HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - Read Before Packet - 5/17/2022 - Revised Agenda Item 8 For The May 17, 2022 City Council Meeting - 2021 International Fire Code Agenda Item 8
Item # 8 Page 1
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY May 17, 2022
City Council
STAFF
Derek Bergsten, PFA Fire Chief
Jerry Howell, Fire Marshall
Sarah Carter, Asst. Fire Marshall
Aaron Guin, Legal
SUBJECT
Items Relating to the 2021 International Fire Code.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
A. First Reading of Ordinance No. 060, 2022, Amending Chapter 9 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins
for the Purpose of Repealing the 2018 International Fire Code and Adopting the 2021 International Fire
Code, with Amendments. (This ordinance was edited to correct formatting issues with no change to
content.)
B. First Reading of Ordinance No. 064, 2022, Making Changes to Fort Collins City Code Section 2-173
Related to the Adoption of the 2021 International Fire Code, with Amendments.
The purpose of this item is to repeal the 2018 International Fire Code and adopt the 2021 International Fire Code
(“IFC”), with local amendments. 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.
The 2021 IFC proposed for adoption provides that appeals of decisions by the fire code official (Fire Chief, or by
delegation, Fire Marshall) shall be heard by the Fort Collins Building Review Commission acting as the Fire
Board of Appeals, as did the 2018 Fire Code. Ordinance No. 064, 2022 makes a related change to City Code
Section 2-173 to reflect the Commission’s responsibility to serve as the Fire Board of Appeals as set forth in the
2021 IFC.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends adoption of both Ordinances on First Reading.
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION
Poudre Fire Authority (“PFA”) is responsible for the enforcement and administration of the IFC in the City of Fort
Collins, Town of Timnath and unincorporated areas of Larimer and Weld Counties within the Poudre Valley Fire
Protection District boundaries. Every three years, the IFC is updated by the ICC with the most recent update
having been published in 2021. PFA routinely reviews new codes, proposes local amendments, and then seeks
adoption of IFC changes and local amendments by Council.
The proposed local amendments, developed in conjunction with the Fire Code Review Committee, include
several changes to the local amendments currently in the City Code. There were a few significant changes to
the IFC, including provisions related to the manufacture and storage of distilled spirits, installation and operation
Agenda Item 8
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of electric energy storage systems, and retroactive installation of fire suppression systems in high-rise buildings
(with some exceptions). New local amendments were limited and include a change to attic sprinkler coverage in
multifamily dwellings, reducing a previous restriction on aerial access from arterial roads, and modification of
appeal provisions so that a decision of the Fire Board of Appeals (consisting of the City’s Building Review
Commission) could be further appealed to the PFA Board of Directors, rather than Council, since decisions
subject to such appeals are made by the fire code official (Fire Chief, or by delegation, Fire Marshall) employed
by PFA.
At the July 27, 2021, PFA Board meeting, the Board adopted Resolution 21-14, appointing the Fire Code Review
Committee (FCRC). (Attachment 1) This volunteer committee is comprised of community and industry
stakeholders who reviewed the 2021 IFC and proposed local amendments to make a recommendation for
adoption. The FCRC completed their work on Wednesday, December 1, 2021, with a unanimous
recommendation to adopt the 2021 IFC along with the accompanying local amendments. (Attachment 2) At the
February 22, 2022, meeting, the PFA Board unanimously approved the IFC adoption and local amendments.
(Attachment 3)
The purpose of the FCRC is to ensure an inclusive process for code adoption, bringing industry experts and
community stakeholders together to collaboratively guide the language of the adopted code to best serve the
community. The hard work and commitment shown by the FCRC is vital to the success of code adoption and
administration. This collaborative review setting provides a forum for stakeholders to offer valuable insights about
community priorities and concerns, as well as the application of the fire code. During review meetings, the FCRC
takes a close look at changes to the published code, as well as the adopted amendments. Discussions include
industry trends, community feedback, alignment with partner jurisdictions, and lessons learned under the existing
adopted code and amendments.
Since the Fort Collins Building Department adopts many other International Codes, including the International
Building Code, with local amendments, staff has included in the IFC amendments that are relevant to both codes.
Similar processes occur with PFA’s other fire and life safety partners including the Town of Timnath and Larimer
and Weld Counties.
The FCRC reviewed all the proposed changes to the IFC, including proposed changes that ultimately were
adopted as part of the 2021 International Building Code (IBC) by the City of Fort Collins, with local amendments.
Since Chapters 9 (Fire Protection Systems) and 10 (Means of Egress) are the same in the IBC and IFC, it is
essential that local amendments between the IBC and IFC correlate and, as the building department is primarily
tasked with enforcement of Chapters 9 and 10, it makes sense for the IFC to be amended in the same way the
local building official proposed local amendments to the IBC.
The primary goal of the FRFC was to limit the number of local amendments to the code while still providing
comprehensive life safety codes that are clear, relevant, and aligned with current practices. The group was able
to accomplish this and focus the amendments that were brought forward on local community needs.
Items of note for the 2021 IFC (as published) include:
- Adding a new provision requiring fire sprinkler installation in unprotected high-rise buildings with some
exceptions (IFC Section 1103.5.4). A study of PFA’s district determined that this provision would not require
retrofit for sprinklers in any of the existing high-rise buildings, therefore this provision was not amended.
- Adding new requirements for fire sprinklers in all occupancies related to the manufacture and bulk storage
of distilled spirits (IFC Section 903.2.4.2 and 903.2.9.3).
- Adding provisions specific to electric energy storage systems to address the rising popularity of adding
storage capabilities to photovoltaic systems (IFC Section 1207).
- Adding a new Chapter 40, outlining minimum safety requirements for the storage of distilled spirits, beers
and wines not otherwise regulated by Chapters 50 and 57.
Items of note for the 2021 IFC proposed local amendments include:
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To reduce confusion for designers and ensure appropriate sprinkler coverage without sacrificing the goal of
preventing fire spread through unprotected attics, provisions requiring sprinkler coverage in attics in
multifamily buildings were added to section 903.3.1.2.3 (National Fire Protection Association “NFPA” 13R
systems) in place of requiring sprinkler design in accordance with NFPA 13.
With the significant increase in popularity of outdoor dining spaces, language regarding fire pits was modified
to specifically include “fire tables” to ensure the safety of diners.
A previous restriction from using arterial roads to provide required aerial apparatus access was relaxed to
better align with Land Use Code requirements with no reduction in firefighter safety or operational efficiency.
A table outlining the status of adoption for each IFC appendix was added for quick and easy user reference.
The Larimer County Urban Area Street Standards (LCUASS) was added as a referenced standard to align
with street design standards used by partner jurisdictions.
The Poudre Valley Fire Protection District (PVFPD) adopted the 2021 IFC at its February 23, 2022, meeting,
covering the unincorporated areas of Larimer and Weld Counties. The PVFPD adoption has been ratified by
Larimer County Commissioners and is currently awaiting ratification by Weld County Commissioners. The Town
of Timnath also is in the process of evaluating the recommended fire code and proposed amendments. 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 due to restrictions in Colorado Revised Statutes that limit a fire district’s ability to regulate fireworks.
CITY FINANCIAL IMPACTS
The impact of the changes to the published Code and proposed local amendments includes both increased and
decreased short-term costs of development and construction which are estimated to offset, favoring a decrease.
Neutral to decreased long-term costs coupled with improved opportunity for development are predicted due to
efficiencies created by IFC and Land Use Code alignment.
BOARD / COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
The Poudre Fire Authority Board of Directors reviewed these amendments at its February 22, 2022, meeting
and unanimously passed Resolution 22-9 recommending adoption of the 2021 IFC, as amended, to the City of
Fort Collins, Town of Timnath and the Poudre Valley Fire Protection District (PVFPD).
