HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOUNCIL - AGENDA ITEM - 04/18/2017 - PUBLIC HEARING AND FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE NO,Agenda Item 13
Item # 13 Page 1
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY April 18, 2017
City Council
STAFF
Bob Poncelow, Fire Marshal
SUBJECT
Public Hearing and First Reading of Ordinance No, 056, 2017, Amending Chapter 9 of the Code of the City of
Fort Collins and Adopting by Reference the 2015 International Fire Code, with Amendments.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this item is to adopt the 2015 International Fire Code as amended. The International Code
Council (ICC) publishes updated codes every three years. The Poudre Fire Authority Board of Directors has
reviewed and approved this code package and is requesting the code be adopted as amended.
Poudre Fire Authority (PFA) is responsible for the enforcement and administration of the International Fire
Code (IFC) within the City of Fort Collins. Every three years, the IFC is updated by the International Code
Council (ICC) with the most recent update published in 2015. Poudre Fire Authority routinely reviews new
codes, proposes local amendments and then seeks adoption of the code changes by the City Council. The
proposed amendments, developed in conjunction with the local Fire Code Review Committee, include several
changes to the local code. There were a few significant changes to the published code including provisions
related to hyperbaric facilities, removal of abandoned wiring in plenums, protection of elevators for fire service
access and occupant evacuation, carbon dioxide systems and multi-story tents/membrane structures and
temporary stage canopies. Local amendments include new provisions limiting bon fire size, restricting solid
fuel outdoor fireplaces and fire pits at commercial properties and clarifying language to provide consistency
across PFA’s jurisdiction as well as the long standing local provisions for fire sprinkler protection and egress.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends adoption of the Ordinance on First Reading.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION
At its April 2016 PFA Board meeting, the PFA Board adopted Resolution 16-6 appointing the Fire Code
Review Committee (FCRC). (Attachment 2) This volunteer committee was asked to review the 2015
International Fire Code (IFC) and the proposed amendments.
The FCRC completed its work on Thursday November 17, 2016 with a unanimous recommendation to adopt
the 2015 IFC along with the accompanying amendments. (Attachment 4) At its December 13, 2016, meeting
the PFA Board unanimously approved the IFC adoption and amendments with Resolution 16-16.
(Attachment 1)
The FCRC met for five months in order to review the IFC. PFA Fire Prevention staff participated in this review
with the FCRC, which included detailed discussions of every code chapter and section. Existing language and
new published changes to the IFC were reviewed along with current local and proposed IFC amendments.
This process provides both staff and committee members important insights about community issues/concerns
and the IFC. The work and commitment shown by the FCRC has provided PFA with a quality community
safety resource, tailored to local community needs.
Agenda Item 13
Item # 13 Page 2
The FCRC reviewed all the proposed changes including changes that will be adopted as part of the 2015
International Building Code (IBC) adoption for the City of Fort Collins, including local amendments to the IBC.
Since Chapter 9 (Fire Protection Systems) and Chapter 10 (Means of Egress) is the same in the IBC and IFC
as published by the International Code Council (ICC) it is essential that local amendments between the IBC
and IFC be correlated and, as the building department is primarily tasked with the enforcement of Chapters 9
and 10, it makes sense for the IFC to be amended in the same way the local building official amended the IBC.
The 2015 IFC contains new provisions for the installation of alarms or ventilation where carbon dioxide (CO2)
is used for the dispensing of beverages. This section was amended locally to include all use of CO2 as there
is significant CO2 use in the marijuana industry within the PFA jurisdiction. This provision has the potential to
impact many businesses (especially food and beverage establishments) although the cost of the
detectors/alarms is relatively low and estimated to be around $150 per site that is often included as part of the
installation by the beverage distributer. This change is directly related to several incidents across the country,
including fatalities, where workers and subsequently responders were overcome in oxygen deficient
atmospheres.
The committee’s primary goal was the reduction of local amendments to the code. They were able to reduce
the total number, as well as focus the amendments that were brought forward on local community needs. It
would appear that this effort was a failure as there are a significant number of amendments, but many of them
resulted from a formatting change in the code that eliminated a table and resulted in individual amendments in
each occupancy type to achieve the same fire protection mandates that have existed locally in the Building and
Fire Codes since the 1980’s.
The Poudre Valley Fire Protection District (PVFPD) adopted the 2015 IFC at its February 27, 2017 meeting,
covering the unincorporated areas of Larimer and Weld Counties. The PVFPD adoption is currently awaiting
ratification by the Larimer and Weld County Commissioners. The Town of Timnath adopted the 2015 IFC with
amendments on second reading March 14, 2017. The amendments for these other adoptions are very similar
to this amendment package, with the primary differences being in the correlation of the amendments that were
made to the IBC by the other jurisdictions. Additionally, the restrictions on the sale and possession of
fireworks are not part of the PVFPD (Larimer and Weld County) Adoption.
CITY FINANCIAL IMPACTS
No financial impacts are anticipated.
BOARD / COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
The Poudre Fire Authority Board of Directors reviewed these amendments at its December 16, 2016 meeting
and unanimously passed Resolution 16-16, recommending adoption of the 2015 IFC as amended to the City of
Fort Collins, Town of Timnath and the Poudre Valley Fire Protection District (PVFPD).
Adoption of the 2015 IFC as Amended has been unanimously recommended by the Fire Code Review
Committee (Attachment 4) and the Poudre Fire Authority Board of Directors. (Attachment 3)
PUBLIC OUTREACH
The Fire Code Review Committee was appointed by the PFA Board of Directors and provided a cross section
of code users and those impacted by the codes. This group met eight times and unanimously supported the
final adoption and amendments. The PFA Board of Directors reviewed and by resolution recommended that
the 2015 IFC as Amended be adopted by the City of Fort Collins, the Town of Timnath and the Poudre Valley
Fire Protection District. During open and advertised meetings, the Town of Timnath and the PVFPD have both
adopted the 2015 IFC as amended.
Agenda Item 13
Item # 13 Page 3
ATTACHMENTS
1. PFA Board of Directors Resolution 16-16 (PDF)
2. Fire Code Committee (PDF)
3. PFA Board minutes, December 13, 2016 (PDF)
4. Fire Code Committee minutes, November 17, 2016 (PDF)
ATTACHMENT 1
ATTACHMENT 2
POUDRE FIRE AUTHORITY
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING
December 13, 2016
The Poudre Fire Authority Board of Directors met on December 13, 2016 at 8:30 a.m. at
new Station 8, 4800 Signal Tree Drive, Timnath, Colorado. Directors Mike DiTullio,
Gerry Horak, Kristin Stephens, Dave Pusey, and Darin Atteberry were present. Also
present were Fire Chief Tom DeMint, Budget and Finance Supervisor Kirsten Howard
and Recording Secretary Shawn Williams.
Pledge of Allegiance
Mike DiTullio called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m.
Consent Agenda
1. November 15, 2016 Minutes
Dave Pusey asked that the November 15, 2016 Minutes be amended on Page 5, Item
8, to infer Gerry Horak stated he did not think the “survey” was a good idea.
Dave Pusey made a motion to approve the November 15, 2016 Minutes as amended.
Kristin Stephens seconded the motion. The motion passed by unanimous vote of the
Board.
Staff Report
Discussion Items
2. International Fire Code Recommendation
Bob Poncelow provided a PowerPoint Presentation on the 2015 International Fire Code.
Bob introduced guests Mike Gebo, Chief Building Official for the City of Fort Collins, and
Ned Sparks Fire Marshal for Loveland Fire & Rescue.
Darin Atteberry stated he has spoken with micro-distillery businesses, most of which are
very complimentary of PFA fire code requirements. Darin stated it is the desire of these
businesses that PFA continue to stay within current practices and not just the highest
restrictions that can be imposed.
Darin Atteberry asked Mike Gebo if he would like to comment. Mike Gebo stated he
was present in support of the adoption of the 2015 International Fire Code and advised
he will be coming before the Board next month with the 2015 International Building
Code.
ATTACHMENT 3
PoudreFireAuthorityBoard12Ͳ13Ͳ16
Page2of3
Gerry Horak made a motion to pursue adoption of the 2015 International Fire Code and
Resolution 16-16. Kristin Stephens seconded the motion. The motion passed by
unanimous vote of the Board.
3. Written Agreement with Local 1945
Tom DeMint advised attorney Dino Ross helped guide PFA in the development of the
resolution for PFA to enter into a collective bargaining agreement with Local 1945. Mike
DiTullio stated he felt this was a great move and he was glad it is voluntary as the Board
represents management and employees and not choosing sides. Darin Atteberry stated
he appreciates the interest-based negotiations. Gerry Horak stated he felt the Board’s
interest was in the folks in the area who are paying property taxes. Gerry stated he did
not think it was the job of the Board to make sure labor is well represented but to make
sure the outcomes of labor are the best citizens get for their money. Tom DeMint stated
he agreed it is all about a high level of service to citizens.
Gerry Horak made a motion to approve Resolution No 16-17 to grant limited recognition
of Local 1945 to determine if a mutually acceptable collective bargaining agreement can
be developed. Darin Atteberry seconded the motion. The motion passed by unanimous
vote of the Board.
4. 800 MHz Radio Purchase
Mike Gress addressed the Board on the 800 MHz Radio Purchase. Mike advised
Motorola provided a substantial discount on the purchase of radios making the
purchase possible with current PFA available capital funds. Mike stated PFA has been
unsuccessful in receiving a grant for the purchase of radios. Mike stated that radios will
allow for individual radio assignment to each firefighter.
Gerry Horak made a motion to approve the 800 MHz Radio Purchase and Resolution
16-18. Kristin Stephens seconded the motion. The motion passed by unanimous vote
of the Board.
