HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance No. 213, 2025
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ORDINANCE NO. 213, 2025
OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
AMENDING CHAPTER 5, ARTICLE II, DIVISION 2 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF
FORT COLLINS FOR THE PURPOSE OF REPEALING THE 2021 INTERNATIONAL
RESIDENTIAL CODE AND ADOPTING THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL
CODE, WITH AMENDMENTS
A. Since 1924, the City has reviewed, amended and adopted the latest
nationally recognized building standards available for the times.
B. Upon recommendation of City staff, the City Council has determined that it
is in the best interests of the City to align eleven interconnected basic construction codes
under one publication year.
C. The eleven interconnected basic construction codes are the International
Building Code, International Residential Code, International Mechanical Code,
International Fuel Gas Code, International Energy Conservation Code, International
Property Maintenance Code, International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, International
Existing Building Code, International Plumbing Code, International Fire Code, and the
International Wildland-Urban Interface Code to the extent adopted by the Colorado
Wildfire Resiliency Code.
D. The City Council has determined that the 2024 publication year of these
interconnected basic construction codes should be adopted and that any counterpart
International codes previously adopted should be repealed, both to align the publication
years of the codes and because the 2024 publications contain improvements in
construction code regulation.
E. City staff has conducted a significant public outreach program, working with
the regulated construction industry and building professionals.
F. The adoption of the interconnected basic construction codes has been
presented to community groups and feedback has been received from the Water
Commission, Energy Board, Commission on Disability, Natural Resource Advisory Board,
Poudre Fire Authority Board, Building Review Commission, Affordable Housing Board,
and Air Quality Advisory Board.
G. The City Council has determined that it is in the best interest of the health,
safety and welfare of the City and its residents that the 2024 International Residential
Code be adopted, with local amendments as set forth in this Ordinance.
H. 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 a nd that notice of
the hearing shall be published twice in the newspaper of general circulation published in
the City, with one of such publications occurring at least eight (8) days preceding the
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hearing and the other publication occurring at least fifteen (15) days preceding the
hearing.
I. 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 2024 International Codes on November 16, 2025, and November 23, 2025.
J. Attached as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by reference is the Notice of
Public Hearing dated November 16, 2025, that was so published and which the Council
finds meets the requirements of Article II, Section 7 of the City Charter.
In light of the foregoing recitals, which the Council makes and adopts as
determinations and findings, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
FORT COLLINS as follows:
Section 1. The City Council hereby repeals the 2021 International Residential
Code (“IRC”) and adopts the 2024 IRC as amended by this Ordinance.
Section 2. Section 5-26(c) of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended to read as follows:
(c) Pursuant to the power and authority conferred on the City Council by
Colorado Revised Statutes Section 31-16-202 and Article II, Section 7 of the
Charter, the City Council has adopted the 2024 International Residential Code
published by the International Code Council, second printing (October 2024), as
amended by the City, which shall have the same force and effect as though set
forth in full herein. The subject matter of the International Residential Code
adopted herein includes comprehensive provisions and standards for the
protection of the public health and safety by prescribing regulations governing the
construction, alteration, enlargement, relocation, replacement, repair, equipment,
use and occupancy, location, removal and demolition of, and its applicability is
hereby limited to, individual nonattached one- and two-family dwellings and
multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three (3) stories above
grade in height with a separate means of egress, and their accessory structures.
As provided in the 2024 International Residential Code, Appendices are not
adopted except as expressly set forth in Section 5 -30.
Section 3. Section 5-30 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby repealed
and reenacted to read as follows:
Sec. 5-30. Amendments and Deletions to the 2024 International Residential Code.
The 2024 International Residential Code adopted in § 5-26(c) is amended to read as
follows:
1. Section R101.1 Title is amended to read as follows:
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R101.1 Title. These provisions shall be known as the Residential Code for One-
and Two-family Dwellings of the City of Fort Collins, and shall be cited as such and
will be referred to herein as “this code.”
2. Section R101.2 Scope is amended to read as follows:
R101.2 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction,
alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and
occupancy, location, removal and demolition of detached one- and two-family
dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories above grade plane in height
with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures not more than
three stories above grade plane in height.
Exception: The following shall be permitted to be constructed in accordance
with this code:
1. Live/work units located in townhouses and complying with the
requirements of Section 508.5 of the International Building Code.
2. Owner-occupied lodging houses with five or fewer guestrooms.
3. A care facility with five or fewer persons receiving custodial care within
a dwelling unit.
4. A care facility with five or fewer persons receiving medical care within a
dwelling unit.
5. A day care facility for five or fewer persons of any age receiving care
within a dwelling unit.
3. Section R102.4 Referenced codes and standards is amended to read as
follows:
R102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced
in this code shall be those that are listed in Section 101.4 of the adopted
International Building Code, entitled “Referenced Codes,” and shall be considered
part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such
reference and as further regulated in Sections R102.4.1 and R102.4.2.
Exception: Where enforcement of a code provision would violate the
conditions of the listing of the equipment or appliance, the conditions of the
listing and manufacturer’s instructions shall apply.”
4. SECTION 103 CODE COMPLIANCE AGENCY is deleted in its entirety and
replaced with the following:
SECTION R103 CODE ADMINISTRATION
R103.1 Entity charged with code administration. The entity charged with code
administration shall be as determined in accordance with Section 103 of the
adopted International Building Code, entitled “CODE ADMINISTRATION.”
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5. Section 104.2.3.1 Flood hazard areas is deleted in its entirety and replaced with
the following:
104.2.3.1 Flood hazard areas. For existing buildings or structures
regulated under the scope of this code that are in whole or in part located
in flood hazard areas, construction documents shall be submitted as
established in accordance with Chapter 10 of the City Code, entitled “Flood
Prevention and Protection.”
6. Section R105.2 Work exempt from permit is amended to read as follows, with
the subsections for Gas and Mechanical being retained in their entirety:
R105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemption from permit requirements of this
code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any
manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances
of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following:
Building:
1. Other than storm shelters, one-story detached accessory structures for
lawn and garden equipment storage, tool storage and similar uses,
including arbors, pergolas, and similar structures, provided that the floor
area does not exceed 120 square feet (11.15 m2) or 8 feet (2438 mm)
in height, the structures do not house flammable liquids in quantities
exceeding 10 gallons (38 L) per building, and the structures are located
at least 3 feet from an adjoining property line.
2. Fences not over 6 feet (1829 mm) high.
3. Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet (1219 mm) in height measured
from the low side grade to the top of the wall, unless supporting a
surcharge, provided that the horizontal distance to the next uphill
retaining wall is at least equal to the total height of the lower retaining
wall.
4. Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not
exceed 5,000 gallons (18 927 L) and the ratio of height to diameter or
width does not exceed 2 to 1.
5. Sidewalks and driveways.
6. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar
finish work.
7. Prefabricated swimming pools that are less than 24 inches (610 mm)
deep.
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8. Swings and other playground equipment or playhouse/play structures
provided that such does not exceed 120 square feet (11.15 m2) in floor
area nor greater than 8 feet (2438 mm) in height measured from grade,
no more than one elevated playhouse or play structure is designed per
lot, and said equipment or structure is used exclusively for play. Elevated
playhouses or play structures shall not exceed 64 square feet (5.9 m 2)
of floor area nor 6 feet (1829 mm) in height measured from the floor to
the highest point of such structure.
9. Window awnings supported by an exterior wall that do not project more
than 54 inches (1372 mm) from the exterior wall and do not require
additional support. Storm window, storm door and rain gutter installation
except that, for structures that are fifty years of age or older, historic
review pursuant to Chapter 14 of the City Code must be completed first.
