grade, which
was not previously regulated. Basic allowable areas per table are larger to start and
include increases in both height and area for sprinkled areas.
• Area increase will be determined by calculation and based on percentage of perimeter
open, not the number of yards. Non-separated occupancies are allowed provided the
building construction type, area and height are used based on the most restrictive
occupancy.
• Exterior wall rating is based on occupancy, the highest rated wall is 3 hours, with a 30
foot distance criteria. Fire suppression systems are required in all multi-family buildings
for tri-plexes and larger.
BRB January 31,2008 Pg.7
• Egress ceiling height has increased to a minimum of 7ft 6in. Emergency power for egress
' illumination is required when 2 exits exist,regardless of occupant load.
• Exits are separated from each other by one-third the overall diagonal in sprinkled
buildings.Fire rating of exit systems is based on occupant load and fire sprinkler systems.
• Egress width is determined by occupant load with decrease allowance for fire-sprinkled
buildings. Other than single-family dwellings, egress windows are not required in fire-
sptinkled buildings.
• Emergency exits and 60% of entrances must be wheelchair accessible. Accessible
elements were designed in accordance with the latest edition of ICCIANSI a1117.1.
,
• New section called Residence (Live)/Work Units is included which establishes standards
for the"home-occupation". There is a revised table which clarifies wall and window fire
ratings due to property line. There is another new section which regulates "Roof
Gardens".
• New section included which provides clearance and physical protection requirements
around fire department connection locations and installation requirements of fire pumps.
a New section included requiring"Emergency Responder Safety Features"for all buildings
over 75 feet tall that specifies exiting system components,construction, identification and
illumination.
• New section included which specifies the required accessible components of a courtroom
including the jury box, gallery seating, employee work stations, council work stations
including lectern and a required"Assistive Listening System".
• Some of the local amendments that will remain unchanged are 100 mile per hour design
wind speed for buildings; requirements for wind resistant roofing; ground snow load of
30 psf; emergency egress windows required in all bedrooms below the 0 floor; entire
building fire-sprinkler systems for most new buildings containing more than 5,000 square
feet unless divided into fire containment areas; and Class A roofing on all new buildings
and re-roof jobs.
• A new local amendment has been added that requires Radon Reduction Systems in new
multi-fancily buildings that are tri-plexes or more. Existing installation standards
established for new single-family dwellings will be used.
• The State has mandated that all jurisdictions adopt the 2003 IECC or equivalent by July
2008. The 2006 IECC regulates commercial as well as multi-family buildings up to 3
stories. ASHRAE 90.1 regulates commercial as well as multi-family buildings over 3
stories.The 2006IECC Chapter 5,commercial buildings shall meet IECC or ASHRAE.
• The 20061FCC increases the exterior wall insulation from R-8 to R-13 and increases roof
insulation from R-18 to R-20.Window glazing will meet a minimum U value of.55.
BRB January 3I,2008 Pg.8
• The 2006 IECC increases mechanical ductwork insulation from R-6.5 to R 8 when the
' ductwork is located in an exterior wall. It decreases the lighting allowance in watts per
square foot, for many uses such as dining,office,church and retail spaces.
• A local amendment will retain slab on grade perimeter insulation of R-8 for unheated
slabs or R 10 for heated slabs. "Moisture forgiving wall sytems"will add more flexibility
using material effective in inhibiting moisture, including weather barriers C Tyvek") and
use of latex paint on interior walls.
The IBC Review Committee unanimously approved the 2006 IBC,the local amendments and the
2006 IECC. This information has also been presented to the Affordable Housing Board,
Commission on Disability,Planning and Zoning Board,Electric Board,Natural Resources Board
and the Water Board. An upcoming presentation is scheduled to be given to the Air Quality
Board on February 26,2008.
The Code Review Committee met again with City Council at a Work Session on January 22,
2008, Council indicated at that time that they plan to move forward with adoption.
Cram made a motion that the Board support and adopt the codes and amendments as presented.
Packard seconded the motion.
Vote:
Yeas: Cram,Packard,Cram, Smilie,Smith,Gust,Schneider
Nays:
6. Other Business
• Welcome to new Board Member—Jeff Schneider
• 2007 Annual Report:
Carr made a motion to approve the 2007 Annual Report. a seconded the motion.
Vote:
Yeas: Carr,Packard,Cram,Smilie,Smith, Schneider
Nays:
• Election of Officer's for 2008:
Board Member Smilie ominated to serve as Chair. Board Member Packard was
nominated to serve a ice Chair.
Motions were a and seconded.
Vote:
Y arr, Packard, Cram, Smilie, Smith, Gust, Schneider
Natural Resources Department
200 W. Mountain
PO Box 580
Fort Collins,CO 80522-0580
City of Port Collins 970.221.6600
FAX 970.224,6177
(cgov.com
MEMORANDUM
Date: 21 April 2008
To: Mayor Hutchinson and City Council members
From: Air Quality Advisory Board
Subject: Building Code revision
Members of the Air Quality Advisory Board have considered the proposed adoption of the
International Building Code with local amendments, and we recommend unanimously that the
City Council adopt the proposed ordinance on first reading.
The Board focused its review on two issues: energy conservation standards for commercial
buildings, and radon requirements for multi-family buildings. Buildings placed into service
today will last for many decades. Although the proposed energy conservation standards are a
step in the right direction, Board members feel that more needs to be done to improve the energy
performance of new buildings, considering the importance of building energy use in overall
energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, as shown in the graph below. Therefore we urge the
Council to consider, during the next code update following this one, the adoption of stronger
energy standards such as those contained in the Leadership for Energy and Environmental
Design (LEED) criteria.
The new radon requirements are a natural extension of the current requirements on single-family
homes, which the Board has long supported. We feel it is appropriate and important that multi-
family residents have the same health risk protections as single-family.
If you have any questions or comments about this Air Quality Advisory Board Recommendation,
please contact me.
Eric Levine, Chair
U.S.ENER
CONSU
t , .
where renewal is a way of life
Planning, Development and Transportation Services
Neighborhood and Building Services
City of Fort Collins
January 16, 2008
Open Public lnfotmational Meeting
January 9, 2008
215 Community Room
Reference:
• 2006 International Building Code (IBC)
• 2006 International Energy Conservation Code(IECC)
• Proposed amendments
Neighborhood and Building Services hosted an open public meeting on January 9 for the purpose of introducing
and soliciting feedback on the proposed for adoption 2006 IBC and 2006 IECC. The meeting was attended by
approximately 30 individuals, mostly general contractors who are familiar with building codes.
The 2006 IBC and 2006 IECC including the supplements now being proposed for adoption were discussed.
Staff presented the audience with a complete timeline of the City's review of the proposed codes, starting in
2006 up through to the present. Staff outlined each significant change identified in the IBC and IECC and
reviewed the anticipated cost associated with each. Staff reviewed the proposed amendments and identified
which items might be considered controversial,particularly the requirement that multi-family buildings be
constructed with fire-suppression systems and the City's proposed amendment requiring radon reduction
systems in multi-family buildings.
Throughout the presentation, the audience asked mostly general questions about the codes being presented and
showed interest in the adoption and effective dates.At the conclusion of the presentation, the floor was opened
for a general discussion. Most comments about the codes were positive, especially in regards to a new buildings
design flexibility afforded by the new standards. Staff polled the audience for negative feedback and none was
received.
281 North College Avenue—P.O. Box 580—Fort Collins, CO 80522-0580
Building—(970) 416-2740; FAX (970) 224-6134 Neighborhood-(970)224-6046; FAX (970) 224-6050
ATTACHMENT 4
2006 Intemational Building Code (IBC),
2006 International Energy Conservation
Code (IECC) & local amendments
Fort Collins
City Council Regular Meeting
May 6, 2008
Felix Lee - Neighborhood & Building Services Director
Mike Gebo — Building Code Services Manager
Paul Eckman, Deputy City Attorney
N Subject for Discussion N
First Reading for adoption of
2006 IBC, 2006 IECC and local
amendments.
2
1
N Recommendation N
✓Adoption on First Reading
3
N Recommendation N
✓ Affordable Housing Board
✓ Commission on Disability
✓ Planning & Zoning Board
✓ Electric Board
✓ Natural Resources Advisory Board
✓ Air Quality Advisory Board
✓ Building Review Board
4
2
" Summary ev
2006 IBC & 20061ECC
Latest model building codes for:
new & additions to commercial,
industrial & multi-family buildings
(3 or more units).
5
ev Summary
2006 IBC, 2006 IECC & amendments:
■ Replace obsolete 1997 Uniform
Building Code (UBC) and
companion energy code.
e
3
N Summary N
2006 MCC with 2007ASHRAE 90.1:
• Latest energy conservation standard for
commercial buildings.
■ Replaces current energy code based on
1989 ASHRAE standard.
■ More energy-conserving than UBC:
■ Satisfies State of CO min. energy
conservation standards in 2008.
tv Background N
Council Work Session 4/24/07
■ Staff presented overview of 2006IBC.
■ Staff recommended:
Postpone until review 2007 Supplements,
2006IBC& IECC, and standards for
Radon-Resistant Construction (RRC)in
multi-family.
B
4
N Background N
Council Work Session 1/22/08
Staff , Committee, B&Cs recommend:
• 2007 IBC & IECC Supplements
• Radon-Resistant Construction in multi-
family.
B
N Background ev
Council Work Session 1/22/08
Council directed staff to:
• Find out how City would make top ISO
score.
• Include touch-free toilet facilities in food-
service businesses.
• Explain mezzanines and building height.
10
5
N Background N
Council Work Session 1/22/08 (cont.)
Council directed staff to:
• Reevaluate non-rated wood roofing.
• Evaluate RRC need and effectiveness.
• Consider moving up effective date.
ry Changes �►
2006 1BC.•
■ Strategic shift to occupant/building
safety by early fire-suppression via
sprinklers.
V.
1997 UBC :
■ Long-standing emphasis on slowing
fire-progression via added materials.
,2
6
N Changes N
■ Mandatory Radon-Resistant Construction
in multi-family housing.
■ Increased R-values in walls & ceilings.
• Reduced moisture through walls to inhibit
mold, improve IAQ & building durability.
■ Requires less total wattage to reduce
energy consumption, i.e., large retail.
13
N Estimated Added Construction Costs N
New cost for fire-sprinkler systems in multi-
family —
✓ Sprinkler costs nearly same as added
construction materials required by UBC',
with the added benefit of greater
occupant safety & insurance savings.
14
7
N Estimated Added Insulation Costs N
* Estimates include installed cost per sq. ft.
Roofs:
✓No Attic - $0
✓Attic - $0.90
Walls:
✓Wood Frame - $0.20
✓Steel Frame - $1.00
15
N Estimated Added �►
Construction Costs
■ Radon-reduction systems in multi-
family:
$500 to $700 increase per dwelling unit.
15
s
Reduced Costs
Adoption will re-establish best
commercial insurance rating by
Insurance Service Office (ISO)
for entire city.
,7
�► Public Process N
IBC Code Review Committee
■ Poudre Fire Authority, Building Review
Board, Larimer County, Builders,
Architects, Engineers, City staff
Public meeting held:
■ Several builders and design
professional attended.
18
9
N Timeline N
• First Reading May 6, 2008
■ Second Reading May 20, 2008
• Effective date July 1 , 2008
1. Phase-in for projects between code change
2. Re-establish favorable ISO commercial
flood insurance rating;
3. Staff/professional training; and
4. Update contractor license exams.
19
20
10
ORDINANCE NO . 049, 2008
OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
AMENDING CHAPTER 5 , ARTICLE II, DIVISION 2, OF THE CITY CODE
FOR THE PURPOSE OF ADOPTING THE 2006INTERNA1I0NAL
BUILDING (IBC) 9, WITH AMENDMENTS
WHEREAS , the current general building code adopted by City is based on the last and final
version of the defunct UNIFORMBUILDING CODE, 1997 EDITION, published by the former
International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO), as enacted in May 1998 ; and
WHEREAS , since 2000, ICBO dissolved following its merger with the other two former
nationally prominent building-code promulgating organizations, to emerge as the International Code
Council (ICC) *); and
WHEREAS thousands of ICC member jurisdictions from across the country and around the
world, following extensive and ongoing deliberations, convened to cast final ballots for the approval
of the latest published triennial group of the ICC model building codes, the 2006 INTERNA TIONAL
CODES O, for the express purpose of inclusively regulating the construction, alteration, movement,
enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, removal and demolition
of every type of building; and
WHEREAS , a volunteer code-review task group (represented by code officials from the City
of Fort Collins, Poudre Fire Authority, and Larimer County, the professional building and design
industries in the Larimer County region, and various other contributors as needed) has completed an
extensive review of the 2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODED, the companion ICC mid-
triennial update in the form of the 2007 IBC SUPPLEMENT O, in addition to the proposed local
amendments thereto ; and
WHEREAS , the Affordable Housing Board, the Air Quality Advisory Board, the Building
Review Board, the Electric Board, the Health District of Northern Larimer County Board, the
Natural Resources Advisory Board, the Planning and Zoning Board, and the Commission on
Disability have made certain recommendations with respect to the adoption of the 2006
INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODED and proposed amendments ; and
WHEREAS , the Council of the City of Fort Collins has determined that it is in the best
interest of the health, safety and welfare of the City and its citizens that the 2006INTERNATIONAL
BUILDING CODED, as amended be adopted.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT
COLLINS that Chapter 5 , Article II, Division 2 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended and revised in the following respects :
Section 1 . That Section 5 -26 subparagraph (a) of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is
hereby repealed and reenacted to read as follows :
1
(a) There is hereby adopted by reference, as the building code of the City, the 2006
International Building Code (IBC)°, published by the International Code Council (ICC)°, as
if set forth in full herein. The subject matter of the codes adopted herein includes
comprehensive provisions and standards regulating the erection, construction, enlargement,
alteration, repair, moving, removal, conversion, demolition, occupancy, equipment, use,
height, area and maintenance of buildings and structures, exclusive of detached one- and
two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three
(3 ) stories above grade and their associated accessory structures, for the purpose of
protecting the public health, safety and general welfare.
Section 2 . That Section 5 -27 Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby repealed and
reenacted to read as follows :
Sec. 5-27. Amendments and deletions to code.
The 2006 INTERNA TIONAL BUILDING CODE® adopted herein is hereby amended
in the following respects :
( 1 ) Section 101 , is hereby amended in the following respects :
(a) Section 101. 1 is amended to read as follows :
"101 . 1 . Title. These regulations shall be known as the General Building Code of the City of
Fort Collins, hereinafter referred to as ` this Code ' ."
(b) Section 101 . 4 is amended by adding the following new subsections at the end thereof
reading as follows :
"101 .4.8 All references to the International Residential Code shall mean the general
residential building code currently in effect as enacted by the City.
101 .4.9 All references to the International Plumbing Code shall mean the plumbing code
currently in effect in the City .
101 .4. 10 All references to the International Fire Code shall mean the fire code currently in
effect as enacted by the City.
101 .4. 11 All references to the International Mechanical Code shall mean the mechanical
code currently in effect as enacted by the City.
2
101 .4. 12 All references to the International Fuel-gas Code shall mean the fuel-gas code
currently in effect as enacted by the City.
101 .4. 13 Areas prone to flooding. All references to ` flood hazard ' and ` areas prone to
flooding ' in this code and appendices adopted therewith shall be as specified in the Code of
the City, "Chapter 10, Flood Prevention and Protection ."
(2) Section 103 is amended to read as follows :
"SECTION 103 — CODE ADMINISTRATION
103 . 1 Entity charged with code administration. The executive building-code official,
appointed by the City Manager, is charged with the direct overall administration and
enforcement of this code; and, in the performance of said duties, may delegate the necessary
authority to the appropriate technical, administrative, and compliance staff under the supervision
the executive building-code official. "
(3 ) Section 105. 2 , under the heading of, Building, is amended to read as follows :
"Building ,
1 . Detached accessory buildings used for playhouses, lawn and garden equipment storage,
tool storage and similar uses provided such buildings do not exceed one hundred twenty
( 120) square feet of floor area nor eight (8) feet in height, do not house flammable
liquids in quantities exceeding ten ( 10) gallons per building and are constructed entirely
of noncombustible materials when located less than three (3 ) feet from an adjoining
property line .