5. 2017 Budget
Ann Turnquist provided a PowerPoint Presentation on the 2017 Budget and the
changes made since the preliminary 2017 Budget was presented to the Board. Darin
Atteberry and Gerry Horak both asked staff to be more transparent about things like the
IT position going into next year’s budget process.
Darin Atteberry stated there was a significant change in salaries from 3.5 to 5.5 and
asked if there was a contract that skewed this? Ann Turnquist stated comparison
agency West Metro had signed a new contract with increases over a three year period.
Darin Atteberry stated he felt it is the tail wagging the dog, and PFA is vulnerable to
others who negotiate contracts.
Darin Atteberry stated he appreciates the budget process and that there were no
surprises and staff had kept the Board well informed. Darin commended Ann Turnquist
and stated she was doing an amazing job. Darin stated he was thankful for Ann’s
professionalism and competencies.
PoudreFireAuthority
2015InternationalFireCode
ReviewCommitteeMeetingMinutes
November17,2016
11:00amto12:30pm
1. ChiefDeMintComments
Inattendance,TonyDeKrey,TerryFarrill,DustinDeBaere,GaryCantwell,Bob
Poncelow,ToddParker,AlanKee,SteveWimp,JohnHolcombe,SteveEberle
TomDeMintthankedthecommittee.
2. October6thmeetingreviewandquestions
Bobreviewedlastmeeting.Noonehadquestions.
3. ReviewofAmendmentPackage
Firstfewsectionsoftheamendmentpackageincludeboilerplatelanguageright
outoftheoldamendmentpackage.Oncetheattorney’sgetdonewithit,itmay
changealittle.
Copiesofthecodearenowgoingtobe$100.Items3,4,5and6areboilerplate.
Theboardofappealsgoestothebuildingdepartmentthatisusedforthatarea.
AnewSection114isadded.Acoupleweeksagotherewasanoilspillreported
byanoilcompany.Theysaiditwas150gallonsitwas150barrels.Intheold
UFC’stherewasarequirementforreportingnotonlyfiresbuthazardous
materialsspills.Thisiswhatisdrivingaddingthisbackintothecode.Wetook
theoldlanguageandnowhaveaddeditbackinbecausecurrentcodeonly
requiresfirestobereported.
Dwelling,DwellingunitandTownhousearenotgoingtobeinallamendment
packages,onlythecity.Thosedefinitionswillcoincidewiththejurisdictions.
Section307.2.2isaddedtoclarifybonfiresizelimitsandapprovedfuels.
Outdoorfireplacesandfirepitshasbeenrevisedtolimittheseappliancestogas
orliquidfuelsonlyatoccupanciesotherthanoneandtwofamilydwellingsand
includesexistingprovisionsforsafeoperation.
ATTACHMENT 4
Section308prohibitsallskylanterns.Section503isrevisedtoprovidea
referencetoAppendixDandtoestablishthelongͲtermminimumheightfor
overhangsandcanopies.
Section505includeschangestotheaddressingrequirementstoclarifyapproved
addressandwayfindingsignage.ThisisprimarilyrelatedtoMultiͲFamily
complexesandisanattempttostandardizeaddressingwithinacomplex.
Section507eliminatesoftheterm“reservoir”becausetheyarenotareliable
watersourceforfirefightinginourareaaswellasprovidingareferenceto
AppendixCandrevisinghydrantspacingtomeetlocalstandards.
Section605wasrevisedtomeetthelocalstandardsforSolarPVonroofsthat
weredevelopedinconjunctionwiththelocalinstallersandproviders.Section
609wasaddedtoprovideareferencetheNFPA96Standardforsolidfuel
cookingappliancesasthisisbecomingamorecommoncommercialcooking
appliance.
ThechangestoSections903.2.1through903.2.12provideupdatedcode
formattingchangesthatmaintainthelongstanding“5000squarefootrule”for
theinstallationofautomaticfiresprinklersystems.Priorversionsofthecode
includedatable(903)thatnolongeriscompatiblewiththecurrentcodeformat.
Thesechangesdonotchangethecurrentcode,butsimplychangethewayitis
wordedtobeclearerandmoreconsistent.
Section903.3.1.2isrevisedtocontinuetherestrictionsontheuseofNFPA13R
(residential)systemsandlanguageisincludedtoclarifywhentheuseofthese
limitedcoveragesystemsispermitted.Section904.12.6.4establishesthat
changingthepositionofcookingappliancesunderafireextinguishingsystem
canimpacttheoperationofthesystemandthereforemustbeevaluatedandthe
hoodextinguishingsystemmustmeetthestandard.Section907.2.11isaCity
IBCamendmentforsmokedetectorsthatrequiresretrofittingsmokedetection
inGroupRoccupanciesandisincludedinthefirecodetocorrelateandprovide
consistency.
ThePFAexperiencesveryfewunwanted(false)alarms(weonlyhaveabouta4Ͳ
5%ratefalsealarmratecomparedto15Ͳ20%nationally)andwetakeitvery
seriously.Staffisverydiligent,andfollowsuponthemeveryweek.
AmendmentstoChapter10aretakendirectlyfromtheamendmentsthatare
partoftheamendmentstotheIBCbyCityofFortCollins.Section1009.8was
revisedtoclarifylocalexpectationsfortwoͲwaycommunicationsystemsat
elevatorlobbies,whichwasanewsectioninthe2012IFCandIBC.This
requirementwascausingconfusionandissueswithinthedesignand
constructioncommunity.Thisprovisionrequiredatwowaycommunication
systematelevatorsandithascausedalotofconfusionforusandmanyothers.
Weworkedwiththebuildingdepartmentanddecidedthattheseareonly
requiredifitisanareaofrefuge.SteveE.(UCH)askedhowitaffectshealthcare
becausealotoftimesthosesystemsarerequired.Bobsaidthatthoseareasof
refugearedrivenbylifesafetycodenotbuildingcode.
Section5001exception10,Section5701.2andSection5704.3.3wereallrevised
toclarifythattheoperationofadistilleryincludingstorageinwoodenbarrels
andcaskscanbeinaccordancewiththeindustrystandardsaspublishedbythe
DistilledSpiritsCounciloftheUnitedStates(DISCUS).
Section5307isanewsectioninthe2015IFCtorequirealarmsorventilationfor
CO2storageanduseinbeveragedispensingwhenallowedquantitiesare
exceeded.Thisnewcodeisbasedonseveralincidentsacrossthecountrywhere
workersandemergencyresponderswereinjuredorkilledduetoO2deficient
atmosphereswhenleaksoccurred.Thissectionwasamendedtoeliminatethe
referencetobeveragedispensingsinceCO2useisalsocommonintheMarijuana
industryandthesameasphyxiationhazardsarepresent.
Chapter56ͲFireworksisamendedtocontinuetheprohibitionagainstthesale,
possession,oruseoffireworksinthecitylimits.Theserestrictionsarealsoin
placeinTimnathbutnotinunincorporatedareasofthePFAjurisdiction.
ReferencedStandards(Chapter80wasrevisedtoincludetheDISCUSstandard
andNFPA96asreferencedearlier.AppendixAisdeletedandAppendixB,Cand
Darerevisedentirelytocontinuecurrentprovisionforwatersupplyandaccess
relatedtothefiresprinklerprovisions(5,000squarefoot)thathavebeenpartof
thelocalamendmentsformanyyears.Minorchangesweremadeinaneffortto
bringthewatersupplyandaccessrequirementsforthePFA,LovelandFire
Rescue,Windsor/SeveranceFireandEstesFireDistrictintocloseralignment.
ThisincludedareductionofAerialFireAccessroadsfrom30feetto26feet.Two
minortyposinAppendixDwereidentifiedandcorrected.
AppendixF(HazardMarking–NFPA704M)wasagainadoptedandanew
AppendixLrelatingtoFirefighterAirReplenishmentsystemsinHighͲrise
buildingswasalsodiscussedandrecommendedforinclusionaspublished.
AdoptionofAppendixL.
JimL.followeduponsomethingNickHaweshadsaidatanearliermeetingabout
firelanesneedingtobededicatedeasement.Itwasdecidedtoleavethatas
partofthedevelopmentreviewprocessandstaffwouldworktodevelop
acceptablelanguageandprocesssinceitdoesnotclearlyfitintofirecode.
Discussionincludedtheadvantageofmakingitadedicatedeasementforfireor
emergencyaccesssothatin30yearsitisstilladedicatedemergencyaccess.
Bobsaidthecityhasstartedareviewofthedevelopmentreviewprocessand
thiswillbepartofthatdiscussion.
RonG.askedthecommitteeiftheprovisionsin5307dealingwithCO2should
includeallinertgassesandnotjustCO2.SteveE.saidthatothercompaniesare
startingtocomeupwithwaystouseCO2andotherinertgases.Bobsaidhe
doesn’thaveaproblemdoingthatbuttheCO2problemisthatitisheavierthan
airandthatispartoftheproblem.ForexampleNitrogenisverycommon,but
wearenotseeingtheissuesinceitdispersesmoreeasily.TonyD.saidheuses
similarstandardsoncampusforheliumasanexample.Bobsaidmaybeweneed
tolookatthequantityofgasusedifthosestandardskickin.Thecommittee
decidedtomaintainthecurrentproposedlanguagerelatingtoCO2butthatstaff
needstomonitorthisissuebeforethenextadoptioncycle.
4. NextSteps
AlanK.askedwhentheCountydraftwouldbedone.Bobstatedhewouldwork
withEriconthatbutitwouldbeafterthePVFPDadoptioninFebruary.Bobhas
tohavetheamendmentpackagereadyforthePFABoardDecember8thmeeting
andhewillstartgettingtheadoptionpackagesreadyfortheotherjurisdictions
alongwiththeRatificationsfortheCountyCommissioners(WeldandLarimer).