10. Decks not exceeding 200 square feet (18.58 m2) in area, that are not
more than 30 inches (762 mm) above grade at any point, are not
attached to a dwelling or townhouse and do not serve the exit door
required by Section R318.4.
11. Roofing repair or replacement work not exceeding one square (100
square feet) of covering per building.
12. Replacement of nonstructural siding that is not installed on or over a fire-
rated assembly when removal of siding is performed in accordance with
State laws regarding asbestos and lead paint except that, for structures
fifty (50) years of age or older, historic review pursuant to Chapter 14 of
the City Code must be completed first.
13. Shade cloth or maximum 6 mil single layer poly-roofed structures
constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, not including service
systems, and no entry by the general public.
14. Temporary special event structures.
15. Shade sails that are freestanding and not more than 120 square feet
(11.15 m2) or taller than 8 feet (2438 mm) from grade.
Electrical:
. . .
6. Replacement of lighting controls, ceiling fans and interior light fixtures
provided the new fixture is rated at less or equal power consumption
rate.
. . .
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Plumbing:
. . .
2. The clearing of stoppages or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves or
fixtures, and the repair and replacement of garbage disposal units and
dishwashers directly connected to the sanitary sewer system, including
the necessary replacement of all tail pipes and traps, or the repair,
maintenance, and replacement of sinks, faucets, drains, showers, tubs,
and toilets, provided such repairs do not involve or require the
replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes or fixtures.
7. Section R105.3.2 Time limitation of application is amended to read as follows:
R105.3.2 Time limitation of application. An application for a permit for any
proposed work shall be deemed to have been abandoned 180 days after the date
of filing unless such application has been pursued in good faith or a permit has
been issued; except that the building official is authorized to grant one or more
extensions of time for additional periods not exceeding 180 days each. The
extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated.
Applications that have been deemed abandoned for 30 days or more will be
considered void, unless the building official determines, in their reasonable
discretion, that an extension of no more than 180 days should be allowed due to
conditions beyond the applicant’s control.
8. Section R105.5 Expiration is amended by adding a second paragraph to read as
follows:
R105.5 Expiration. Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work
authorized by such permit is commenced within 180 days after its issuance or after
commencement of work if more than 180 days pass between inspections. The
building official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time,
for periods not more than 180 days each. The extension shall be requested in
writing and justifiable cause demonstrated.
Regardless of when the permit was issued relative to the effective date of this
code, any work authorized by a permit regulated by this code or any other building
construction code administered by the building official that involves the
construction or alteration of an exterior building component, assembly or finish
material, such as the foundation, wall and roof framing, sheathing, siding,
fenestration, and roof covering, shall be fully finished and completed for perma nent
outdoor exposure within 24 months of date of this issuance of such permit.
9. A new Section R105.10 Premises Identification is added to read as follows:
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R105.10 Premises Identification During Construction. The approved permit
number and street address number shall be displayed and plainly visible and
legible from the public street or road fronting the property on which any new
building is being constructed.
10. A new Section R105.11 Transfer of permits is added to read as follows:
R105.11 Transfer of permits. A current valid building permit may be transferred
from one party to another upon written application to the building official with
consent of both parties. When any changes are made to the original plans and
specifications that substantially differ from the plans submitted with the permit, as
determined by the building official, a new plan review fee shall be paid as
calculated in accordance with Section R108. A fee of $50 shall be paid to cover
administrative costs for all building permit transfers. No change shall be made to
the expiration date of the original permit.
11. Section R106.1.4 Information for construction in flood hazard areas is deleted
its entirety and replaced with the following:
R106.1.4 Information for construction in flood hazard areas. For buildings
or structures regulated under the scope of this code that are in whole or in part
located in flood hazard areas, construction documents shall be submitted in
accordance with Chapter 10 of the City Code, entitled “Flood Prevention and
Protection.”
12. A new Section R106.1.6 Grading performance plans and certificate is added
to read as follows:
R106.1.6 Grading performance plans and certificate. Every building permit
application for a new building regulated by this code shall be accompanied by
a site drainage/grading performance plan as prescribed by City standards.
Drainage plans shall be submitted to and approved by the City’s Storm water
Utility prior to the issuance of a permit.
13. Section R106.3.1 Approval of construction documents is amended to read as
follows:
R106.3.1 Approval of construction documents. Where the building official
issues a permit, the construction documents shall be approved in writing or by a
stamp indicating the approved permit number. One set of construction documents
so reviewed shall be retained by the building official. The other set shall be returned
to the applicant, shall be kept at the site of work and shall be open to inspection
by the building official or a duly authorized representative.
14. SECTION R108 FEES is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
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SECTION R108 FEES
R108.1 Fees. All items relating to fees shall be as specified in Section 109 of the
adopted International Building Code, entitled “FEES.”
R108.2 Work commencing before permit issuance. In addition to penalties set
forth in R113.4, any person or firm who, before obtaining the necessary permit(s),
commences any construction of, or work on, a building, structure, electrical, gas,
mechanical or plumbing system that is not otherwise exempted from obtaining a
permit, may be subject to a stop work order and a work without a permit fee in
addition to the required permit fee as established by the building official.
15. A new Section R109.1.7 Site Survey required is added to read as follows:
R109.1.7 Site Survey required. A survey or improvement location certificate
of the site on which a new building or addition is to be constructed may be
required by the building official to verify that the structure is located in
accordance with the approved plans and any other regulations of the City.
16. SECTION R112 MEANS OF APPEALS is deleted in its entirety and replaced with
the following:
SECTION R112 MEANS OF APPEALS
R112.1 General. Appeals of decisions, determinations and interpretations of this
code shall be made pursuant to applicable provisions as set forth in Section 113
of the adopted International Building Code, entitled “MEANS OF APPEALS.”
17. Section R113.4 Violation penalties is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the
following amended to read as follows:
R113.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or
fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs,
alters or repairs a building or structure in violation of the approved construction
documents or directive of the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued
under the provisions of this code, commits a civil infraction and is subject to the
provisions contained in § 1-15(f) of the City Code. Each day that a violation
continues shall be deemed a separate offense.
18. SECTION R202 DEFINITIONS is amended to modify, or add, in alphabetical order,
the following definitions:
[RB] BASEMENT. That portion of a building located partly or completely below
grade, wherein the underside of the floor system immediately above is 72 inches
(1829 mm) or more above the surface of an approved permanent basement floor
system.
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. . .
CITY shall mean the municipal corporation of Fort Collins, Colorado, including its
physical location and boundaries.
. . .
[RB] CRAWL SPACE. That portion of a building that is conditioned or non-
conditioned space located partly or completely below grade (excluding the under -
floor space beneath below-grade structural floor systems), wherein the underside
of the adjacent finished floor above is less than 72 inches (1829 mm) above the
bottom surface of such crawl space.
. . .
DOWN DIRECTIONAL LUMINAIRE. Down directional luminaire lighting directs
light straight down from the fixture.
. . .
[RB] 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.
[RB] 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.
. . .
FLOOR AREA. The area included within the surrounding exterior walls of a
building or portion thereof, exclusive of vent shafts and courts. The floor area of a
building, or portion thereof, not provided with surrounding exterior walls shall be
the usable area under the horizontal projection of the roof or floor above.
. . .
FULLY SHIELDED LUMINAIRE. A light fixture that has a solid barrier (cap) at the
top of the fixture in which the lamp (bulb) is located. The fixture is angled so the
lamp is not visible below the barrier (no light visible below the horizontal angle).
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. . .
GUEST ACCESSIBILITY. A residence’s ease of access for persons with
disabilities.
. . .
