Ord 045-2007 5/1/2007 ORDINANCE NO. ^1`J"�
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WICHITA FALLS,
TEXAS, AMENDING PART II OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, AT
CHAPTER 22, BUILDINGS AND BUILDING REGULATIONS, ARTICLE II
BUILDING CODES, ARTICLE IV PLUMBING CODES, ARTICLE V
MECHANICAL CODES, ARTICLE VII GAS CODES AND ARTICLE XI
RESIDENTIAL CODES FOR ONE AND TWO FAMILY DWELLINGS, BY
MAKING CERTAIN ADDITIONS, AMENDMENTS, AND DELETIONS
THERETO; FINDING AND DETERMINING THAT THE MEETING AT WHICH
THIS ORDINANCE WAS PASSED WAS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AS
REQUIRED BY LAW.
WHEREAS, the Construction Board of Adjustment and Appeals recommends
the adoption of the 2006 International Codes as amended; and
WHEREAS, the City Council concurs with such adoption.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS, THAT:
SECTION 1. Part II of the Code of Ordinances, at Chapter 22, Buildings and
Building Regu/afions, Article II, Building Codes, is amended to read as follows:
"Sec. 22-26 Adopted.
The following code, published by the International Code Council, is adopted by
reference as though it were copied fully in this section: International Building Code 2006
edition, including Chapters 1-34, and Appendices F and I.
Sec. 22-27. Changes, deletions and amendments.
The following changes, deletions and amendments are made in the International
Buitding Code adopted in Section 22-26:
SECTION 101 GENERAL
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Building Code of the City of
Wichita Falls, Texas], hereinafter referred to as "this code."
101.2 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction,
alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and
occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure
or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures.
Exception: Detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family
dwellings (townhouses) not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a
separate means of egress and their accessory structures shall comply with the 2006
International Residential Code.
101.2.1 Appendices. Provisions in the appendices shall not apply unless
specifically adopted.
101.3 Intent. The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements
to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare through structural strength,
means of egress facilities, stability, sanitation, adequate light and ventilation, energy
conservation, and safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the
built environment and to provide safety to fire fighters and emergency responders
during emergency operations.
101.4 Referenced codes. The other codes listed in Sections 101.4.1 through
101.4.7 and referenced elsewhere in this code shall be considered part of the
requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference.
101.4.1 Electrical. The provisions of the 2005 Nationat Electrical Code shall
apply to the installation of electrical systems, including alterations, repairs, replacement,
equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances thereto.
101.4.2 Gas. The provisions of the 2006 International Fuel Gas Code shall apply
to the installation of gas piping from the point of delivery, gas appliances and related
accessories as covered in this code. These requirements apply to gas piping systems
extending from the point of delivery to the inlet connections of appliances and the
installation and operation of residential and commercial gas appliances and related
accessories.
101.4.3 Mechanical. The provisions of the 2006 International Mechanical Code
shall apply to the installation, alterations, repairs and replacement of inechanical
systems, including equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and/or appurtenances,
including ventilating, heating, cooling, air-conditioning and refrigeration systems,
incinerators and other energy-related systems.
101.4.4 Plumbing. The provisions of the 2006 International Plumbing Code shall
apply to the installation, alteration, repair and replacement of plumbing systems,
including equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances, and where
connected to a water or sewage system and all aspects of a medical gas system. The
provisions of the International Private Sewage Disposal Code shall apply to private
sewage disposal systems.
101.4.6 Fire prevention. The provisions of the 2006 International Fire Code shall
apply to matters affecting or relating to structures, processes and premises from the
hazard of fire and explosion arising from the storage, handling or use of structures,
materials or devices; from conditions hazardous to life, property or public welfare in the
occupancy of structures or premises; and from the construction, extension, repair,
alteration or removal of fire suppression and alarm systems or fire hazards in the
structure or on the premises from occupancy or operation.
101.4.7 Energy. The provisions of the International Energy Conservation Code
shall apply to all matters governing the design and construction of buildings for energy
efficiency.
SECTION 102 APPLICABILITY
102.1 General. Where, in any specific case, different sections of this code
specify different materials, methods of construction or other requirements, the most
restrictive shall govern. Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a
specific requirement, the specific requirement shall be applicable.