TheAuthorityBoardhasnoenforcementauthoritybutastheenforcingagency,
theyrecommendacodetotheadoptingjurisdictions.
ThePVFPDBoardwilladoptfortheenforcementoutsidetheCityofFortCollins
orTownofTimnath.WewillworkwiththeBuildingDepartmentstoincludeall
oftheirlocalamendmentsandaddthemtothedocument.Thehopeistohave
thecodetoCitycouncilinFebruaryorMarch.Questionswereraisedastothe
adoptionoutsideofanincorporatedjurisdiction.Bobexplainedthatafter
adoptionbythePVFPDBoard,thecodeisthenpresentedtotheCounty
Commissionerswhoratifythedocuments.Iftheydon’tratifyit,wecan’t
enforceithowevertheexistingcodestaysineffect.Commissionershavebeen
verysupportiveinthepastunlesstherearelocalrequirementsforresidential
sprinklersorrestrictionsonfireworks.Theseitemsusuallysolicitanegative
response,howeverinunincorporatedareas,theseprovisionsarenotchanging.
Hopefullybysecondquarterofnextyearwewillbeoperatingunderthe2015
code.Itgoesinforcebasedonwhattheadoptingentitystates.
Vote:Allpresentsupportedandendorsedthelocalamendmentpackageandthe
2015InternationalFireCodewitharecommendationtothePFABoardof
DirectorstorecommendthedocumentforadoptiontotheCityofFortCollins,
TownofTimnathandPVFPDBoard.
5. Thanks….BobexpressedtheappreciationofthePFAandinparticularthestaffof
CommunitySafetyandServiceforthetimeanddedicationthecommitteehad
madetotheprocess.Themeetingandprocesswasadjourned.
Meetingclosedat12:02
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ORDINANCE NO. 056, 2017
OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
AMENDING CHAPTER 9 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY
OF FORT COLLINS AND ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE
2015 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE, WITH AMENDMENTS
WHEREAS, the City has previously adopted the 2012 International Fire Code (“IFC”),
with amendments in order to minimize the human suffering and property loss from fire; and
WHEREAS, the 2015 edition of the IFC represents the most current version now
available; and
WHEREAS, a Fire Code Review Committee, formed by the Poudre Fire Authority
(“PFA”) in 2016 for the purpose of reviewing the 2015 IFC, has unanimously recommended that
the jurisdictions being served by the PFA adopt the 2015 IFC with certain amendments tailored
to the circumstances in Fort Collins and jurisdictions served by the PFA; and
WHEREAS, the Fire Prevention staff of the PFA, working in conjunction with the Fire
Code Review Committee, has also reviewed the 2015 IFC and the amendments proposed by the
Committee and has recommended that the jurisdictions being served by the PFA adopt the 2015
IFC with the local amendments; and
WHEREAS, at its December 13, 2016, meeting, the PFA Board of Directors approved
Resolution 16-16 recommending that the 2015 IFC with the local amendments be adopted by
those jurisdictions being served by the PFA; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that it is in the best interests of the health,
safety and welfare of the City and its citizens that the 2015 IFC with the local amendments in
substantially the form recommended by the Fire Code Review Committee and the PFA staff be
adopted; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the City Charter II, Section 7, City Council may enact any
ordinance which adopts a code by reference in whole or in part provided that before adoption of
such ordinance the Council hold a public hearing thereon and that notice of the hearing is
published twice in a newspaper of general circulation published in the City, with one of such
publications occurring at least eight (8) days preceding the hearing and the other publication
occurring at least fifteen (15) days preceding the hearing; and
WHEREAS, in compliance with Article II, Section 7, the City Clerk published in the Fort
Collins Coloradoan such notice of hearing concerning adoption of the 2015 International Fire
Code on April 2, 2017, and April 9, 2017; and
WHEREAS, attached as Exhibit “A” and incorporated herein by reference is the Notice
of Public Hearing dated April 2, 2107, that was so published and which the Council hereby finds
meets the requirements of Article II, Section 7 of the City Charter.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
FORT COLLINS as follows:
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Section 1. That the City Council hereby makes and adopts the determinations and
findings contained in the recitals set forth above.
Section 2. That Section 9-1 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
repealed in its entirety and reenacted to read as follows:
Sec. 9-1. Adoption of the International Fire Code, 2015 Edition.
Pursuant to the authority conferred by Article II, Section 7 of the Charter and by Section
31-16-20l et seq., C.R.S., there is hereby adopted by reference as the fire code of the
City, for the purposes of safeguarding of life and property from fire and explosion
hazards arising from the storage, handling and use of hazardous substances, materials and
devices, and from conditions hazardous to life or property in the occupancy of buildings
and premises, International Fire Code, 2015 Edition, as promulgated by the International
Code Council. Except as any portion of this fire code is hereinafter added to, deleted,
modified or amended in this Chapter, this fire code shall include all articles and
appendices in the International Fire Code, 2015 Edition. Not less than three (3) copies of
this fire code shall be on file in the office of the Fire Marshal and may be inspected at
regular business hours and purchased from the Fire Prevention Bureau at a price not to
exceed one hundred dollars ($100.00) per copy. The provisions of this fire code shall be
controlling within the limits of the City of Fort Collins.
Section 3. That Section 9-2 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
repealed in its entirety and reenacted to read as follows:
Sec. 9-2. Amendments, additions, and deletions.
The following articles, sections, divisions, subsections and appendices of the
International Fire Code, 2015 Edition, are hereby added, amended, deleted and
renumbered, except as noted, to read as follows:
(1) Section 101.1 Title is hereby amended to read as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Fire Code of the City of Fort
Collins, hereinafter referred to as “this code”.
(2) Section 103.4 Liability and 103.4.1 Legal defense are hereby amended to read as
follows:
103.4 Liability. The fire code official, member of the board of appeals, officer or
employee charged with the enforcement of this code, while acting for the jurisdiction, in
good faith and without malice in the discharge of the duties required by this code or other
pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered civilly or criminally liable
personally, and is hereby relieved from all personal liability for any damage accruing to
persons or property as a result of an act or by reason of an act or omission in the
discharge of official duties, unless such act or omission is willful and wanton, as provided
in the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act, CRS Section 24-10-101 et seq.
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103.4.1 Legal defense. Any suit or criminal complaint instituted against any officer or
employee because of an act or omission performed by that officer or employee in the
lawful discharge of duties and under the provisions of this code, unless such act or
omission is willful and wanton, as provided in the Colorado Governmental Immunity
Act, CRS Section 24-10-101 et seq., shall be defended by the legal representatives of the
jurisdiction until the final termination of the proceedings. The fire code official or any
subordinate shall not be liable for costs in an action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in
pursuance of the provisions of this code; and any officer of the department of fire
prevention, acting in good faith and without malice, shall be free from liability for acts
performed under any of its provisions or by reason of any act or omission in the
performance of official duties in connection therewith.
(3) Section 108.1 Board of appeals established is hereby amended to read as follows:
108.1 Board of appeals established. In order to hear and decide appeals of orders,
decisions or determinations made by the fire code official relative to the application and
interpretation of this code, there shall be and is hereby created a board of appeals to be
known as the Fire Board of Appeals. The members of the City of Fort Collins Building
Review Board, as appointed from time to time, shall constitute the Fire Board of Appeals.
The board of appeals shall be appointed by the governing body and shall hold office at its
pleasure. The fire code official shall be an ex officio member of said board but shall not
have a vote on any matter before the board. The board shall adopt rules of procedure for
conducting its business, and shall render all decisions and findings in writing to the
appellant with a duplicate copy to the fire code official. Application for an appeal and all
process and procedures for an appeal shall be as stipulated in the International Building
Code, Section 113, as amended and adopted by the City of Fort Collins. This section shall
not be applicable to the appeal of fees or fine amounts, which shall be appealed to the
Fire Chief pursuant to established policies in accordance with Section 113.5 of this Code.
(4) Section 108.3 is hereby deleted in its entirety.
(5) Section 109.4 Violation penalties is hereby amended to read as follows:
109.4 Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail
to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or
do work in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire code
official, or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of
a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not more than [AMOUNT] dollars or by
imprisonment not exceeding [NUMBER OF DAYS], or both such fine and imprisonment
and upon conviction shall be subject to the penalties, costs and orders as provided by
Section l-15 of the City Code. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has
been served shall be is deemed a separate offense.
(6) Section 109.5 Work commencing before permit issuance is hereby added to read as
follows:
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109.5 Work commencing before permit issuance. In addition to penalties set forth in
Section 109.4, any person or firm who, before obtaining the necessary permit(s),
commences any construction of, or work on, a building, structure, fire protection system,
fire alarm system, fire extinguishing system that is not otherwise exempted from
obtaining a permit, shall be subject to a processing and penalty fine in addition to the
standard prescribed permit fee. Such additional fine shall be equal to the permit fee,
except that such fine shall not be less than $50 nor more than $1,000 for the first such
violation. A person or firm committing the same such violation repeatedly is subject to
processing and penalty fines 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.
(7) A new Section 114 Reporting of emergencies and false alarms is hereby added to read as
follows:
SECTION 114 - REPORTING OF EMERGENCIES AND FALSE ALARMS
114.1 General. Reporting of emergencies and false alarms shall comply with Section
114.
114.2 Reporting Emergencies. In the event a fire occurs or the discovery of a fire,
smoke or unauthorized release of flammable, combustible or hazardous materials on any
property occurs, the owner, owner’s authorized representative, or occupant shall
immediately report such condition to the fire department.
114.3 False Alarms. False alarms shall not be given, signaled or transmitted or caused
or permitted to be given, signaled or transmitted in any manner.