Adoption of the 2021 IFC as amended was unanimously recommended by the Fire Code Review Committee
(Attachment 2) and the Poudre Fire Authority Board of Directors (Attachments 3 and 4).
PUBLIC OUTREACH
The Fire Code Review Committee was appointed by the PFA Board of Directors and provides a cross section of
code users and those impacted by the codes. This group met six times and unanimously supported the final
adoption with local amendments. The PFA Board of Directors reviewed, and by resolution, recommended that
the 2021 IFC, as amended, be adopted by the City, the Town of Timnath and the Poudre Valley Fire Protection
District.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Poudre Fire Authority Resolution 21-14 (PDF)
2. Fire Code Committee Minutes, December 1, 2021 (PDF)
3. Poudre Fire Authority Board Minutes, February 22, 2022 (PDF)
4. Poudre Fire Authority Resolution 22-9 (PDF)
Resolution 21 -14
Appointing a 2021 Fire Code Review Committee
Whereas, the adoption and application of the current edition of the International
Fire Code contributes to minimizing human suffering and property loss from fire, and
Whereas, the 2021 edition of the International Fire Code represents the most
current International Fire Code, and
Whereas, the Board desires to include community input from those impacted by
the enforcement of the Code through the adoption process.
Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Poudre Fire Authority Board of Directors
that the following community members are appointed to the 2021 International Fire
Code Review Committee:
2021 International Fire Code Review Committee
Mr. Jeremy Kobobel Mr. Eric Freid
Kobobel Fire Protection Larimer County BuildinQ
Mr. Paul Tanguay Mr. Don Watkins
Broadcom Inc. Belford Watkins Group -Architects
Captain (TBD) Mr. Nick Haws
Poudre Fire Authority Northern EngineerinQ
Mr. Todd Parker or Alternate Mr. John Holcombe
Brinkman Construction Poudre School District
Mrs. Megan Gaston Captain Carie Dann
Colorado State University Building Loveland Fire Rescue
Ms. Heidi Hansen Mr. Isaac Thompson
City of Fort Collins Water Utilities Quality of Life and Safety Design
Mr. Jeremy Tamlin Deputy Building Mr. Russ Hovland
Official, Safebuilt Timnath City of Fort Collins Building Department
Approved by the Poudre Fire Authority Board of Directors this 27th day of July,
2021.
1Jiri£sbn Acibuaai Attest
ATTACHMENT 1
Poudre Fire Authority
2021 International Fire Code
Review Committee Meeting
December 1st, 2021
11:00am to 1:00pm
1.November 17th meeting review and questions
a.Minutes
No issues with minutes
b.Other items?
In attendance:
Beth McGhee
Sarah Carter
Jeremy Kobobel
John Holcombe
Bob Poncelow
Paul Tanguay
Steve Christen
Ron Simms
Nick Haws
Eric Fried
Rich Anderson
Carie Dann
Becca Mueller
Jeremy had a question about water flows and if someone doesn’t fall within those parameters on the
chart and Sarah said we will continue to work with designers and contractors on these issues to get as
close as we can and get projects done
2.Appendix D – Fire Apparatus Access Roads
a.Amendment changes
i.Finish discussion from last meeting
Not too many changes in here. One being in 102.2.3 installation timing, overall approved access is
dependent on other adjacent projects. Access roads must be installed and serviceable before
aboveground construction begins unless otherwise approved by fire code official.
ATTACHMENT 2
Access road construction from Nick Haws; have the ability on a case‐by‐case basis that we have other
options for road base instead of being limited to asphalt. We will use provision in 104.10 to deal with
these road surface issues.
D103‐ stayed predominantly the same; added D to the figure number. Figures and table have remained
the same. Additional points of access in the discussion previously this said first, second, third point of
access etc., Sarah tried to simplify the language and bring this down to the basic issue of access out of
660 feet and no dead‐end access past 1320 feet. This aligns with Larimer County Land Use code and
these numbers are pretty industry standard language. There are some provisions in rural land use
language that differ. In those situations, we would refer to Larimer County Land Use Code and go from
there. Bob Poncelow said that this is good stuff. D103.5.4 Bob said we are leaving that in so that we
maintain additional points of access, Sarah said it is now D103.5.2. Sarah did also check with Loveland’s
amendments and we match up well there.
Gates securing fire lanes, we haven’t had a lot of trouble with this language. We have had some issues
with what kind of locking mechanisms will be allowed and we are getting better with what those will be
for access.
Fire lanes signs will remain the same
Minimum overhead clearances to stay the same
Added a remoteness piece to this section
Aerial access D105‐ the big question was can we look at aerial fire apparatus access on arterial roads.
Talked to contractors, developers, traffic, etc. Chief Poncelow brought up that maybe giving access on
arterials is a good idea after all. Where can we find a balance with design and construction community
along with City requirements and Fire requirements. Discussion with crews was supportive of allowing
access on arterial roads. Sarah added D105.6‐ Aerial fire apparatus access roads shall not be located on
an arterial street with 6 or more travel lanes. Nick Haws said he thinks this is a great addition and now
actually lives in code and the differentiation and definition of arterial roads. It’s a great compromise and
keeps firefighter safety. Sarah asked if Eric had any thoughts or Chief Dann if she has any thoughts on
Loveland. Bob said the provisions still exist with 15‐ and 30‐foot provisions still exist, and this is a good
change for projects where we were struggling for access. Parallel language with the Lucas standards.
Bob said his only thought might be the definition of travel lanes in the future. Will add “travel lanes as
defined by the LCUASS Standards. (Beth added this to the amendments and Sarah will go in and
reference the most current standards).
Nick also asked is the placement of an area access road is required to be 15 to 30 feet. Land use code
and really complicate this when you hit taller storied buildings. It creates issues with designers. Nick
asked if we could change this to 35 feet. Sarah said 15 to 30 feet is the national standard and Sarah said
that she is opposed to making that change specifically but, on a case‐by‐case basis, we can look to
change that where it might be needed. It will be dependent on height, elevation. Sarah said she would
love to hear from the Chief’s on this one. Bob said the further away you get the farther the reach is, if
you do it on a case by case and you look at being able to reach the eave, you are probably good there. If
there is a hardship and a hardship we can document, would look at these on a case‐by‐case basis and
bring to the Fire Marshal. Carie Dann asked how often this is happening and Sarah said it happens quite
frequently. The elevation setbacks are an issue in new builds quite often.
No changes to multi‐family residential developments
Only change to one‐ and two‐family dwellings just added the piece about multiple points of access from
previous section
3. Appendices E, G, and H
a. Adopted as references only.
These are reference only standards and not requirements. They are just in here as a resource.
Appendix E is hazard categories and discusses what they are. Gives examples and descriptions.
Appendix G is cryogenic fluids weight and volume equivalents, has a bunch of conversion charts
Appendix H is HMMP and HMIS instructions, the forms are a tool for someone who has never made one
before. It is all the components you need for a plan
Eric Fried mentioned that the version we are talking about here is Fort Collins specific but the one for
Larimer County document will be a little different with county specific language
Bob asked if we are adopted Appendix N, Sarah said yes.
4. Overall review for recommendation
Sarah will send out the final draft version out to everyone.
5. Committee Vote
There is no vote. But everyone agreed with the document we crafted through our meetings.
No further meetings are planned. The Poudre Fire Authority thanks you for the
generous donation of your time and expertise.
Jerry thanked everyone, told everyone if they wanted to keep their code books they could, but if not, we will
take them.