HEIGHT, BUILDING. The vertical distance in feet measured from the average of
the finished ground level at the center of all walls of a building or structure to the
highest point of the roof surface or structure.
. . .
ROOM, SLEEPING (BEDROOM). A habitable space 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 is indicia for determining that such space or room qualifies as a sleeping
room. The presence of closets and similar storage facilities is not considered a
relevant factor in determining whether or not a room is a sleeping room.
. . .
SITE. A parcel of land bounded by a property line or a designated portion of a
public right-of-way.
. . .
[RB] TOWNHOUSE. A single-family dwelling unit constructed in a group of two or
more attached individual units, each of which is separated from the other from the
foundation to the roof and is located entirely on a separately recorded and platted
parcel of land (site) bounded by property lines that is deeded exclusively for such
single-family dwelling.
. . .
19. Section 301.1.3 Engineered design is amended to read as follows:
R301.1.3 Engineered design. When a building of otherwise conventional light-
frame construction contains structural elements not conforming to this code,
these elements shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering
practice. The extent of such design need only demonstrate compliance of
nonconventional elements with other applicable provisions and shall be
compatible with the performance of the conventional framed system.
Engineered design in accordance with the adopted International Building Code
is permitted for all buildings, structures, and portions thereof, included in the
scope of this code.
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20. Section R301.2 Climatic and geographic design criteria is amended to read as
follows:
R301.2 Climatic and geographic design criteria. Buildings shall be constructed
in accordance with the provisions of this code as limited by the provisions of this
section. Climatic and geographic design criteria are set forth in Table R301.2. The
thermal design parameters shown below shall be used for mechanical load
calculations and designs.
21. TABLE R301.2 CLIMATIC AND GEOGRAPHIC DESIGN CRITERIA is deleted in
its entirety and replaced with the following:
TABLE R301.2 FORT COLLINS APPLICABLE CLIMATIC AND GEOGRAPHIC
DESIGN CRITERIA
GROUND SNOW
LOADa
WIND DESIGN
SPEEDb
SPECIAL WIND
REGION
WINDBORNE
DEBRIS ZONE
35 psf 140 mph Yes No
SEISMIC DESIGN
CATEGORY
SUBJECT TO DAMAGE FROM
Weathering Frost line depth Termite
B Severec 30 inches Slight to moderate
ICE BARRIER
UNDERLAYMENT FLOOD HAZARDS AIR FREEZING
INDEX
MEAN ANNUAL
TEMP
Required July 16, 1979 906 48.4°F
MANUAL J DESIGN CRITERIA
Elevation: 4987 Outdoor winter design dry-bulb
temp: 6°F
Latitude: 40.5853 Heating temp difference 66°F
Altitude correction factor: 0.83 Indoor summer design relative
humidity: 50°F
Daily Range: High Indoor summer design dry-bulb
temp: 75°F
Coincident wet bulb: 62°F Outdoor summer design dry-bulb
temp: 91°F
Indoor winter design dry-
bulb temp: 72°F Cooling temp difference: 16°F
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22. SECTION R306 FLOOD-RESISTANT CONSTRUCTION is deleted in its entirety
and replaced with the following:
SECTION R306 FLOOD-RESISTANT CONSTRUCTION
R306.1 General. Buildings and structures constructed in whole or in part in flood
hazard areas shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the provisions
of Chapter 10 of the City Code, entitled Flood Prevention and Protection. In riverine
flood hazard areas where design flood elevations are specified but floodways have
not been designated, the applicant shall demonstrate that the cumulative effect of
the proposed buildings and structures on design flood elevations, including fill,
when combined with all other existing and anticipated development, will not
increase the design flood elevation more than one foot at any point within the City.
23. Section R309.2 One- and two-family dwellings automatic sprinkler systems
is amended to read as follows:
R309.2 Two-family dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems. An automatic
residential fire sprinkler system shall be installed in two-family dwellings.
Exception: An automatic sprinkler system shall not be required for additions
or alterations to existing buildings that are not already provided with a sprinkler
system.
24. Section R310.2.2 Alterations, repairs and additions is amended by deleting
exception #2.
25. Section R310.4 Interconnection is amended to read as follows:
R310.4 Interconnection. Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be
installed within an individual dwelling unit in accordance with Section R314.3, the
alarm devices shall be interconnected in such a manner that the actuation of one
alarm will activate all of the alarms in the individual dwelling unit. Physical
interconnection of smoke alarms shall not be required where listed wireless alarms
are installed and all alarms sound upon activation of one alarm.
a. As an alternate to the basic 35 psf ground snow load, location-specific ground snow load values can be used
that are provided in the Geodatabase of geocoded design ground snow load values, which can be accessed at
the ASCE 7 Hazard Tool at https://asce7hazardtool.online/ or shall be determined in accordance with section
1608 of the International Building Code or approved equivalent.
b. The basic design wind speed V, in mph, for the determination of the wind loads shall be: 140 miles per hour
(Ultimate) or shall comply with ASCE 7-22, ASCE Design Geodatabase published 2025. The ASCE Design
Geodatabase is available at https://asce7hazardtool.online.
c. Where weathering requires a higher strength concrete or higher grade of masonry than necessary t o satisfy the
structural requirements of this code, the frost line depth strength required for weathering shall govern. The
weathering column shall be filled in with the weathering index, “negligible,” “moderate” or “severe” for concrete
as determined from Figure R301.2(1). The grade of masonry units shall be determined from ASTM C34, ASTM
C55, ASTM C62, ASTM C73, ASTM C90, ASTM C129, ASTM C145, ASTM C216 or ASTM C652.
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Exception: Interconnection of smoke alarms in existing areas shall not be
required where installation would require the removal of interior wall or ceiling
finishes, unless there is an attic, crawl space, or basement available to provide
access for interconnection without the removal of interior finishes.
26. Section R311.2.2 Alterations, repairs and additions is amended to read as
follows, with the exceptions being deleted in their entirety:
R311.2.2 Alterations, repairs and additions. Where alterations, repairs or
additions requiring a permit occur, or where one or more sleeping rooms are added
or created in existing dwellings, the individual dwelling unit shall be equipped with
carbon monoxide alarms located as required for new dwellings.
27. Section R322.1 Dwelling units or sleeping units is amended to read as follows:
R322.1 Dwelling units. Where there are four or more dwelling units in a single
structure, the applicable provisions of Colorado Revised Statutes Section 9-5-101
et. seq., and the provisions of Chapter 11 of the adopted International Building
Code for Group R-3 shall apply. Nothing in this section shall abrogate or otherwise
modify an owner’s duties or responsibilities under the Americans with Disabilities
Act or any other state or federal law or regulation regarding accessibility.
28. A new Section R322.4 Guest accessibility is added to read as follows:
R322.4 Guest accessibility. A new dwelling unit with habitable space on the first
story shall provide at least one bathroom group or half bath on the first story that
is designed and constructed to meet the guest accessibility requirements of this
section.
R322.4.1 Bathrooms within dwelling units. A bathroom group or half bath
designated for guest accessibility must have a minimum clear opening of 30
inches (762 mm).
R322.4.2 Wall reinforcement. A bathroom group or half bath designated for
guest accessibility must have reinforced walls that meet the following
standards:
1. Lateral nominal wood blocking, with minimum dimensions of 2 inches
(50.8 mm) by 6 inches (152.4 mm), must be installed flush with stud
edges of bathroom walls; and
2. The centerline of the blocking must be 34 inches (863.6 mm) from and
parallel to the interior floor level.
Exception: Blocking is not required in the portion of the wall located directly
behind the lavatory.