102.2 Other laws. The provisions of this code shall not be deemed to nullify any
provisions of local, state or federal law.
102.3 Application of references. References to chapter or section numbers, or to
provisions not specifically identified by number, shall be construed to refer to such
chapter, section or provision of this code.
102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in
this code shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed
extent of each such reference. Where differences occur befinreen provisions of this code
and referenced codes and standards, the provisions of this code shall apply.
102.5 Partial invalidity. In the event that any part or provision of this code is held
to be illegal or void, this shall not have the effect of making void or illegal any of the
other parts or provisions.
102.6 Existing structures. The legal occupancy of any structure existing on the
date of adoption of this code shall be permitted to continue without change, except as is
specifically covered in this code or as is deemed necessary by the building official for
the general safety and welfare of the occupants and the public.
Sec. 103. Building and Code Administration Division
There is hereby established a division to be called the building and code
administration division, and the person in charge shall be known as the building and
code administrator. Any reference in this code or other code to building official shall be
held to mean the building code administrator.
SECTION 105 BUILDING CONTRACTOR LICENSING
105.1 No building permit shall be issued to any building contractor (as defined by
section 105.1.2.) or person for work to be performed pursuant to a building permit
unless such building contractor or person is registered with the building official of the
City in accordance with the following provisions:
(a) Licensing as a building contractor shall be made upon forms
provided by the building official of the city, and all information
requested shall be submitted by the applicant.
(b) Licenses must be renewed annually in order to acquire building
permits or continue work on currently issued building permits.
(c) Failure to keep proper and valid bond or insurance in force will
result in termination of a license and invalidate any active building
permits issued to the building contractor or person. Should such
bond or insurance expire, all fees, including all permit fees, must be
paid again upon renewal of licensing.
(d) Licenses may be revoked or rejected by the buitding official for the
following reasons:
1. Failure to obtain and keep in effect required bond or
insurance;
2. Failure to fully complete the license form;
3. Failure to pay any required fees;
4. Refusal to correct any code violation after notice; or
5. Continuous or repeated violations of the Code of Ordinances
of the city.
(e) No license shall be required for a building permit for a residential
structure to be issued to a homeowner who occupies the property
as his permanent residence or is constructing a new permanent
residence and acts as the general contractor for the work
performed. This provision can only be used once every two years
unless the permit is issued on the same residence. Any
subcontractor who performs work on said residence must meet all
city and state licensing requirements.
(fl Volunteers, unpaid contractors, shall be exempt from licensing
requirements.
(g) The annual license fee shall be $75.00.
(h) No permit shall be issued for commercial construction unless the
applicant is licensed as a general contractor, or is otherwise
exempted under this section.
(i) An Owner or Maintenance Worker as defined in section 104.5.2
shall be exempt from the licensing requirements of this section if
the work to be performed is listed below. The work may be required
to be permitted.
1. Electrical Maintenance Work: includes the repair,
maintenance and replacement of existing electrical
apparatus, existing lighting fixtures, and existing plugs and
switches.
Electrical Maintenance Work does not include changing of
electrical service and the installation of new breaker panels
or wiring. Any person who erects, builds or installs electrical
not already in existence may not be classified as an
Electrical Maintenance Worker. Such maintenance person
shall not engage in electrical work for the general public.
2. Plumbing Maintenance Work: includes the repair,
maintenance and replacement of existing potable water
piping, existing sanitary waste and vent piping, existing
plumbing fixtures, and existing electrical water heaters.
Plumbing Maintenance Work does not include cutting into
fuel gas plumbing systems and the installation of gas-fueled
water heaters. A person who erects, builds, or installs
plumbing not already in existence may not be classified as a
Plumbing Maintenance Worker. Such maintenance person
shall not engage in plumbing work for the general public.
3. Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Maintenance Work:
includes any work required for the continued normal
perFormance of an environmental air conditioning system,
commercial refrigeration system or equipment, or process
cooling or heating system.
4. Building Maintenance Work: construction maintenance work
that includes the repair, maintenance and replacement of
sheet rock, doors, siding, and windows of any existing
building.