Meeting adjourned at 12:43pm
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING
February 22, 2022
The Poudre Fire Authority (PFA) Board of Directors met at 102 Remington Street on
February 22, 2022, at 8:30 a.m. Directors Dave Pusey, Susan Gutowsky, and Mike
DiTullio were present. Emily Francis and Kelly DiMartino were excused absent. Also
present were Fire Chief Derek Bergsten, Budget and Administration Manager Kirsten
Howard, Operations Division Chief Brandon Garcia, Support Division Chief Rick Vander
Velde, Planning and Analysis Battalion Chief Sean Jones, Fire Prevention and
Community Risk Reduction Division Chief Jerry Howell, Senior Human Resources
Manager Janet Miller, and District Board Coordinator Patti Forsythe. Recording Secretary
Shawn Williams was present virtually.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Dave Pusey called the meeting to order at 8:30 a.m.
PUBLIC COMMENT
There was no public comment.
DISCUSSION ITEMS
1.Poudre Fire Authority Board Agenda Planning Calendar
Derek Bergsten advised the Mulberry Annexation was removed from the PFA Board
Agenda Planning Calendar until firm dates are set.
CONSENT AGENDA
2.January 25, 2022, Poudre Fire Authority Board of Directors Meeting
Minutes
3.Resolution Authorizing Appropriation of Funds for the Purchase of Land on
East Mulberry Street for a Future Fire Station
Mike DiTullio made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda. Susan Gutowsky
seconded the motion. The motion passed by unanimous vote of the Board.
STAFF REPORT
4.Senior Leadership Update
Derek Bergsten provided the Senior Leadership Update to the Board.
5.COVID-19 Update
Rick Vander Velde provided the COVID-19 Update to the Board.
ATTACHMENT 3
Poudre Fire Authority Board Meeting 2-22-2022
6. Legislative Update
Derek Bergsten provided the Legislative Update to the Board.
DISCUSSION ITEMS
7. 2021 International Fire Code Adoption
Jerry Howell and Sarah Carter presented the 2021 International Fire Code Adoption to
the Board.
Susan Gutowsky made a motion to approve Resolution 22-9 Poudre Fire Authority
Board of Directors Support and Recommend Adoption or Ratification of the 2021
International Fire Code. Mike DiTullio seconded the motion. The motion passed by
unanimous vote of the Board.
BRIEFING PAPERS / OTHER BUSINESS
8. Briefing Papers / Other Business
A request was made to move forward to DISCUSSION ITEM 10. Executive Session and
return to BRIEFING PAPERS/OTHER BUSINESS after the regular meeting
reconvenes.
CORRESPONDENCE
9. Correspondence
DISCUSION ITEM
10. Executive Session to Develop Strategy and Instruct Negotiators for Real
Estate Negotiations and to Receive Advice of Legal Counsel Related
Thereto
Kelly Duke, Attorney, Ireland Stapleton, joined the meeting and advised that the
executive session would not be recorded due to attorney-client privilege.
Susan Gutowsky made a motion as permitted by Colorado Revised Statutes Sections
24-6-402(4)(a) and (b) for the Board to go into executive session to receive advice of
legal counsel on, and if appropriate to discuss, the land donation agreement for the
proposed Station 7. The Board entered executive session at 10:09 a.m.
The regular meeting reconvened at 10:14 a.m.
Resolution Authorizing Fire Chief to Purchase Land
Mike DiTullio made a motion to approve Resolution 22-8 Appropriation of Reserve for
Contingency Funds for the Purchase of Land on East Mulberry Street for a Future Fire
Station subject to minor changes and legal review. Susan Gutowsky seconded the
motion. The motion passed by unanimous vote of the Board.
Derek Bergsten advised the Board that the architect for Station 7 will make a
presentation to the Board next month.
11. Consideration and Possible Action to Adjourn the Meeting
Poudre Fire Authority Board Meeting 2-22-2022
The meeting adjourned at 10:17 a.m.
ATTACHMENT 4
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ORDINANCE NO. 060, 2022
OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
AMENDING CHAPTER 9 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS FOR
THE PURPOSE OF REPEALING THE 2018 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE AND
ADOPTING THE 2021 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE, WITH AMENDMENTS
WHEREAS, as early as 1958, the City has reviewed, amended and adopted the
latest nationally recognized fire protection standards available for the times; and
WHEREAS, the City previously adopted the 2018 International Fire Code, with
local amendments, to minimize human suffering and property loss from fire; and
WHEREAS, the 2021 edition of the International Fire Code represents the most
current version now available; and
WHEREAS, a Fire Code Review Committee, formed by the Poudre Fire Authority
(“PFA”) in 2021 for the purpose of reviewing the 2021 International Fire Code, has
recommended unanimously that the jurisdictions being served by PFA adopt the 2021
International Fire Code with certain local amendments tailored to the circumstances in
Fort Collins; and
WHEREAS, the Fire Prevention Bureau staff of the PFA, working in conjunction
with the Fire Code Review Committee, also has reviewed the 2021 International Fire Code
and the local amendments proposed by the Committee and has recommended that the
jurisdictions being served by the PFA adopt the 2021 International Fire Code with the
local amendments; and
WHEREAS, at its meeting on February 22, 2022, the PFA Board of Directors
approved Resolution 22-9 recommending that the 2021 International Fire Code with local
amendments be adopted by those jurisdictions being served by 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 2021 International Fire Code,
in substantially the form recommended by the Fire Code Review Committee and the PFA
staff, be adopted, with local amendments as set forth in this Ordinance; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the City Charter Article 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 shall be 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 City Charter, Article II, Section 7, the City Clerk
published in the Fort Collins Coloradoan such notice of hearing concerning adoption of the
2021 International Fire Code on May 1, 2022, and May 8, 2022; and
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WHEREAS, attached as Exhibit “A” and incorporated herein by reference is the
Notice of Public Hearing dated May 1, 2022, 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:
Section 1. That the City Council hereby makes and adopts the determinations
and findings contained in the recitals set forth above.
Section 2. The City Council hereby repeals the 2018 International Fire Code
(“IFC”) and hereby adopts the 2021 IFC as amended by this Ordinance.
Section 3. That Section 9-1 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended to read as follows:
Section 9-1. Adoption of the International Fire Code, 2021 Edition.
Pursuant to the authority conferred by Article II, Section 7 of the Charter and by
Section 31-16-201 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, the International Fire Code, 2018 2021
Edition, as promulgated by the International Code Council (hereafter, “this code”
or “this fire code”). Except as to any portion of this fire code that is herein after
added to, deleted, modified or amended in this Chapter, this fire code shall include
all articles and appendices in the International Fire Code, 2018 2021 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 4. That Section 9-2 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
repealed and reenacted to read as follows:
Section 9-2 Amendments, additions, and deletions to the 2021 International Fire
Code.
The following articles, sections, divisions, subsections, and appendices of the
International Fire Code, 2018 Edition, are hereby added, amended, deleted,
modified, and renumbered, except as noted, to read as follows:
The 2021 International Fire Code adopted in §9-1 is hereby amended to read as
follows:
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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 103.1 Creation of Agency is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with
the following:
[A] 103.1 Creation of agency. The [INSERT NAME OF DEPARTMENT] is hereby
created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the fire code official. The
function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of
the provisions of this code.
103.1 Creation of Agency. Pursuant to Section 1.2 of the July 15, 2014,
Intergovernmental Agreement establishing the Poudre Fire Authority (“PFA” or “fire
department”), the City has granted the Poudre Fire Authority the power and authority
to enforce this code and PFA’s Fire Chief, directly or through delegation to the PFA
Marshal, shall be known as the fire code official. The function of the agency shall be
the implementation, administration, and enforcement of the provisions of this code.
3. Section 104.7 Liability is hereby amended to read as follows:
104.7 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 determined by a Court
of competent jurisdiction to be willful and wanton, as provided in the Colorado
Governmental Immunity Act, Section 24-10-101, et seq., C.R.S.