2 . Fences not over 6 feet ( 1829 mm) high.
3 . Oil derricks .
4. Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet ( 1219 mm) in height measured from the bottom of
the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge or impounding Class I, II
or IIIA liquids .
5 . Water tanks supported directly on grade if the capacity does not exceed 5 ,000 gallons ( 18
925 L) and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed 2 : 1 .
6 . Platforms and decks intended for human occupancy or walking, sidewalks and driveways
not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above adjacent grade, and not over any basement or
story below and are not part of an accessible route .
7 . Painting, wallpapering, tiling, carpeting, texturing, cabinetry and similar finish or
cosmetic work.
3
8 . Temporary motion picture, television and theater stage sets and scenery.
9 . Prefabricated portable swimming or wading pools, hot tubs or spas accessory to a Group
R-3 occupancy that are less than 24 inches (610 mm) deep , do not exceed 5 ,000 gallons
( 18 925 L) and are installed entirely above ground.
10 . Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, not including
service systems .
11 . Swings and other playground equipment accessory to detached one- and two-family
dwellings .
12 . Window awnings supported by an exterior wall on Group R, Division 3 and Group U
Occupancies projecting not more than 54 inches ( 1372 mm), window replacement
requiring no structural alteration and when such work is determined not to be historically
significant, storm window, storm door and rain gutter installation.
13 . Nonfixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9
inches ( 1753 mm) in height.
14 Exterior walks, driveways, parking lots except as required for facility accessibility by
Chapter 11 .
15 . Roofing repair or replacement work not exceeding one square of covering per building.
16 . Minor work valued at less than five hundred dollars ($500 .) and not involving alteration
of bearing walls, structural or fire-rated assemblies, plumbing, electrical or mechanical
components or fire-extinguishing systems . "
(4) Section 105. 5 is amended to read as follows :
"105.5 Permit expiration and incompletion of authorized work. Every permit issued, both
prior to and subsequent to the effective date of this code, shall become invalid if the work
authorized by such permit has not been commenced within one hundred eighty ( 180) days after
issuance of the permit, or if such work, once commenced, is suspended or abandoned for a
period of one hundred eighty ( 180) days after the date the work was commenced. The building
official is authorized to grant, in writing, extensions of time for periods of not more than one
hundred eighty ( 180) days each. Each extension must be requested in writing and justifiable
cause demonstrated. No more than two such extensions may be granted by the building official
unless the additional extension(s) have first been approved by the Building Review Board.
Both prior to and subsequent to the effective date of this code, any work authorized by a permit
regulated by this code, or under any other building construction code administered by the
building official, that involves the construction or alteration of an exterior building component,
assembly or finish material, such as the foundation, wall and roof framing, sheathing, siding,
fenestration, and roof covering, shall be fully completed for permanent outdoor exposure within
twenty-four (24) months of the date of issuance of such permit, regardless of when the permit
4
was issued. Failure to comply with the foregoing time period shall constitute a violation of this
code, resulting in revocation of the permit, and shall subject the permit holder and property
owner to all penalties provided by the Code of the city. No such revoked permit may be
reinstated, nor shall a new permit be issued for work previously authorized by the revoked
permit, unless such reinstatement or issuance of a new permit has first been approved by the
Building Review Board."
(5) Section 106. 3 is amended by adding a new subsection thereto as follows :
" 106.3 .5 Time limitation of application. Applications for which a permit has not been issued
within one-hundred eighty ( 180) days following the date of application shall automatically
expire and plans submitted for code-compliance review may thereafter be returned to the
applicant or destroyed by the building official. The building official may extend the time for
action by the applicant for a period not exceeding ninety (90) days upon written request by the
applicant showing that circumstances beyond the control of the applicant have prevented action
from being taken. In order to renew action on an application after expiration, the applicant shall
resubmit plans and plan review fee as provided in this code. "
(6) Section 108, Fees, is amended in the following respects :
(a) Section 108. 1 is amended to read as follows :
"108. 1 Payment of fees. No permit with any amendments and related construction plans
therefor shall be valid until the fees prescribed by the city manager pursuant to Chapter 7 . 5 ,
Articles I through VI of the Code of the city, entitled, 'ADMINISTRATIVE FEES ,' have
been paid. "
(b) Section 108. 6 is amended to read as follows :
"108.6 Fee refunds. Any fee paid hereunder that is erroneously paid or collected shall be
refunded. The building official may authorize the refunding of ninety percent (90) percent of
a plan review fee or building permit fee to the applicant who paid such fee pursuant to this
Section, provided the plan review is withdrawn or cancelled and the plan review and/or work
authorized under a permit issued in accordance with this code has not commenced, and
provided further such plan review or permit is valid and not expired as set forth in this
Section. Prior to authorizing the refunding of any fee paid to the original applicant or
permittee, a written request from such party must be submitted to the City within one
hundred eighty ( 180) days of the date of the fee payment. "
5
(7) Section 112, Appeals, is amended to read as follows :
"112. 1 General. The Building Review Board (hereafter 'Board') as established in Section 2- 117
of the Code of the city of Fort Collins is hereby empowered in accordance with the procedures
set forth in this Section to hear and to decide appeals of orders, decisions, or determinations
made by the building official relative to the application and interpretation of this code and to the
suitability of alternate materials or alternate methods of construction. The building official shall
be an ex officio member of the Board without vote and shall serve as the Secretary of the Board.
The Board shall adopt rules of procedure for conducting its business, and shall render all
decisions and findings in writing.
112.2 Applications/hearings. When a building permit applicant or a holder of a building permit
desires relief from any decision of the building official related to the enforcement of this code,
except as is otherwise limited in Section 105 .4, such building permit applicant, building permit
holder, or representative thereof may appeal the decision of the building official to the Board
stating that such decision by the building official was based on an erroneous interpretation of the
building regulations or that an alternate design, alternate materials and/or the alternate methods
of construction proposed by the appellant are equivalent to those prescribed by this code
considering structural strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability, safety and any other
pertinent factors .
The Board shall hear and decide all appeals made to it and shall have the authority to rule in
favor of the appellant when the Board determines that the interpretation of the building
regulations of the city by the building official was erroneous, or when the Board determines an
alternate design, alternate materials and/or the alternate methods proposed by the appellant are
equivalent to those prescribed by this code considering structural strength, effectiveness, fire
resistance, durability, safety and any other pertinent factors . The Board shall require that
sufficient evidence be submitted to substantiate any claims made regarding the proposed
alternate design, alternate materials and/or alternate methods of construction. A quorum of four
(4) members shall be necessary for any meeting of the Board. "
112.3 Fees and notification. Persons desiring to appeal to the Board any decision of the
building official as provided in this Section 112 shall, at the time of filing such appeal, pay to the
city a filing fee in the amount of fifty dollars ($50 .) . Written notice of hearings shall be given to
the Appellant and, with respect to requests for exceptions or variances authorized pursuant to
Section 1101 . 1 of this code, to the secretary to the Commission on Disability, at least three (3 )
days prior to the hearing by mailing the same to such party's last known address by regular U. S .
mail.
112.4 Limitations. The Building Review Board shall have no authority with respect to any of
the following functions :
1 . The administration of this code ;
2 . Waiving requirements of this code, except as provided for pursuant to this Section 105 ;
6
3 . Modifying the applicable provisions of, or granting variances to, this code, or approving
the use of alternate designs, alternate materials and/or alternate methods of construction
except as provided for in this Section 112 and based upon a specific appeal from a
determination or decision of the building official on an individual case basis ; and
4. Modifying, interpreting, or ruling on the applicability or intent of the zoning and landuse
regulations or other laws of the city except as expressly empowered otherwise ."
(8) Section 113 VIOLATIONS, is amended in the following respects :
(a) Section 113. 4, is amended to read as follows :
" 113.4 Violation, penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to
comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, installs within or on, alters or
repairs a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or
directive of the code official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this
code, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor subject to the penalties and fines pursuant to Section
1 - 15 of the Code of the city. "
(b) New, Subsection 113. S, is added at the end thereof to read as follows :
"113.5 Work commencing before permit issuance. In addition to penalties set forth in
Subsection R113 .4, any person or firm who, before obtaining the necessary permit(s),
commences any construction of, or work on, a building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical
or plumbing system that is not otherwise exempted from obtaining a permit, shall be subject
to a processing and penalty fee in addition to the standard prescribed permit fee . Such
additional fee shall be equal to the permit fee, except that such fee shall not be less than fifty
dollars ($50) nor more than one thousand dollars ($ 1 ,000) for the first such violation. A
person or firm committing the same such violation repeatedly is subject to processing and
penalty fees equal to double the amount of the permit fee or double the amount of the
preceding violation, whichever is greater, for every same such subsequent violation
committed thereafter within any 180-day period. The foregoing fees may be appealed to the
city manager pursuant to Chapter 2, Article VI of the Code of the City. "
(9) Section 202, Definitions, is amended in the following respects :
(a) The definition of "BUILDING OFFICIAL" is amended to read as follows :
"BUILDING-CODE OFFICIAL. The executive building-code official designated by the
City Manager charged with the overall administration and enforcement of this code as
described in Section 103 . 1 "'
(b) The definition of "FAMILY" is added to read as follows :
"FAMILY is defined as set forth in the Land Use Code of the city. "
(c) The definition of "ROOM, SLEEPING" is added to read as follows :
"ROOM, SLEEPING (BEDROOM). A habitable room within a dwelling or other housing
unit designed primarily for the purpose of sleeping. The presence of a bed, cot, mattress,
7
convertible sofa or other similar furnishing used for sleeping purposes is indicia for
determining that such space or room qualifies as a sleeping room. The presence of closets
and similar storage facilities are not considered as relevant factors in determining whether or
not a room is a sleeping room."
(d) The definition of "STORY ABOVE GRADE PLANE" is added to read as follows :
"STORY ABOVE GRADE PLANE. Any story having its finished floor surface entirely
above grade plane, or in which the finished surface of the floor above is :
1 . More than 6 feet ( 1829 mm) above grade plane ; or
2 . More than 12 feet (3658 mm) above the finished ground level at any point. "
(e) The definition of "TOWNHOUSE" is amended to read as follows :
TOWNHOUSE. A single-family dwelling unit constructed as part of a group of two or more
attached individual dwelling units, each of which is separated from the other from the
foundation to the roof and is located entirely on a separately recorded and platted parcel of
land (site) bounded by property lines, and which parcel is deeded exclusively for such
single-family dwelling.
( 10) Section 303. 1 is amended by the addition of exceptions numbers 4 and 5 to read as follows :
"4 . Assembly areas that are accessory to Group E occupancies are not considered separate
occupancies except when applying the assembly occupancy requirements of Chapter 11 .
5 . Accessory religious educational rooms and religious auditoriums with occupant loads of
less than 100 are not considered separate occupancies . "
( 11 ) Section 419 is amended to read as follows :
"Section 419 — RESIDENCE/WORK UNITS
419. 1 General. A residence/work unit is a dwelling unit or sleeping unit in which a significant
portion of the space includes a nonresidential use that is operated by the tenant and shall
comply with Section 419 .
Exception : Dwelling or sleeping units that include an office that is less than 10 percent
of the area of the dwelling unit shall not be classified as a residence/work unit.
419. 1 . 1 Limitations. The following shall apply to all residence/work areas :
1 . The residence/work unit is permitted to be a maximum of 3 ,000 square feet (279
m2)
2 . The nonresidential area is permitted to be a maximum 50 percent of the area of
each residence/work unit;
3 . The nonresidential area function shall be limited to the first or main floor only of
the residence/work unit; and
4. A maximum of five nonresidential workers or employees are allowed to occupy
8
the non-residential area at any one time.
419. 1 .2 Occupancies. Residence/work units shall be classified as a Group R-2
occupancy. Separation requirements found in Section 508 . 3 shall not apply when the
residence/work unit is in compliance with Section 419 . High-hazard and storage
occupancies shall not be permitted in a residence/work unit. The aggregate of storage in
the residence/work unit shall be limited to 10 percent of the space dedicated to
nonresidential activities .
419. 1 .3 Means of egress. Except as modified by this section, the provisions for Group
R-2 occupancies in Chapter 10 shall apply to the entire residence/work unit.
419. 1 .3. 1 Egress capacity. The egress capacity for each element of the
residence/work unit shall be based on the occupancy load for the occupancy served
in accordance with Table 1004 . 1 . 1 .
419. 1 .3 .2 Sliding doors. Where doors in a means of egress are of the horizontal-
sliding type, the force to slide the door to its fully open position shall not exceed 50
pounds (220 N) with a perpendicular force against the door of 50 pounds (220 N) .
419. 1 .3.3 Spiral stairs. Spiral stairs that conform to the requirements of Section
1009 . 8 shall be permitted.
419. 1 .3 .4 Locks. Egress doors shall be permitted to be locked in accordance with
Exception 4 of Section 1008 . 1 . 8 . 3 .
419. 1 .4 Vertical openings. Floor openings between floor levels of a residence/work unit
are permitted without enclosure .
419. 1 .5 Fire protection. The residence/work unit shall be provided with a monitored fire
alarm system where required by Section 907 . 2 . 9 and a fire sprinkler system in
accordance with Section 903 .2 . 7 .
419. 1 .6 Structural. Floor loading for the areas within a residence/work unit shall be
designed to conform to Table 1607 . 1 based on the function within the space.
419. 1 .7 Accessibility. Accessibility shall be designed in accordance with Chapter 11 .
419. 1 .8 Ventilation. The applicable requirements of the International Mechanical Code
shall apply to each area within the residence/work unit for the function within that space.
419.2 Separation walls. Walls separating dwelling units in the same building and walls
separating sleeping units in the same building shall be constructed as fire partitions in
accordance with Section 708 .
419.3 Horizontal separation. Floor assemblies separating dwelling units in the same
9
buildings and floor assemblies separating sleeping units in the same building shall be
constructed as horizontal assemblies in accordance with Section 711 . "
( 12) Section 505. 2 is amended by the addition of a new exception number 3 to read as follows :
"I Within individual dwelling units of Group R occupancies, the maximum aggregate area of
a mezzanine may be equal to one-half of the area of the room in which it is located,
without being considered an additional story; and to allow the mezzanine to be closed to
the room in which it is located, provided exits from the mezzanine are in conformance with
Section 505 . 3 . "
( 13 ) Section 506. 4 is amended in the following respects :
(a) Subsection 506. 4. 1, Mixed occupancies, is amended by renumbering as , " 506 . 4 . 1 . 1 . "
(b) Section506. 4 is amended to read as follows :
"506.4 Buildings with more than one story. The total allowable building area of a building
with more than one story shall be determined in accordance with this section. The actual
aggregate building area at all stories in the building shall not exceed the total allowable
building area.
Exception : A single basement need not be included in the total allowable building area,
provided such basement does not exceed the area permitted for a building with no more
than one story above grade plane.
506.4. 1 Area determination. The total allowable building area of a building with
more than one story above grade plane shall be determined by multiplying the
allowable area per story (Aa) , as determined in Section 506 . 1 , by the number of stories
above grade plane as listed below:
1 . For buildings with two stories above grade plane, multiply by 2 ;
2 . For buildings with three or more stories above grade plane, multiply by 3 ; and
3 . No story shall exceed the allowable area per story (Aa), as determined in Section
506 . 1 , for the occupancies on that story.
Exceptions .
1 . Unlimited area buildings in accordance with Section 507 .
2 . The maximum area of a building equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler
system in accordance with Section 903 . 3 . 1 . 2 shall be determined by multiplying
the allowable area per story (Aj, as determined in Section 506 . 1 , by the number of
stories above grade plane ."