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R322.4.3 Lighting and environmental controls. Light switches, receptacles
and other environmental controls located in a bathroom or a half bath
designated for guest accessibility must be no higher than 48 inches (1219.2
mm) above the interior floor level. Receptacles shall be a minimum of 15
inches (381 mm) above the interior floor level.
R322.4.4 Guest accessibility routes within the dwelling unit. A bathroom
group or half bath designated for guest accessibility must be visitable by a route
through the living room, dining room, bedroom or kitchen that provides a
minimum clear width of 32 inches (812.8 mm), and any interior doors on the
route must have lever handles.
29. A new SECTION R333 RESOURCE EFFICIENCY is added to read as follows:
SECTION R333 RESOURCE EFFICIENCY
R333.1 Construction waste management. For remodels over 1,500 square feet,
additions over 1,500 square feet, and all new buildings, a signed construction
waste declaration of responsibility is required at the time of application for a
building permit; the construction waste recycling regulations shall be implemented;
all concrete, asphalt, masonry, wood, metals, and cardboard shall be recycled ; and
all mixed construction and demolition materials (as defined in § 12-16 of the City
Code) shall be delivered to any facility identified in and disposed of in accordance
with § 12-22(c) of the City Code. Compliance shall be certified by inspection and
documentation and submission of a signed final construction waste management
report.
Exception: Basement finish projects.
R333.1.1 Building demolitions. Buildings or portions of buildings that are
removed shall be processed in such a way as to safely remove all asbestos
and lead paint contaminants. For all demolitions, excluding non -structural
demolitions under 1000 square feet a signed demolition waste declaration of
responsibility is required at the time of application for a demolition permit. All
metals, asphalt, concrete, and masonry that are free of asbestos and lead paint
shall be recycled, and where possible, all remaining mate rials, such as doors,
windows, cabinets, fixtures, and wood, shall be recycled. All mixed construction
and demolition materials (as defined in § 12-16 of the City Code) shall be
delivered to any facility identified in and disposed of in accordance with § 12-
22(c) of the City Code. Compliance shall be certified by inspection,
documentation, and submission of a signed final demolition waste
management report.
R333.2 Exterior lighting. All exterior lighting fixtures shall be down directional and
fully shielded luminaires and shall have a nominal correlated color temperature
(CCT) of no greater than 3000 Kelvin.
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R333.3 Operations and maintenance. In new buildings, operation and
maintenance information addressing all installed systems shall be provided to the
building owner.
R333.4 Electrical vehicle ready. All new single family dwellings with an attached
garage or carport shall be provided one continuous 40-amp, 208/240-Volt
dedicated branch circuit for electric vehicle supply equipment that is terminated at
a receptacle or electric vehicle supply equipment.
Exception: In cases where a transformer upgrade is required.
30. Section R401.1 Application is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
R401.1 Application. The provisions of this chapter shall control the design and
construction of the foundation and foundation spaces for buildings. In addition to
the provisions of this chapter, the design and construction of foundations in areas
prone to flooding shall meet the provisions of Section R306. All foundations shall
be designed by a qualified professional licensed in the State of Colorado. Such
designs shall be performed in accordance with accepted and approved
engineering practices, including considerations for soil load-bearing capacities,
surface and subsurface water conditions, adequate foundation and floor drainage,
adequate ventilation of enclosed interior foundation spaces, and foundation
waterproofing and damp-proofing. Final engineer’s reports, indicating their
acceptance of the above requirements, shall be submitted to the building official
prior to the issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy
Exception: Foundations for non-habitable detached accessory buildings.
31. A new Section R401.5 Wood foundations is added to read as follows:
R402.5 Wood foundations. Wood foundations shall be designed and installed in
accordance with ANSI/AWC Permanent Wood Foundation Design Specification
(PWF). Wood foundations in Seismic Design Category D0, D1 or D2 shall be
designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice by a qualified
professional licensed in the State of Colorado.
32. A new Section R401.6 Placement of backfill is added to read as follows:
R401.6 Placement of backfill. The excavation outside the foundation, including
utility trenches and excavation ramps, shall be backfilled with soil that is
substantially free of organic material, construction debris and cobbles, boulders,
and solid soil masses larger than 6 inches (152 mm) diameter, and free of frozen
soil. The backfill shall be placed in lifts and compacted as set forth in the
engineering documents. The backfill shall be placed in a manner that does not
damage the foundation or the waterproofing or damp-proofing material. Excavation
- 16 -
ramps shall be backfilled in such a manner that the ramp does not become a
conduit for surface water to flow toward the foundation. Where excavations include
more than one structure, a specially engineered drainage system may be required
by the building official.
33. Section R405.1 Concrete or masonry foundations is deleted in its entirety and
replaced with the following:
R405.1 Concrete or masonry foundations. Drains consisting of piping
conforming with ASTM Designation D2729-89 shall be provided adjacent to the
lowest concrete or masonry foundations that retain earth and enclose spaces that
are partially or entirely located below grade. Unless perimeter drains are designed
to daylight, they shall terminate in sump pits with an electrical power source
permanently installed within 36 inches (914 mm) of the sump opening. Piping for
sump pumps shall discharge at least 60 inches (1524 mm) away from foundations,
or as otherwise approved by the building official. Drains shall be installed in
bedding materials that are of such size and installed in such manner to allow
ground water to seep into the perimeter drain. Filter fabric or other measures to
restrict the passage of fines shall be used to further protect the perimeter drain
from blockage.
Exceptions:
1. A drainage system is not required where it has been determined by the
engineer of record that the foundation is installed on well-drained ground
or sand-gravel mixture soils according to the Unified Soil Classification
System, Group I soils, as detailed in Table R401.4.1(2).
2. Existing buildings that do not have foundation drains.
34. A new Section R405.3 Landscape irrigation is added to read as follows:
R405.3 Landscape irrigation. Landscape irrigation systems, other than drip
systems, shall be installed such that the ground surface within 60 inches (1524
mm), measured perpendicular from the foundation, is not irrigated.
35. Section R408.2 Openings for under-floor ventilation is amended to read as
follows:
R408.2 Underfloor ventilation. Under-floor ventilation shall be provided per
Section R408.3 (conditioned crawl), except where high groundwater conditions
exist that would require vented under-floor space (unconditioned crawl).
Ventilation openings through foundation or exterior walls surrounding the under -
floor space shall be provided in accordance with this section. The minimum net
area of ventilation openings shall be not less than 1 square foot (0.0929 m 2) for
each 150 square feet (14 m2) of under-floor area. One ventilation opening shall be
within 3 feet (915 mm) of each external corner of the under-floor space. Ventilation
openings shall be covered for their height and width with any of the following
- 17 -
materials provided that the least dimension of the covering shall not exceed ¼ inch
(6.4 mm), and operational louvers are permitted:
1. Perforated sheet metal plates not less than 0.070 inch (1.8 mm) thick.
2. Expanded sheet metal plates not less than 0.047 inch (1.2 mm) thick.
3. Cast-iron grill or grating.
4. Extruded load-bearing brick vents.
5. Hardware cloth of 0.035 inch (0.89 mm) wire or heavier.
6. Corrosion-resistant wire mesh, with the least dimension being ⅛ inch (3.2
mm) thick.
Exceptions:
1. The total area of ventilation openings shall be permitted to be reduced
to 1/1,500 of the under-floor area where the ground surface is covered with
an approved Class I vapor retarder material.
2. Where the ground surface is covered with an approved Class 1 vapor
retarder material, ventilation openings are not required to be within 3 feet
(915 mm) of each external corner of the under-floor space provided that
the openings are placed to provide cross ventilation of the space.