Building Maintenance Work does not include any new
construction or structural change of an existing building, or
repair of any load-bearing or structural element of any
building. Such Building Maintenance Worker shall not
engage in construction work for the general public.
(j) No license shall be required for a building permit to be issued to a
non-occupied owner of a one- or two-family dwelling unit for work
on an accessory building. An accessory building includes carports,
outbuildings and other similar structures which do not include any
livable area.
(k) Any building contractor or person whose license has been revoked
or rejected by the building official may appeal to the construction
board of adjustment and appeals as follows:
1. Written notice of the appeal must be made to the board
within ten calendar days of the date on which the building
official rendered his decision;
2. The board shall hear the appeal within 30 calendar days
from the notice of appeal filed by the contractor. During the
pendency of the appeal, contractor shall not perform any
additional work without the approval of the building official;
3. The decision of the board on any appeal taken under this
section shall be final and binding.
105.1.2 Bond and Insurance Requirements
Any person or persons, firm, corporation or association required to be licensed
per section 105.1 and seeking to acquire any permit for the type of work identified below
shall first furnish the building official with a compliance bond in the following amounts:
Contractor Bond General Liability Insurance
Residential Roofin contractor $ 25,000 $100,000
Sidin contractor 25,000 100,000
Residential 50,000 300,000
Residential/commercial 25,000 100,000
remodel/renovation under $50,000
includin Residential Roofs
General contractor 100,000 500,000
Si n contractor 100,000
Pavin contractor 100,000
Pavin /street 100,000
House movers 100,000
Demolition contractor 100,000
Excavation 100,000
I rri ators 100, 000
Definitions:
1. Contractor: Any person or entity who undertakes to, attempts to, or
submits a price or bid or offers to construct, supervise, superintend, oversee, schedule,
direct, or in any manner assume charge of the construction, alteration, repair,
improvement, movement, demolition, putting up, tearing down, or furnishing labor to
install material or equipment for any building, highway, road, railroad, sewer, grading,
excavation, pipeline, public utility, structure, project development, housing, housing
development, improvement, or any other construction undertaking. "Contractor"
includes, but is not limited to, prime contractor, electrical contractor, construction
manager of any kind whatsoever, inctuding, but not limited to, residential construction
manager, construction consultant, architect, and/or engineer who conducts or provides
any activity or service described herein other than normal architectural or engineering
services.
2. Residential Contractor: Contractor authorized to do residential home
building and remodeling.
3. Paving Contractor: Contractor authorized to pave sidewalks and/or
approaches in public right-of-way.
4. Paving/Streets Contractor: Contractor authorized to do street work.
5. Excavation Contractor: Contractor authorized to perform excavations in
public right-of-way.
6. General Contractor: Contractor authorized to do commercial construction
and residential construction.
7. Owner: Any person or entity who possesses legal title to the property or
such person or entity who may be the operator or manager of the property by written
authorization of the owner.
8. Maintenance Work: Repair work and all other work required for the
continued normal performance of any commercial property.
9. Maintenance Worker: A regular bona fide employee of an Owner, as
opposed to an independent contractor, who performs Maintenance Work.
All compliance bonds shall be issued by a surety agency authorized to do
business in the State of Texas. Bond issuance is further conditioned upon compliance
with all provisions of the building code and other applicable ordinances and regulations
of the City of Wichita Falls by the principal, his agents and employees. All sureties on
said bond shall be liable for breach thereof to the City of Wichita Falls; to the owner of
the property upon which work is performed; to any person, firm or corporation with
whom the principal has contracted either orally or in writing to perform building
construction, alteration, repair or other work; and to any person who may be damaged
or injured by the principal's failure to comply with the regulations, ordinances and
building code of the City of Wichita Falls. A claim upon said bond may be made by any
person damaged by reason of the principal's failure to perform his obligation under the
ordinances, building code and regulations of the City of Wichita Falls. Suspension or
revocation of any license or permit shall not limit the liability of either the principal or the
surety on any such bond.
The comprehensive general liability insurance required shall be per occurrence,
including coverage for bodily injury and property damage, with products liability and
completed operations coverage. The insurance coverage shall include a provision that
in the event such coverage is canceled or reduced, the insurance carrier shall notify the
building official at least ten days prior to such cancellation or reduction in coverage.