( 14) Section 509. 5 is amended to read as follows :
"509.5 Group R-1 and R-2 buildings of Type IIIA construction. The height limitation for
buildings of Type IIIA construction in Groups R- 1 and R-2 shall be increased to six stories and
75 feet (22 860 mm) where the first-floor construction above the basement has a fire-resistance
rating of not less than 3 hours and the floor area is subdivided by 2-hour fire-resistance-rated
10
fire walls into areas of not more than 3 ,000 square feet (279 m2) . "
( 15) Section 509. 6 is amended to read as follows :
"509.6 Group R-1 and R-2 buildings of Type IIA construction. The height limitation for
buildings of Type IIA construction in Groups R- 1 and R-2 shall be increased to nine stories
and 100 feet (30 480 mm) where the building is separated by not less than 50 feet ( 15 240 nun)
from any other building on the lot and from lot lines, the exits are segregated in an area
enclosed by a 2-hour fire-resistance-rated fire wall and the first-floor construction has a fire-
resistance rating of not less than 11/2 hours . "
( 16) Section 702 is amended by deleting the definition, "FIRE AREA
( 17) Section 704. 3 is amended by adding a third paragraph to read as follows :
"Lines or walls which are established solely to delineate individual portions of a building or of
a planned unit development (PUD) need not be considered as property lines for the purposes of
this code, provided that such building is entirely located on property which is under common
ownership and further provided that required distances, set forth in Section 503 . 3 for assumed
property lines between buildings located on the same property, are maintained. "
11
( 18) Table 704. 8 is amended to read :
TABLE 704.8
MAXIMUM AREA OF EXTERIOR WALL OPENINGS BASED ON FIRE
SEPARATION DISTANCE AND DEGREE OF OPENING PROTECTION
FIRE SEPARATION DISTANCE (ft) DEGREE OF OPENING PROTECTION ALLOWABLE AREAa
Unprotected , Nonsprinklered ( UP , NS ) Not Permitted
0 to less than 3 n, c Unprotected , sprinklered ( UP , S ) i Not Permitted
Protected ( P) Not Permitted
Unprotected , Nonsprinklered ( UP , NS ) Not Permitted
3 to less than 5d, e Unprotected , sprinklered ( UP , S ) i 15%
Protected ( P) 15%
Unprotected , Nonsprinklered ( UP , NS ) 10 % h
5 to less than 10e, f Unprotected , sprinklered ( UP , S ) i 25%
Protected ( P ) 25%
Unprotected , Nonsprinklered ( UP , NS ) 15% h
10 to less than 15e, f, 9 Unprotected , sprinklered ( UP , S ) i 45%
Protected ( P) 45%
Unprotected , Nonsprinklered ( UP , NS ) 25%
15 to less than 20f, 9 Unprotected , sprinklered ( UP , S ) i 75%
Protected ( P ) 75%
Unprotected , Nonsprinklered ( UP , NS ) 45%
20 to less than 25f, 9 Unprotected , sprinklered ( UP , S ) i No Limit
Protected ( P ) No Limit
Unprotected , Nonsprinklered ( UP , NS ) 70 %
25 to less than 30f, 9 Unprotected , sprinklered ( UP , S) i No Limit
Protected ( P ) No Limit
Unprotected , Nonsprinklered ( UP , NS ) No Limit
30 or greater Unprotected , sprinklered ( UP , S ) i Not Required
Protected ( P) Not Required
For SI : 1 foot = 304 . 8 mm .
UP, NS = Unprotected openings in buildings not equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in
accordance with Section 903 . 3 . 1 . 1 .
UP, S = Unprotected openings in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance
12
with Section 903 . 3 . 1 . 1 .
P = Openings protected with an opening protective assembly in accordance with Section 704 . 8 . 2 .
a . Values indicated are the percentage of the area of the exterior wall , per story.
b . For the requirements for fire walls of buildings with differing heights , see Section 705 . 6 . 1 .
c. For openings in a fire wall for buildings on the same lot, see Section 705 . 8 .
d . The maximum percentage of unprotected and protected openings shall be 25 percent for Group R
occupancies .
e . Unprotected openings shall not be permitted for openings with a fire separation distance of less than 15
feet for Group H-2 and H-3 occupancies .
f. The area of unprotected and protected openings shall not be limited for Group R-3 occupancies , with a
fire separation distance of 5 feet or greater.
g . The area of openings in an open parking structure with a fire separation distance of 10 feet or greater
shall not be limited .
h . Includes buildings accessory to Group R-3 .
i . Not applicable to Group H- 1 , H-2 and H-3 occupancies .
( 19) Section 714 is amended in the following respects :
(a) Section 714. 1 is amended by adding two new subsections to read as follows :
"714. 1 . 1 Primary structural frame. The primary structural frame shall be the columns
and other structural members including the girders, beams, trusses and spandrels having
direct connections to the columns and bracing members designed to carry gravity loads .
714. 1 .2 Secondary members. The members of floor or roof construction that are not
connected to the columns shall be considered secondary members and not part of the
primary structural frame . "
(b) A new, Subsection 714. 8, is added to read as follows :
"714.8 Sprayed fire-resistant materials (SFRM). Sprayed fire-resistant materials
(SFRM) shall comply with Sections 714 . 8 . 1 through 714 . 8 .4 .
714.8. 1 Fire-resistance rating. The application of SFRM shall be consistent with the fire
resistance rating and the listing, including, but not limited to, minimum thickness and dry
density of the applied SFRM, method of application, substrate surface conditions ; and the
use of bonding adhesives, sealants, reinforcing or other materials .
714.8.2 Manufacturer' s installation instructions. The application of SFRM shall be in
accordance with the manufacturer' s installation instructions . The instructions shall include,
but are not limited to, substrate temperatures and surface conditions and SFRM handling,
storage, mixing, conveyance, method of application, curing and ventilation.
714.8.3 Substrate condition. The SFRM shall be applied to a substrate in compliance with
Sections 714 . 8 . 3 . 1 through 714. 8 . 3 .2 .
714.8.3. 1 Surface conditions. Substrates to receive SFRM shall be free of dirt, oil,
13
grease, release agents, loose scale and any other condition that prevents adhesion.
The substrates shall also be free of primers, paints and encapsulants other than those
fire tested and listed by a nationally recognized testing agency. Primed, painted or
encapsulated steel shall be allowed, provided that testing has demonstrated that
required adhesion is maintained.
714.8.3.2 Primers, paints and encapsulants. Where the SFRM is to be applied over
primers, paints or encapsulants other than those specified in the listing, the material
shall be field tested in accordance with ASTM E 736 . Where testing of the SFRM
with primers, paints or encapsulants demonstrates that required adhesion is
maintained, SFRM shall be permitted to be applied to primed, painted or
encapsulated wide flange steel shapes in accordance with the following conditions :
1 . The beam flange width does not exceed 12 inches (305 mm) ; or
2 . The column flange width does not exceed 16 inches (400 mm) ; or
3 . The beam or column web depth does not exceed 16 inches (400 mm) .
4. The average and minimum bond strength values shall be determined based on a
minimum of five bond tests conducted in accordance with ASTM E 736 . Bond tests
conducted in accordance with ASTM E 736 shall indicate a minimum average bond
strength of 80 percent and a minimum individual bond strength of 50 percent, when
compared to the bond strength of the SFRM as applied to clean uncoated 1 /8-inch-
thick (3 -mm) steel plate .
714.8.4 Temperature. A minimum ambient and substrate temperature of 40°F (4 .44°C)
shall be maintained during and for a minimum of 24 hours after the application of the
SFRM, unless the manufacturer' s installation instructions allow otherwise.
714.8.5 Finished condition. The finished condition of SFRM applied to structural
members or assemblies shall not, upon complete drying or curing, exhibit cracks, voids,
spalls, delamination or any exposure of the substrate. Surface irregularities of SFRM shall
be deemed acceptable . "
14
(20) Table 715. 5 is amended to read as follows :
TABLE 715 . 5
FIRE WINDOW ASSEMBLY FIRE PROTECTION RATINGS
TYPE OF ASSEMBLY REQUIRED ASSEMBLY MINIMUM FIRE WINDOW
RATING ( hours) ASSEMBLY RATING ( hours)
Interior Fire walls All NPa
walls :
Fire barriers
> 1 NPa
1 3/4
Smoke barriers 1 3/4
Fire partitions 1 3/4
1 /2 1 /3
Exterior walls
> 1 11 /2
1 3/4
Party wall All NP
NP = Not Permitted .
a . Not permitted except as specified in Section 715 . 2 .
(21 ) Section 716. 5 is amended in the following respects :
(a) Section 716. 5. 1 is amended by adding anew Subsection 716. 5. 1 . 1 , to read as follows :
"716.5. 1 . 1 Horizontal Exits. A listed smoke damper designed to resist the passage of
smoke shall be provided at each point a duct or air transfer opening penetrates a fire
wall that serves as a horizontal exit. "
(b) Section 716. 5. 3, Shaft enclosures, is amended by adding a new exception number 5 to read
as follows :
(c) "5 . Fire dampers and combination fire/smoke dampers are not required in kitchen and
clothes dryer exhaust system when installed in accordance with the International
Mechanical Code. "
(d) Two new subsections are added in numerical sequence to read as follows :
"716.5.6 Exterior walls. Ducts and air transfer openings in fire-resistance rated exterior
walls required to have protected openings in accordance with Section 704 . 14 shall be
protected with listed fire dampers installed in accordance with their listing.
716.5.7 Smoke partitions. A listed smoke damper designed to resist the passage of smoke
15
shall be provided at each point that an air transfer opening penetrates a smoke partition.
Smoke dampers and smoke damper actuation methods shall comply with Section
716 . 3 .2 . 1 ,
Exception : Where the installation of a smoke damper will interfere with the
operation of a required smoke control system in accordance with Section 909,
approved alternate protection shall be utilized."
(22) Section 717. 2. 1 is amended to read as follows :
"717.2. 1 Fireblocking materials. Fireblocking shall consist of the following materials :
1 . Two-inch (51 mm) nominal lumber.
2 . Two thicknesses of 1 -inch (25 mm) nominal lumber with broken lap joints .
3 . One thickness of 0 . 719-inch ( 18 . 3 mm) wood structural panels with joints backed by
0 . 719- inch ( 18 . 3 mm) wood structural panels .
4 . One thickness of 0 . 75 -inch ( 19 . 1 mm) particleboard with joints backed by 0 . 75 -inch ( 19
mm) particleboard.
5 . One half-inch ( 12 . 7 mm) Gypsum board.
6 . One fourth-inch (6 .4 mm) Cement-based millboard.
7 . Batts or blankets of mineral wool, mineral fiber or other approved materials installed in
such a manner as to be securely retained in place .
717.2 . 1 . 1 Batts or blankets of mineral wool or mineral fiber. Batts or blankets of
mineral wool or mineral fiber or other approved nonrigid materials shall be permitted for
compliance with the 10-foot (3048 mm) horizontal fireblocking in walls constructed
using parallel rows of studs or staggered studs .
717.2. 1 .2 Unfaced fiberglass. Unfaced fiberglass batt insulation used as fireblocking
shall fill the entire cross section of the wall cavity to a minimum height of 16 inches (406
mm) measured vertically. When piping, conduit or similar obstructions are encountered,
the insulation shall be packed tightly around the obstruction.
717.2. 1 .3 Loose-fill insulation material. Loose-fill insulation material, insulating foam
sealants and caulk materials shall not be used as a fireblock unless specifically tested in
the form and manner intended for use to demonstrate its ability to remain in place and to
retard the spread of fire and hot gases .
717.2. 1 .4 Fireblocking integrity. The integrity of fireblocks shall be maintained.
717.2. 1 .5 Double stud walls. Batts or blankets of mineral or glass fiber or other
approved nonrigid materials shall be allowed as fireblocking in walls constructed using
parallel rows of studs or staggered studs .
16
(23 ) Section 902. 1 is amended by adding two new definitions in alphabetical order to read as
follows :
"FIRE AREA. The aggregate floor area enclosed and bounded by fire walls, fire barriers,
exterior walls or fire-resistance-rated horizontal assemblies of a building . Areas of the
building not provided with surrounding walls shall be included in the fire area if such areas
are included within the horizontal projection of the roof or floor above . "
FIRE CONTAINMENT AREA is a portion of a story or basement which is totally enclosed by
a smoke and draft barrier of not less than 1 -hour fire-resistive construction and as prescribed
herein. All door openings penetrating such fire-containment areas shall be protected by tight-
fitting smoke and draft control assemblies as specified in Section 715 .4 . 3 except that such doors
shall be automatic closing by actuation of a smoke detector in accordance with Section
715 .4 . 7 . 3 . All duct penetrations shall be protected by dampers complying with Section 716. 5 .4 . 1
with a minimum leakage classification of III, except that such dampers shall be automatic
closing by actuation of a smoke detector. Openings other than doors and ducts shall be protected
as specified in Section 715 . 5 and shall be limited to a maximum of twenty-five (25) percent of
any one ( 1 ) wall . Self-closing devices may be used in lieu of automatic closing devices on doors
unlikely to be fixed open during normal conditions . Examples are doors at toilet room, vertical
stairways, closets and small storage rooms and similar areas ."
(24) Section 903 is amended in the following respects :
(a) A new Table 903. 1 , is added as follows :
Table 903. 1, Maximum Allowable Fire-Containment Area, is added to read as follows :
"TABLE 903. 1
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE FIRE-CONTAINMENT AREA
(IN SQUARE FEET)
Types of Construction
Occupancy I A I B II A II B III A III B IV-HT VAVB
Al IF0900010,000 F NP F NP F NP F NP F NP F NP F NP
A2 , 10,000 10,000 5 ,000I 1 5 ,000 NP 5 ,000 5 ,000 NP
A3 , 4 109000 10,000 F57000 5 ,000 F5 ,000 5 ,000 F51000 F5 ,000 55000
B , F11 M, S15 10,000 10,000 7 ,000 5 ,000 7,000 5 ,000 7,000 [:7000 5 ,000
U
F2, S2 20,000 20,000 10,000 7,000 Fiomoo 7 ,000 10,000 10,000 Fmoo
E 10,000 10,000 7,000 5 ,000 1 7,000 5 ,000 7,000 7,000 5 ,000
NP = Not Permitted"
(b) Section 903. 2 is amended by adding an exception number 2 to read as follows :
17
"2 . Except for Occupancies with a Group R fire area in accordance with Section 903 .2 . 7,
an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in all buildings which are not divided
into fire containment areas as specified in Table 903 . 1 . "
(25) Section 907. 2. 10. 1 . 1 is amended by adding a new item, 4, to read as follows :
"4. Additions, alterations or repairs to Group R Occupancies. When one ( 1 ) or more
sleeping rooms are added or created in existing Group R Occupancies, the entire dwelling
unit shall be provided with smoke detectors located and installed as required for new
Group R Occupancies described herein."
(26) Section 912. 3 is amended by adding two new subsections in numerical order to read as
follows :
"912.3 .2 Clear space around connections. A working space of not less than 36 inches (762
mm) in width, 36 inches (914 mm) in depth and 78 inches ( 1981 mm) in height shall be
provided and maintained in front of and to the sides of wall-mounted fire department
connections and around the circumference of free-standing fire department connections, except
as otherwise required or approved by the fire chief.
912.3 .3 Physical protection. Where fire department connections are subject to impact by a
motor vehicle, vehicle impact protection shall be provided in accordance with Section 312 of
the International Fire Code. "
(27 Chapter 9, FIRE PROTECTIONSYSTEMS, is amended by adding new Sections, 913 and 914, at
the end of the chapter to read in numerical sequence as follows :
"SECTION 913 FIRE PUMPS
913. 1 General. Where provided, fire pumps shall be installed in accordance with this section
and NFPA 20 .
913 .2 Protection against interruption of service. The fire pump, driver and controller shall
be protected in accordance with NFPA 20 against possible interruption of service through
damage caused by explosion, fire, flood, earthquake, rodents, insects, windstorm, freezing,
vandalism and other adverse conditions .
913.3 Temperature of pump room. Suitable means shall be provided for maintaining the
temperature of a pump room or pump house, where required, above 40°F (5 °C) .
913 .3 . 1 Engine manufacturer' s recommendation. Temperature of the pump room,
pump house or area where engines are installed shall never be less than the minimum
recommended by the engine manufacturer. The engine manufacturer' s recommendations
for oil heaters shall be followed.
18
913 .4 Valve supervision. Where provided, the fire pump suction, discharge and bypass valves,
and the isolation valves on the backflow prevention device or assembly shall be supervised
open by one of the following methods .
1 . Central-station, proprietary or remote-station signaling service.
2 . Local signaling service that will cause the sounding of an audible signal at a constantly
attended location.