(8) Section 202, Definitions, is hereby amended or added in alphabetical sequence in the
following respects:
DWELLING. A building that contains one or two dwelling units used, intended or
designed to be used, rented, leased, let or hired out to be occupied for living purposes.
Dwelling shall mean a building used exclusively for residential occupancy and for
permitted accessory uses, including single-family dwellings, two-family dwellings and
multi-family dwellings. The term dwelling shall not include hotels, motels, homeless
shelters, seasonal overflow shelters, tents or other structures designed or used primarily
for temporary occupancy. Any dwelling shall be deemed to be a principal building.
DWELLING UNIT. A single unit providing complete, independent living facilities for
one or more persons, including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking
and sanitation. Dwelling unit shall mean one or more rooms and a single kitchen and at
least one bathroom, designed, occupied or intended for occupancy as separate quarters for
the exclusive use of a single family for living, cooking and sanitary purposes, located in a
single-family, two-family or multi-family dwelling or mixed-use building.
SLEEPING ROOM (BEDROOM). A habitable room within a dwelling or other
housing unit designed primarily for the purpose of sleeping. The presence of a bed, cot,
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mattress, or other similar furnishing used for sleeping purposes shall be prima facie
evidence that such space or room is a sleeping room. The presence of closets or similar
storage facilities shall not be considered relevant factors in determining whether or not a
room is a sleeping room.
TOWNHOUSE. A single-family dwelling unit constructed in as part of a group of three
two or more attached individual dwelling units, in which each unit extends from the
foundation to roof and with open space on at least two sides. 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 bounded by property lines, which parcel is deeded
exclusively for such single-family dwelling.
(9) A new subsection 307.2.2 Time and atmospheric restrictions is hereby added to read as
follows:
307.2.2 Time and atmospheric restrictions. Open burning shall only be performed
when time and atmospheric conditions comply with the limits set forth in the Open
Burning Permit.
(10) Section 307.4.1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
307.4.1 Bonfires. A bonfire shall not be conducted within 50 100 feet (15 240mm 30m)
of a structure or combustible material unless the fire is contained in a barbecue pit.
Conditions that could cause a fire to spread within 50 100 feet (15 240mm 30m) of a
structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition.
307.4.1.1 Bonfire Size. The fuel package pile for a bonfire must be approved prior to
ignition and shall not exceed 10 feet (3048 mm) in diameter and 8 feet (2438 mm) in
height unless approved by the fire code official. Based on atmospheric conditions,
location, adjacent structures, combustible materials or wildland fire danger ratings,
smaller fuel package piles may be required. Fuels for a bonfire shall be clean, dry
untreated wood products only. Fuel shall not be added to the bonfire once it is ignited
without prior approval of the fire code official.
(11) Section 307.4.3 Portable Outdoor fireplaces is hereby amended to read as follows:
307.4.3 Portable Outdoor fireplaces. Portable oOutdoor fireplaces shall be used in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. and shall not be operated within 15 feet
(3048 mm) of a structure or combustible material. Outdoor fireplaces shall not be placed
closer to combustibles than stated in the manufacturer’s instructions. If the
manufacturer’s instructions are not available, or do not establish a distance requirement,
such fireplaces shall not be operated within 15 feet (4572 mm) of a structure or
combustible material. Outdoor fireplaces shall not be operated underneath a structure of
any type. Outdoor fireplaces shall be gas or liquid fueled.
Exception: Portable outdoor fireplaces used at one- and two-family dwellings may use
approved solid fuels if located at least 15 feet (4572 mm) from a structure or combustible
material.
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(12) Section 308.1.6.3 Sky lanterns is hereby amended to read as follows:
308.1.6.3 Sky lanterns. A person shall not release or cause to be released a tethered or an
untethered sky lantern.
(13) Section 503.1 Where required is hereby amended to read as follows:
503.1 Where required. Fire apparatus access roads shall be provided and maintained in
accordance with Sections 503.1.1 through 503.1.3 and Appendix D “Fire Apparatus
Access Roads”.
(14) Section 503.2 Specifications is hereby amended to read as follows:
503.2 Specifications. Fire apparatus access roads shall be installed and arranged in
accordance with Sections 503.2.1 through 503.2.8 and Appendix D “Fire Apparatus
Access Roads”.
(15) Section 503.2.1 Dimensions is hereby amended to read as follows:
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of
not less than 20 feet (6096 mm), exclusive of shoulders, except for approved security
gates in accordance with Section 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less
than 13 14 feet 6 inches(4115 4267 mm).
(16) Section 505.1 Address identification is hereby amended to read as follows:
505.1 Address Identification. New and existing buildings or facilities shall be provided
with approved address identification. The address identification shall be legible, sized in
accordance with Table 505.1.3 and placed in a position that is visible from the street or
road fronting the property. Address identification characters shall contrast with their
background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Numbers
shall not be spelled out. Each character shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm) high
with a minimum stroke width of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm). Where required by the fire code
official, address identification shall be provided in additional approved locations to
facilitate emergency response. Where access is by means of a private road and the
building cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other sign or means
shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification shall be maintained.
505.1.1 Addresses shall be assigned by the governmental entity having
jurisdiction (Fort Collins, Timnath, or County) and shall comply with the Larimer
County Street Naming and Addressing Standards as contained in the Larimer
County Urban Area Street Standards.
Table 505.1.3
Distance from street curb to building Letter/number size
1 - 100 feet 8 inches
1
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101 - 150 feet 10 inches
1
151 - 200 feet 12 inches
1
201 - 350 feet 14 inches
2
351 - 500 feet 16 inches
2
501 - 700 feet 20 inches
2
In excess of 700 feet As approved by the Fire Code Official
3
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm
1
8”- 12” numbers shall be a minimum 1” stroke
2
13”- 20” numbers shall be a minimum 1 ½” stroke
3
21” and larger shall have proportional strokes to ensure visibility
505.1.4 The address numerals for one and two family dwellings shall be a
minimum of four inches posted on a contrasting background. If bronze or
brass numerals are used, they shall only be posted on a black background for
visibility.
505.1.5 Monument signs may be used in lieu of address numerals on the building
as approved by the fire code official.
505.1.6 Buildings with multiple suites, apartments or units shall have the
individual suites, apartments or units provided with individual identification
numbers in sequential order. Suites, apartments or units located on the first floor
shall be identified by numbers within the 100 range or series; suites, apartments or
units located on the second
floor shall be identified by numbers within the 200
range or series; suites, apartments or units located on the third floor units shall be
identified by numbers within the 300 range or series. Higher floors shall follow
this same numbering scheme.
505.1.7 Buildings, either individually or part of a multi- building complex, that
have emergency access lanes on sides other than on the addressed street side,
shall have the address numbers and street name on each side that fronts the fire
lane.
505.1.8 Buildings that are addressed on one street, but are accessible from an
adjoining street, shall have the address number and street name on each side
that is adjacent to that other street.
505.1.9 Approved signage shall be provided in conspicuous locations within
buildings to provide clear direction to locate any suite, apartment or unit within
the building.
505.1.10 Multiple building complexes shall be provided with approved signage
as needed to direct first responders to individual buildings.
505.1.11 Multiple building complexes that have a single street address for the
entire complex shall utilize alpha or numeric characters to identify the individual
buildings. Such identification shall be assigned to the buildings in a sequential
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order following a clock-wise direction starting at the main entrance to the
complex.
(17) Section 507.2 Type of water supply is hereby amended to read as follows:
507.2 Type of water supply. A water supply shall consist of reservoirs pressure tanks,
elevated tanks, water mains or other fixed systems capable of providing the required
sustainable fire flow.
(18) Section 507.5 Fire hydrant systems and Section 507.5.1 Where required are hereby
amended to read as follows:
507.5 Fire hydrant systems. Fire hydrant systems shall comply with Sections 507.5.1
through 507.5.6 and Appendix C.
507.5.1 Where required. Where a portion of the facility or building hereafter
constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction is more than 400 300 feet
(122 91 m) from a hydrant on a fire apparatus access road, as measured by an
approved route around the exterior of the facility or building, on-site fire hydrants
and mains shall be provided where required by the fire code official.
Exceptions:
1. For Group R-3 and Group U and one- and two-family dwelling
occupancies, the distance requirement shall be 600 400 feet (183 121 m).
2. For buildings equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler
system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, the
distance requirement shall be 600 feet (183 m).
(18) Subsection 605.11.1.1 Roof access points is hereby amended to read as follows:
605.11.1.1 Roof access points. Roof access points shall be located in areas that do not
require the placement of ground ladders over openings such as windows or doors, and
located at strong points of building construction in locations where the access point does
not conflict with overhead obstructions such as tree limbs, wires or signs. All access
pathways required under this Section 605.11.1.1 shall be provided in a structurally strong
location on the building capable of supporting the live load of firefighters accessing the
roof.
(19) Subsection 605.11.1.2 Solar photovoltaic systems for Group R-3 buildings is hereby
amended to read as follows:
605.11.1.2 Solar photovoltaic systems for Group R-3 buildings. Solar photovoltaic
systems for Group R-3 buildings shall comply with Sections 605.11.1.2.1 through
605.11.1.2.5.
Exception: These requirements shall not apply to structures designed and
constructed in accordance with the International Residential Code.
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605.11.1.2.1 Size of solar photovoltaic array. Each photovoltaic array shall be limited
to 150 feet (45,720 mm) by 150 feet (45,720 mm). Multiple arrays shall be separated by a
3-foot-wide (914 mm) clear access pathway.