4. Section 104.7.1 Legal defense is hereby amended to read as follows:
104.7.1 Legal defense. Any suit or criminal complaint instituted against any PFA
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 determined by a Court of competent jurisdiction to be willful
and wanton, as provided in the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act, Section 24-10-
101, et seq., C.R.S., shall be defended by PFA’s legal representative 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 fire
prevention bureau, acting in good faith and without malice, shall be free from liability
for acts performed under any of its provisions or by reason because of any act or
omission in the performance of official duties in connection therewith.
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5. Section 111.1 Board of Appeals established is hereby amended to read as follows:
111.1 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 Commission, as appointed from time to time, shall constitute the Fire
Board of Appeals. The fire code official shall be an ex officio member of said board
but shall have no 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 Section
113 of the International Building Code, as amended and adopted by the City of Fort
Collins. The board of appeals shall be appointed by the applicable governing authority
and shall hold office at its pleasure. 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.
6. Section 111.3 Qualifications is hereby deleted in its entirety.
7. Section 112.4 Violation penalties is hereby amended to read as follows:
112.4 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 [SPECIFY OFFENSE], punishable by a fine of not more than
[AMOUNT] dollars or by imprisonment not exceeding [NUMBER OF DAYS], or
both such fine and imprisonment. commits a civil infraction or misdemeanor, and upon
conviction shall be subject to the provisions of Section l-15 of the City Code. Each day
that a violation continues is deemed a separate offense.
8. A new Section 112.5 Work commencing before permit issuance is hereby added to
read as follows:
112.5 Work commencing before permit issuance. In addition to penalties set forth in
Section 112.4, 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, may be subject to a stop work order and a work without permit
fee in addition to the required permit fee as established by the fire code official.
9. A new SECTION 115 REPORTING OF EMERGENCIES AND FALSE
ALARMS is hereby added to read as follows:
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SECTION 115
REPORTING OF EMERGENCIES AND FALSE ALARMS
115.1 General. Reporting of emergencies, fires and hazardous materials releases shall
be in accordance with Section 115.
115.2 Reporting Emergencies. In the event a fire occurs or upon the discovery of a
fire, smoke, or unauthorized release of flammable, combustible, or hazardous materials
on any property, the owner, the owner’s authorized representative, or the occupant
shall, without delay, report such condition to the fire department.
115.3 False Alarms. False alarms shall not be given, signaled, or transmitted or caused
or permitted to be given, signaled, or transmitted in any manner.
10. SECTION 202 DEFINITIONS is hereby amended to modify, or add, in alphabetical
order, the following definitions:
BARREL. A charred wooden process vessel made of bent staves held together with
steel hoops, with the greatest diameter being at the center of the staves, known as the
“bilge.” The ends, known as “heads,” are flat, and the rim formed by staves overlapping
the heads is known as the “chime.”
CASK. See “Barrel.”
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. 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. 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.
PUZZLE ROOM. A puzzle room is a type of special amusement area as defined in
the Building Code of the City of Fort Collins, in which occupants are encouraged to
solve a challenge to escape from a room or series of rooms.
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ROOM, SLEEPING (BEDROOM). A habitable room within a dwelling or other
housing unit designed primarily for the purpose of sleeping. The presence of a bed, cot,
mattress, convertible sofa 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 a 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 not less than 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 (site) bounded by property lines, which
parcel is deeded exclusively for such single-family dwelling.
11. A new Section 307.2.2 Time and Atmospheric Restrictions is hereby added to read
as follows:
307.2.2 Time and Atmospheric Restrictions. Open burning shall be performed only
when time and atmospheric conditions comply with the limits set forth in the Open
Burning Permit.
12. Section 307.4.1 Bonfires is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the
following:
307.4.1 Bonfires. A bonfire shall not be conducted within 50 feet (15 240 mm) 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 feet (15 240 mm) of a structure
shall be eliminated prior to ignition.
307.4.1 Bonfires. Bonfires are prohibited unless specifically approved and permitted
by the fire code official.
13. Section 307.4.2 Recreational Fires is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with
the following:
307.4.2 Recreational fires. Recreational fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet
(7620 mm) of a structure or combustible material. Conditions that could cause a fire to
spread within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition.
307.4.2 Recreational fires. Recreational fires are prohibited.
Exception: Recreational fires may be conducted at campgrounds, open camping
areas, parks, open lands or similar areas in accordance with the rules and restrictions
set forth by the authority having jurisdiction at such locations, provided that such
fires do not have a fuel area that exceeds 2 feet in height and are not conducted
within 25 feet of a structure or combustible material.
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14. Section 307.4.3 Portable outdoor fireplaces is hereby deleted in its entirety and
replaced with the following:
307.4.3 Portable outdoor fireplaces. Portable outdoor 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.
Exception: Portable outdoor fireplaces used at one and two-family dwellings.
307.4.3 Portable and Fixed Outdoor Fireplaces. Portable and fixed outdoor
fireplaces, including fire tables, shall be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions. Outdoor fireplaces for public use must be listed for commercial use.
Outdoor fireplaces shall not be placed closer to combustible materials than what is
stated in the manufacturer’s instructions. If the manufacturer’s instructions are not
available or do not establish a distance, outdoor fireplaces shall not be operated within
15 feet (4572 mm) of a combustible structure or combustible material. Outdoor
fireplaces shall not be operated underneath a combustible structure of any type.
Outdoor fireplaces shall be gas or liquid-fueled unless otherwise approved by the fire
code official.
Exception: Outdoor fireplaces at one and two-family dwellings may use approved
solid fuels.
15. 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 an
untethered sky lantern. The use of sky lanterns, tethered or untethered, is prohibited.
16. 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.
17. 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.
18. 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
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less than 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm) 14 feet (4267 mm).
19. Section 503.2.4 Turning Radius is hereby amended to read as follows:
503.2.4 Turning radius. The required turning radius of a fire apparatus access road
shall be 25 feet (7.6 m) inside radius and 50 feet (15.2 m) outside radiusdetermined
by the fire code official.
20. Section 503.2.7 Grade is hereby amended to read as follows:
503.2.7 Grade. The grade of the fire apparatus access road shall not exceed 10 percent
in grade be within the limits established by the fire code official based on the fire
department’s apparatus.
Exception: Where approved by the fire code official, grades steeper than 10 percent
due to geographic or location conditions may be permitted.
21. Section 503.2.8 Angles of approach and departure is hereby amended to read as
follows:
503.2.8 Angles of approach and departure. The angles of approach and departure for
fire apparatus access roads shall be within the limits established by the fire code official
based on the fire department’s apparatus when entering or exiting fire apparatus access
roads shall not exceed a 10 percent angle of approach or departure.
22. Section 503.6 Security gates is hereby amended to read as follows:
503.6 Security gates. The installation of security gates across a fire apparatus access
road shall be approved by the fire code official. Where security gates are installed, they
shall have an approved means of emergency operation and shall comply with the
requirements of Appendix D 103.6. The security gates and the emergency operation
shall be maintained operational at all times. Electric gate operators, where provided,
shall be listed in accordance with UL 325. Gates intended for automatic operation shall
be designed, constructed and installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM
F2200.
23. Section 505.1 Address identification is hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 505.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings or facilities shall be
provided with approved address identification. The address identification shall be
legible 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 ½ inch (12.7 mm). Where required by the fire code official,
address identification shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate
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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.
24. A new Section 505.1.1 Address assignment and standards is hereby added to read
as follows:
505.1.1 Address assignment and standards. Addresses shall be assigned by the
governmental entity having jurisdiction (Fort Collins, Timnath, or Larimer County)
and shall comply with the Larimer County Street Naming and Addressing Standards
as contained in the Larimer County Urban Area Street Standards.