3 . Locking valves open.
4 . Sealing of valves and approved weekly recorded inspection where valves are located within
fenced enclosures under the control of the owner.
913 .4. 1 Test outlet valve supervision. Fire pump test outlet valves shall be supervised
in the closed position.
913.5 Acceptance test. Acceptance testing shall be done in accordance with the requirements
of NFPA 20 .
SECTION 914 EMERGENCY RESPONDER SAFETY FEATURES
914. 1 Shaftway markings. Vertical shafts shall be identified as required by this section.
914. 1 . 1 Exterior access to shaftways. Outside openings accessible to the fire
department and that open directly on a hoistway or shaftway communicating between
two or more floors in a building shall be plainly marked with the word SHAFTWAY in
red letters at least 6 inches ( 152 mm) high on a white background. Such warning signs
shall be placed so as to be readily discernible from the outside of the building.
914. 1 .2 Interior access to shaftways. Door or window openings to a hoistway or
shaftway from the interior of the building shall be plainly marked with the word
"SHAFTWAY" in red letters at least 6 inches ( 152 mm) high on a white background.
Such warning signs shall be placed so as to be readily discernible.
Exception : Markings shall not be required on shaftway openings that are readily
discernible as openings onto a shaftway by the construction or arrangement.
914.2 Equipment room identification. Fire protection equipment shall be identified in an
approved manner. Rooms containing controls for air-conditioning systems, sprinkler risers and
valves or other fire detection, suppression or control elements shall be identified for the use of
the fire department. Approved signs required to identify fire protection equipment and
equipment location shall be constructed of durable materials, permanently installed and readily
visible .
(28) Section 1002. 1 is amended by adding a new definition, FLIGHT, to read as follows :
"FLIGHT. A continuous run of rectangular treads , winders or combination thereof from one
19
landing to another consisting of more than one riser."
(29) Section 1007. 3 is amended to read as follows :
" 1007.3 Exit stairways. In order to be considered part of an accessible means of egress, an
exit stairway shall have a clear width of 48 inches ( 1219 mm) minimum between handrails and
shall either incorporate an area of refuge within an enlarged floor-level landing or shall be
accessed from either an area of refuge complying with Section 1007 . 6 or a horizontal exit.
Exceptions .
1 . The area of refuge is not required at unenclosed interior exit stairways as permitted
by Section 1020 . 1 in buildings or facilities not more than 4 stories above grade
plane, that are equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in
accordance with Section 903 . 3 . 1 . 1 or 903 . 3 . 1 .2 .
2 . The clear width of 48 inches ( 1219 mm) between handrails is not required at exit
stairways in buildings or facilities not more than 4 stories above grade plane,
equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance
with Section 903 . 3 . 1 . 1 or 903 . 3 . 1 .2 .
3 . Areas of refuge are not required at exit stairways in buildings or facilities not more
than 4 stories above grade plane, equipped throughout by an automatic sprinkler
system installed in accordance with Section 903 . 3 . 1 . 1 or 903 . 3 . 1 .2 .
4 . The clear width of 48 inches ( 1219 mm) between handrails is not required for exit
stairways accessed from a horizontal exit.
5 . Areas of refuge are not required at exit stairways serving open parking garages .
6 . Areas of refuge are not required for smoke protected seating areas complying with
Section 1025 . 6 .2 .
7 . The areas of refuge are not required in Group R-2 occupancies."
(30) Section 1007. 4 is amended in its entirety to read as follows :
1007.4 Elevators. In order to be considered part of an accessible means of egress, an elevator
shall comply with the emergency operation and signaling device requirements of Section 2 .27
of ASME Al 7 . 1 . Standby power shall be provided in accordance with Sections 2702 and 3003 .
The elevator shall be accessed from either an area of refuge complying with Section 1007 . 6 or
a horizontal exit.
Exceptions .
1 . Elevators are not required to be accessed from an area of refuge or horizontal exit in
open parking garages.
2 . Elevators are not required to be accessed from an area of refuge or horizontal exit in
buildings and facilities equipped throughout by an automatic sprinkler system installed
in accordance with Section 903 . 3 . 1 . 1 or 903 . 3 . 1 .2 .
3 . Elevators not required to be located in a shaft in accordance with Section 707 .2 are not
required to be accessed from an area of refuge or horizontal exit.
4 . Elevators are not required to be accessed from an area of refuge or horizontal exit for
smoke protected seating areas complying with Section 1025 . 6 .2 .
5 . Elevators in buildings or facilities not more than 4 stories above grade plane are not
20
required to be accessible when equipped throughout by an automatic sprinkler system
installed in accordance with Section 903 . 3 . 1 . 1 or 903 . 3 . 1 .2 .
(31 ) Section 1008. 1 is amended by adding a third paragraph thereto to read as follows :
"Other doors which are neither required nor used for exit purposes need not conform to this
Chapter, provided such doors cannot be readily construed as exits by building occupants . Such
doors shall be rendered inoperable, provided such doors do not have grasping hardware,
closers or exit signs installed thereon and are made to appear inconspicuous or resemble the
adjacent wall construction or are provided with an obvious barricade ."
(32) Section 1008. 1 . 4 is amended in the following respects :
a) A new, Exception 6, is added thereto to read as follows :
"6 . Exterior doors, other than the main entrance door to a dwelling unit, may open at one
intervening exterior step that is equally spaced between the interior floor level above
and exterior landing below, provided the step has a minimum tread depth of twelve
( 12) inches, a maximum riser height of seven 3/4 inches (7 . 75"), and a minimum width
equal to the door width; and provided the door does not swing over the step . "
b) A second paragraph is added at the end thereto to read as follows :
"All exterior steps, slabs, walks, decks and patios serving as exterior door landings or
exterior stairs shall be adequately and permanently secured in place by approved methods
to prevent such landings or stairs from being undermined or subject to significant
displacement due to improper placement of supporting backfill or due to inadequate
anchoring methods ."
(33 ) Section 1008. 1 . 8 is amended by adding a new subsection at the end thereof in numerical
sequence to read as follows :
" 1008. 1 .8.8 Electromagnetically locked egress doors. Doors in the means of egress that are
not otherwise required to have panic hardware in buildings with an occupancy in Group A, B ,
E, M, R- 1 or R-2 and doors to tenant spaces in Group A, B , E, M, R- 1 or R-2 shall be
permitted to be electromagnetically locked if equipped with listed hardware that incorporates a
built-in switch and meet the following requirements :
1 . The listed hardware that is affixed to the door leaf has an obvious method of operation
that is readily operated under all lighting conditions .
2 . The listed hardware is capable of being operated with one hand.
3 . Operation of the listed hardware releases to the electromagnetic lock and unlocks the
door immediately.
4 . Loss of power to the listed hardware automatically unlocks the door. "
(34) Section 1009. 10 is amended by replacing in its entirety to read as follows :
21
111009. 10 Handrails. Stairways of more than one riser shall have handrails on each side and
shall comply with Section 1012 . Where glass is used to provide the handrail, the handrail shall
also comply with Section 2407 . Verify UBC for when handrails required
Exceptions .
1 . Handrails for aisle stairs are not required where permitted by Section 1025 . 13 .
2 . Stairways within dwelling units, spiral stairways and aisle stairs serving seating only
on one side are permitted to have a handrail on one side only.
3 . Decks, patios and walkways that have a single change in elevation where the landing
depth on each side of the change of elevation is greater than what is required for a
landing do not require handrails.
4 . In Group R-3 occupancies, a change in elevation consisting of a single riser at an
entrance or egress door does not require handrails .
5 . Changes in room elevations of three or fewer risers within dwelling units and
sleeping units in Group R-2 and R-3 do not require handrails . "
(35) Section 1012. 3 is amended by replacing in its entirety to read as follows :
1012 .3 Handrail graspability. All required handrails shall meet Type I criteria as follows or
shall provide equivalent graspability.
Type I. Handrails with a circular cross-section shall have an outside diameter of at least 1 .25
inches (32 mm) and not greater than 2 inches (51 mm) . If the handrail is not circular, it shall
have a perimeter dimension of at least 4 inches ( 102 mm) and not greater than 6 .25 inches ( 160
mm) with a maximum cross-section dimension of 2 .25 inches (57 mm) . Edges shall have a
minimum radius of 0 . 01 inch (0 .25 mm) .
Exception : In Group R-3 occupancies; within dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies ;
and in Group U occupancies that are accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy or accessory to
individual dwelling units in Group R-2occupancies ; handrails shall be Type 1, Type II as
follows or shall provide equivalent graspability.
Type II. Handrails with a perimeter greater than 6 .25 inches ( 160 mm) shall provide a
graspable finger recess area on both sides of the profile . The finger recess shall begin within a
distance of 0 . 75 inch ( 19 mm) measured vertically from the tallest portion of the profile and
achieve a depth of at least . 3125 inch (8 mm) within 0. 875 inch (22 mm) below the widest
portion of the profile . This required depth shall continue for at least 0 . 375 inch ( 10mm) to a
level that is not less than 1 . 75 inches (45 mm) below the tallest portion of the profile. The
minimum width of the handrail above the recess shall be 1 .25 inches (32 mm) to a maximum
of 2 . 75 inches (70 mm) . Edges shall have a minimum radius of 0 . 01 inch (0. 25 mm) .
(36) Section 1013 is amended by adding a new subsection at the end thereof in numerical sequence
to read as follows :
22
" 1013.7 "All area wells , stair wells and light wells attached to any building that are located
less than thirty-six (36) inches from the nearest intended walking surface and deeper than
thirty-six (36) inches below the surrounding ground level, creating an opening with a
horizontal dimension greater than twenty-four (24) inches measured perpendicular from the
building, with the side walls of such well having a slope steeper than 2 horizontal to 1 vertical,
shall be protected with guardrails conforming to this Section around the entire opening, or be
provided with an equivalent barrier.
EXCEPTIONS .
1 . The access side of stairways need not be barricaded.
2 . Area wells provided for emergency escape and rescue windows may be protected with
approved grates or covers that comply with Section 1026 .4 of this code .
3 . Covers and grates may be used over stairways and other openings used exclusively for
service access or for admitting light or ventilation. "
(37) Subsection 1014. 2. is amended in the following respects :
(a) Subsection 1014. 2. 2 is amended to read as follows :
" 1014.2.2 Group I-2. Habitable rooms or suites in Group I-2 occupancies shall have an
exit access door leading directly to a corridor.
Exception : Rooms with exit doors opening directly to the outside at ground level . "
(b) New Subsections 1014. 2. 3 and 1014. 2. 4 are added at the end thereof to read as follows :
" 1014.2.3 Suites in patient sleeping areas. Patient sleeping areas in Group I-2
Occupancies shall be permitted to be divided into suites with one intervening room if one
of the following conditions is met:
1 . The intervening room within the suite is not used as an exit access for more than
eight patient beds .
2 . The arrangement of the suite allows for direct and constant visual supervision by
nursing personnel.
1014.2.3. 1 Area. Suites of sleeping rooms shall not exceed 5 ,000 square feet (465 m2) .
1014.2.3.2 Exit access. Any patient sleeping room, or any suite that includes patient
sleeping rooms, of more than 1 ,000 square feet (93 m2) shall have at least two exit
access doors remotely located from each other.
1014.2.3 .3 Travel distance. The travel distance between any point in a suite of
sleeping rooms and an exit access door of that suite shall not exceed 100 feet (30 480
mm) .
23
1014.2.4 Suites in areas other than patient sleeping areas. Areas other than patient
sleeping areas in Group I-2 occupancies shall be permitted to be divided into suites .
1014.2.4. 1 Area. Suites of rooms, other than patient sleeping rooms, shall not exceed
10,000 square feet (929 m2) .
1014.2 .4.2 Exit access. Any room or suite of rooms, other than patient sleeping rooms,
of more than 2, 500 square feet (232 m2) shall have at least two exit access doors
remotely located from each other.
1014.2.4.3 One intervening room. For rooms other than patient sleeping rooms, suites
of rooms are permitted to have one intervening room if the travel distance within the
suite to the exit access door is not greater than 100 feet (30480 mm) .
1014.2.4.4 Two intervening rooms. For rooms other than patient sleeping rooms
located within a suite, exit access travel from within the suite shall be permitted
through two intervening rooms where the travel distance to the exit access door is not
greater than 50 feet ( 15 240 mm) .
1014.2.5 Travel distance. The travel distance between any point in a Group I-2
occupancy patient sleeping room and an exit access door in that room shall not exceed
50 feet ( 15 240 mm) .
1014.2.6 Separation. Suites in Group I-2 occupancies shall be separated from other
portions of the building by a smoke partition complying with Section 710 . "
(38) Section 1020. 1 . 6 is amended by adding a new subsection to read as follows :
" 1020. 1 .6. 1 Signage requirements. Stairway identification signs shall comply with all of the
following requirements :
1 . The signs shall be a minimum size of 18 inches (457 mm) by 12 inches (305 mm) .
2 . The letters designating the identification of the stair enclosure shall be a minimum of 1
1/2 inches (38 mm) in height.
3 . The number designating the floor level shall be a minimum of 5 inches ( 127 mm) in
height and located in the center of the sign.
4 . All other lettering and numbers shall be a minimum of 1 inch (22 mm) in height.
5 . Characters and their background shall have a non-glare finish. Characters shall contrast
with their background, with either light characters on a dark background or dark
characters on a light background. "
(39) Section 1026. ]Exceptions, is amended to read as follows :
" I . The emergency escape and rescue opening is permitted to open onto a balcony within an
atrium in accordance with the requirements of Section 404, provided the balcony provides
access to an exit and the dwelling unit or sleeping unit has a means of egress that is not
24
open to the atrium.
2 . Basements with a ceiling height of less than 72 inches ( 1829 mm) shall not be required to
have emergency escape and rescue windows .
3 . High-rise buildings in accordance with Section 403 .
4 . Emergency escape and rescue openings are not required from basements or sleeping rooms
that have an exit door or exit access door that opens directly into a public way or to a yard,
court or exterior exit balcony that opens to a public way.
5 . Basements without habitable spaces and having no more than 200 square feet ( I8 . 6m2) in
floor area shall not be required to have emergency escape windows . "
(40) CHAPTER 10 is amended by adding a new section at the end thereof to read as follows :
"SECTION 1027 — EXIT PATH MARKINGS (High Rise)
1027. 1 General. Approved luminous markings delineating the exit path shall be provided in
exit enclosures, including vertical exit enclosures and exit passageways, of buildings of Group
A, B , E, I, M, and R- 1 having occupied floors located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above
the lowest level of fire department vehicle access and shall comply with Sections 1027 . 1 . 1
through 1027 . 1 .7 .
Exception : Exit path markings shall not be required in lobbies or areas of open parking
garages, where such lobby or area is located on the level of exit discharge and complies with
the exception to Section 1023 . 1 .
1027. 1 . 1 Steps. A stripe shall be applied to the horizontal leading edge of each step and
shall extend for the full length of the step . Outlining stripes shall have a minimum
horizontal width of 1 inch (25 mm) and a maximum width of 2 inches (51 mm) . The
leading edge of the stripe shall be placed at a maximum of 1/2 inch ( 13 mm) from the
leading edge of the step and the stripe shall not overlap the leading edge of the step by not
more than 1/2 inch ( 13 mm) down the vertical face of the step .
1027. 1 .2 Landings : The leading edge of landings shall be marked with a stripe consistent
with the dimensional requirements for steps .
1027. 1 .3 Handrails : All handrails and handrail extensions shall be marked with a stripe
having a minimum width of 1 inch (25 mm) . The stripe shall be placed on the top surface
of the handrail for the entire length of the handrail, including extensions and newel post
caps . Where handrails or handrail extensions bend or turn corners, the stripe shall not have
a gap of more than 4 inches ( 102 mm) .
1027. 1 .4 Perimeter demarcation lines : Stair landings and other floor areas within exit
enclosures, with the exception of the sides of steps, shall be provided with demarcation
25
lines on the floor or on the walls or a combination of both. The stripes shall be 1 (25 mm)
to 2 inches (51 mm) wide with interruptions not exceeding 4 inches ( 102 mm) .