605.11.1.2.2 Hip roof layouts. Panels and modules installed on Group R-3 buildings
with hip roof layouts shall be located in a manner that provides a 3-foot-wide (914 mm)
clear access pathway from the eave to the ridge on each roof slope where panels and
modules are located. The access pathway shall be at a location on the building capable of
supporting the fire fighters accessing the roof.
Exceptions:
1. These requirements shall not apply to roofs with slopes of two units
vertical in 12 units horizontal (2:12) or less.
2. These requirements shall not apply to roofs where each panel/module
array area on the roof is 1,000 square feet (92.90 m²) or less in size, no
continuous section of panels/modules is larger than 150 feet (45.7 m) in
length or width, a clear access pathway of not less than 12-inch-width
(305 mm) is provided along each side of all horizontal ridges, and a clear
access pathway of not less than 30-inch-width (762 mm)is provided from
the eave to the ridge of one roof slope where panels/modules are located.
3. These requirements shall not apply to roofs where each panel/module
array area on the roof is 1,000 square feet (92.90 m²) or less in size, no
continuous section of panels/modules is larger than 150 feet (45.7 m) in
length or width, a clear access pathway of not less than 12-inch-width
(305 mm) is provided along each side of all horizontal ridges, and, where
panels/modules are to be placed on both sides of a hip, a clear access
pathway of not less than 18-inch-width (457 mm) is provided along each
side of such hip.
605.11.1.2.3 Single-ridge roofs. Panels and modules installed on Group R-3 buildings
with a single ridge shall be located in a manner that provides two, 3-foot-wide (914 mm)
access pathways from the eave to the ridge on each roof slope where panels and modules
are located.
Exceptions:
1. This requirement shall not apply to roofs with slopes of two units vertical
in 12 units horizontal (2:12) or less.
2. This requirement shall not apply to roofs where each panel/module array
area on the roof is 1,000 square feet (92.90 m²) or less in size, no
continuous section of panels/modules is larger than 150 feet (45.7 m) in
length or width, and a clear access pathway of not less than 12-inch-width
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(305 mm) is provided along each side of the horizontal ridge provided
that:
a. The total combined area of solar array does not exceed 33%, as
measured in plan view, of the total roof area of the structure; or
b. A 30-inch-wide (762 mm) clear access path is provided from the
eave to the ridge of a roof slope where panels/modules are located.
605.11.1.2.4 Roofs with hips and valleys. Panels and modules installed on Group R-3
buildings with roof hips and valleys shall not be located closer than 18 inches (457 mm)
to a hip or a valley where panels/modules are to be placed on both sides of a hip or
valley. Where panels are to be located on only one side of a hip or valley that is of equal
length, the panels shall be permitted to be placed directly adjacent to the hip or valley.
Exceptions:
1. These requirements shall not apply to roofs with slopes of two units
vertical in 12 units horizontal (2:12) or less.
2. These requirements shall not apply to roofs where a 30-inch-wide (762
mm) clear access pathway is provided from the eave to the ridge as well as
12-inch-wide (305 mm) clear access pathways along each side of any
horizontal ridge.
605.11.1.2.5 Allowance for smoke ventilation operations. Panels and modules installed
on Group R-3 buildings shall be located not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from the ridge in
order to allow for fire department smoke ventilation operations.
Exception: Panels and modules shall be permitted to be located up to the roof
ridge where an alternative ventilation method approved by the fire chief has been
provided or where the fire chief has determined vertical ventilation techniques
will not be employed.
(20) Subsection 605.11.2 Ground mounted photovoltaic arrays is hereby amended to read as
follows:
605.11.2 Ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays. Ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays
shall comply with Section 605.11 and this section. Setback requirements shall not apply
to ground-mounted, free-standing photovoltaic arrays. A clear, brush-free area of 10 feet
(3048 mm) shall be required for ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays with no vegetation
in this area exceeding 18 inches (457 mm).
(21) A new subsection 609.5 Solid-fuel fired cooking appliances is hereby added and reads as
follows:
Section 609.5 Solid-fuel fired cooking appliances. Solid-fueled commercial cooking
appliances shall comply with applicable provisions of NFPA 96.
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(22) Section 903.2.1.1 Group A-1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.1.1 Group A-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for fire areas
containing Group A-1 occupancies and intervening floors of the building where one of
the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 12,000 5000 square feet (1115 464.5 m
2
).
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge
serving such occupancies.
4. The fire area contains a multi-theater complex.
(23) Section 903.2.1.3 Group A-3 is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.1.3 Group A-3. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for fire areas
containing Group A-3 occupancies and intervening floors of the building where one of
the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 12,000 5000 square feet (1115 464.5 m
2
).
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge
serving such occupancies.
(24) Section 903.2.1.4 Group A-4 is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.1.4 Group A-4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for fire areas
containing Group A-4 occupancies and intervening floors of the building where one of
the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 12,000 5000 square feet (1115 464.5 m
2
).
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge
serving such occupancies.
(25) A new Section 903.2.1.8 Group B is hereby added and reads as follows:
903.2.1.8 Group B. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for fire areas
containing Group B occupancies when the fire area exceeds 5000 square feet (464.5 m
2
).
(26) Section 903.2.3 Group E is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.3 Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group E
occupancies as follows:
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1. Throughout all Group E fire areas greater than 12,000 5000 square feet
(1115 464.5 m
2
) in area.
2. Throughout every portion of educational buildings below the lowest level
of exit discharge serving that portion of the building.
Exception: An automatic sprinkler system is not required in any area below the
lowest level of exit discharge serving that area where every classroom throughout
the building has not fewer than one exterior exit door at ground level.
(27) Section 903.2.4 Group F-1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.4 Group F-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all
buildings containing a Group F-1 occupancy where one of the following conditions
exists:
1. A Group F-1 fire area exceeds 12,000 5000 square feet (1115 464.5 m
2
).
2. A Group F-1 fire area is located more than three stories above grade
plane.
3. The combined area of all Group F-1 fire areas on all floors, including any
mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet (2230 m
2
).
43. A Group F-1 occupancy used for the manufacture of upholstered furniture
or mattresses exceeds 2500 square feet (232 m
2
).
(28) A new Section 903.2.4.2 Group F-2 is hereby added and reads as follows:
903.2.4.2 Group F-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all
buildings containing a Group F-2 occupancy where one of the following conditions
exists:
1. A Group F-2 fire area exceeds 5000 square feet (464.5 m
2
).
2. A Group F-2 fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.
(29) Section 903.2.6 Group I is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.6 Group I. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings
with a Group I fire area.
Exceptions:
1. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2
shall be permitted in Group I-1 Condition 1 facilities.
2 1. An automatic sprinkler system is not required where Group I-4 day care
facilities are at the level of exit discharge and where every room where care is
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provided has not fewer than one exterior exit door and the fire area does not
exceed 5000 square feet (464.5 m
2
).
32. In buildings where Group I-4 day care is provided on levels other than the
level of exit discharge, an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1 shall be installed on the entire floor where care is provided, all floors
between the level of care and the level of exit discharge, and all floors below the
level of exit discharge other than areas classified as an open parking garage.
(30) Section 903.2.7 Group M is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.7 Group M. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout
buildings containing a Group M occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. A Group M fire area exceeds 12,000 5000 square feet (1115 464.5 m
2
).
2. A Group M fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.
3. The combined area of all Group M fire areas on all floors, including any
mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet (2230 m
2
).
43. A Group M occupancy used for the display and sale of upholstered
furniture or mattresses exceeds 5000 square feet (464 m
2
).
(31) Section 903.2.9 Group S-1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.9 Group S-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all
buildings containing a Group S-1 occupancy where one of the following conditions
exists:
1. A Group S-1 fire area exceeds 12,000 5000 square feet (1115 464.5 m
2
).
2. A Group S-1 fire area is located more than three stories above grade
plane.
3. The combined area of all Group S-1 fire areas on all floors, including any
mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet (2230 m
2
).
43. A Group S-1 fire area used for the storage of commercial motor vehicle
where the fire area exceeds 5000 square feet (464 m
2
).
54. A Group S-1 occupancy used for the storage of upholstered furniture or
mattresses exceeds 2500 square (232 m
2
).
(32) Section 903.2.9.1 Repair Garages is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.9.1 Repair garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout
all buildings used as repair garages in accordance with Section 406.8 of the International
Building Code, as shownfollows:
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1. Buildings having two or more stories above grade plane, including
basements, with a fire area containing a repair garage exceeding 10,000
5000 square feet (929 464.5 m
2
).
2. Buildings not more than one story above grade plane, with a fire area
containing a repair garage exceeding 12,000 5000 square feet (1115 464.5
m
2
).
3. Buildings with repair garages servicing vehicles parked in basements.
4. A Group S-1 fire area used for the repair of commercial motor vehicles
where the fire area exceeds 5000 square feet (464 m
2
).
(33) Section 903.2.10 Group S-2 enclosed parking garages is hereby deleted and a new
Section 903.2.10 Group S-2 is hereby added to read as follows:
903.2.10 Group S-2 enclosed parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
provided throughout buildings classified as enclosed parking garages in accordance with
Section 406.6 where either of the following conditions exists:
1. Where the fire area of the enclosed parking garage exceeds 12,000 square
feet (1115 m2).
2. Where the enclosed parking garage is located beneath other groups.
Exception: Enclosed parking garages located beneath Group R-3 occupancies.
903.2.10 Group S-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all
buildings containing a Group S-2 occupancy where one of the following conditions
exists:
1. A Group S-2 fire area exceeds 5000 square feet (464.5 m
2
).
2. A Group S-2 fire area is located more than three stories above grade
plane.