36. A new Section R408.3.1 Spaces under below-grade floors is added to read as
follows:
R408.3.1 Spaces under below -grade floors. Mechanical ventilation systems
for spaces under below-grade floors shall be designed by a professional
engineer and installed in accordance with such designs , or a mechanical
ventilation system for spaces under below-grade floors shall be provided with
an active, fan assisted submembrane depressurization system installed per
Appendix BE, Radon Control Methods. In addition, the space above the soil-
gas-retarder and below the floor shall be provided with continuously operated
mechanical exhaust ventilation at a rate equal to 1 cubic foot per minute for
each 50 square feet (4.65 m2) of under-floor area and either mechanical supply
air at the same rate or an air pathway (such as a duct or transfer grille) to the
common area that is not located in rooms containing open combustion fuel
burning appliances.
37. Section R702.7 Vapor retarders is amended to read as follows, with the
exceptions being deleted in their entirety:
R702.7 Vapor retarders. Vapor retarder materials shall be classified in
accordance with Table R702.7(1). If provided on the interior side of frame walls, a
vapor retarder shall be provided in accordance with Table R702.7(2), and Table
R702.7(3) or R702.7(4) where applicable. Class I vapor retarders are not allowed on
basement foundation walls or any concrete or masonry below grade wall. An approved
design using accepted engineering practice for hygrothermal analysis shall be
- 18 -
permitted as an alternative. Vapor retarders shall be installed in accordance with
Section R702.7.2.
The climate zone shall be determined in accordance with Section R301.1 of the
International Energy Conservation Code.
38. TABLE R702.7(2) VAPOR RETARDER OPTIONS is deleted in its entirety.
39. Section R702.7.2 Vapor retarder installation is amended to read as follows:
R702.7.2 Vapor retarder installation. Vapor retarders shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, accepted installation methods
or an approved design. Where a vapor retarder also functions as a component
of a continuous air barrier, the vapor retarder shall be installed as an air barrier
in accordance with Section R402.5.1.1 of the International Energy
Conservation Code.
Class I, II, and III vapor retarders are all permitted in climate zone 5. A
responsive vapor retarder shall be allowed on the interior side of any frame wall
in all climate zones. In frame walls, use of a Class I vapor retarder that is not a
responsive vapor retarder on the interior side with a Class I vapor retarder on
the exterior side shall require an approved design. Where a Class I or II vapor
retarder is used in combination with foam plastic insulating sheathing or
insulated siding installed as continuous insulation on the exterior side of frame
walls, the continuous insulation shall comply with Table R702.7(4) and the
Class I or II vapor retarder shall be a responsive vapor retarder.
40. A new Section R703.11.3 Vinyl siding and soffits on buildings is added to read
as follows:
R703.11.3 Vinyl siding and soffits on buildings. Vinyl siding and soffits on
buildings shall be installed over one-hour fire-rated assemblies listed for
exterior fire exposure, in both the vertical and horizontal plane or in accordance
with the adopted Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code, whichever is more
restrictive.
Exception: Repairs less than 100 square feet (9.3 m2) unless subject to the
Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code.
41. A new Section R703.13.2 Insulated vinyl siding and soffits on buildings is
added to read as follows:
R703.13.2 Insulated vinyl siding and soffits on buildings. Insulated vinyl
siding and soffits on buildings shall be installed over one-hour fire-rated
assemblies listed for exterior fire exposure, in both the vertical and horizontal
plane or in accordance with the adopted Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code,
whichever is more restrictive.
- 19 -
Exception: Repairs less than 100 square feet (9.3 m2) unless subject to the
Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code.
42. Section R703.14 Polypropylene siding is amended to read as follows:
R703.14 Polypropylene siding. Polypropylene siding shall be certified and
labeled as conforming to the requirements of ASTM D7254, and those of Section
R703.14.2 or Section R703.14.3, by an approved agency. Polypropylene siding on
buildings shall be installed over one-hour fire-rated assemblies listed for exterior
fire exposure, in both the vertical and horizontal plane or in accordance with the
adopted Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code, whichever is more restrictive.
Exception: Repairs less than 100 square feet (9.3 m2) unless subject to the
Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code.
43. Section R902.1 Roofing assemblies is deleted in its entirety and replaced with
the following:
R902.1 Roofing covering materials. Roofs shall be covered with materials listed
as Class A and with materials as set forth in Section R904 and roof coverings as
set forth in Section R905. Class A roofing shall be tested in accordance with UL
790 or ASTM E108. Roof assemblies with coverings of brick, masonry, slate, clay
or concrete roof tile, exposed concrete roof deck, ferrous or copper shingle s or
sheets, or metal sheets and shingles shall be considered Class A roof coverings.
44. Section R905.1.2 Ice barriers is amended to read as follows:
R905.1.2 Ice barriers. In areas where there has been a history of ice forming
along the eaves causing a backup of water as designated in Table R301.2, an
ice barrier shall be installed for asphalt shingles, metal roof shingles, mineral-
surfaced roll roofing, slate and slate-type shingles, wood shingles and wood
shakes. The ice barrier shall consist of not fewer than two layers of
underlayment cemented together, or a self-adhering polymer-modified bitumen
sheet shall be used in place of normal underlayment and extend from the
lowest edges of all roof surfaces to a point not less than 24 inches (610 mm)
inside the exterior wall line of the building.
On roofs with slope equal to or greater than 8 units vertical in 12 units
horizontal (67-percent slope), the ice barrier shall be applied not less than 36
inches (914 mm) measured along the roof slope from the eave edge of the
building.
Exceptions:
1. Detached accessory structures not containing conditioned floor area.
2. Re-roofing where the existing roof covering has not been removed.
- 20 -
45. Section R905.2.1 Sheathing requirements is amended to read as follows:
R905.2.1 Sheathing requirements. Asphalt shingles shall be fastened to
wood structural panels or solid lumber sheathing. Gaps in the solid decking
shall not exceed ⅛ inch.
46. A new Section R905.2.4.2 Impact resistance of asphalt shingles is added to
read as follows:
R905.2.4.2 Impact resistance of asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles shall
be Class 4 impact resistant, tested in accordance with UL 2218, and
installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
Exceptions:
1. When existing asphalt shingles are less than Class 4 impact
resistant, and the owner wishes to replace the existing asphalt
shingles with tiles of a similar color or style, but no Class 4 impact
resistance shingles that are similar color or style to the existing
asphalt shingles are available, the building official may approve
alternate materials that are less than Class 4 impact resistant;
however, the building official will impose the highest class of
impact resistance for which shingles of a matching color or style
to the existing asphalt shingles are available. If no impact
resistant materials are available, the building official may approve
non-impact resistant materials if the alternate materials meet all
other applicable requirements of this code.
2. When the owner is repairing or adding to existing asphalt singles
that are less than Class 4 impact resistant, the owner may use
the same or similar materials as the current existing asphalt
shingles, even if that same or similar material is not impact
resistant provided the repair does not exceed 49% of the roof
area or the addition does not exceed 50% of the original building
size.
47. Section R908.1 General is amended to read as follows:
R908.1 General. Materials and methods of application used for recovering or
replacing an existing roof covering shall comply with the requirements of Chapter
9.
Exceptions:
1. Reroofing shall not be required to meet the minimum design slope
requirement of one-quarter unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (2-percent
slope) in Section R905 for roofs that provide positive roof drainage.
2. For roofs that provide positive drainage, recovering or replacing an
existing roof covering shall not require the secondary (emergency
- 21 -
overflow) drains or scuppers of Section R903.4.1 to be added to an
existing roof.
3. Any existing roof covering system may be replaced with a roof covering
of the same materials and classification, provided the replacement roof
covering has a minimum rating of Class C.