1027. 1 .4. 1 Floor mounted demarcation lines : Perimeter demarcation lines shall be
placed within 4 inches of the wall and shall extend to within 2 inches (51 mm) of the
markings on the leading edge of landings. The demarcation lines shall continue
across the floor in front of all doors .
Exception : Demarcation lines shall not extend in front of exit doors that lead out of
an exit enclosure and through which occupants must travel to complete the exit path.
1027. 1 .4.2 Wall mounted demarcation lines : Perimeter demarcation lines shall be
placed on the wall with the bottom edge of the stripe no more than 4 inches ( 102
mm) above the finished floor. At the top or bottom of the stairs, demarcation lines
shall drop vertically to the floor within 2 inches (51 mm) of the step or landing edge .
Demarcation lines on walls shall transition vertically to the floor and then extend
across the floor where a line on the floor is the only practical method of outlining the
path. Where the wall line is broken by a door, demarcation lines on walls shall
continue across the face of the door or transition to the floor and extend across the
floor in front of such doors .
Exception : Demarcation lines shall not extend in front of exit doors that lead out of
an exit enclosure and through which occupants must travel to complete the exit path.
1027. 1 .4.3 Transition. Where a wall mounted demarcation line transitions to a floor
mounted demarcation line, or vice-versa, the wall mounted demarcation line shall
drop vertically to the floor to meet a complimentary extension of the floor mounted
demarcation line, thus forming a continuous marking.
1027. 1 .5 Uniformity. Placement and dimensions of markings shall be consistent and uniform
throughout the same exit enclosure .
1027. 1 .6 Materials. Luminescent exit path markings shall be permitted to be made of any
material, including paint, provided that an electrical charge is not required to maintain the
required luminance. Such materials shall include, but not limited to, self-luminous materials
and photoluminescent materials. Materials shall comply with either:
1 . UL 1994, or
2 . ASTM E 2072 , except that the charging source shall be 1 fc ( 10 lux) of fluorescent
illumination for 60 minutes, and the minimum luminance shall be 5 milicandelas per square
meter after 90 minutes .
1027. 1 .7 Illumination. Exit enclosures where photoluminescent exit path markings are
installed shall be provided with the minimum means of egress illumination required by
Section 1006 for at least 60 minutes prior to periods when the building is occupied.
26
(41 ) Section 1103. 1 is amended by adding second and third paragraphs respectively thereto to
read as follows :
"Nothing in this code shall be construed as relieving or waiving compliance with Colorado law
as set forth in Section 9-5 - 101 et seq. , C .R. S .
When the Building Review Board considers granting exceptions or variances either to this
chapter pursuant to Section 112 of this code or to Colorado Statutes pursuant to Section 9-5 -
1021 C .R. S . , it shall require the applicant requesting the exception or variance to demonstrate
that the application of a particular standard or specification relating to access for persons with
disabilities would impose an extraordinary hardship on the subject property. For the purposes
of this Section, an extraordinary hardship shall mean a substantial and unusual hardship which
is the direct result of unique physical site conditions such as terrain, topography or geology; or,
which is the direct result of other unique or special conditions encountered on the subject
property, but which are not typically encountered elsewhere in the city. Constraints,
complications or difficulties that may arise by complying with this chapter and/or with the
statutory standards for accessibility but that do not constitute an extraordinary hardship shall
not serve to justify the granting of an exception or variance ."
(42) Section 1107. 2 is amended by adding second and third paragraphs respectively thereto to
read as follows :
"When any building or buildings, classified as Group R, Division 1 or Group R, Division 2
Occupancy, are constructed as a single building project (or any phase thereof) on any one site
and such building project (or phase) contains one or more accessible dwelling units as required
by this chapter or Colorado law, said building project (or phase) shall be constructed such that
all such required accessible dwelling units in such building project (or phase) provide the same
functional features as are provided in the nonaccessible units in such building project (or
phase). Furthermore, such functional features except for dwelling unit bedroom-types shall be
provided in the same proportion as in the nonaccessible units . Not less than 50% of the
required accessible dwelling units shall be constructed with the distribution of accessible
dwelling unit bedroom-types being proportionally the same as the distribution of nonaccessible
dwelling unit bedroom-types, provided that at least one of each dwelling unit bedroom-type
constructed in the building project (or phase) shall be an accessible dwelling unit.
For purposes of this Section, the following definitions shall apply: 'Dwelling unit bedroom-
type' shall mean the number of bedrooms within the dwelling unit. 'Functional feature' shall
mean: a closet, a garage, a carport, a patio, a deck, additional rooms (such as a bedroom,
bathroom, den, storeroom, laundry or similar room) and any other significant feature built at
the time of original construction that offers occupants improved convenience or comfort.
Aesthetic or decorative features such as colors, architectural design elements, trim and finish
materials, decorative heating appliances not providing the primary comfort heat source,
lighting fixture style, cabinet and hardware style, plumbing fixture style, the type and location
of windows and glazed lights, or any similar miscellaneous features shall not be construed as
functional features . "
27
(43 ) Section 1108. 4. 1 is amended to read as follows :
" 1108.4. 1 Courtrooms. Each courtroom shall be accessible and comply with Sections
1108 .4. 1 . 1 through 1108 .4 . 1 . 5 .
1108.4. 1 . 1 Jury box. A wheelchair space complying with ICC A117 . 1 shall be provided
within the jury box.
Exception : Adjacent companion seating is not required.
1108.4. 1 .2 Gallery seating. Wheelchair spaces complying with ICC A117 . 1 shall be
provided in accordance with Table 1108 .2 . 2 . 1 . Designated aisle seats shall be provided in
accordance with Section 1108 .2 .4 .
1108.4. 1 .3 Assistive listening systems. An assistive listening system must be provided.
Receivers shall be provided for the assistive listening system in accordance with Section
1108 .2 . 6 . 1 ,
1108.4. 1 .4 Employee work stations. The judge ' s bench, clerk' s station, bailiff' s station,
deputy clerk' s station and court reporter' s station shall be located on an accessible route.
The vertical access to elevated employee work stations within a courtroom is not required
at the time of initial construction, provided a ramp, lift or elevator complying with ICC
A 117 . 1 can be installed without requiring reconfiguration or extension of the courtroom or
extension of the electrical system.
1108.4. 1 .5 Other work stations. The litigant' s and counsel stations, including the lectern,
shall be accessible in accordance with ICC A117 . 1 . "
(44) Section 1203. 3 is amended to read as follows :
" 1203 .3 Ventilation and moisture control. The under-floor space between the bottom of the
structural floor sheathing and the earth under any portion of a building with living or
conditioned space above shall be provided with ventilation using the methods and materials as
prescribed hereunder.
1203.3. 1 Ventilation . Under-floor spaces shall be ventilated as prescribed in 1203 . 3 .
Where such spaces are ventilated by a dedicated continuously operated fan-powered
ventilation system, such fans shall be of the type required by Section 1211 . 11 . 1 . 1 for
radon-resistant construction methods . Sufficient make-up air shall be provided from the
conditioned spaces in the building by outside-air inlets in the HVAC return-air system,
heat recovery ventilators or by approved methods considering the impact of negative
pressures created by exhaust fans, clothes dryers and similar appliances.
1203.3 .2 Under-floor spaces beneath above-grade floors . Under-floor spaces directly
below floors that are located entirely above grade shall be ventilated by one of the methods
as set forth in 1203 . 3 .2 . Exposed ground surface in such spaces shall be covered with an
28
approved vapor and soil-gas retarder material . All joints in the retarder shall be overlapped
by 6 inches ( 153 mm) and sealed or taped, with the retarder edges extending a minimum of
6 inches ( 153 mm) up the foundation wall and attached and sealed thereto in an approved
manner.
1203.3 .2 . 1 . Non-conditioned under-floor spaces . Where thermally-isolated above-
grade floor systems are insulated and sealed to reduce heat loss and air infiltration from
non-conditioned under-floor spaces below, as prescribed by the 2006
INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSER VATION CODE, exterior ventilation openings
may be used provided that such spaces do not contain HVAC appliances and the
ventilation can be provided directly through openings in an exterior wall. The
minimum total net free area of exterior ventilation openings shall not be less than
111 ,500 of the floor area of the under-floor space . Openings shall be placed so as to
provide cross-ventilation of the space and shall be covered for their height and width
with any of the following materials provided that the least dimension of the covering
shall not exceed 1 /4 inch (6 .4 mm) .
1 . Perforated sheet metal plates not less than 0 . 070 inch ( 1 . 8 mm) thick.
2 . Expanded sheet metal plates not less than 0 .047 inch ( 1 .2 mm) thick.
3 . Cast iron grills or grating.
4 . Extruded load-bearing brick vents .
5 . Hardware cloth of 0 . 035 inch (0 . 89 mm) wire or heavier.
6 . Corrosion-resistant wire mesh, with the least dimension being 1 /8 inch (3 . 2
mm) .
1203.3 .2 .2. Conditioned under-floor spaces . Where the perimeter walls enclosing
conditioned under-floor spaces regulated under 1203 . 3 .2 are thermally insulated and
sealed to reduce air infiltration as prescribed by the 2006INTERNATIONAL ENERGY
CONSERVATION CODE, ventilation of the under-floor space shall be accomplished
by approved methods including a continuously operated mechanical ventilation at the
rate of 1 . 0 cfm ( 1 . 02 L/s) for each 50 square feet ( 10 m2) of under floor space floor
area, or by conditioned air supplied from the building HVAC system either indirectly
through air-transfer openings or directly through supply-air ducts .
1203.3 .3 Under-floor spaces beneath below-grade floors . Under-floor spaces that are
located partially or entirely below grade, and directly above which in the conditioned space
on the floor above fuel-burning environmental or service-water heating equipment is
installed, such equipment shall be power vented or direct vented (closed combustion
chamber) appliances as defined in the City Mechanical Code. Such under-floor spaces and
under-floor spaces located such that ventilation cannot be provided directly through
exterior wall openings, shall be provided with ventilation and space conditioning by a
continuously operated fan-powered ventilation system that provides ventilation at a rate of
7 . 5 cfm per person plus 0 . 01 cfm per square foot of total conditioned floor area in the
home computed on the basis of two occupants for the first bedroom and one occupant for
each additional bedroom.
29
The vent pipe served by the ventilation fan shall be constructed in accordance with Section
1211 . 5 . 1 for radon-resistant construction methods except that the intake inlet for such vent
riser pipe may be located above the gas-retarder membrane and at least 60 inches ( 1525
mm) from the nearest transfer floor opening. The intake inlet shall be covered with
corrosion-resistant wire mesh having openings with the least dimension being 1 /8 inch (3 .2
mm) .
A minimum of one transfer floor opening shall be provided above the ventilated space for
every 250 square feet of under-floor space or portion thereof. The openings shall be sized
by dividing the fan ventilation rate by the total number of openings and determining the
opening size based on Table 1203 . 3 . See Figure 1203 . 3 ( 1 ) for transfer floor detail.
Exceptions :
1 .Engineered systems that maintain the relative humidity so that all surfaces in such under-
floor spaces have a surface humidity level no greater than 70% .
2 .Engineered non-cellulose and other approved inorganic floor systems designed to be a
sealed system shall not require ventilation when corrosion of the system components has
been considered and mitigated, assuming that the minimum required structural integrity of
such components is to be maintained for the life of the building.
The ground surface of the under floor space shall be covered with a vapor retarder
material. The vapor retarder shall be a minimum 10-mil non-reinforced polyethylene sheet
when tested in accordance with ASTM E154-99 . The sheet shall be continuously sealed in
an approved manner to the foundation walls, to the interior caissons or footing pads,
plumbing lines and at all laps of multiple sheets . See Figure 1203 . 3 (2) .
Table 1203 . 3
Exhaust Rate/Transfer
Opening cfm Opening Size, net free area
0- 10 1 . 5 to 2 .4 s . in. 1 -3/8" to 1 -3/4" dia. hole
11 - 15 2 .4 to 3 . 6 s . in. 1 -3/4" to 2- 1 /8" dia, hole
16-20 3 . 6 to 4.4 s . in. (2- 1 /8" to 2-3/8" dia. hole)
Figure 1203 . 3 ( 1 )
Floor Transfer Detail
30
LF - - - - - - - - - - - - -
BASEMENT (CONDITIONED SPACE)
DECK/ OOPEN NFERFACE " MIN . CLEARANCE
IV
FLOOR
/ CONDITIONED
AR- - - - - -
REMOVE DAMPER
& LEVER b
2 O MIN 1 " PROVIDE ROUGH OPENING
CLEAR IN FLOOR DECK TO a
FORCE-FIT REGISTER. DO a d as
FLOOR BOX/ 4 NOT PENETRATE FLOOR Q
RECEPTACLE STRUCTURAL MEMBERS.
a'
a
DRILLED HOLE, DIAMETER PER TABLE&
CONCRETE lid
FOUNDATION a
®B MIN. 1 " LIP WALL
0
F ELOW-GRADE I 4
NOTES: NDE UR-FLOOR SPACE a
1O FLOOR AIR TRANSFER ASSEMBLY:
STANDARD FLOOR REGISTER OR GRILLE. MODIFY AS FOLLOWS:
2 DAMPER LEVER: REMOVE DAMPER ACTUATION LEVER (IF PRESENT).
3 DAMPER: REMOVE DAMPER IF PRESENT.
® PROVIDE SHEET METAL "BOX", SAME SIZE AS GRILLE OR REGISTER FLANGE.
50 PROVIDE CUT OR DRILLED SHARP EDGE HOLE IN SIDE OF BOX CLOSEST TO FOUNDATION WALL AS FOLLOWS:
® NET OPENING THROUGH TRANSFER: IN ACCORDANCE WITH TABLE IV.J.
® "BOX" SHALL PROVIDE CODE INTENT FOR NON-COMBUSTIBLE RECEPTACLE IN ACCORDANCE WITH UMC 607 & IRC
M1601 .4.3. RECEPTACLE SHALL HAVE MINIMUM 1 " VERTICAL LIP.
ALL TRANSFER OPENINGS SHALL BE THE SAME CROSS-SECTIONAL AREA +/- 10%.
DETAIL SHOWN IS SUGGESTED MEANS OF ACHIEVING SPECIFIED NET TRANSFER OPENING AREA AND
RECEPTACLE. ALTERNATE MEANS OF ACHIEVING THESE GOALS MAY BE USED AT DESIGNER'S OPTION.
TABLE IV . J : FREE AREA OF OPENING IN FLOOR BOX
EXHAUST RATE PER NET FREE AREA / HOLE DIAM ETER
TRANSFER OPENING
0 - 9 CFM NOT APPLICABLE - TRANSFER AT LEAST
10 CFM THROUGH EACH OPENING
10 - 15 CFM 1 . 7 TO 2 . 6 SQ . IN . FREE AREA /
( 1 - 5 /8 " 0 drilled hole )
16 - 20 CFM 2 . 6 TO 3 . 7 SCAN . FREE AREA /
2 " 0 drilled hole
21 - 25 CFM 3 . 7 TO 4 . 7 SCIAN . FREE AREA /
2 - 114 " 0 drilled hole
26 - 30 CFM 4 . 7 TO 5 . 8 SQ . IN . FREE AREA /
( 2 - 1 /2 " 0 drilled hole )
Figure 1203 . 3 (2)
31
PROVIDE FLASHING
SYSTEMS TO DRAIN WATER
AWAY FROM BUILDING
OPENINGS.
FIRST FLOOR PROVIDE POSITIVE GRADE
AWAY FROM BUILDING PER
GEOTECHNICAL
RECOMMENDATIONS
I III II IEARTH�Ill n I� 11
a CONSIDER THE USE OF
TERMINATE DRAINS EXTERNAL INSULATION TO
DIRECTLY ABOVE a . RAISE THE INSIDE SURFACE
FLOOR FIXTURES. TEMPERATURE OF THE
FOUNDATION WALL (TO
REDUCE CONDENSATION) ,
ESPECIALLY IN GARDEN
LEVEL OR WALKOUT
ALLOW WETTED DECKING ° . BASEMENTS.
TO DRY BEFORE
FINISHING FLOOR.
INTERIOR INSULATION WITHIN
L. J BASEMENT STRUCTURAL FLOOR BELOW— GRADE UNDER—FLOOR
TT SPACE NOT RECOMMENDED.