Exception: open parking garages
(34) A new subsection 903.2.10.2 Group S-2 enclosed parking garages is hereby added to
read as follows:
903.2.10.2 Group S-2 enclosed parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall
be provided throughout buildings classified as enclosed parking garages in accordance
with Section 406.6 of the International Building Code where either of the following
conditions exists:
1. Where the fire area of the enclosed parking garage exceeds 5000 square
feet (464.5 m
2
).
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2. Where the enclosed parking is located beneath other groups.
Exception: Enclosed parking garages located beneath Group R-3 occupancies.
(35) Section 903.2.11.1.3 Basements is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.11.1.3 Basements. Where any portion of a basement is located more than 75 feet
(22 860 mm) from openings required by Section 903.2.11.1, or where walls, partitions or
other obstructions are installed that restrict the application of water from hose streams,
the basement shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
(36) Section 903.3.1.2 NFPA 13R sprinkler systems is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.3.1.2 NFPA 13R sprinkler systems. Automatic sprinkler systems in Group R
occupancies up to and including four stories in height in buildings not exceeding 60 feet
(18 288mm) in height above grade plane shall be permitted to be installed throughout in
accordance with NFPA 13R Section 903.3.1.1.
Exception: NFPA 13R is allowed when the following conditions exist:
1. The building does not contain more than 6 individual dwelling units and the units
are separated from each other with a 1 hour fire wall.
2. The building does not contain more than 12 individual dwelling units and is
divided into no more than 6 individual dwellings units (complying with number 1
above) by a minimum 2 hour fire wall.
The number of stories of Group R occupancies constructed in accordance with Sections
510.2 and 510.4 of the International Building Code shall be measured from the horizontal
assembly creating separate buildings.
(37) A new Subsection 904.12.6.4 Existing automatic fire extinguishing systems is hereby
added to read as follows:
904.12.6.4 Existing automatic fire extinguishing systems. Where changes in the
cooking media, positioning of cooking equipment or replacement of cooking equipment
occur in existing commercial cooking systems, the automatic fire extinguishing system
shall be required to comply with the applicable provisions of Sections 904.12 through
904.12.4.
(38) Section 907.2.11 Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms is amended by adding a
second paragraph thereto to read as follows:
When one or more sleeping rooms are added or created in existing Group R Occupancies,
the entire building shall be provided with smoke detectors located and installed as
required for new Group R occupancies described herein.
(39) A new subsection 907.8.6, is hereby added to read as follows:
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907.8.6 Excessive False Alarms. An excessive number of false alarms shall be defined
as 2 alarm activations for a fire alarm system within a 60 day period provided that any
such activations are not the result of a cause reasonably beyond the control of the owner,
tenant or operator of the building. In the event of an excessive number of false alarms, the
fire code official may order the building owner, tenant or operator of the building, or
party responsible for the building to take reasonable actions necessary to prevent false
alarms. These actions may include: repair or replacement of the faulty alarm components,
addition of tamper proof devices, modification of system design, and repair of other
building components which affect alarm system performance. The fire code official may
also require the building owner, tenant or operator or party responsible for the building to
obtain an approved maintenance contract with a qualified fire alarm maintenance
technician as required by NFPA 72 to provide continuous maintenance service of the
system.
(40) Section 1009.3 Stairways, Exceptions are amended to read as follows:
Exceptions:
1. Exit access stairways providing means of egress from mezzanines are permitted as
part of an accessible means of egress.
2. The clear width of 48 inches (1219 mm) between handrails is not required in
buildings 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. The clear width of 48 inches (1219 mm) between handrails is not required for
stairways accessed from a refuge area in conjunction with a horizontal exit.
4. Areas of refuge are not required at exit access stairways where two-way
communication is provided at the elevator landing in accordance with Section
1009.8.
54. Areas of refuge are not required at exit access stairways in buildings 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.
65. Areas of refuge are not required at stairways serving open parking garages.
76. Areas of refuge are not required for smoke protected assembly seating areas
complying with Section 1029.6.2.
87. Areas of refuge are not required at stairways in Group R-2 occupancies.
98. Areas of refuge are not required for stairways accessed from a refuge area in
conjunction with a horizontal exit.
(41) Section 1009.4 Elevators is amended to read as follows:
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1009.4 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 A17.1/CSA B44. Standby power shall be provided in accordance
with Section 604 of this code and with Chapter 27 and Section 3003 of the International
Building Code. The elevator shall be accessed from an area of refuge complying with
Section 1009.6.
(42) Section 1009.4 Elevators is further amended by adding a new exception number 6 to read
as follows:
6. Elevators in buildings not more than 4 stories above grade plane are not required
to be considered an accessible means of egress when the building is equipped
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
(43) Section 1009.6 Areas of refuge is hereby amended to read as follows:
1009.6 Areas of refuge Areas of refuge are not required in buildings not more than 4
stories above grade plane. Every required area of refuge shall be accessible from the
space it serves by an accessible means of egress.
(44) Section 1009.8 Two-way communication Exception 1 is amended to read as follows:
Exception:
1. Two-way communication systems are not required at the elevator landing serving
each elevator or bank of elevators where the two-way communication system is
provided within of buildings not required to provide areas of refuge in accordance
with Sections 1009.6.51009.6.
(45) Section 1010.1.5 Floor elevation is amended by adding a second paragraph 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.
(46) Section 1010.1.5 Floor elevation is further amended by adding a new Exception 7 to
read as follows:
7. Exterior doors serving individual dwelling units, 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 that the step has a minimum tread depth of 12 inches (305 mm), a
maximum riser height of 7 ¾ inches (7.75”) (197 mm), and a minimum width
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equal to the door width, and further provided that the door does not swing over
the step.
(47) Section 1010.1.5 Floor elevation is amended by adding a second paragraph after the
exceptions, 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.
(48) Section 1011.11 Handrails is hereby amended to read as follows:
1011.11 Handrails. Stairways of more than 1 riser shall have handrails on each side and
shall comply with Section 1014. Where glass is used to provide the handrail, the handrail
shall also comply with Section 2407 of the International Building Code.
(49) Section 1015.8 Window openings first paragraph is hereby amended to read as follows:
1015.8 Window openings. Windows in Group R-2 and R-3 buildings including dwelling
units, where the top of the sill of an operable window opening is located less than 36
inches 24 inches (610 mm) above the finished floor and more than 72 inches (1829 mm)
above the finished grade or other surface below on the exterior of the building, shall
comply with one of the following:
. . .
(49) A new Section 1015.9 Below grade openings is hereby added and reads as follows:
1015.9 Below grade openings. All area wells, stair wells and light wells attached to any
building that are located less than 36 inches (914 mm) from the nearest intended walking
surface and deeper than 36 inches (914 mm) below the surrounding ground level, creating
an opening with a horizontal dimension greater than 24 inches (610 mm) measured
perpendicularly 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 1029.4 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.
(50) Section 1030.1 General Exception 1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
Exceptions:
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1. Basements with a ceiling height of less than 80 inches (2032 mm) 72 inches
(1828.8 mm) shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue
openings.
(51) A new subsection 1030.3.1 Minimum height from floor is added to read as follows:
1030.3.1 Minimum height from floor. Emergency escape and rescue window openings
that are located more than 72 inches (1829 mm) above the finished grade shall have a sill
height of not less than 24 inches (609 mm) measured from the finished interior side floor.
Exception:
Emergency escape and rescue openings located over a roof surface with a slope of 4:12
or less and extending a minimum of 5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally outward from the
window shall not be required to meet this minimum sill height requirement.
(52) Section 1030.5 Window Wells is amended by adding a new exception to read as follows:
Exceptions:
With the window in the full open position, the bottom window well step may encroach a
maximum of 12 inches (304 mm) into the minimum horizontal projection, provided the
well meets the criteria of 1 and 2 below:
1. The bottom of the well is not less than 36 inches wide (914 mm), centered
horizontally on the openable portion of the emergency escape and rescue door or
window, and
2. An unobstructed clear horizontal projection of 36 inches (914 mm) is maintained
at the centerline of the openable portion of the emergency escape and rescue door
or window.
(53) A new Section 1030.5.3 Drainage is hereby added to read as follows:
1030.5.3 Drainage. All window wells shall be designed for proper drainage by
connecting to the building’s foundation drainage system required by Section 1805.4.2 or
by an approved alternative method. The inlet to the drainage system shall be a minimum
of 4 inches (101 mm) below the window sill. Where no drains are required, the window
well surface shall be a minimum of 4 inches (101 mm) below the window sill.
Exceptions:
1. A drainage system for window wells is not required when the foundation is on
well-drained soil or sand-gravel mixture soils as determined by the foundation
engineer of record.
2. A drainage system is not required for new window wells on additions to existing
dwellings.
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(54) Section 5001.1 Scope Exception 10 is hereby amended to read as follows:
Exceptions:
10. The production, processing and storage of distilled spirits and wines in wooden
barrels and casks when the facility is in conformance with the DISCUS
“Recommended Fire Protection Practices for Distilled Spirits Beverage
Facilities”.
(55) The title of Section 5307 is hereby amended to read as follows:
SECTION 5307
CARBON DIOXIDE (CO2) SYSTEMS USED IN
BEVERAGE DISPENSING APPLICATIONS
(56) Section 5307.1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
5307.1 General. Carbon dioxide systems with more than 100 pounds (45.4 kg) of carbon
dioxide used in beverage dispensing applications shall comply with Sections 5307.2
through 5307.5.2.
(57) Section 5601.1.3 is hereby amended to read as follows:
5601.1.3 Fireworks. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling and use of
fireworks are prohibited.
Exceptions:
1. Storage and handling of fireworks as allowed in Section 5604.
2. Manufacture, assembly and testing of fireworks as allowed in Section 5605.
32. The use of fireworks for display as allowed in Section 5608.
4. The possession, storage, sale, handling and use of specific types of Division 1.4G
fireworks where allowed by applicable laws, ordinances and regulations,
provided such fireworks and facilities comply with NFPA 1124, CPSC 16 CFR
Parts 1500 and 1507, and DOTn 49 CFR Parts 100-185, for consumer fireworks.