25. A new Section 505.1.2 Location and size is hereby added to read as follows:
505.1.2 Location and size. The address numbers and letters for any commercial or
industrial buildings shall be placed at a height to be clearly visible from the street. The
minimum height and stroke shall be in accordance with Table 505.1.2.
A new TABLE 505.1.2 Location and size is hereby added to read as follows:
TABLE 505.1.2
LOCATION AND SIZE
1 8 in.– 12 in. numbers shall be a minimum 1 in. stroke
2 13 in.– 20 in. numbers shall be a minimum 1 ½ in. stroke
3 21 in. and larger shall have proportional strokes to ensure visibility
26. A new Section 505.1.3 Posting on one- and two-family dwellings is hereby added to
read as follows:
505.1.3 Posting on one- and two-family dwellings. The address numbers and letters
for one- and two-family dwellings shall be a minimum of four inches in height with
a minimum ½ inch stroke and shall be posted on a contrasting background. If bronze
or brass numerals are used, they shall only be posted on a black background for
visibility.
27. A new Section 505.1.4 Monument signs is hereby added to read as follows:
Distance from street curb to building Letter/number height
1 – 100 feet 8 inches1
101 – 150 feet 10 inches1
151 – 200 feet 12 inches1
201 – 350 feet 14 inches2
351 – 500 feet 16 inches2
501 – 700 feet 20 inches2
In excess of 700 feet As approved by the Fire Code
Official3
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505.1.4 Monument signs. Monument signs may be used in lieu of address numbers
and letters on the building as approved by the fire code official.
28. A new Section 505.1.5 Unit identifiers is hereby added to read as follows:
505.1.5 Unit identifiers. Buildings with multiple suites, apartments or units shall have
the individual suites, apartments or units provided with individual identification
numbers in sequential order.
1. Suite identifiers accessed from the exterior of the building shall be a minimum
of four inches in height with a minimum ½ inch stroke.
2. Suite identifiers accessed from the interior of the building shall be a minimum
of two inches in height with a minimum ¼ inch stroke.
3. Suites, apartments, or units located on the first floor shall be identified by numbers
within the 100 or 1000 range or series; Suites, apartments or units located on the second
floor shall be identified by numbers within the 200 or 2000 range or series; Suites,
apartments or units located on the third floor shall be identified by numbers within the
300 or 3000 range or series. Higher floors shall follow this same numbering sequence.
29. A new Section 505.1.6 Multiple address postings is hereby added to read as follows:
505.1.6 Multiple address postings. 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 a fire lane. Buildings that are addressed on one street but are accessible from
another street, shall have the address numbers and street name on each side that is
adjacent to another street.
30. A new Section 505.1.7 Interior wayfinding is hereby added to read as follows:
505.1.7 Interior wayfinding. Approved wayfinding signage shall be posted in
conspicuous locations within buildings to provide clear direction to locate any suite,
apartment, or unit within the building. Interior wayfinding signage shall be a minimum
of two inches in height with a minimum ¼ inch stroke.
31. A new Section 505.1.8 Exterior wayfinding is hereby added to read as follows:
505.1.8 Exterior wayfinding. Multiple-building complexes must have approved
signage as needed to direct first responders to individual buildings.
32. A new Section 505.1.9 Campus addressing is hereby added to read as follows:
505.1.9 Campus addressing. Multiple-building complexes that have a single street
address for the entire complex shall utilize alpha or numeric characters to identify the
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individual buildings. Such identification shall be assigned to the buildings in a
sequential order following a clockwise direction starting at the main entrance to the
complex.
33. 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.
34. Section 507.5 Fire hydrant systems is 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 Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution.
35. Section 507.5.1 Where required is hereby amended to read as follows:
507.5.1 Where required. Where a portion of the facility or building or portion thereof
is hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction is more than 400 feet
(122 m) 300 feet (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 one and two-family dwellings and Group U occupancies, the
distance requirement shall be 600 feet (183 m) 400 feet (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).
36. A new Section 606.5 Solid fuel-fired cooking appliances is hereby added to read as
follows:
606.5 Solid fuel-fired cooking appliances. Solid fuel-fired commercial cooking
appliances shall comply with applicable provisions of National Fire Protection
Association (NFPA) 96.
37. Section 901.4.7.1 Access is hereby amended to read as follows:
901.4.7.1 Access. Automatic sprinkler system risers, fire pumps and controllers shall
be provided with ready access. Where located in a fire pump room or automatic
sprinkler system riser room, the door shall be permitted to be locked provided that the
key is available at all times. The clear door opening shall be 32 inches wide and 80
inches high, or a size large enough to accommodate the largest piece of equipment,
whichever is larger.
38. Section 903.2.1.1 Group A-1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
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903.2.1.1 Group A-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout
stories containing Group A-1 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group
A-1 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy
where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 12,000 5,000 square feet (1115 464.5 m2).
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 multiple-theater complex.
39. 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 throughout
stories containing Group A-3 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group
A-3 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy
where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 12,000 5,000 square feet (1115 464.5 m2).
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.
40. 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 throughout
stories containing Group A-4 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group
A-4 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy
where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 12,000 5,000 square feet (1115 464.5 m2).
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.
41. A new Section 903.2.1.8 Group B is hereby added to read as follows:
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903.2.1.8 Group B. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for fire areas
containing Group B occupancies where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464.5
m2).
42. 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:
1. Throughout all Group E fire areas greater than 12,000 5,000 square feet (1115
464.5 m2).
2. The Group E fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge
serving such occupancies.
Exception: In buildings where every classroom has not fewer than one
exterior exit door at ground level, an automatic sprinkler system is not
required in any area below the lowest level of exit discharge serving that
area.
3. The Group E fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
43. Section 903.2.4 Group F-1 is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.4 Groups F-1 and F-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided
throughout all buildings containing a Group F-1 or F-2 occupancy where one of the
following conditions exists:
1. A Group F-1 or F-2 fire area exceeds 12,000 5,000 square feet (1115 464.5 m2).
2. A Group F-1 or F-2 fire area is located more than three stories above grade
plane.
3. The combined area of all Group F-1 or F-2 fire areas on all floors, including any
mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet (2230 m2).
44. 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.
21. An automatic sprinkler system is not required where Group I-4 day care
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facilities are at the level of exit discharge and where every room where care
is provided has not fewer than one exterior exit door and the fire area does
not exceed 5,000 square feet (464.5 m2).
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.
45. 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 5,000 square feet (1115 464.5 m2).
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 m2).
46. 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 5,000 square feet (1115 464.5 m2).
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 5,000 square feet (2230 464.5 m2).
4. A Group S-1 fire area used for the storage of commercial motor vehicles where
the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464.5 m2).
47. 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 shown:
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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 5,000 square feet
(929 464.5 m2).
2. Buildings not more than one story above grade plane, with a fire area
containing a repair garage exceeding 12,000 5,000 square feet (1115 464.5 m2).
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 5,000 square feet (464 m2).
48. Section 903.2.10 Group S-2 enclosed parking garages is hereby amended to read as
follows:
903.2.10 Group S-2 parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
provided throughout all buildings classified as parking garages containing a Group S-
2 occupancy where any of the following conditions exists:
1. Where the fire area of the enclosed parking garage, in accordance with Section
406.6 of the International Building Code, A Group S-2 fire area exceeds 12,000
5,000 square feet (1115 464.5 m²).
2. Where the enclosed parking garage, in accordance with Section 406.6 of the
International Building Code, is located beneath other groups.
Exception: Enclosed parking garages located beneath Group R-3 occupancies.
3. Where the fire area of the open parking garage, in accordance with Section
406.5 of the International Building Code, exceeds 48,000 square feet (4460 m2).
4. A Group S-2 fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.
49. 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.
50. Section 903.3.1.2.3 Attics is hereby amended only to add numbered item 5 and its
Exceptions to read as follows:
. . .