9 n .
==7==
PROVIDE MINIMUM ° °
CLEARANCE BETWEEN 6 " SEAL RETARDER TO WALL.
BOTTOM OF PIPE AND VOID HT. ALTERNATE: EXTEND RETARDER
EARTH (WHERE PIPE + 4" BELOW TO TOP OF FLOOR FULLY
CROSSES BELOW BOTTOM BEAM BEHIND LEDGER OR RIM JOIST.
OF STRUCTURE).
VAPOR RETARDER. e. .. FOUNDATION/ BASEMENT WALL PER
° GEOTECH AND STRUCTURAL DIVISION
RECOMMENDATIONS
CONTROL MOISTURE OF SOILS DURING ; , , � COVER VOID FORM WITH VAPOR
e CONSTRUCTION . (SECTION VLN . ): RE—GRADE L RETARDER
AND CLEAN SURFACE OF SOIL PRIOR
INSTALLATION OF VAPOR RETARDER a
e o INTERIOR OR EXTERIOR PERIMETER
EXTEND VAPOR BARRIER UP INTERIOR CONCRETE CAISSONS DRAIN SYSTEM PER GEOTECH
OR FOOTINGS. SEAL TO CONCRETE. DO NOT COVER RECOMMENDATIONS
STEEL OR STRUCTURAL WOOD MATERIAL. ATTACH AWAY e °
FROM COLUMN TO ALLOW THE CONCRETE TO BREATH .
32
1203.3 .4 Access . Access shall be provided to all under-floor spaces . Access openings
through the floor shall be a minimum of 18 inches by 24 inches (457 mm by 610 mm) .
Openings through a perimeter wall shall be 16 inches by 24 inches (407 mm by 610 mm) .
When any portion of the through-wall access is below grade, an areaway of not less than
16 inches by 24 inches (407 mm by 610 mm) shall be provided. The bottom of the areaway
shall be below the threshold of the access opening. Through-wall access openings shall
not be located under a door to the building. See Section 1209 . 3 for access requirements
where mechanical equipment is located under floors .
Exception : Engineered non-cellulose and other approved inorganic floor systems
designed to be a sealed system shall not require ventilation when corrosion of the
system components has been considered and adequately mitigated, assuming that the
minimum required structural integrity of such components is to be maintained for the
life of the building.
1203 .3 .5 Vapor retarders. Class I or II vapor retarders are required on the interior side of
frame walls .
Exceptions .
1 . Basement walls .
2 . Below grade portion of any wall.
3 . Construction where moisture or its freezing will not damage the materials .
1203 .3 .5. 1 Class III vapor retarders. Class III vapor retarders shall be permitted
where any one of the conditions are met:
1 . Vented cladding over OSB
2 . Vented cladding over Plywood
3 . Vented cladding over Fiberboard
4. Vented cladding over Gypsum
5 . Insulated sheathing with R-value > R5 over 2x4 wall
6 . Insulated sheathing with R-value > R7 . 5 over 2x6 wall
1203 .3.5.2 Material vapor retarder class. The vapor retarder class shall be based
on the manufacturer' s testing or a tested assembly. The following shall be deemed
to meet the class specified:
1 . Class I : Sheet polyethylene, non-perforated aluminum foil
2 . Class II: Kraft faced fiberglass batts or low perm paint (paint with 0 . 1 <
perm < = 1 . 0)
3 . Class III : Latex or enamel paint
33
1203.3.5.3 Minimum clear air spaces and vented openings for vented cladding.
For the purposes of this section vented cladding shall include the following
minimum clear air spaces . Other openings with the equivalent vent area permitted.
1 . Vinyl lap or horizontal aluminum siding applied over a weather-resistive
barrier as specified in Table R703 .4 of the International Residential Code.
2 . Brick veneer with a clear airspace as specified in Section R703 . 7 .4 .2 of the
International Residential Code.
3 . Other approved vented claddings ."
(45) CHAPTER 12 INTERIOR ENVIRONMENT, is amended by adding a new section at the
end thereof to read as follows :
"SECTION 1211 — RADON-RESISTANT CONSTRUCTION
1211 . 1 . 1 Title. These provisions shall be known as the Fort Collins Radon-Resistant
Construction Code For Group R Division 2 Buildings,' and shall be cited as such and will
be referred to herein as 'this code. '
1211 . 1 .2 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to new multi-family dwellings.
1211 . 1 .3 Purpose. The purpose of this code is to provide minimum requirements to
enhance the public safety, health and general welfare, through construction methods
designed and installed to resist entry of radon gas into the occupied spaces of buildings
regulated by this code .
SECTION 1211 .2 - DEFINITIONS
1211.2.1 General. For the purpose of these requirements, the terms used shall be
defined as follows :
FOUNDATION DRAIN SYSTEM. A continuous length of drain tile, perforated
pipe, or filter mat extending around all or part of the internal or external perimeter of a
basement or crawl space footing designed to collect and drain away excess subsurface
water.
RADON. A naturally occurring, chemically inert, radioactive gas that is not detectable
by human senses . As a gas, it can move readily through particles of soil and rock and
can accumulate under the slabs and foundations of homes where it can easily enter the
living space through construction cracks and openings .
SOIL-GAS-RETARDER. A continuous membrane of 3 -mil (0. 075 mm) cross-linked
polyethylene or other equivalent material used to retard the flow of soil gases into a
building.
SUBFLOOR. A concrete slab and other approved permanent floor system that directly
contacts the ground and is within the walls of the living spaces of the building.
34
SUB-MEMBRANE DEPRESSURIZATION SYSTEM . A system designed to
achieve lower sub-membrane air pressure relative to crawl space air pressure by use of
a vent drawing air from beneath the soil-gas-retarder membrane.
SUB-SLAB DEPRESSURIZATION SYSTEM (Passive). A system designed to
achieve lower sub-slab air pressure relative to indoor air pressure by use of a vent pipe
routed through the conditioned space of a building and connecting the sub-slab area
with outdoor air, thereby relying on the convective flow of air upward in the vent to
draw air from beneath the slab .
SECTION 1211 .3 - REQUIREMENTS
1211 .3. 1 General. The following required construction methods are intended to resist
radon entry and prepare the building for post-construction radon mitigation.
1211 .3 .2 Subfloor preparation. A layer of gas-permeable material shall be placed
under all subfloors . The gas-permeable layer shall consist of one of the following
methods except that where fills of aggregate size less than that described in Method 1
are used beneath a slab, Method 2 ,3 , 4, or 5 must be used.
1 . A uniform layer of clean aggregate, a minimum of 4 inches ( 102 mm) thick. The
aggregate shall consist of material that will pass through a 2-inch (51 mm) sieve
and be retained by a '/4 -inch (6 .4 mm) sieve. In buildings where interior footings or
other barriers separate sub-grade areas, penetrations through the interior footing or
barrier equal to a minimum of 12 square inches (0 . 094 m2) per 10 feet (3 .048 m) of
barrier length shall be provided. A minimum of two penetrations shall be provided
per separation and be evenly spaced along the separation.
Exception : In buildings where interior footings or other barriers separate the
sub-grade area, separate radon vent pipes may be installed for each sub-grade
area as specified in Section 1211 . 5 . 2 in lieu of penetrations through the barrier.
2 . A foundation drain pipe system installed under concrete floor slab areas less
than 2,000 square feet ( 186 m2), consisting of a continuous loop of minimum 3 -
inch (76 mm) diameter perforated pipe shall be laid in the sub-grade with the top of
pipe located I inch (25 .4 mm) below the concrete slab . The pipe may be rigid or
flexible but shall have perforations fully around the circumference with a free air
space equal to 1 . 83 square inches per square foot ( 127 cm2/m2) of exterior pipe
surface area. Such pipe shall be wrapped with approved filter material to prevent
blocking of pipe perforations . The pipe loop shall be located inside of the exterior
perimeter foundation walls not more than 12 inches (305 mm) from the perimeter
foundation walls . In buildings where interior footings or other barriers separate the
sub-grade area, the loop of pipe shall penetrate, or pass beneath such interior
footings or barriers. For slab areas greater than 2 ,000 square feet ( 186 m2) but less
than 4,000 square feet (372 m2), the preceding configuration may be used, provided
a minimum of 4-inch diameter ( 102 mm) pipe is installed. Slabs in excess of 4,000
square feet (372 m2) shall have under them separate loops for every additional
35
2,000 square feet ( 186 m2) of slab area when 3 -inch (76 mm) diameter pipe is used;
or, slabs may have separate loops provided for each additional increment in area
between 2,000 square feet ( 186 m2) and 4,000 square feet (372 m2) when 4-inch
( 102 mm) diameter pipe is used.
3 . A foundation drain soil gas collection mat system installed under concrete floor
slab areas of 2,000 square feet ( 186 m2) or less, consisting of a continuous
rectilinear loop of soil gas collection mat or drainage mat having minimum
dimensions of 1 inch in height by 12 inches in width (25 .4 mm in height x 305 mm
in width) and a nominal cross-sectional air flow area of 12 square inches (0 . 0078
m2) may be laid on top of the sub-grade . The mat shall be constructed of a matrix
that allows for the movement of air through it and be capable of supporting the
concrete placed upon it. The matrix shall be covered by approved filter material on
all four sides to prevent dirt or concrete from entering the matrix. All breaches and
joints in the filter material shall be repaired prior to the placement of the slab . The
loop shall be located inside the exterior perimeter foundation walls and within 12
inches (305 mm) from the perimeter foundation walls . In buildings where interior
footings or other barriers separate the sub-grade area, the mat shall penetrate these
interior footings or barriers to form a continuous loop around the exterior
perimeter.
Slabs larger than 2,000 square feet ( 186 m2) but less than 4,000 square feet (372
m2) shall have under them an additional strip of mat that bisects the loop forming
two areas approximately equally divided by the two halves of the rectilinear loop .
Slabs larger than 4,000 square feet (372 m2) shall have separate loops for each
200 ( 186 m2) square feet; or, increased to 4,000 square feet (372 m2) when a
loop is bisected as specified in the preceding configuration.
4 . A uniform layer of sand (native or fill), a minimum of 4 inches ( 102 mm) thick,
overlain by a layer or strips of geo-textile drainage matting designed to allow the
lateral flow of soil gases.
5 . Other materials, systems or floor designs with demonstrated capability to permit
depressurization across the entire sub-floor area.
1211.3.3 Entry routes. Potential radon entry routes shall be closed in accordance with
Sections 1211 . 3 .4 . 1 through 1211 . 3 .4. 8
1211 .3 .3. 1 Floor openings. Openings around bathtubs, showers, water closets,
pipes, wires or other objects that penetrate concrete slabs or other floor assemblies
shall be filled with a polyurethane caulk or equivalent sealant applied in
accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations .
1211 .3.3 .2 Concrete joints. All control joints, isolation joints, construction joints
and any other joints in concrete slabs or between slabs and foundation walls shall
be sealed with a caulk or sealant. Gaps and joints shall be cleared of loose material
36
and filled with polyurethane caulk or other elastomeric sealant applied in
accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations .
1211 .3 .3.3 Condensate drains. Condensate drains shall be trapped or routed
through non-perforated pipe to daylight.
1211 .3 .3.4 Sumps. Sump pits open to soil or serving as the termination point for
sub-slab or exterior drain tile loops shall be covered with a gasketed or otherwise
sealed lid. Sumps used as the suction point in a sub-slab depressurization system
shall have a lid designed to accommodate the vent pipe . Sumps used as a floor
drain shall have a lid equipped with a trapped inlet.
1211 .3 .3.5 Foundation walls . Hollow block masonry foundation walls shall be
constructed with either a continuous course of solid masonry, one course of
masonry grouted solid, or a solid concrete beam at or above finished ground
surface to prevent passage of air from the interior of the wall into the living space .
Where a brick veneer or other masonry ledge is installed, the course immediately
below that ledge shall be sealed. Joints, cracks or other openings around all
penetrations of both exterior and interior surfaces of masonry block or wood
foundation walls below the ground surface shall be filled with polyurethane caulk
or equivalent sealant. Penetrations of concrete walls shall be filled.
1211 .3 .3.6 Dampproofing. The exterior surfaces of portions of concrete and
masonry block walls below the ground surface shall be damp-proofed in
accordance with Section 1807 .
1211 .3 .3.7 Air-handling units. Air-handling units in crawl spaces shall be sealed
to prevent air from being drawn into the unit.
Exception : Units with gasketed seams or units that are otherwise sealed by the
manufacturer to prevent leakage.
1211 .3 .3.8 Ducts. Ductwork passing through or beneath a slab shall be of seamless
material unless the air-handling system is designed to maintain continuous positive
pressure within such ducting. Joints in such ductwork shall be sealed to prevent air
leakage. Ductwork located in crawl spaces shall have all seams and joints sealed by
closure systems in accordance with the International Mechanical Code.
1211 .3.4 Sub-membrane depressurization system. In buildings with interior
structural floors directly above under-floor spaces containing exposed soil surfaces that
are not protected by a sub-slab depressurization system, the following components of
sub-membrane depressurization system shall be installed during construction.
37
Exception : Buildings in which an approved mechanical ventilation system
complying with Section 1203 or such other equivalent system that provides
equivalent depressurization across the entire sub-membrane area as determined by
the building official is installed in the under-floor spaces .
1211 .3 .4. 1 Ventilation. Crawl spaces and similar under-floor spaces shall be
provided with ventilation complying with Section 1203 .
1211 .3.4.2 Soil-gas-retarder. The exposed soil in under-floor spaces shall be
covered with a continuous layer of soil-gas-retarder. Such groundcover j oints shall
overlap 6 inches ( 152 mm) and be sealed or taped. The edges of the groundcover
shall extend a minimum of 6 inches ( 152 mm) up onto all foundation walls
enclosing the under-floor space and shall be attached and sealed to foundation
walls in an approved manner.
1211 .3 .4.3 Vent pipe riser. A plumbing tee or other approved connection shall be
inserted horizontally beneath the sheeting and connected to a 3 - or 4-inch-diameter
(76 mm or 102 mm) fitting with a vertical vent pipe installed through the sheeting.
The vent pipe shall be extended up through the building floors, terminate at least
12 inches (305 mm) above the roof in a location at least 10 feet (3 . 048 m) away
from any window or other opening into the conditioned spaces of the building that
is less than 2 feet (0 . 610 m) below the exhaust point, and 10 feet (3 .048 m) from
any window or other opening in adjoining or adjacent buildings .
1211 .3.5 Sub-slab depressurization system. The following components of a sub-slab
depressurization system shall be installed during construction under basement or slab-
on-grade floors .
1211 .5. 1 Vent pipe riser. A minimum 3 -inch-diameter (76 mm) ABS, PVC or
equivalent gas-tight pipe shall be embedded vertically into the sub-slab aggregate
or other permeable material before the slab is cast. A 'T' fitting or equivalent
method shall be used to ensure that the pipe opening remains within the sub-slab
permeable material . Alternatively, the 3 -inch (76 mm) pipe shall be inserted
directly into an interior perimeter drain tile loop or through a sealed sump cover
where the sump is exposed to the sub-slab aggregate or connected to it through a
drainage system.
All vent pipes shall be extended up through the building floors, terminate at least
12 inches (305 mm) above the surface of the roof in a location at least 10 feet
(3 . 048 m) away from any window, air intake, or other opening into the conditioned
spaces of the building that is less than 2 feet (0 . 610 m) below the exhaust point,
and 10 feet (3 . 048 m) from any window or other opening in adjoining or adjacent
38
buildings . The discharge end of vent pipe terminations shall be unobstructed and
protected from small animal entry with a corrosion-resistant screen having
openings between 1/4 inch (6 .4 mm) and 1/2 inch ( 12 . 7 mm) .
1211 .3.5.2 Multiple vent pipes. In buildings where interior footings or other
barriers separate the sub-slab aggregate or other gas-permeable material, each area
shall be fitted with an individual vent pipe . Vent pipes shall connect to a single
vent that terminates above the roof or each individual vent pipe shall terminate
separately above the roof.
1211 .3 .6 Vent pipe drainage. All components of the radon vent pipe system shall be
installed to provide positive drainage to the ground beneath the slab or soil-gas
retarder.