(58) Section 5701.2 Nonapplicability 10 is hereby amended to read as follows:
10. The production, processing and storage of distilled spirits and wines in wooden
barrels and casks when the facility is in conformance with the DISCUS
“Recommended Fire Protection Practices for Distilled Spirits Beverage
Facilities”.
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(59) Section 5704.3.3 Indoor storage Exception 2 is hereby amended to read as follows:
5704.3.3 Indoor storage. Storage of flammable and combustible liquids inside buildings
in containers and portable tanks shall be in accordance with Sections 5704.3.3.1 through
5704.3.3.10.
Exceptions:
1. Liquids in the fuel tanks of motor vehicles, aircraft, boats or portable or stationary
engines.
2. The production, processing and storage of distilled spirits and wines in wooden
barrels and casks when the facility is in conformance with the DISCUS
“Recommended Fire Protection Practices for Distilled Spirits Beverage
Facilities”.
(60) The exception in Section 6109.13 Protection of Containers is hereby deleted:
6109.13 Protection of containers. LP-gas containers shall be stored within a suitable
enclosure or otherwise protected against tampering. Vehicle impact protection shall be
provided as required by Section 6107.4.
Exception: Vehicle impact protection shall not be required for protection of LP-gas
containers where the containers are kept in lockable, ventilated cabinets of metal
construction.
(61) Chapter 80 Referenced Standards is hereby amended by adding the following additional
referenced standard in alphabetical and numerical sequence:
DISCUS Distilled Spirits Council of the United States
1250 Eye Street, NW Suite 400
Washington, DC 20005
____________________________________________________________________________
Standard reference
number
Title Referenced in code section number
3rd Edition, June 2005 Recommended Fire
Protection Practices for Distilled Spirits Beverage
Facilities
5001.1, 5701.2, 5704.3.3
__________________________________________________________
NFPA National Fire Protection Association
1 Batterymarch Park
Quincy, MA 02169-7471
__________________________________________________________
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Standard reference
number
Title Referenced in code section number
96-14 Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire
Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations
609.5
__________________________________________________________
(62) Appendix A is deleted in its entirety.
(63) Appendix B is deleted in its entirety and readopted to read as follows:
APPENDIX B
FIRE-FLOW REQUIREMENTS FOR BUILDINGS
SECTION B101 GENERAL
B101.1 Scope. The procedure for determining fire-flow requirements for buildings or
portions of buildings hereafter constructed shall be in accordance with this appendix.
This appendix does not apply to structures other than buildings.
SECTION B102 DEFINITIONS
B102.1 Definitions. For the purpose of this appendix, certain terms are defined as
follows:
FIRE-FLOW. The flow rate of a water supply, measured at 20 pounds per square inch
(psi) (138 kPa) residual pressure, that is available for firefighting.
FIRE-FLOW CALCULATION AREA. The floor area, in square feet (m²), used to
determine the required fire flow.
SECTION B103 MODIFICATIONS
B103.1 Decreases. The fire chief is authorized to reduce the fire-flow requirements
for isolated buildings or a group of buildings in rural areas or small communities
where the development of full fire-flow requirements is impractical.
B103.2 Increases. The fire chief is authorized to increase the fire-flow requirements
where conditions indicate an unusual susceptibility to group fires or conflagrations.
An increase shall not be more than twice that required for the building under
consideration.
B103.3 Areas without water supply systems. For information regarding water
supplies for fire-fighting purposes in rural and suburban areas in which adequate and
reliable water supply systems do not exist, the fire code official is authorized to
utilize NFPA 1142 or the International Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
SECTION B104 FIRE-FLOW CALCULATION AREA
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B104.1 General. The fire-flow calculation area shall be the total floor area of all
floor levels within the exterior walls, and under the horizontal projections of the roof
of a building, except as modified in Section B104.3.
B 104.2 Area separation. Portions of buildings which are separated by fire walls
without openings, constructed in accordance with the International Building Code,
are allowed to be considered as separate fire-flow calculation areas.
B104.3 Type 1A and Type 1B construction. The fire-flow calculation area of
buildings constructed of Type 1A and Type 1B construction shall be the area of the
three largest successive floors.
Exception:
Fire-flow calculation area for open parking garages shall be determined by the
area of the largest floor.
SECTION B105 FIRE-FLOW REQUIREMENTS FOR BUILDINGS
B105.1 One- and two-family dwellings. The minimum fire-flow requirements for
one- and two-family dwellings shall be 1,000 gallons per minute in urban areas and
500 gallons per minute in rural areas.
Exception:
A reduction in required fire flow of 50 percent, as approved, is allowed when the
building is provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
B105.2 Buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings. The minimum fire-
flow and flow duration for buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings shall
be as specified in Table B105.
TABLE B105
APPLICATION FIRE FLOW
REQUIREMENTS
(gpm)
SPACING
BETWEEN
HYDRANTS
(feet)
a,b,c
MAXIMUM
DISTANCE FROM
THE CLOSEST
POINT ON A
BUILDING TO A
HYDRANT (feet)
Commercial 1500 600 300
d
Urban --O n e and
Two Family Dwelling
1000 800 400
Rural --O n e and
Two Family Dwelling
500 800 400
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon = 3.81 l
a. Reduce by 100 feet for dead-end streets or roads.
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b. Where streets are provided with median dividers that cannot be crossed by fire
fighters pulling hose lines, or are arterial streets, hydrant spacing shall average
500 feet (152 m) on each side of the street and be arranged on an alternating basis.
c. Where new water mains are extended along streets where hydrants are not needed
for protection of structures or similar fire problems, fire hydrants shall be
provided at spacing not to exceed 1,000 feet (305 m) to provide for transportation
hazards.
d. For buildings equipped with a standpipe, see Section 507.5.1.1.
B105.3 Water supply for buildings equipped with an automatic sprinkler system.
For buildings equipped with an approved automatic sprinkler system, the water supply shall be
capable of providing the greater of:
1. The automatic sprinkler system demand, including hose stream allowance.
2. The required fire-flow.
SECTION B106 REFERENCED STANDARDS
ICC IBC-15 International Building Code B104.2,
ICC IFC --- 15 International Fire Code Table B105.1(1) & B105.2
ICC IWUIC-15 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code B103.3
ICC IRC --- 15 International Residential Code Table B105.1(1)
NFPA 1142-12 Standard on Water Supplies for Suburban and Rural Fire Fighting
B103.3
(64) Appendix C is deleted in its entirety and readopted to read as follows:
APPENDIX C
FIRE HYDRANT LOCATIONS AND DISTRIBUTION
SECTION C101 GENERAL
C101.1 Scope. Fire hydrants shall be provided in accordance with this appendix
for the protection of buildings, or portions of buildings, hereafter constructed or
moved into the jurisdiction.
SECTION C102 LOCATION
C102.1 Fire hydrant locations. Fire hydrants shall be provided along required fire
apparatus access roads and adjacent public streets.
SECTION C103 NUMBER OF FIRE HYDRANTS
C103.1 Fire hydrants available. The number of fire hydrants available to a
complex or subdivision shall not be less than that determined by spacing
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requirements listed in Table B105 when applied to fire apparatus access roads and
perimeter public streets from which fire operations could be conducted.
SECTION C104 CONSIDERATION OF EXISTING FIRE HYDRANTS
C104.1 Existing fire hydrants. Existing fire hydrants on public streets are allowed
to be considered as available. Existing fire hydrants on adjacent properties shall not
be considered available unless fire apparatus access roads extend between
properties and easements are established to prevent obstruction of such roads.
SECTION C105 DISTRIBUTION OF FIRE HYDRANTS
C105.1 Hydrant spacing. The average spacing between fire hydrants shall not
exceed that listed in Table B105.
Exception:
The fire chief is authorized to accept a deficiency of up to 10 percent where
existing fire hydrants provide all or a portion of the required fire hydrant service.
Regardless of the average spacing, fire hydrants shall be located such that all points
on streets and access roads adjacent to a building are within the distances listed in
Table B105.
(65) Appendix D is deleted in its entirety and readopted to read as follows:
APPENDIX D
FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS
SECTION D101 GENERAL
D10l.1 Scope. Fire apparatus access roads shall be in accordance with this appendix and all
other applicable requirements of the International Fire Code.
SECTION D102 REQUIRED ACCESS
D102.1 Access and loading. Facilities, buildings or portions of buildings hereafter constructed
shall be accessible to fire department apparatus by way of an approved fire apparatus access
road with an asphalt, concrete or other approved driving surface capable of supporting the
imposed load of fire apparatus weighing at least 80 000 pounds (36,287 kg).
D102.2 Access road construction. All access roadways must be all weather driving surfaces
capable of supporting fire apparatus. Surface shall be asphalt, concrete, or compacted road base
and engineered for the imposed loads.
D102.2.1 Temporary emergency access. Compacted road base or chip shall only be used for a
temporary emergency access. Temporary access shall be available as long as the site is under
construction. Thereafter permanent fire lanes shall be accessible and unobstructed at all times.
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D102.2.2 Permanent emergency access. All permanent points of access shall be hard decks
consisting of asphalt or concrete designed to HS 20 or support 40 ton (36,287 kg). Compacted
road base or other surfaces engineered and capable of supporting the imposed loads may be
approved for ground mounted solar installations, cell towers and similar isolated facilities and
structures when approved by the fire code official.
D102.2.2 Installation timing. All required access roads must be installed and serviceable before
aboveground construction begins.