5. In buildings containing dwelling or sleeping units.
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Exceptions (to item 5 only):
1. Buildings that do not contain more than 6 individual dwelling units or
sleeping units and the units are separated from each other with a 1-hour
fire barrier.
2. Buildings that do not contain more than 12 individual dwelling units or
sleeping units and is divided into no more than 6 individual dwellings
units (complying with number 1 above) by a minimum 2-hour fire wall.
3. Buildings containing only Group R-3 occupancy.
51. A new Section 903.3.1.4 Core and shell buildings is hereby added to read as follows:
Section 903.3.1.4 Core and shell buildings. Automatic fire sprinkler systems in
buildings constructed to house future tenant spaces that are not assigned an occupancy
shall have minimum hazard classification of Ordinary Hazard 2 in accordance with
NFPA 13.
52. Section 907.2.11 Single-and multiple-station smoke alarms is amended to read as
follows:
907.2.11 Single- and multiple-stations smoke alarms. Listed single- and multiple-
station smoke alarms complying with UL 217 shall be installed in accordance with
Sections 907.2.11.1 through 907.2.11.7 and NFPA 72. Where 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.
53. A new Section 907.8.5 Excessive false alarms is hereby added, to read as follows:
907.8.5 Excessive false alarms. An excessive number of false alarms shall be defined
as two (2) alarm activations for a fire alarm system within a sixty (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,
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 also may require the building owner, tenant,
operator of the building 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.
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54. A new SECTION 918 EMERGENCY RESPONDER COMMUNICATION
COVERAGE is hereby added, to read as follows:
SECTION 918
EMERGENCY RESPONDER COMMUNICATION COVERAGE
918.1 General. In-building two-way emergency responder communication
coverage shall be provided in all new buildings in accordance with Section 510.
55. Section 1010.1.4 Floor elevation is amended to read as follows:
1010.1.4 Floor elevation. There shall be a floor or landing on each side of a door. Such
floor or landing shall be at the same elevation on each side of the door. Landings shall
be level except for exterior landings, which are permitted to have a slope not to exceed
0.25 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (2-percent slope). 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.
Exceptions:
1. At doors serving individual dwelling units or sleeping units in Groups R-2
and R-3, a door is permitted to open at the top step of an interior flight of
stairs, provided that the door does not swing over the top step.
2. At exterior doors serving Groups F, H, R-2 and S and where such doors are
not part of an accessible route, the landing at an exterior door shall be not
more than 7 inches (178 mm) below the landing on the egress side of the
door, provided that the door, other than an exterior storm or screen door,
does not swing over the landing.
3. At exterior doors serving Group U and individual dwelling units and
sleeping units in Groups R-2 and R-3, and where such units are not required
to be Accessible units, Type A units or Type B units, the landing at an
exterior doorway shall be not more than 7¾ inches (197 mm) below the
landing on the egress side of the door. Such doors, including storm or screen
doors, shall be permitted to swing over either landing.
4. Variations in elevation due to differences in finish materials, but not more
than ½ inch (12.7 mm).
5. Exterior decks, patios or balconies that are part of Type B dwelling units or
sleeping units, that have impervious surfaces and that are not more than 4
inches (102 mm) below the finished floor level of the adjacent interior space
of the dwelling unit or sleeping unit.
6. Doors serving equipment spaces not required to be accessible in accordance
with Section 1103.2.9 of the International Building Code and serving an
occupant load of five or less shall be permitted to have a landing on one
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side to be not more than 7 inches (178 mm) above or below the landing on
the egress side of the door.
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 (30.48 cm), a maximum riser height of 7¾ inches (19.68 cm), and a
minimum width equal to the door width and, provided further that the door
does not swing over the step.
56. Section 1011.11 Handrails is hereby amended only as to the first paragraph to read as
follows:
1011.11 Handrails. Flights of stairways of more than one riser shall have handrails on
each side and shall comply with Section 1014. Where glass is used to provide the
handrail, the handrail also shall comply with Section 2407 of the International
Building Code.
. . .
57. Section 1015.8 Window openings 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 bottom of the clear opening top of the sill of an operable
window opening is located less than 36 inches (914 mm) 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:
1. Operable windows where the top of the sill of the opening is located more than
75 feet (22 860 mm) above the finished grade or other surface below and that
are provided with window fall prevention devices that comply with ASTM
F2006.
2. Operable windows where the openings will not allow a 4-inch-diameter (102
mm) sphere to pass through the opening when the window is in its largest
opened position.
3. Operable windows where the openings are provided with window fall
prevention devices that comply with ASTM F2090.
4. Operable windows that are provided with window opening control devices that
comply with Section 1015.8.1.
58. A new Section 1015.9 Below grade openings is hereby added to read as follows:
1015.9 Below grade openings. All area wells, stair wells, window wells and light
wells attached to any building that are located less than 36 inches from the nearest
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intended walking surface and deeper than 30 inches below the surrounding ground level
shall have guards or approved covers for fall protection.
59. Section 1031.2 Where required is hereby amended only as to Exceptions numbered
items 1 and 5 to read as follows:
. . .
Exceptions:
1. Basements with a ceiling height of less than 80 inches (2032 mm) 72 inches
(1828.8 mm) and that do not contain habitable space, shall not be required
to have emergency escape and rescue openings.
. . .
5. Within individual dwelling and sleeping units in Groups R-2 and R-3, where
the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system
installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, or 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3,
sleeping rooms in basements shall not be required to have emergency escape
and rescue openings provided that the basement has one of the following:
5.1. One means of egress and one emergency escape and rescue
opening.
5.2. Two means of egress.
60. A new Section 1031.3.4 Minimum height from floor is hereby added to read as
follows:
1031.3.4 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.
61. A new Section 1031.7 Drainage is hereby added to read as follows:
1031.7 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
of the International Building Code 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 area wells is not required where the foundation is on
well-drained soil or sand-gravel mixture soils in accordance with the United
Soil Classification System, Group I Soils, in accordance with Section
1803.5.1 of the International Building Code.
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2. A drainage system is not required for new window wells on additions to
existing dwellings where no foundation drainage system exists.
62. Section 1205.3 Other than Group R-3 buildings is hereby amended to read as
follows:
1205.3 Other than Group R-3 buildings. Access to systems for buildings, other than
those containing Group R-3 occupancies, shall be provide in accordance with Sections
1205.3.1 through 1205.3.3.
Exception: Where it is determined by the fire code official that the roof
configuration is similar to that of a Group R-3 occupancy, and the building does
not exceed three stories and does not require aerial fire apparatus access in
accordance with Appendix D, the residential access and ventilation requirements in
Section 1205.2.1.1 through 1205.2.1.3 are a suitable alternative.
63. Section 3312.1 Stairways required is hereby amended to read as follows:
[BE] 3312.1 Stairways required. Where building construction exceeds 40 20 feet (12
192 6096 mm) or one-story in height above the lowest level of fire department vehicle
access, a temporary or permanent stairway shall be provided to all floors that have
secured decking or flooring. As construction progresses, such stairway shall be
extended to within one floor of the highest point of construction having secured decking
or flooring.
64. Section 5001.1 Scope is hereby amended only as to Exceptions numbered item 10 to
read as follows:
. . .
10. The production, processing and storage of beer, distilled spirits and wines
in barrels and casks when the facility is in conformance with the Distilled
Spirits Council of the United States (“DISCUS”) “Recommended Fire
Protection Practices for Distilled Spirits Beverage Facilities” and NFPA 13.
. . .
65. Section 5601.1.3 Fireworks 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 fireworks displays as allowed in Section 5608.
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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 that such fireworks and facilities comply with the
2006 edition of NFPA 1124, CPSC 16 CFR Parts 1500 and 1507, and
DOTn 49 CFR Parts 100–185, as applicable for consumer fireworks.