1211 .3.7 Vent pipe accessibility. Radon vent pipes shall be accessible for fan
installation through an attic or other area outside the habitable space.
Exception : The radon vent pipe need not be accessible in an attic space where an
approved roof-top electrical supply is provided.
1211 .3.8 Vent pipe identification and notification. All exposed and visible interior
radon vent pipes shall be conspicuously identified with at least one label on each floor
and in attics provided with access openings. The label shall read substantially as
follows : 'Radon Reduction System. ' In addition to the preceding label, a notice shall be
placed in a conspicuous area near the vent pipe that includes the following statement :
` THIS RADON REDUCTION SYSTEM IS NOT REQUIRED TO BE TESTED AND
IS A 'PASSIVE' SYSTEM, RELYING ENTIRELY ON NATURAL VENTILATION.
OCCUPANTS ARE ADVISED TO TEST FOR RADON AND TAKE REMEDIAL
ACTION AS NECESSARY BY INSTALLING A CONTINUOUSLY OPERATING
FAN LOCATED IN THE VENT PIPE (ACCESS TYPICALLY PROVIDED IN THE
ATTIC) AND CONNECTED TO THE NEARBY PROVIDED ELECTRICAL
OUTLET, CALL 1 - 800-767-RADON FOR MORE INFORMATION. '
1211 .3 .9 Combination foundations. Combination basement/crawl space or slab-on-
grade/crawl space foundations shall have separate radon vent pipes installed in each
type of foundation area. Each radon vent pipe shall terminate above the roof or shall be
connected to a single vent that terminates above the roof.
1211 .3 . 10 Building depressurization. Joints in air ducts and plenums in
unconditioned spaces shall be substantially air tight and permanently sealed with an
approved sealant, mastic, or other approved methods . Thermal envelope air infiltration
requirements shall comply with the energy conservation provisions in the energy
39
conservation code currently enacted by the City. Firestopping shall be in conformance
with the most recent general building code enacted by the City.
1211 .3. 11 Provisions for future depressurization fan installation. Permanent
provisions shall be made for the future installation of an in-line fan to be connected to
every radon vent pipe . Such designated fan locations shall be outside of the
conditioned envelope of the building, such as in the attic, garage and similar locations,
excluding crawl spaces and other interior under-floor spaces . Designated locations
shall accommodate an unobstructed permanent cylindrical space with the following
minimum dimensions : 12 inches (305 mm) measured radially around the radon vent
pipe along a vertical distance of 30 inches (760 mm) . Designated fan locations shall be
permanently accessible for servicing and maintenance. An electrical circuit shall be
provided within 4 feet ( 1 .219 m) of and within sight from designated fan locations .
Such circuit shall have a means of positive disconnection and be terminated in an
approved electrical outlet in accordance with the applicable current electric code.
1211 .3. 11 . 1 Depressurization fan system activation. When a passive system as
constructed in accordance with this code is to be converted to an active system, an
approved in-line fan shall be installed in a designated fan location as specified in
Section 1211 . 11 . 1 . Additionally, an approved permanent electric light fixture and
in-line pipe couplings that facilitate fan replacement shall be provided. The in-line
fan shall be designed to operate continuously for a period of not less than five years
and have a minimum air-flow rating as established by the building official . A
readily accessible manometer or other approved warning device that notifies
occupants of a fan malfunction by a visible or audible signal shall be installed
within the dwelling unit. "
40
(46) CHAPTER 13 ENERGYEFFICIENCY, is renamed, "ENERGY-EFFICIENT DESIGN AND
CONSTRUCTION", and is further amended to read as follows :
"SECTION 1301 - GENERAL
1301 . 1 Scope and purpose. For the purpose of establishing minimum requirements
concerning the minimum energy-efficiency of every building regulated by this code, including
its systems ; new portions of such existing building and their related systems ; and to new
systems and equipment in such existing building, every building shall be designed and
constructed according to 2006 International Energy Conservation Code as amended by the
city.
1301 .2. Exterior and interior local design parameters. The following local design
parameters shall be used :
Winter Outdoor, Design Dry-bulb (OF) = 4
Winter Indoor, Design Dry-bulb (OF) = 72
Summer, Outdoor Design Dry-bulb (OF) = 89
Summer, Indoor Design Dry-bulb (OF) = 75
Summer, Design Wet-bulb (OF) = 62
Degree days heating = 6368
Degree days cooling = 479
{For SI: °C = [(°F)-32]/ 1 . 8 . }
(47) Section 1503. 4 is amended to read as follows :
" 1503.4 Roof drainage. Design and installation of roof drainage systems shall comply with
Section 1503 and the International Plumbing Code.
1503.4. 1 Secondary drainage required. Secondary (emergency) roof drains or scuppers
shall be provided where the roof perimeter construction extends above the roof in such a
manner that water may be entrapped if the primary drains allow buildup for any reason.
1503.4.2 Scuppers. When scuppers are used for secondary (emergency overflow) roof
drainage, the quantity, size, location and inlet elevation of the scuppers shall be sized to
prevent the depth of ponding water from exceeding that for which the roof was designed as
determined by Section 1503 .4 . 1 . Scuppers shall not have an opening dimension of less
than 4 inches ( 102 mm) . The flow through the primary system shall not be considered
when locating and sizing scuppers ."
(48) Section 1505 FIRE CLASSIFICATION is amended in the following respects :
(a) Section 1505. 1 is amended to read as follows :
"1505. 1 New Construction. The roof-covering classification on any new structure
regulated by this code shall be Class A.
EXCEPTIONS .
41
1 . Noncombustible roof coverings as defined in Section 1507 . 3 , 1507 .4, 1507 . 5 may
be applied in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications in lieu of a fire-
retardant roofing assembly.
2 . Any Class B or Class C roof covering may be applied on any new construction that
is added to an existing building classified as a Group R, Division 3 Occupancy,
provided the roof extremities of such existing building and new construction are
located a minimum distance of five (5) feet to the nearest adjacent property line
and are a minimum distance of ten ( 10) feet to another building. "
(b) Table No. 1505, 1, Minimum Roof Covering Classifications For Types of Construction,
is deleted.
(49) Section 1507 REQUIREMENTS FOR ROOF COVERINGS is amended in the following
respects :
(a) Section 1507. 2. 7 is amended by adding a new subsection thereto to read as follows :
" 1507.2 . 7. 1 Wind resistance. Asphalt shingles shall be tested in accordance with either
ASTM D 3161 or ASTM D 7158 for wind resistance . Asphalt shingles shall meet the
classification requirements of ASTM D 3161 D or F ; or ASTM D 7158 G or H. Asphalt
shingle packaging shall indicate compliance with the required classification in Table
1507 .2 . 7 . "
(b) A new, Subsection ] 50 7. 16, is added at the end thereof to read as follows :
" 1507. 16 Roof gardens and landscaped roofs. Roof gardens and landscaped roofs shall
comply with the requirements of this chapter and Sections 1607 . 11 .2 .2 and 1607 . 11 .2 . 3 . "
(50) Section 1510 - REROOFING, is amended to read as follows :
" 1510. 1 General Reroofing. Except as otherwise provided hereunder, reroofing shall be
applied in accordance with this chapter and subject to the following conditions :
1 . No portion of an existing nonrated roof covering may be permanently replaced or
covered with more than one square of nonrated roof covering.
2 . Any existing roof covering system may be replaced with a roof covering of the same
materials and classification, provided the replacement roof covering has a minimum
rating of Class C ."
42
(51 ) Table 160 7. 1 is amended to read as follows :
Table 1607. 1 Change table rows 4, 5 and 28 to read as shown and delete row 9 "Decks ": (S9-06107
Part 1)
TABLE 1607 . 1 MINIMUM UNIFORMLY DISTRIBUTED
LIVE LOADS AND MINIMUM CONCENTRATED LIVE UNIFORM ( psf) CONCENTRATED ( Ibs . )
LOADS OCCUPANCY OR USE
4 . Assembly areas and theaters
Fixed seats (fastened to floor) 60
Follow spot, projections , and control rooms 50 NA
Lobbies 100
Movable seats 100
Stages and platforms 125
Other assembly areas 100
5 . Balconies (exterior) and decksh Same as NA
occupancy served
28 . Residential One- and two-family dwellings :
Uninhabitable attics without storagei 10
Uninhabitable attics with storagei, i, k 20
Habitable attics and sleeping areas 30 NA
All other areas 40
Hotels and multifamily dwellings :
Private rooms and corridors serving them 40
Public rooms and corridors serving them 100
NA — Not Applicable
h . See Section 1604 .8 . 3 for decks attached to exterior walls . (Portions of table and footnotes not shown remain
unchanged )
(52) Section 1608. 2, the first sentence is amended to read in its entirety as follows :
"1608.2 Ground Snow Loads . Buildings and other structures and all portions thereof that are
subject to snow loading shall be designed to resist such snow loads in accordance with
Appendix Chapter 16 , Division I, wherein the 'ground snow load' ]: shall be 30 ps£ "
(53) Section 1609. 3 is amended to read in its entirety as follows :
"1609.3 " Basic wind speed. The minimum basic wind speed for determining design wind
pressure shall be one hundred ( 100) miles per hour ( 161 kph) . "
(54) Section 1803. 2 is amended by adding a new subsection thereto to read as follows :
"1803 .2. 1 Final Grading. Final grading adjacent to the foundation shall be compacted
sufficiently and in such a manner such that is not undermined or subject to significant
settlement or displacement due to improper placement of backfill. "
(5 5 ) Section 2302. 1 , the definition of TREATED WOOD is amended to read as follows :
43
"TREATED WOOD. Wood and wood based materials that use vacuum-pressure
impregnation processes to enhance fire retardant or preservative properties and shall include :
1 . Fire-retardant-treated wood. Pressure-treated lumber and plywood that exhibit
reduced surface burning characteristics and resist propagation of fire.
2. Preservative-treated wood. Pressure-treated wood products that exhibit reduced
susceptibility to damage by fungi, insects or marine borers ."
(56) Section 2304. 9. 5 is amended by adding Subsections 2304. 9. 5. 1 through 2304. 9. 5. 4 thereto to
read as follows :
"2304.9.5. 1 Fasteners for preservative-treated wood. Fasteners for preservative-treated
wood shall be of hot-dipped zinc-coated galvanized steel, stainless steel, silicon bronze or
copper. Fasteners other than nails, timber rivets, wood screws and lag screws shall be
permitted to be of mechanically deposited zinc-coated steel with coating weights in accordance
with ASTM B 695 , Class 55 minimum.
2304.9.5.2 Fastenings for wood foundations. Fastenings for wood foundations shall be as
required in AF&PA Technical Report No . 7 .
2304.9.5.3 Fasteners for fire-retardant-treated wood used in exterior applications or wet
or damp locations. Fasteners for fire-retardant-treated wood used in exterior applications or
wet or damp locations shall be of hot-dipped zinc-coated galvanized steel, stainless steel,
silicon bronze or copper. Fasteners other than nails, timber rivets, wood screws and lag screws
shall be permitted to be of mechanically deposited zinc coated steel with coating weights in
accordance with ASTM B 695 , Class 55 minimum.
2304.9.5.4 Fasteners for fire-retardant-treated wood used in interior applications.
Fasteners for fire-retardant treated wood used in interior locations shall be in accordance with
the manufacturer ' s recommendations . In the absence of manufacturer' s recommendations,
Section 2304 . 9 . 5 . 3 shall apply. "
(57) Section 2406. 3 Item 5 is amended to read as follows :
"5 . Glazing in doors and enclosures for hot tubs, whirlpools, saunas , steam rooms, bathtubs
and showers . Glazing in any portion of a building wall enclosing these compartments
where the bottom exposed edge of the glazing is less than 60 inches ( 1524 mm) above a
standing surface and where any portion of such glazing is within forty-eight (48) inches of
an interior surface of a tub ."
44
(58) Section 2902. 1 is amended by adding a new subsection thereto to read as follows :
"2902. 1 .2 Touch-free toilet facilities. Toilet facilities installed for occupancies associated
with food preparation or food service to the public shall be provided with:
1 . Automatic touch-free water control valves on lavatories.
2 . Automatic touch-free paper towel dispensers.
3 . Automatic flush controls on urinals and toilet stools .
4 . Toilet facilities exit doors that allow exiting without requiring touching by hand, any door
hardware, such as knobs , levers, sliding bolts, latches and similar devices.
Exception : Toilet facilities designed as a single occupant use may be provided with exit
door locking hardware to afford privacy. "
(59) Sections 3108. 1 and 3108. 2 are amended to read as follows :
"3108. 1 General. Towers shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the provisions
of TIA-222 .
3108.2 Location and access. Towers shall be located such that guy wires and other
accessories shall not cross or encroach upon any street or other public space, or over above-
ground electric utility lines, or encroach upon any privately owned property without the
written consent of the owner of the encroached-upon property, space or aboveground electric
utility lines . Towers shall be equipped with climbing and working facilities in compliance with
TIA-222 . Access to the tower sites shall be limited as required by applicable OSHA, FCC and
EPA regulations. "
(60) Appendix C GROUP UAGRICULTURAL BUILDINGS is adopted in its entirety.
(61 ) Appendix E SUPPLEMENTARYACCESSIBILITYREQUIREMENTS, is adopted in its
entirety.
(62) Appendix I PATIO COVERS is adopted in its entirety.
Section 3 . That Section 5 -28 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby amended
to read as follows :
Sec. 5-28. Defintions .
The following words, terms and phrases, when used in Article II of this chapter and in
any code adopted by reference therein, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this Section :
Whenever the word municipality, jurisdiction or city is used, it shall mean the City of
Fort Collins .
45
Whenever the word term Building-code Official or Code Official is used, the term shall
be synonymous with "Director of Building and Zoning Neighborhood and Building Services" or
authorized representative .
Section 4 . That all of the foregoing changes enacted by this Ordinance shall become
effective for implementation commencing July 1 , 2008 .
Introduced, considered favorably on first reading, and ordered published this 6th day of May
A.D . 2008 , and to be presented for final passage on the 20th day of May A.D . 2008 .
Mayor
ATTEST :
City Clerk
Passed and adopted on final reading this 20th day of May, A.D . 2008 .
Mayor
ATTEST :
City Clerk
46
ORDINANCE NO. 050, 2008
OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
AMENDING CHAPTER 5, ARTICLE II, DIVISION 2, OF THE CITY CODE
FOR THE PURPOSE OF ADOPTING THE 2006 INTERNATIONAL
ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE(IECC)®, WITH AMENDMENTS
WHEREAS, the current energy conservation design and construction code for new and
enlarged residential and commercial buildings(exclusive of detached one-and two-family dwellings
and multiple single-family dwellings [townhouses]not more than three(3) stories above grade and
their associated accessory structures)is based on ASHRAEIIES 90.1-1989, Energy Efficient Design
of New Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings,promulgated by the American Society of
Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc. and the Illuminating Engineering
Society of North America, as amended and enacted by the City in May 1998; and
WHEREAS,a volunteer code-review task group(represented by code officials from the City
of Fort Collins, Poudre Fire Authority, and Larimer County, the professional building and design
industries in the Larimer County region, and various other contributors as needed) has completed
an extensive review of the 2006 INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE®, the
companion ICC mid-triennial update in the form of the 2007IECC SUPPLEMENT®, in addition
to the proposed local amendments thereto; and
WHEREAS,the Affordable Housing Board, the Air Quality Advisory Board, the Building
Review Board, the Electric Board, the Health District of Northern Larimer County Board, the
Natural Resources Advisory Board, the Planning and Zoning Board, and the Commission on
Disability have made certain recommendations with respect to the adoption of the 2006
INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSER VA TION CODEV and proposed amendments; and
WHEREAS, the Council of the City of Fort Collins has determined that it is in the best
interest of the health,safety and welfare of the City and its citizens that the 2006 INTERNATIONAL
ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE®, as amended be adopted.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT
COLLINS that Chapter 5, Article II, Division 2 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended and revised in the following respects:
Section 1. That Section 5-26 subparagraphs (b) and(c) of the Code of the City of Fort
Collins are hereby repealed and reenacted to read as follows:
(b) There is hereby adopted by reference, the latest published version (2007 or
subsequent regularly updated edition thereafter, whichever is newer) of ASHRAE11ESNA
90.1, Energy Efficient Design of New Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings,
promulgated by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning
Engineers, Inc. and the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America, as amended by
the City. Said standard as amended shall apply exclusively to the design and construction
of new buildings and their systems;new portions of existing buildings and their systems;and
to new systems and equipment in existing buildings for the purpose of establishing
requirements for minimum energy-efficiency, exclusive of detached one- and two-family
dwellings,multiple single-family dwellings(townhouses),and multiple-family buildings not
more than three (3) stories above grade.