Prior to issuance of any such permit, such applicant shall furnish the building
official with a certificate of insurance evidencing the required insurance coverage.
Any applicant's permit shall be automatically suspended during any period in
which the applicant fails to maintain in effect the required bond or insurance.
Prior to issuance of any type of permit required under this chapter, the building
official shall require that homeowners show proof of ownership and/or residency.
Documents of proof may include but are not limited to the following: current driver's
license, property deeds, tax statements, or utility statements.
105.2 Work exempt from permit requirements. Exemptions 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:
1. Electrical work involving the repair or replacement of existing electrical
apparatus, existing lighting fixtures and existing plugs and switches.
2. Plumbing work involving the stopping of leaks in drains, water, soil, waste
or vent pipes; provided, however, that if any concealed trap, drainpipe, water, soil,
waste or vent pipe needs to be removed and replaced with new material, such work
shall be considered as new work, and a permit shall be obtained, and inspection made,
to ensure code compliance.
3. The clearing of stoppages or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves or
fixtures, and the removal and reinstallation of water closets, provided such repairs do
not involve or require the rearrangement of valves, pipes or fixtures.
4. Mechanical work involving the following activities:
(a) Portable heating appliances
(b) Portable ventilation appliances
(c) Portable cooling unit
(d) Steam, hot or chilled water piping within any heating or
cooling equipment
(e) Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval
of equipment or to make such equipment unsafe.
5. Gas work involving any portable heating, cooking or clothes-drying
appliances.
6. Building work involving the following activities:
(a) Repair of damaged sheet rock. This does not include areas
of required means of egress, rated walls or removal of sheet
rock due to damage from water, mold problems, fire or
termite damage.
(b) Replacement of any existing door, door casing and door
hardware.
(c) Replacement of windows as long as the framing is not
changed and is in sound condition.
(d) Repair of damaged siding, fascia or soffit as long as the area
does not exceed 1/10 of the building's siding. (This area is
calculated on area of same.) This does not include damage
caused by water, mold, fire or termites.
(e) Repair of torn shingles or patching when no tear-off is
required. (This does not include overlay.)
(fl Any cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.
(g) Painting, carpeting, and similar cosmetic work.
(h) Swings and other playground equipment accessory to a one-
or two-family dwelling.
(i) Sidewalks and drives not more than 30 inches above
adjacent grade and not over any basement or story below.
(j) Fences not over 6 feet high.
(k) Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet in height measured
from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall.
(I) Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R-3
occupancy that are less than 24 inches deep, do not exceed
5000 gallons and are installed entirely above ground.
(m) 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 of Group R-3 and
U occupancies.
105.2.1 Emergency repairs. Where equipment replacements and repairs must
be performed in an emergency situation, the permit application shall be submitted within
the next working business day to the building official.
105.2.2 Repairs. Application or notice to the building official is not required for
ordinary repairs to structures, replacement of lamps or the connection of approved
portable electrical equipment to approved permanently installed receptacles. Such
repairs shall not include the cutting away of any wall, partition or portion thereof, the
removal or cutting of any structural beam or load-bearing support, or the removal or
change of any required means of egress, or rearrangement of parts of a structure
affecting the egress requirements; nor shall ordinary repairs include addition to,
alteration of, replacement or relocation of any standpipe, water supply, sewer, drainage,
drain leader, gas, soil, waste, vent or similar piping, electric wiring or mechanical or
other work affecting public health or general safety.
105.2.3 Public service agencies. A permit shall not be required for the
installation, alteration or repair of generation, transmission, distribution or metering or
other related equipment that is under the ownership and control of public service
agencies by established right.
105.3.1 Action on application. The building official shall examine or cause to be
examined applications for permits and amendments thereto within a reasonable time
after filing. If the application or the construction documents do not conform to the
requirements of pertinent laws, the building official shall reject such application in
writing, stating the reasons therefor. If the building official is satisfied that the proposed
work conforms to the requirements of this code and laws and ordinances applicable
thereto, the building official shall issue a permit therefor as soon as practicable.
105.3.2 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 90 days each. The extension shall be
requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated.