66. Section 5701.2 Nonapplicability is hereby amended only as to Exceptions numbered
item 10 to read as follows:
. . .
10. The production, processing and storage of beer, distilled spirits and wines in
barrels and casks when the facility is in conformance with the DISCUS
“Recommended Fire Protection Practices for Distilled Spirits Beverage
Facilities” and NFPA 13.
. . .
67. Section 5704.2.9.6.1 Locations where above-ground tanks are prohibited is hereby
amended to read as follows:
5704.2.9.6.1 Locations where above-ground tanks are prohibited. Storage of Class
I and II liquids in above-ground tanks outside of buildings is prohibited within the
limits established by law as the limits of districts in which such storage is prohibited in
accordance with the City of Fort Collins Land Use Code.
68. Section 5706.2.4.4 Locations where above-ground tanks are prohibited is hereby
amended to read as follows:
5706.2.4.4 Locations where above-ground tanks are prohibited. The storage of
Class I and II liquids in above-ground tanks is prohibited within the limits established
by law as the limits of districts in which such storage is prohibited in accordance with
the City of Fort Collins Land Use Code.
69. Section 5806.2 Limitations is hereby amended to read as follows:
5806.2 Limitations. Storage of flammable cryogenic fluids in stationary containers
outside of buildings is prohibited within the limits established by law as the limits of
districts in which such storage is prohibited in accordance with the City of Fort Collins
Land Use Code.
70. Section 6104.2 Maximum capacity within established limits is hereby amended to
read as follows:
6104.2 Maximum capacity with established limits. Within the limits established by
law restricting the storage of liquefied petroleum gas for the protection of heavily
populated or congested areas, the aggregate capacity of any one installation shall not
exceed a water capacity of 2,000 gallons (7570 L) in accordance with the City of Fort
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Collins Land Use Code.
71. Section 6109.13 Protection of containers is hereby amended to read as follows:
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.
72. CHAPTER 80 REFERENCED STANDARDS is hereby amended by adding the
following additional referenced standards:
CHAPTER 80
REFERENCED STANDARDS
________________________________________________________________________
Distilled Spirits Council of the United States
1250 Eye Street, NW Suite 400
Washington, DC 20005
Standard Reference Title Code Reference
4th Edition, February 2020 Recommended Fire
Protection Practices
For Distilled Spirits Beverage Facilities ………5001.1, 5701.2
________________________________________________________________________
Larimer County Engineering
200 W Oak Street
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Standard Reference Title Code Reference
Enacted August 1, 2021 Larimer County Urban
Area Street Standards ………….……….….………D105.6
________________________________________________________________________
DISCUS
LCUASS
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73. A new CHAPTER 68 APPENDIX ADOPTION STATUS is hereby added to read
as follows:
APPENDIX TITLE STATUS
A Board of Appeals Not Adopted
B Fire-flow Requirements for Buildings Adopted, with
amendments
C Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution Adopted, with
amendments
D Fire Apparatus Access Roads Adopted, with
amendments
E Hazard Categories Adopted as Reference
F Hazard Ranking Adopted
G Cryogenic Fluids—Weights and Volume Equivalents Adopted as Reference
H Hazardous Materials Management Plan (HMMP) Adopted as Reference
I Fire Protection Systems—Non-compliant Conditions Not Adopted
J Building Information Sign Not Adopted
K Construction Requirements for Existing Ambulatory
Care Facilities
Not Adopted
L Requirements for Fire Fighter Air Replenishment
Systems Adopted
M High-rise Buildings—Retroactive Automatic
Sprinkler Requirements Not Adopted
N Indoor Trade Shows and Exhibitions Adopted
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74. Section B105.1 One-and two-family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 buildings and
townhouses is hereby amended to read as follows:
B105.1 One- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 buildings and
townhouses. The minimum fire-flow and flow duration requirements for one- and two-
family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 buildings and townhouses shall be as specified in
Tables B105.1(1) and B105.1(2) 1000 gpm with residual pressure of 20 psi for a
duration of one (1) hour.
Exception: One- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 buildings and
townhouses located outside of the City of Fort Collins Growth Management Area shall
provide a minimum fire-flow of 500 gpm with residual pressure of 20 psi for a duration
of one (1) hour.
75. Table B105.1(1) is hereby deleted in its entirety.
76. Table B105.1(2) is hereby retained in its entirety.
77. Section B105.2 Buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3
and R-4 buildings and townhouses is hereby amended to read as follows:
B105.2 Buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4
buildings and townhouses. The minimum fire-flow and flow duration for buildings
other than one- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 buildings and
townhouses shall be as specified in Tables B105.1(2) and B105.2.
Exception: A reduction in required fire flow of up to 75%, as approved, is allowed
when the building is protected with an automatic fire suppression system in
accordance with section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. The resulting fire flow shall not be
less than 1,500 gpm for the prescribed duration as specified in Table B105.1(2).
78. TABLE B105.2 REQUIRED FIRE FLOW FOR BUILDINGS OTHER THAN
ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS, GROUP R-3 AND R-4 BUILDINGS
AND TOWNHOUSES is hereby deleted in its entirety.
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79. APPENDIX C FIRE HYDRANT LOCATIONS AND DISTRIBUTION is hereby
deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
APPENDIX C
FIRE HYDRANT LOCATIONS AND DISTRIBUTION
SECTION C101
GENERAL
C101.1 Scope. In addition to the requirements of Section 507.5.1, fire hydrants shall
be provided along public roads and required fire apparatus access roads in accordance
with this appendix for the protection of buildings, or portions of buildings, hereafter
constructed or moved into the jurisdiction.
SECTION C102
NUMBER OF FIRE HYDRANTS
C102.1 Fire hydrants available. The number of fire hydrants available to a building,
complex or subdivision shall be not less than that determined by spacing requirements
listed in Table C102.1 when applied to fire apparatus access roads and adjacent public
streets from which fire operations could be conducted.
TABLE C102.1
a. Reduce by 100 feet for dead-end streets or roads.
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)e
Commercial/
Multifamily
Value as calculated
in accordance with
section B105.2
600 300d
One- & Two-Family
Dwelling - Urban 1,000 800 400
One- & Two-Family
Dwelling - Rural 500 800 400
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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 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 to provide for transportation hazards.
d. For buildings equipped with a standpipe, see Section 507.5.1.1.
e. For the purposes of determining distance from a building to a hydrant, hydrants
located across 2- and 4-lane arterial roads shall not be considered available unless
the building is protected with an approved automatic fire suppression system.
Hydrants located across 6 lane arterial roads shall not be considered available.
SECTION C103
FIRE HYDRANT SPACING
C105.1 Hydrant spacing. The average spacing between fire hydrants shall not exceed
that listed in Table C102.1. 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 C102.1.
Exception: The fire code official 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.
SECTION C103
CONSIDERATION OF EXISTING FIRE HYDRANTS
C103.1 Existing fire hydrants. Existing fire hydrants on public streets are allowed to
be considered as available to meet the requirements of Sections C102 and C103.
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.
80. APPENDIX D FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS is hereby deleted in its
entirety and replaced with the following:
APPENDIX D
FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS
SECTION D101
GENERAL
D101.1 Scope. Fire apparatus access roads shall be in accordance with this appendix
and all other applicable requirements of the International Fire Code adopted by the
City of Fort Collins, including all local amendments.
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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.
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 to support 80,000 pounds
(36,287 kg). Compacted road base or other surfaces engineered and capable of
supporting the imposed loads may be approved by the fire code official for ground
mounted solar installations, cell towers and similar isolated facilities and structures.
D102.2.3 Installation timing. All required access roads must be installed and
serviceable before above-ground construction begins unless otherwise approved by the
fire code official.