48. Section R1004.1 General is amended to read as follows:
R1004.1 General. Factory-built fireplaces shall be listed and labeled and shall be
installed in accordance with the conditions of the listing. Factory-built fireplaces
shall be tested in accordance with UL 127. Solid fuel fireplaces, fireplace stoves
and solid-fuel-type room heaters shall also comply with §5-110 of the City Code
and must be installed with a spark arrestor.
49. Section R1004.4 Unvented gas log heaters is deleted in its entirety.
50. CHAPTER 11 [RE] ENERGY EFFICIENCY is deleted in its entirety and replaced
with the following:
CHAPTER 11 [RE] ENERGY EFFICIENCY
SECTION R1101 GENERAL
R1101.1 General. Any buildings or portion thereof regulated by this code shall
comply with the adopted International Energy Conservation Code—Residential
Provisions (IECC-R).
51. A new SECTION M1309 TESTING AND VERIFICATION is added to read as
follows:
SECTION M1309 TESTING AND VERIFICATION
M1309.1 General. Installed heating, cooling and ventilation systems shall be
performance-tested and adjusted per the Residential New Construction
Mechanical Systems Testing Guide as currently adopted by the City of Fort Collins
and to operate within design specifications, in accordance with ANSI/ACCA QI 5 -
2010 HVAC Quality Installation Specification. Documentation of results must be
submitted to the building official prior to the issuance of the certificate of
occupancy.
52. Section M1401.3 Equipment and appliance sizing is deleted in its entirety and
replaced with the following:
M1401.3 Heating and cooling system design. The design of new heating and
cooling systems shall meet the requirements of this section. Design documents
- 22 -
shall be submitted to the building official at the time of application for a building
permit.
53. A new Section M1401.3.1 Equipment and appliance sizing is added to read as
follows:
M1401.3.1 Equipment and appliance sizing. Heating and cooling equipment
and appliances shall be sized in accordance with ACCA Manual S, based on
design building loads calculated in accordance with ACCA Manual J, or other
equivalent methodology approved by the building official, using thermal design
parameters in Table R301.2 as amended. The total equipment or appliance
output capacity shall be between the following limits, as applicable for the
equipment type:
1. 95% and 115% of calculated system cooling load, for air conditioners
and heat pumps;
2. 95% and 125% of calculated system cooling load, for heat pumps with
winter heating dominated requirements;
3. 100% and 140% of calculated system heating load, for warm air
systems, unless dictated by the cooling equipment selection; and
4. 100% and 115% of calculated system heating load, for heating boilers.
When there is no equipment available to satisfy these applicable capacity limits,
the next largest nominal piece of equipment that is available may be used.
54. A new Section M1401.3.2 Room loads is added to read as follows:
M1401.3.2 Room loads. Room-by-room design heating and cooling loads
shall be calculated in the design of new heating and cooling systems.
55. A new Section M1401.3.3 Matched components is added to read as follows:
M1401.3.3 Matched components. Air-conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration
Institute (AHRI) matched evaporators, condensing units an d air handlers shall
be required in the design of new heating and cooling systems.
56. A new Section M1402.4 Total electric heating is added to read as follows:
M1402.4 Total electric heating. Primary indoor central heating systems utilizing
only electric heat shall utilize a ground source heat pump system(s) or cold climate
heat pump system(s) specifically designed to heat in cold climates and at the
Winter Outdoor, Design Dry-Bulb temperature defined in Section C301.5 of the
International Energy Conservation Code and Table R301.2 of this code. The heat
pump system shall not be gas or propane fuel fired. Electric resistance strip heat
shall only serve as emergency back-up heat or supplemental heat at outdoor
temperatures below 15°F as necessary.
- 23 -
57. Section M1414.1 General is amended to read as follows:
M1414.1 General. Fireplace stoves shall be listed, labeled and installed in
accordance with the terms of the listing. Fireplace stoves shall be tested in
accordance with UL 737. Wood burning appliances shall meet the latest emission
standards as required by the State of Colorado and Federal Regulation 40 CFR
Part 60, Subpart AAA.
58. A new Section M1501.2 Indoor depressurization is added to read as follows:
M1501.2 Indoor depressurization. Ducted exhaust systems shall not induce or
create a negative pressure sufficient to cause back-drafting of naturally vented,
open combustion-chamber or fuel-burning appliances, nor create negative
pressure in excess of negative 3 Pa in the immediate proximity of combustion
chambers of such appliances.
59. Section M1502.4.2 Duct installation is amended to read as follows:
M1502.4.2 Duct installation. Exhaust ducts shall be supported at intervals not
to exceed 12 feet (3658 mm) and shall be secured in place. The insert end of
the duct shall extend into the adjoining duct or fitting in the direction of airflow.
Exhaust duct joints shall be sealed in accordance with Section M1601.4.1 and
shall be mechanically fastened. Ducts shall not be joined with screws or similar
fasteners. Where dryer exhaust ducts are enclosed in wall or ceiling cavities,
such cavities shall allow the installation of the duct without deformation.
60. Section M1505.4 Whole-house mechanical ventilation system is deleted in its
entirety and replaced with the following:
M1505.4 Whole-dwelling unit mechanical ventilation system. For new
dwellings, a mechanical exhaust system, supply system, or combination thereof
shall be installed for each dwelling unit to provide whole-dwelling unit ventilation.
Such system shall comply with Sections M1505.4.1 through M1505.5. System
design documents must be submitted to the building official at the time of
application for a building permit.
61. Section M1601.1 Duct design is amended to read as follows:
M1601.1 Duct design. Duct systems serving heating, cooling and ventilation
equipment in new buildings, or new duct systems in additions, shall be designed
and fabricated in accordance with the provisions of this section and ACCA Manual
D or other approved methods.
62. Section M1601.1.1 Above-ground duct systems is amended to read as follows:
- 24 -
M1601.1.1 Above-ground duct systems. Above-ground duct systems shall
conform to the following:
. . .
6. Duct systems shall be constructed of materials having a flame spread
index of not greater than 200.
7. Volume dampers, equipment and other means of supply, return and
exhaust air adjustment used in system balancing shall be provided with
access.
63. A new Section M1601.4.11 Construction debris and contamination is added to
read as follows:
M1601.4.11 Construction debris and contamination. Mechanical air-
handling systems and their related ducts shall be protected from the entrance
of dirt, debris, and dust during the construction and installation process. Prior
to passing final inspection or issuance of a certificate of occupancy, such
systems shall be substantially free of construction-related contaminants.
64. Section M1602.2 Return air openings is amended to read as follows:
M1602.2 Return air openings. A return air path shall be provided in all habitable
rooms by means of ducts or transfer grills. Return air openings for heating,
ventilation and air conditioning systems shall comply with all of the following:
. . .
65. Section G2404.3 (301.3) Listed and labeled is amended to read as follows:
G2404.3 (301.3) Listed and labeled. Appliances regulated by this code shall be
listed and labeled for the application in which they are used unless otherwise
approved in accordance with Section R104.2.2.
66. Section G2406.2 (303.3) Prohibited locations is amended by deleting items #3
and #4.
67. Section G2407.11 (304.11) Combustion air ducts is amended by adding a new
Item #9 to read as follows:
. . .
9. All combustion air openings or ducts shall be readily identifiable with an
approved label or by other means warning persons that obstruction of such
openings or ducts may cause fuel-burning equipment to release combustion
products and dangerous levels of carbon monoxide into the building.
- 25 -
68. Section G2415.12 (404.12) Minimum burial depth is amended to read as follows:
G2415.12 (404.12) Minimum burial depth. Underground piping systems shall be
installed a minimum depth of 18 inches (457.2 mm) below grade.
69. Section G2415.12.1 (404.12.1) Individual outside appliances is deleted in its
entirety.