(c) There is hereby adopted by reference, the 2006 International Energy
Conservation Code (IECC)a, published by the International Code Council (ICC)®, as
amended by the City, which shall apply exclusively to the design and construction of all
buildings that are classified as residential buildings not more than three (3) stories above
grade and their systems; new portions of such existing buildings and their systems; and to
new systems and equipment in such existing buildings,exclusive of detached one-and two-
family dwellings, multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses), for the purpose of
establishing minimum requirements for minimum energy-efficiency.
Section 2. That Section 5-31 Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby enacted to read
as follows:
Sec. 5-31. Amendments and deletions to code.
The 2006 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)® adopted herein is hereby
amended in the following respects:
(1) Section 101, SCOPE AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS, is amended to read as follows:
"SECTION 101 —SCOPE AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
101.1 Title. This code shall be known as the International Energy Conservation Code of the
City of Fort Collins and shall be cited as such. It is referred to herein as "this code."
101.2 Scope. This code applies to all buildings, exclusive of those residential and accessory
buildings regulated by the International Residential Code currently in effect as enacted by the
City.
101.3 Intent. This code shall regulate the design and construction of buildings for the effective
use of energy. This code is intended to provide flexibility to permit the use of innovative
approaches and techniques to achieve the effective use of energy. This code is not intended to
abridge safety, health or environmental requirements contained in other applicable codes or
ordinances.
101.4 Applicability.Where,in any specific case,different sections of this code specify different
materials, methods of construction or other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern.
Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement,the specific
requirement shall govern.
101.4.1 Existing buildings.Except as specified in this chapter,this code shall not be used
to require the removal, alteration or abandonment of, nor prevent the continued use and
maintenance of, an existing building or building system lawfully in existence at the time
of adoption of this code.
-2-
101.4.2 Historic buildings.Any building or structure that is listed in the State or National
Register of Historic Places; or is designated as a historic property under local or state
designation law or survey; or is certified as a contributing resource with a National
Register listed or locally designated historic district; or is the subject of an opinion or
certification that the property is eligible to be listed on the National or State Registers of
Historic Places either individually or as a contributing building to a historic district by the
State Historic Preservation Officer or the Keeper of the national Register of Historic
Places, is exempt from this code.
101.4.3 Additions, alterations, renovations or repairs. Additions, alterations,
renovations or repairs to an existing building, building system or portion thereof shall
conform to the provisions of this code as they relate to new construction without requiring
the unaltered portion(s) of the existing building or building system to comply with this
code.Additions,alterations,renovations,or repairs shall not create an unsafe or hazardous
condition or overload existing building systems. An addition shall be deemed to comply
with this code if the addition alone complies or if the existing building and addition,
comply with this code as a single building.
Exception: The following need not comply with this Code provided the energy use of
the building is not increased:
1. Storm windows installed over existing fenestration.
2. Glass only replacements in an existing sash and frame.
3. Existing ceiling, wall or floor cavities exposed during construction provided
that these cavities are filled with insulation.
4. Construction where the existing roof, wall or floor cavity is not exposed.
5. Reroofing for roofs where neither the sheathing nor the insulation are exposed.
Roofs without insulation in the cavity and where the sheathing or insulation is
exposed during reroofing shall be insulated either above or below the
sheathing.
6. Replacement of existing doors that separate conditioned space from the
exterior shall not require the installation of a vestibule or revolving door,
provided,however,that an existing vestibule that separates a conditioned space
from the exterior shall not be removed.
7. Alterations that replace less than 50% of the luminaires in a space provided
that such alterations do not increase the installed interior lighting power.
8. Alterations that replace only the bulb and ballast within the existing luminaires
in a space, provided that the alteration does not increase the installed interior
lighting power.
101.4.4 Change in occupancy or use. Spaces undergoing a change in occupancy that
would result in an increase in demand for either fossil fuel or electrical energy shall
comply with this code. Where the use in a space changes from one use in Table 505.5.2
to another use in Table 505.5.2, the installed lighting wattage shall comply with Section
505.5.
-3-
101.4.5 Change in space conditioning. Any nonconditioned space that is altered to
become conditioned space shall be required to be brought into full compliance with this
code."
(2) Section 102.1 is amended by adding, new Subsection 102.1.4, to read as follows:
"102.1.4 Insulation product rating. The thermal resistance (R-value) of insulation shall be
determined in accordance with the U.S.Federal Trade Commission R-value rule(CFR Title 16,
Part 460, May 31, 2005) in units of hAft2A°F/Btu at a mean temperature of 75°F."
(3) SECTION 105, is amended to read as follows:
"SECTION 105—PERMITS, FEES, AND INSPECTIONS
105.1 General. Procedures related to permits, required inspections, payment of fees, and
obtaining required approvals shall be as set forth in, CHAPTER 1—ADMINISTRATION,of the
International Building Code currently in effect as adopted by the city."
(4) New, SECTION — 108 and SECTION — 109, are added at the end of CHAPTER (—
ADMINISTRATION, to read as follows:
"SECTION 108—APPEALS
108.1 General.Appeals of decisions,determinations,and interpretations of this code shall be
made pursuant to applicable provisions as set forth in,CHAPTER 1—ADMINISTRATION,of
the International Building Code currently in effect as adopted by the city.
SECTION 109—VIOLATION PENALTIES
109.1 General. Persons who commit violations of or fail to comply with the requirements of
this code shall be subject to the penalties set forth in, CHAPTER 1—ADMINISTRATION, of
the International Building Code currently in effect as adopted by the city."
(5) SECTION 202—GENERAL DEFINITIONS, is amended in the following respects:
(a) The definition of CODE OFFICIAL,is amended to read as follows:
"CODE OFFICIAL. Is the executive building-code official or such official's authorized
representative as defined in Section 103.1 of the amended International Building Code
adopted by the city."
(b) The following new definitions are inserted such that of all definitions of Section 202 therein
are maintained in alphabetical sequence:
-4-
"C-FACTOR (THERMAL CONDUCTANCE). The coefficient of heat transmission
(surface to surface)through a building component or assembly,equal to the time rate of heat
flow per unit area and the unit temperature difference between the warm side and cold side
surfaces (Btu/hAft2A°F) [W/(m2AK)]."
"DAYLIGHT ZONE:
1. Under skylights: The area under skylights whose horizontal dimension,in each direction,
is equal to the skylight dimension in that direction plus either the floor to ceiling height or
the dimension to a ceiling height opaque partition, or one-half the distance to adjacent
skylights or vertical fenestration, whichever is least.
2.Adjacent to vertical fenestration:The area adjacent to vertical fenestration which receives
daylight through the fenestration. For purposes of this definition and unless more detailed
analysis is provided, the daylight zone depth is assumed to extend into the space a distance
of 15 feet or to the nearest ceiling height opaque partition, whichever is less. The daylight
zone width is assumed to be the width of the window plus two feet on each side, or the
window width plus the distance to an opaque partition, or the window width plus one-half
the distance to the nearest adjacent skylight or vertical fenestration, whichever is least."
"DEMAND CONTROL VENTILATION (DCV). A ventilation system capability that
provides for the automatic reduction of outdoor air intake below design rates when the actual
occupancy of spaces served by the system is less than design occupancy."
"ENTRANCE DOOR. Fenestration products used for ingress, egress and access in non-
residential buildings, including, but not limited to, exterior entrances that utilize latching
hardware and automatic closers; and contain over 50% glass specifically designed to
withstand heavy use."
"F-FACTOR. The perimeter heat loss factor for slab-on-grade floors (Btu/hAftA°F)
[W/(mAK)]."
"HIGH-EFFICACY LUMINAIRE. A lighting fixture that does not contain a medium
screw base socket (E24/E26) and whose lamps have a minimum efficacy of:
1. 60 lumens per watt for lamps over 40 watts,
2. 50 lumens per watt for lamps over 15 watts to 40 watts,
3. 40 lumens per watt for lamps 15 watts or less."
"RESIDENTIAL BUILDING. For this code, is limited to R-2 and R-4 buildings, and to
R-3 buildings except for those R-3 buildings specifically regulated by the City Residential
Building Code, all of which are three stories or less in height above grade."
"STOREFRONT. A non-residential system of doors and windows mulled as a composite
fenestration structure that has been designed to resist heavy use. Storefront systems include,
but are not limited to, exterior fenestration systems that span from the floor level or above
to the ceiling of the same story on commercial buildings."
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(6) CHAPTER 3—CLIMATE ZONES, is amended to read as follows:
"CHAPTER 3—CLIMATE ZONES
SECTION 301
301.1 Exterior and interior local design parameters.The following local design parameters
shall be used:
Winter Outdoor, Design Dry-bulb ff) =4
Winter Indoor, Design Dry-bulb ff) = 72
Summer, Outdoor Design Dry-bulb ff) = 89
Summer, Indoor Design Dry-bulb ff) = 75
Summer, Design Wet-bulb ff) = 62
Degree days heating =6368
Degree days cooling =479
{For SI: °C = [(°F)-32]/1.8.)"
(7) Section 401.3 is amended to read as follows:
"401.3 Certificate. A permanent certificate shall be posted on or in the electrical distribution
panel. The certificate shall not cover or obstruct the visibility of the circuit directory label,
service disconnect label or other required labels. The certificate shall be completed by the
builder or registered design professional. The certificate shall list the predominant R-values of
insulation installed in or on ceiling/roof,walls,foundation(slab,basement wall,crawlspace wall
and/or floor)and ducts outside conditioned spaces;U-factors for fenestration;and the solar heat
gain coefficient (SHGC) of fenestration. Where there is more than one value for each
component,the certificate shall list the value covering the largest area. The certificate shall list
the types and efficiencies of heating, cooling and service water heating equipment. Where an
electric furnace,and/or baseboard electric heater is installed in the residence,the certificate shall
list electric furnace,or baseboard electric heater,as appropriate.An efficiency shall not be listed
for room heaters, electric furnaces, or baseboard electric heaters."
(8)Section 402.2.8 is amended to read as follows:
"402.2.8 Crawl space walls. As an alternative to insulating floors over crawl spaces, crawl
space walls shall be permitted to be insulated when the crawl space is not vented to the outside.
Crawl space wall insulation shall be permanently fastened to the wall and extend downward
from the floor to the finished grade level and then vertically and/or horizontally for at least an
additional 24 inches (610 mm). Exposed earth in unvented crawl space foundations shall be
covered with a continuous Class I vapor retarder. All joints of the vapor retarder shall overlap
by 6 inches (153 mm) and be sealed or taped. The edges of the vapor retarder shall extend at
least 6inches (153 mm) up the stem wall and shall be attached to the stem wall."
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(9)Section 402.4 is amended to read as follows:
"402.4 Maximum fenestration U-factor and SHGC. (Mandatory). The area weighted
maximum fenestration U-factor permitted using trade offs from Section 402.1.4 or Section 404
shall be 0.48 for vertical fenestration. "
(10) Section 402.4.1 is amended to read as follows:
"402.4.1 Building thermal envelope.The building thermal envelope shall be durably sealed to
limit infiltration. The sealing methods between dissimilar materials shall allow for differential
expansion and contraction. The following shall be caulked, gasketed, weatherstripped or
otherwise sealed with an air barrier material, suitable film or solid material:
1. All joints, seams and penetrations.
2. Site-built windows, doors and skylights.
3. Openings between window and door assemblies and their respective jambs and framing.
4. Utility penetrations.
5. Dropped ceilings or chases adjacent to the thermal envelope.
6. Knee walls.
7. Walls and ceilings separating a garage from conditioned spaces.
8. Behind tubs and showers on exterior walls.
9. Common walls between dwelling units.
10. Attic access openings.
11. Other sources of infiltration."
(11) Section 402.4.3 is amended to read as follows:
"402.4.3 Recessed lighting. Recessed luminaires installed in the building thermal envelope
shall be sealed to limit air-leakage between conditioned and unconditioned spaces. All
recessed luminaires shall be IC-rated and labeled as meeting ASTM E 283 when tested at 1.57
psi (75 Pa)pressure differential with no more than 2.0 cfm(0.944 L/s) of air movement from
the conditioned space to the ceiling cavity. All recessed luminaires shall be sealed with a
gasket or caulk between the housing and the interior wall or ceiling covering."
(12) Section 403.2.1 is amended to read as follows:
403.2.1 Insulation. Supply ducts in attics shall be insulated to a minimum of R-8. All other
ducts shall be insulated to a minimum of R-6.
Exception: Ducts or portions thereof located completely inside the building thermal
envelope.
(13) New,Section 403.7 is amended to read as follows:
"403.7 Systems serving multiple dwelling units. Systems serving multiple dwelling units
shall comply with Chapter 5 instead of Section 403."
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(14) Section 404.4.2 is amended to read as shown:
"404.4.2 Compliance report. Compliance software tools shall generate a report that
documents that the proposed design complies in accordance with Section 404.3. The
compliance documentation shall include the following information:
1. Address or other identification of the residence;
2. An inspection checklist documenting the building component characteristics of the
proposed design as listed in Table 404.5.2(1). The inspection checklist shall show
results for both the standard reference design and the proposed design, and shall
document all inputs entered by the user necessary to reproduce the results;
3. Name of individual completing the compliance report; and
4. Name and version of the compliance software tool.
Exception: Multiple Orientations. When an otherwise identical building model is offered in
multiple orientations, compliance for any orientation shall be permitted by documenting that
the building meets the performance requirements in each of the four cardinal(north,east,south
and west) orientations."
(15) Table 404.5.2(1) — SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE STANDARD REFERENCE AND
PROPOSED DESIGNS, is amended in the following respects:
(a) In the cell located under the column, STANDARD REFERENCE DESIGN, and in the
Row, GLAZING, all three numerical entries for "glazing area" and expressed as either,
"18%"or"18% of conditioned floor area", are amended to read, "15%".
(b) In the cell located under the column, STANDARD REFERENCE DESIGN, and in the
Row, THERMAL DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS, the Thermal Distribution system
efficiency (DSE) numerical value of"0.80", is amended to read, "0.88".
(16) CHAPTER 4 is amended by adding a new section at the end thereof to read as follows:
"SECTION 405—ELECTRICAL POWER AND LIGHTING SYSTEMS
405.1 Interior lighting power (Prescriptive). Lighting in interior spaces, exclusive of
dwelling units,(e.g.common areas)shall be high efficacy luminaires or shall comply with the
interior lighting power requirements in Chapter 5.
Exception: Dwelling units."
(17) CHAPTER 5—COMMERCIAL ENERGY EFFICIENCY, is amended in the following
respects:
(a)Section 501.1 is amended to read as follows:
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501.1 Scope. The requirements contained in this chapter are applicable to commercial
buildings, or portions of commercial buildings as defined in this code. As such,
commercial buildings shall meet the requirements of the most current published edition
of ASHRAEVESNA Standard 90.1, Energy Standard for Buildings Except for Low-Rise
Residential Buildings, unless otherwise specified in this chapter.
(b) The remainder of CHAPTER 5 is deleted except that SECTION 505 — ELECTRICAL
POWER AND LIGHTING SYSTEMS, and TABLE 505.5.2, shall be retained.
(18)CHAPTER 6—REFERENCED STANDARDS,is amended by updating all referenced standards
under the heading, "ASHRAE", to refer to the most current published editions thereof.
Section 3. That all of the foregoing changes enacted by this Ordinance shall become
effective for implementation commencing July 1, 2008.
Introduced,considered favorably on first reading,and ordered published this 6th day of May,
A.D. 2008, and to be presented for final passage on the 20th day of May, A.D. 2008.
Mayor
ATTEST:
City Clerk
Passed and adopted on final reading on the 20th day of May, A.D. 2008.
Mayor
ATTEST:
City Clerk
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