105.4 Validity of permit. The issuance or granting of a permit shall not be
construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, any violation of any of the provisions of
this code or of any other ordinance of the jurisdiction. Permits presuming to give
authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or other ordinances of the
jurisdiction shall not be valid. The issuance of a permit based on construction
documents and other data shall not prevent the building official from requiring the
correction of errors in the construction documents and other data. The building official is
also authorized to prevent occupancy or use of a structure where in violation of this
code or of any other ordinances of this jurisdiction.
105.5 Expiration. Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on
the site authorized by such permit is commenced within 180 days after its issuance, or if
the work authorized on the site by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period
of 180 days after the time the work is commenced. 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.
105.6 Suspension or revocation. The building official is authorized to suspend or
revoke a permit issued under the provisions of this code wherever the permit is issued
in error or on the basis of incorrect, inaccurate or incomplete information, or in violation
of any ordinance or regulation or any of the provisions of this code.
105.7 Placement of permit. The building permit or copy shall be kept on the site
of the work until the completion of the project.
105.8 Restoration permit. A restoration permit may be issued for buildings or
structures, which has been determined by City Council to be dangerous under Article
VIII, Dangerous Buildings or Structures, Section 22-605, Duties of City Council, but for
which Council determines that the owner, lienholder, or mortgagee has legitimate intent
to rehabilitate the structure. Such permit may be issued with individual requirements for
the timing of the submittal of requested information and the completion of rehabilitation
activities. The permit will not be valid unless deadlines are met; otherwise, the structure
may still be subject to demolition without further action of the Council.
SECTION 106 CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
106.1 Submittal documents. Construction documents, special inspection and
structural observation programs and other data shall be submitted in one or more sets
with each application for a permit. The construction documents shall be prepared by a
registered design professional where the following conditions exist:
The design professional shall be an architect or engineer legally registered under
the laws of this state regulating the practice of architecture or engineering and shall affix
his official seal to said drawings, specifications and accompanying data, for the
following:
1. All Group A(Assembly), E(Education) and I(Institutional) occupancies.
2. Buildings and structures three stories or more high.
3. Buildings and structures 5,000 sq.ft. (465 m or more in area.
For all other buildings and structures, the submittal shall bear the certification of
the applicant that some specific state law exception permits its preparation by a person
not so registered.
EXCEPTION: Group R3 buildings, regardless of size, shall require neither a
registered architect or engineer, nor a certification that an architect or engineer is not
required.
106.1.1 Information on construction documents. Construction documents shall
be dimensioned and drawn upon suitable material. Electronic media documents are
permitted to be submitted when approved by the building official. Construction
documents shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature and extent of the
work proposed and show in detail that it will conform to the provisions of this code and
relevant laws, ordinances, rules and regulations, as determined by the building official.
106.1.1.1 Fire protection system shop drawings. Shop drawings for the fire
protection system(s) shall be submitted to indicate conformance with this code and the
construction documents and shall be approved prior to the start of system installation.
Shop drawings shall contain all information as required by the referenced installation
standards in Chapter 9.
106.1.2 Means of egress. The construction documents shall show in sufficient
detail the location, construction, size and character of all portions of the means of
egress in compliance with the provisions of this code. In other than occupancies in
Groups R-2, R-3, and I-1, the construction documents shall designate the number of
occupants to be accommodated on every floor, and in all rooms and spaces.
106.1.3 Exterior wall envelope. Construction documents for all buildings shall
describe the exterior wall envelope in sufficient detail to determine compliance with this
code. The construction documents shall provide details of the exterior wall envelope as
required, including flashing, intersections with dissimilar materials, corners, end details,
control joints, intersections at roof, eaves or parapets, means of drainage, water-
resistive membrane and details around openings.
The construction documents shall include manufacturer's installation instructions
that provide supporting documentation that the proposed penetration and opening
details described in the construction documents maintain the weather resistance of the
exterior wall envelope. The supporting documentation shall fully describe the exterior
wall system which was tested, where applicable, as well as the test procedure used.