70. Section G2417.4.1 (406.4.1) Test pressure is deleted in its entirety and replaced
with the following:
G2417.4.1 (406.4.1) Test pressure. The test pressure to be used shall be 10
psi minimum for non-welded pipe and 60 psi minimum for welded pipe.
71. Section G2425.8 (501.8) Appliances not required to be vented is amended to
read as follows:
G2425.8 (501.8) Appliances not required to be vented. The following appliances
shall not be required to be vented:
1. Electric ranges.
2. Electric built-in domestic cooking units listed and marked for optional
venting.
3. Hot plates and laundry stoves.
4. Type 1 clothes dryers (Type 1 clothes dryers shall be exhausted in
accordance with the requirements of Section G2439).
5. Refrigerators.
6. Counter appliances.
Where the appliances listed in Items 5 through 6 are installed so that the
aggregate input rating exceeds 20 Btu per hour per cubic foot (207 W/m3) of
volume of the room or space in which such appliances are installed, one or more
shall be provided with venting systems or other approved means for conveying the
vent gases to the outdoor atmosphere so that the aggregate input rating of the
remaining unvented appliances does not exceed 20 Btu per hour per cubic foot
(207 W/m3). Where the room or space in which the appliance is installed is directly
connected to another room or space by a doorway, archway or other opening of
comparable size that cannot be closed, the volume of such adjacent room or space
shall be permitted to be included in the calculations.
72. Section G2427.6.5 (503.6.6) Minimum height is amended to read as follows:
G2427.6.5 (503.6.6) Minimum height. A Type B or L gas vent shall terminate
not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) in vertical height above the highest connected
appliance draft hood or flue collar. A Type B-W gas vent shall terminate not
less than 12 feet (3658 mm) in vertical height above the bottom of the wall
- 26 -
furnace. All gas vents shall terminate a minimum of 22 inches (559 mm) above
the surface or grade directly below.
73. TABLE G2427.8 (503.8) THROUGH-THE-WALL VENT TERMINAL
CLEARANCE is amended to read as follows:
TABLE G2427.8 (503.8) THROUGH-THE-WALL VENT TERMINAL
CLEARANCE
FIGURE
CLEARANCE
CLEARANCE
LOCATION
MINIMUM
CLEARANCE
FOR DIRECT-
VENT
TERMINALS
MINIMUM
CLEARANCES FOR
NONDIRECT-VENT
TERMINALS
A Clearance above
finished grade
level, veranda,
porch, deck or
balcony
22 inches
. . . . . . . . .
74. SECTION G2445 (621) UNVENTED ROOM HEATERS is deleted in its entirety.
75. A new Section G2447.6 (623.8) Gas cooking appliances is added to read as
follows:
G2447.6 (623.8) Gas cooking appliances. Gas cooking appliances shall be
supplied with an exhaust system vented to the outside in accordance with Section
M1503. Ducts serving gas appliance exhaust systems shall not terminate in an
attic or crawl space or areas inside the building, induce or create negative pressure
in excess of negative 3 Pa, or adversely affect gravity-vented appliances.
76. A new Section G2451.3 (630.3) Combustion and ventilation air is added to read
as follows:
G2451.3 (630.3) Combustion and ventilation air. Where infrared heaters are
installed, natural or mechanical means shall provide outdoor ventilation air at a
rate of not less than 4 cfm per 1,000 Btu/h (0.38 m3/min/kW) of the aggregate input
rating of all such heaters installed in the space. Outdoor exhaust openings for
removing flue products shall terminate above the level of the heaters.
77. A new Section P2501.3 Compliance is added to read as follows:
P2501.3 Compliance. Plumbing shall conform to and be installed in accordance
with the provisions of Chapters 25 through 33 of the International Plumbing Code.
- 27 -
78. Section P2503.5.1 Rough Plumbing is amended to read as follows:
P2503.5.1 Rough plumbing. DWV systems shall be tested on completion of
the rough piping installation by water, by air, or by a vacuum, without evidence
of leakage. The test shall be applied to the drainage system in its entirety or in
sections after rough-in piping has been installed, as follows:
. . .
79. Section P2903.1 Water supply system design criteria is amended to read as
follows:
P2903.1 Water supply system design criteria. The water service and water
distribution systems shall be designed and sized for peak demand using values
shown in Table P2903.1 or Appendix E of the International Plumbing Code.
80. Section P2903.2 Maximum flow and water consumption is amended to read as
follows:
P2903.2 Maximum flow and water consumption. The maximum water
consumption flow rates and quantities for all plumbing fixtures and fixture fittings
shall be in accordance with Table P2903.2 and, except for fixture types that are
not labeled under the WaterSense® program , shall be Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) WaterSense® labeled fixtures.
81. TABLE P2903.2 MAXIMUM FLOW RATES AND CONSUMPTION FOR
PLUMBING FIXTURES AND FIXTURE FITTINGSb is amended to read as
follows:
TABLE P2903.2 MAXIMUM FLOW RATES AND CONSUMPTION FOR
PLUMBING FIXTURES AND FIXTURE FITTINGSb
PLUMBING
FIXTURE OR
FIXTURE
FITTING
MAXIMUM FLOW RATE OR QUANTITY
Lavatory faucet 1.5 gpm at 60 psi
Shower heada 1.8 gpm at 80 psi
Sink faucet 1.8 gpm at 60 psi
Water closet 1.1 gallons per flushing cycle, with minimum MaP threshold
of 600 grams. Dual flush gallons per flushing cycle: Average
of three flushes (two reduced flushes and one full flush)c
- 28 -
For SI: 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
a. A hand-held shower spray shall be considered to be a shower head.
b. Consumption tolerances shall be determined from referenced standards.
c. In existing buildings not increasing the building size, a 1.28 gpf maximum water closet is
allowed.
82. CHAPTER 34 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS through CHAPTER 43 CLASS 2
REMOTE-CONTROL, SIGNALING AND POWER-LIMITED CIRCUITS are
deleted in their entirety and replaced with the following:
CHAPTER 34 ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS
SECTION 3401 ADMINISTRATION
3401.1 General. Any buildings or portion thereof regulated by this code shall
comply with the National Electrical Code as adopted by the City. All references in
this code to any section of Chapters 34 through 43 inclusive shall instead refer to
the applicable corresponding sections of the National Electrical Code.
83. APPENDIX BA MANUFACTURED HOUSING USED AS DWELLINGS is adopted
in its entirety.
84. APPENDIX BB TINY HOUSES is adopted in its entirety.
85. APPENDIX BC ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS (ADU) is adopted in its entirety,
and is amended to read as follows:
. . .
BC101.2 Conditions. ADUs shall be permitted without requiring a change of
occupancy where in compliance with all of the following:
1. An ADU shall be permitted within an existing single-family detached
dwelling or within an existing townhouse unit that is within the scope of the
International Residential Code.
2. Only one ADU shall be permitted for each lot.
3. An ADU shall have a separate house number from the primary dwelling unit.
4. ADUs shall be secondary in size and function to the primary dwelling unit and
shall comply with the Land Use Code.
5. An attached ADU shall be provided with a separate entrance from that
serving the primary dwelling unit, either from the exterior of the building or
from a common hallway located within the building.
6. The location of a detached ADU shall comply with Section R302.
- 29 -
7. An ADU shall be provided with adequate provisions for electricity, water
supply and sewage disposal.
SECTION BC102 DEFINITIONS
BC102.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this
appendix, have the meanings shown herein:
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT (ADU). Any structure meeting the definition of
an attached or detached accessory dwelling unit as defined under the Land Use
Code.
. . .