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 (7,925 mm), exclusive
of shoulders.
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 inside radius
and 50 feet 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 percent angle of approach or angle of departure.
-28-
Figure D103.1
-29-
Figure D103.1 (cont’d)
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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
D103.5.
TABLE 103.5
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
D103.5.1 Additional Points of Access Required. Additional points of access shall be
required where a required access roadway exceeds 660 feet (201 m) in length.
Exception: Where the access road does not exceed 1320 feet (402 m) in length and 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 access from two directions shall not be required.
D103.5.2 Remoteness. 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 between accesses.
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
(6,096 mm). Where a fire apparatus road consists of a divided roadway, the gate
shall be not less than 12 feet (3,658 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 must
be approved by the fire code official.
-31-
6. Methods of locking the gate must 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 or other approved sign. 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 road as
required by Sections D103.7.1 or D103.7.2.
FIGURE D103.7
FIRE LANE SIGNS
D103.7.1 Roads 20 to 26 feet in width. Fire lane signs as specified in D103.7 shall be
posted on both sides of fire apparatus access roads that are 20 to 26 feet wide (6,096 to
7,925 mm).
D103.7.2 Roads more than 26 feet in width. Fire lane signs as specified in D103.7
shall be posted on one side of fire apparatus access roads more than 26 feet wide (7,925
mm) and less than 32 feet wide (9,754 mm).
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D103.8 Minimum Overhead Clearance. Fire access roads shall have a minimum
overhead clearance for the entire width of the access road of not less than 14 feet (4,267
mm).
SECTION D104
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 that have a single approved fire apparatus access road where 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 m2) 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
520m2) that have a single approved fire apparatus access road where all buildings are
equipped throughout with approved automatic sprinkler systems.
D104.3 Remoteness. Where two fire apparatus 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 (9,144 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 the
building or portion thereof 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.
D105.3 Proximity to building. One or more 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
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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 may be permitted to be placed only if approved by the fire
code official.
D105.5 Grade. Aerial fire apparatus access roads adjacent to the building shall not
exceed five percent in grade.
D105.6 Road type. Aerial fire apparatus access roads shall not be located on an arterial
street with six or more through lanes as defined by the LCUASS standards for arterials.
SECTION D106
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 or 903.3.1.2.
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.
D106.3 Remoteness. Where two fire apparatus 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 D107
ONE- OR TWO-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS
D107.1 One- or two-family dwelling residential developments. Developments of
one- or two-family dwellings where the number of dwelling units exceeds 30 shall be
provided with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads that comply with
Section D103.5.2.
Exception: Where there are more than 30 dwelling units on a single public or private
fire apparatus access road not exceeding 1320 feet (402 m) in length 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
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shall not be required.
D107.2 Future connection. 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.
D107.3 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 D108
REFERENCED STANDARDS
D108.1 General. See Table D108.1 for standards that are referenced in various sections
of this appendix. Standards are listed by the standard identification with the effective
date, standard title, and the section or sections of this appendix that reference the
standard.
TABLE D108.1
REFERENCED STANDARDS
STANDARD
ACRONYM
STANDARD NAME SECTIONS
HEREIN
REFERENCED
ASTM F 2200—14
Standard Specification
for Automated Vehicular
Gate Construction
D103.5
UL 325—02
Door, Drapery, Gate,
Louver, and Window
Operators and Systems,
with Revisions through
May 2015
D103.5
Section 5. The City Attorney and the City Clerk are authorized to modify the
formatting and to make such other amendments to this Ordinance as necessary to facilitate
publication in the Fort Collins Municipal Code; provided, however, that such modifications and
amendments shall not change the substance of the Code provisions.
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Introduced, considered favorably on first reading, and ordered published this 17th day of
May, A.D. 2022, and to be presented for final passage on the 7th day of June, A.D. 2022.
____________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
City Clerk
Passed and adopted on final reading on this 7th day of June, A.D. 2022.
__________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
City Clerk
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Introduced, considered favorably on first reading, and ordered published this 17th day of
May, A.D. 2022, and to be presented for final passage on the 7th day of June, A.D. 2022.
____________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
City Clerk
Passed and adopted on final reading on this 7th day of June, A.D. 2022.
__________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
City Clerk
-1-
ORDINANCE NO. 064, 2022
OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
MAKING CHANGES TO FORT COLLINS CITY CODE SECTION 2-173
RELATED TO ADOPTION OF THE 2021 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE,
WITH AMENDMENTS
WHEREAS, as early as 1958, the City has reviewed, amended and adopted the latest
nationally recognized fire protection standards available for the times; and
WHEREAS, the City previously adopted the 2018 International Fire Code, with local
amendments, to minimize human suffering and property loss from fire; and
WHEREAS, the 2021 edition of the International Fire Code represents the most current
version now available; and
WHEREAS, by adoption of Ordinance No. 060, 2022, City Council has repealed the
2018 International Fire Code (“2018 IFC”) and adopted the 2021 IFC as amended (the 2021
IFC); and
WHEREAS, the 2021 IFC provides that appeals of decisions by the fire code official (the
Fire Chief, or by delegation, the Fire Marshall) shall be heard by the Fort Collins Building
Review Commission (the “Commission”) acting as the Fire Board of Appeals, as did the 2018
Fire Code; and
WHEREAS, this Ordinance makes a related change to City Code Section 2-173 to reflect
the Commission’s responsibility to serve as the Fire Board of Appeals as set forth in the 2021
IFC.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
FORT COLLINS as follows:
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 2-173 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended to read as follows:
Sec. 2-173. Building Review Commission.
(a) The City shall have a Building Review Commission, hereafter referred to in this Section
as the "Commission." The Commission shall consist of seven (7) members. Three (3) of the
Commission members shall be qualified by experience and/or training to knowledgeably
consider technical matters related to building construction.
(b) The Commission shall have the following functions:
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(1) To determine the suitability of alternate materials or alternate methods of
construction, provide for reasonable interpretations of the provisions of the City building
code, City mechanical code, City plumbing code, City electrical code and City fire code,
and hear all appeals made to it related to such codes;
(2) To hear all requests for variances from the requirements of Article 5, Title 9,
C.R.S., which establishes standards and specifications governing the accessibility of
buildings and facilities within the City to the physically handicapped;
(3) To hear all matters related to the suspension or revocation of any supervisor
certificate or license or registration of any plumber or electrician as provided in the Code;
(4) To, upon appeal in specific cases, grant variances from the terms of Chapter 15,
Article V, where the peculiar or exceptional practical difficulties to or exceptional or
undue hardship upon the person regulated, or when the applicant can demonstrate to the
satisfaction of the Commission that the applicant possesses other qualifications not
specifically listed in Chapter 15, Article V, such as specialized training, education or
additional experience, which the Commission has determined qualifies the applicant to
perform in a competent manner any construction authorized under the license or
certificate sought, provided that such relief may be granted without substantial detriment
to the public good and without substantially impairing the intent and purposes of said
Article;
(5) To serve as the Board of Appeals as required under § 111 of the International
Property Maintenance Code as adopted by the City and "Housing Standards" contained in
Chapter 5, Article VI, Division 2 of the Code; and
(6) To advise the City Council on policy matters pertaining to the construction of
buildings and the licensing of contractors and the certification of supervisors for all
aspects of the construction of buildings; and
(7) To serve as the Fire Board of Appeals as required under §111.1 of the
International Fire Code, 2021 Edition adopted in Section 9-1 and amended in Section 9-2
of City Code.
-3-
Introduced, considered favorably on first reading, and ordered published this 17th day of
May, A.D. 2022, and to be presented for final passage on the 7th day of June, A.D. 2022.
____________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
City Clerk
Passed and adopted on final reading on this 7th day of June, A.D. 2022.
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Mayor
ATTEST:
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City Clerk