SECTION D103 MINIMUM SPECIFICATIONS
D103.1 Access road width with a hydrant. Where a fire hydrant is located on a fire apparatus
access road, the minimum road width shall be 26 feet (7925 mm) exclusive of shoulders. (See
Figure Dl03.1).
D103.2 Grade. Fire apparatus access roads shall not exceed 10 percent in grade. Exception:
Grades steeper than 10 percent as approved by the fire code official. (See section D105.5 for
aerial fire apparatus access roads.)
D103.3 Turning radius. The minimum turning radius shall be 25 feet (7.6 m) inside radius and
50 feet (15.2m) outside radius.
D103.4 Angle of Approach/Departure. Grade changes upon a fire apparatus access road or
when entering or exiting from or to a fire apparatus access road, shall not exceed a 10% angle of
approach or angle of departure.
Figure D103.1
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-28-
D103.5 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet (46 m) shall be
provided with width and turnaround provisions in accordance with Table D103.4.
TABLE D103.4
REQUIREMENTS FOR DEAD-END FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS
LENGTH(feet) WIDTH(feet) TURNAROUNDS
REQUIRED
0-150 20 None required
151-660 20 100-foot hammerhead,
100-foot Cul-de-sac in
accordance with Figure
D103.1
Over 660 Special Approval Required
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm
D103.5.1 Second Point of Access Required. A second point of access shall be required when
the primary access roadway exceeds 660 feet (201 m) in length.
-29-
Exception: Where all dwelling units beyond 660 feet (201 m) are equipped throughout
with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1,
903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3.3, access from two directions shall not be required.
D103.5.2 Third Point of Access Required. A third point of access will be required when any
access road exceeds a distance of 1,320 feet (1/4 mile) (402 m) in length.
Exception: Where all dwelling units beyond 660 feet (201 m) are equipped throughout
with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1,903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3.3, access from only two directions shall be required.
D103.5.3 Fourth Point of Access Required. A fourth point of access will be required when
access road exceeds a distance of 2640 feet (1/2 mile) (804 m) in length.
Exception: Where all dwelling units beyond 660 feet (201 m) are equipped throughout
with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1,
903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3.3, access from only three directions shall be required.
D103.5.4 Access location. Where two or more points of access are required, they shall be
placed a distance apart equal to not less than one half of the length of the maximum overall
diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served, measured in a straight line.
D103.6 Fire apparatus access road gates. Gates securing the fire apparatus access roads shall
comply with all of the following criteria:
1. Where a single gate is provided the gate width shall be not less than 20 feet (6096
mm). Where a fire apparatus road consists of a divided roadway, the gate shall be
not less than 12 feet (3658 mm).
2. Gates shall be of the swinging or sliding type.
3. Construction of gates shall be of materials that allow manual operation by one
person.
4. Gate components shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times and
replaced or repaired when defective.
5. Electric gates shall be equipped with a means of opening the gate by fire
department personnel for emergency access. Emergency opening devices shall be
approved by the fire code official.
6. Methods of locking the gate shall be approved by the fire code official.
7. Manual opening gates shall not be locked with a padlock or chain and
padlock unless the padlock is approved by the fire code official and is compatible
with the approved Key Boxes in use by the fire department.
8. Gate design and locking device specifications shall be submitted for approval
by the fire code official prior to installation.
9. Electric gate operators, where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL325
10. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed and
installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM F 2200.
D103.7 Signs. Where required by the fire code official, fire apparatus access roads shall be
marked with permanent NO PARKING-FIRE LANE signs complying with Figure D 103.6.
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Signs shall have a minimum dimension of 12 inches (305 mm) wide by 18 inches (457 mm) high
and have red letters on a white reflective background. Signs shall be posted on one or both sides
of the fire apparatus access road as required by section D103.6.1 or D103.6.2.
D103.7.1 Roads 20 to 26 feet in width. Fire lane signs as specified in D103.6 shall be posted on
both sides of fire apparatus access roads that are 20 to 26 feet wide (6096 to 7925 mm).
D103.7.2 Roads more than 26 feet in width. Fire lane signs as specified in D103.6 shall be
posted on one side of fire apparatus access roads more than 26 feet wide (7925 mm) and less
than 32 feet wide (9754 mm).
SECTION D 104
COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENTS
D104.1 Buildings exceeding three stories or 30 feet in height. Buildings or facilities exceeding
30 feet (9144 mm) or three stories in height shall have at least two means of fire apparatus access
for each structure.
Exception: Buildings or facilities exceeding 30 feet (9144 mm) or three stories in height may
have a single approved fire apparatus access road when the buildings are equipped throughout
with approved automatic sprinkler systems.
D104.2 Buildings exceeding 62,000 square feet in area. Buildings or facilities having a gross
building area of more than 62 000 square feet (5760 m
2
) shall be provided with two separate and
approved fire apparatus access roads.
Exception: Projects having a gross building area of up to 124,000 square feet (11 520 m
2
) that
have a single approved fire apparatus access road when all buildings are equipped throughout
with approved automatic sprinkler systems.
D104.3 Remoteness. Where two access roads are required, they shall be placed a distance apart
equal to not less than one half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the
lot or area to be served, measured in a straight line between accesses.
SECTION D105
AERIAL FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS
D105.1 Where required. Where the vertical distance between the grade plane and the highest
roof surface exceeds 30 feet (9144 mm), approved aerial fire apparatus access roads shall be
provided. For purposes of this section, the highest roof surface shall be determined by
measurement to the eave of a pitched roof, the intersection of the roof to the exterior wall, or the
top of parapet walls, whichever is greater.
D105.2 Width. Aerial Fire apparatus access roads shall have a minimum unobstructed width of
26 feet (7925 mm), exclusive of shoulders, in the immediate vicinity of any building or portion
of building more than 30 feet (9144 mm) in height if the fire apparatus access road is not a dead
end. Dead end fire apparatus access roads for aerial apparatus access shall be a minimum of 30
feet (9144 mm) wide.
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D105.3 Proximity to building. At least one of the required access routes meeting this condition
shall be located within a minimum of 15 feet (4572 mm) and a maximum of 30 feet (9144 mm)
from the building, and shall be positioned parallel to one entire side of the building. The side of
the building on which the aerial fire apparatus access road is positioned shall be approved by the
fire code official.
D105.4 Obstructions. Overhead utility and power lines shall not be located over the aerial fire
apparatus access road or between the aerial fire apparatus road and the building. Other
obstructions shall be permitted to be placed with the approval of the fire code official.
D105.5 Grade. Aerial fire apparatus access roads adjacent to the building shall not exceed 5%
in grade.
SECTION D 106
MULTIPLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS
D106.1 Projects having more than 100 dwelling units. Multiple-family residential projects
having more than 100 dwelling units shall be equipped throughout with two separate and
approved fire apparatus access roads.
Exception: Projects having up to 200 dwelling units may have a single approved fire apparatus
access road when all buildings, including nonresidential occupancies, are equipped throughout
with approved automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
D106.2 Projects having more than 200 dwelling units. Multiple-family residential projects
having more than 200 dwelling units shall be provided with two separate and approved fire
apparatus access roads regardless of whether they are equipped with an approved automatic
sprinkler system.
SECTION D 107
ONE- OR TWO-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS
D107.1 One- or two-family dwelling residential developments. Developments of one-family
or two-family dwellings where the number of dwelling units exceeds 30 shall be provided with
two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads and that comply with Section Dl03.4.
Exceptions: Where there are more than 30 dwelling units on a single public or private
fire apparatus access road and all dwelling units are equipped throughout with an
approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or
903.3.1.3, access from two directions shall not be required.
The number of dwelling units on a single fire apparatus access road shall not exceed 30
dwelling units unless fire apparatus access roads will connect with future development, as
determined by the fire code official.
D108 REFERENCED STANDARDS
ASTM F 2200-05 Standard Specification for Automated Vehicular Gate Construction D103.5
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ICC IFC-12 International Fire Code D101.5, D107.1
UL 325-02 Door, Drapery, Gate, Louver, and Window Operators and Systems, with Revisions
through February 2006 D103.5
(66) Appendix F is hereby adopted in its entirety.
(67) Appendix L is hereby adopted in its entirety.
Introduced, considered favorably on first reading, and ordered published this 18th day of
April, A.D. 2017, and to be presented for final passage on the 2nd day of May, A.D. 2017.
__________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
City Clerk
Passed and adopted on final reading on the 2nd day of May, A.D. 2017.
__________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
City Clerk
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE is hereby given of a public hearing to be held before the City Council of the
City of Fort Collins, Colorado, on the 18th day of April, A.D., 2017 at 6:00 p.m., or as soon
thereafter as the matter may come on for hearing, in the Council Chambers at the City Hall, 300
LaPorte Avenue, Fort Collins, Colorado for the purpose of considering the adoption of an
ordinance adopting by reference the 2015 International Fire Code promulgated by the
International Code Council, Inc, 4051 West Flossmoor Road, Country Club Hills, IL 60478, with
local amendments.
Not less than one (1) copy of said Code has been, and now is on file in the Poudre Fire
Authority Fire Prevention Bureau and one copy is on file in the Office of the City Clerk of the
City of Fort Collins and is available for public inspection.
The purpose of the International Fire Code adopted by said ordinance is to provide for
protection of public health and safety and general welfare regarding fire prevention and
suppression.
This notice is given and published by order of the City of Fort Collins, Colorado.
The City of Fort Collins will make reasonable accommodations for access to City
services, programs and activities and will make special communication arrangements for persons
with disabilities. Please call 221-6515 (V/TDD: Dial 711 for Relay Colorado) for assistance.
Dated at Fort Collins, Colorado this 2nd day of April, A.D. 2017.
Wanda Winkelmann
City Clerk