86. APPENDIX BD HOME DAY CARE OCCUPANCY is adopted in its entirety.
87. APPENDIX BE RADON CONTROL METHODS is adopted in its entirety, and is
amended to read as follows:
. . .
BE101.1 General. Radon-resistant construction is required for all new dwellings
constructed under this code as prescribed in this Appendix.
FIGURE BE101.1 EPA MAP OF RADON ZONES
. . .
BE103.1 General. The following construction techniques are intended to resist
radon entry and prepare the building for post-construction radon mitigation.
. . .
BE103.2 Subfloor preparation. A layer of gas-permeable material may be placed
under all concrete slabs and other floor systems that directly contact the ground
and are within the walls of the living spaces of the building, to facilitate future
installation of a subslab depressurization system, if needed. Each radon reduction
vent pipe riser shall serve no more than 4,000 square feet of uninterrupted under
slab/floor area. The gas-permeable layer shall consist of one of the following:
1. A uniform layer of clean aggregate, not less than 4 inches (102 mm) thick.
The aggregate shall consist of material that will pass through a 2 -inch (51
mm) sieve and be retained by a ¼-inch (6.4 mm) sieve.
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2. A uniform layer of sand (native or fill), not less than 4 inches (102 mm) thick,
overlain by a layer or strips of geotextile drainage matting designed to allow
the lateral flow of soil gases.
Exception: A sand base course is not required under geotextile drainage
matting where the concrete slab is installed on well-drained ground or sand-
gravel mixture soils classified as Group 1 according to the United Soil
Classification as detailed in Table R401.4.1(2).
3. Other materials, systems or floor designs with demonstrated capability to
permit depressurization across the entire subfloor area.
BE103.3 Soil-gas-retarder. The soil in crawl spaces shall be covered with a
continuous layer of a minimum 6-mil (0.15 mm) polyethylene or 3 mil (0.75 mm)
cross-laminated polyethylene soil-gas-retarder. The ground cover shall be lapped
not less than 12 inches at joints and sealed or taped. The edges of the ground
cover shall extend a minimum of 12 inches (152 mm) up onto all foundation walls
enclosing the under-floor space and be sealed to the wall and any footing pads. 6-
mil polyethylene also shall be sealed and mechanically fastened to the wall. An
interior perimeter drain tile loop shall be connected to a plumbing tee or other
approved connection as per BE103.5.3.
. . .
BE103.5 Passive submembrane depressurization system. In buildings with
crawl space foundations, the following components of a passive submembrane
depressurization system shall be installed during construction.
BE103.5.2 Soil-gas-retarder. The soil in crawl spaces shall be covered with a
continuous layer of minimum 6-mil (0.15 mm) polyethylene soil-gas-retarder.
The ground cover shall be lapped not less than 12 inches (305 mm) at joints
and shall extend to all foundation walls enclosing the crawl space area.
. . .
BE103.13 Provisions for future depressurization fan installation. Permanent
provisions shall be made for the future installation of an in-line fan to be connected
to every radon vent pipe. Such designated fan locations shall be outside of the
conditioned envelope of the building, such as in the attic, garage and similar
locations, excluding crawl spaces and other interior under-floor spaces.
Designated locations shall accommodate an unobstructed permanent cylindrical
space with the following minimum dimensions: 12 inches (305 mm) measured
radially around the radon vent pipe along a vertical distance of 3 0 inches (760
mm). Designated fan locations shall be permanently accessible for servicing and
maintenance. An electrical receptacle outlet shall be provided within 4 8 inches
(1219 mm) of and within sight from designated fan locations and installed so as to
not be covered by insulation. A light fixture shall be installed in the area of future
fan location.
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SECTION BE104 TESTING
BE104.1 TESTING. Where radon-resistant construction is required, radon testing
shall be as specified in Items 1 through 10:
. . .
9. Written radon test results shall be provided by the test lab or testing
party. The final written test report with results less than 4 picocuries
per liter (pCi/L) shall be provided to the code official or a fan installed
as per Item 10.
10. Where the radon test result is 4 pCi/L or greater, the fan for the radon
vent pipe shall be installed as specified in Sections BE103.9 and
BE103.12.
Exception: Testing is not required where the occupied space is located
above an unenclosed open space.
88. APPENDIX BF PATIO COVERS is adopted in its entirety.
Section 4. The codifier of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby directed
to amend all existing cross references in the City Code and the Land Use Code in
accordance with the provisions of this ordinance.
Section 5. The City Attorney and the City Clerk are hereby authorized to modify
the formatting and to make such other amendments to this Ordinance as necessary to
facilitate publication in the Fort Collins City Code; provided, however, that such
modifications and amendments shall not change the substance of the Code provisions.
Introduced, considered favorably on first reading on December 2, 2025, and
approved on second reading for final passage on December 16, 2025.
______________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
______________________________
City Clerk
Effective Date: December 26, 2025
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Approving Attorney: Madelene Shehan
Exhibit: Exhibit A – Notice of Publication
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE is hereby given of a public hearing to be held before the Council of the City of
Fort Collins,Colorado,on the 2nd day of December,2025,at 6:00 p.m.,or as soon thereafter as
the matter may come on for hearing,in the Council Chambers at the City Hall,300 LaPorte
Avenue, Fort Collins,Colorado for the purpose of considering the adoption of ordinances that adopt
by reference the 2024 International Building Code,2024 International Residential Code,2024
International Energy Conservation Code,2024 International Mechanical Code,2024
International Fuel Gas Code,2024 International Existing Building Code,2024 International
Swimming Pool and Spa Code,2024 International Property Maintenance Code,and the 2024
International Plumbing Code,each promulgated by the International Code Council,the 2023
National Electrical Code and the 2025 Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code,together with local
amendments.
Not less than one (I)copy of said Codes has been,and now is on file in the Office of the
City Clerk of the City of Fort Collins and is available for public inspection.
The purpose of adopting the International Building Code,International Residential Code,
International Energy Conservation Code,International Mechanical Code,International Fuel Gas
Code,International Existing Building Code,International Swimming Pool and Spa Code,
International Property Maintenance Code,International Plumbing Code,National Electrical Code, and
the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code,with local amendments by said ordinances is to provide for
protection of public health,safety and welfare of the City and its residents.
Individuals who wish to address Council via remote public participation can do so through
Zoom at https://zoom.us/i/98241416497.(The link and instructions are also posted
www.fc ov.com/councilcomments.Individuals participating in the Zoom session should watch
the meeting through that site,and not via FCTV,due to the streaming delay and possible audio
interference.
The City of Fort Collins will make reasonable accommodations for access to City services,
programs and activities,and will make special communication arrangements for persons with
disabilities.Please call (970)221-6515 (V/TDD:Dial 711 for Relay Colorado)for assistance.
This notice is given and published by order of the City of Fort Collins,Colorado.
Dated this /4 day of __________2025.
~
City ~rk
Upon request,the City of Fort Collins will provide language access services for individuals who have
limited English proficiency,or auxiliary aids and services for individuals with disabilities,to access
City services,programs and activities.Contact (970) 221-65 15 (VITDD:Dial 711 for Relay
Colorado)for assistance.Please provide 48 hours advance notice when possible.
A peticiOn,Ia Ciudad de Fort Collins proporcionará servicios de acceso a idiomas para personas que
no dominan el idioma inglés,o ayudas y servicios auxiliares para personas con discapacidad,para
que puedan acceder a los servicios,programas y actividades de Ia Ciudad.Para asistencia,llame al
970.221.6515 (V/TDD:Marque 711 para Relay Colorado).Por favor proporcione 48 horas de aviso
previo cuando sea posible.
EXHIBIT A TO ORDINANCE NO. 213, 2025