106.2 Site plan. The construction documents submitted with the application for
permit shall be accompanied by a site plan showing to scale the size and location of
new construction and existing structures on the site, distances from lot lines, the
established street grades and the proposed finished grades and, as applicable, flood
hazard areas, floodways, and design flood elevations; and it shall be drawn in
accordance with an accurate boundary line survey. In the case of demolition, the site
plan shall show construction to be demolished and the location and size of existing
structures and construction that are to remain on the site or plot. The building official is
authorized to waive or modify the requirement for a site plan when the application for
permit is for alteration or repair or when otherwise warranted.
106.3 Examination of documents. The building official shall examine or cause to
be examined the accompanying construction documents and shall ascertain by such
examinations whether the construction indicated and described is in accordance with
the requirements of this code and other pertinent laws or ordinances.
106.3.1 Approval of construction documents. When the building official issues a
permit, the construction documents shall be approved, in writing or by stamp, as
"Reviewed for Code Compliance." 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.
106.3.2 Previous approvals. This code shall not require changes in the
construction documents, construction or designated occupancy of a structure for which
a lawful permit has been heretofore issued or otherwise lawfully authorized, and the
construction of which has been pursued in good faith within 180 days after the effective
date of this code and has not been abandoned.
106.3.3 Phased approval. The building official is authorized to issue a permit for
the construction of foundations or any other part of a building or structure before the
construction documents for the whole building or structure have been submitted,
provided that adequate information and detailed statements have been filed complying
with pertinent requirements of this code. The holder of such permit for the foundation or
other parts of a building or structure shall proceed at the holder's own risk with the
building operation and without assurance that a permit for the entire structure will be
granted.
106.3.4 Design professional in responsible charge.
106.3.4.1 General. When it is required that documents be prepared by a
registered design professional, the building official shall be authorized to require the
owner to engage and designate on the building permit application a registered design
professional who shall act as the registered design professional in responsible charge. If
the circumstances require, the owner shall designate a substitute registered design
professional in responsible charge who shall perForm the duties required of the original
registered design professional in responsible charge. The building official shall be
notified in writing by the owner if the registered design professional in responsible
charge is changed or is unable to continue to perForm the duties.
The registered design professional in responsible charge shall be responsible for
reviewing and coordinating submittal documents prepared by others, including phased
and deferred submittal items, for compatibility with the design of the building.
Where structural observation is required by Section 1709, the statement of
special inspections shall name the individual or firms who are to perform structural
observation and describe the stages of construction at which structural observation is to
occur (see also duties specified in Section 1704).
106.3.4.2 Deferred submittals. For the purposes of this section, deferred
submittals are defined as those portions of the design that are not submitted at the time
of the application and that are to be submitted to the building official within a specified
period.
Deferral of any submittal items shall have the prior approval of the building
official. The registered design professional in responsible charge shall list the deferred
submittals on the construction documents for review by the building official.
Documents for deferred submittal items shall be submitted to the registered
design professional in responsible charge who shall review them and forward them to
the building official with a notation indicating that the deferred submittal documents have
been reviewed and been found to be in general conformance to the design of the
building. The deferred submittal items shall not be installed until the design and
submittal documents have been approved by the building official.
106.4 Amended construction documents. Work shall be installed in accordance
with the approved construction documents, and any changes made during construction
that are not in compliance with the approved construction documents shall be
resubmitted for approval as an amended set of construction documents.
106.5 Retention of construction documents. One set of approved construction
documents shall be retained by the building official for a period of not less than 180
days from date of completion of the permitted work, or as required by state or local
laws.
SECTION 109 INSPECTIONS
109.1 General. Construction or work for which a permit is required shall be
subject to inspection by the building official and such construction or work shall remain
accessible and exposed for inspection purposes until approved. Approval as a result of
an inspection shall not be construed to be an approval of a violation of the provisions of
this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction. Inspections presuming to give
authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or of other ordinances of the
jurisdiction shall not be valid. It shall be the duty of the permit applicant to cause the
work to remain accessible and exposed for inspection purposes. Neither the building
official nor the jurisdiction shall be liable for expense entailed in the removal or
replacement of any material required to allow inspection.
109.2 Preliminary inspection. Before issuing a permit, the building official is
authorized to examine or cause to be examined buildings, structures and sites for which
an application has been filed.
109.3 Required inspections. The building official, upon notification, shall make
the inspections set forth in Sections 109.3.1 through 109.3.10.
109.3.1 Footing and foundation inspection. Footing and foundation inspections
shall be made after excavations for footings are complete and any required reinforcing
steel is in place. For concrete foundations, any required forms shall be in place prior to
inspection. Materials for the foundation shall be on the job, except where concrete is
ready mixed in accordance with ASTM C 94, the concrete need not be on the job.
109.3.2 Concrete slab and under-floor inspection. Concrete slab and under-floor
inspections shall be made after in-slab or under-floor reinforcing steel and building
service equipment, conduit, piping accessories and other ancillary equipment items are
in place, but before any concrete is placed or floor sheathing installed, including the
subfloor.
109.3.3 Lowest floor elevation. In flood hazard areas, upon placement of the
lowest floor, including the basement, and prior to further vertical construction, the
elevation certification required in Chapter 54 of the Code of Ordinances shall be
submitted to the building official.
109.3.4 Frame inspection. Framing inspections shall be made after the roof deck
or sheathing, all framing, fireblocking and bracing are in place and pipes, chimneys and
vents to be concealed are complete and the rough electrical, plumbing, heating wires,
pipes and ducts are approved.
109.3.5 Lath and gypsum board inspection. Lath and gypsum board inspections
shall be made after lathing and gypsum board, interior and exterior, is in place, but
before any plastering is applied or gypsum board joints and fasteners are taped and
finished.
Exception: Gypsum board that is not part of a fire-resistance-rated assembly or a
shear assembly.
109.3.6 Fire-resistant penetrations. Protection of joints and penetrations in fire-
resistance-rated assemblies shall not be concealed from view until inspected and
approved.
109.3.7 Energy efficiency inspections. Inspections shall be made to determine
compliance with Chapter 13 and shall include, but not be limited to, inspections for:
envelope insulation R and U values, fenestration U value, duct system R value, and
HVAC and water-heating equipment efficiency.
109.3.8 Other inspections. In addition to the inspections specified above, the
building official is authorized to make or require other inspections of any construction
work to ascertain compliance with the provisions of this code and other laws that are
enforced by the department of building safety.
109.3.9 Special inspections. For special inspections, see Section 1704.
109.3.10 Final inspection. The final inspection shall be made after all work
required by the building permit is completed.
109.4 Inspection agencies. The building official is authorized to accept reports of
approved inspection agencies, provided such agencies satisfy the requirements as to
qualifications and reliability.
109.5 Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the holder of the building permit
or their duly authorized agent to notify the building official when work is ready for
inspection. It shall be the duty of the permit holder to provide access to and means for
inspections of such work that are required by this code.
109.6 Approval required. Work shall not be done beyond the point indicated in
each successive inspection without first obtaining the approval of the building official.
The building official, upon notification, shall make the requested inspections and shall
either indicate the portion of the construction that is satisfactory as completed, or notify
the permit holder or his or her agent wherein the same fails to comply with this code.
Any portions that do not comply shall be corrected and such portion shall not be
covered or concealed until authorized by the building official.
Section 112. Board of Appeals
112.1 Appointment. There is hereby established a board to be called the
construction board of adjustment and appeals which shall consist of eleven regular
members and two alternate members. The applicable governing body shall appoint the
board.
112.2 Application for appeal. A person shall have the right to appeal a decision
of the building official to the construction board of adjustment and appeals. An
application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this code or the
rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this
code do not fully apply, or an equally good or better form of construction is proposed.
The application shall be filed on a form obtained from the building official within 20 days
after the notice was served.
112.3. Membership. The construction board of adjustment and appeals shall be
composed of one general building contractor, one mechanical engineer, one structural
engineer, one architect, one person representing the home building industry, one
plumbing contractor, one air conditioning contractor, one Electrical Contractor, one
Master Electrician, one person representing the property insurance industry and one
citizen at large not connected with the construction industry. The two alternate members
shall consist of one general building contractor and one person representing the home
building industry. A board member shall not act in any case where he has a financial
interest. Board members' terms shall expire on December 31.
112.4. Terms. Of the regular members first appointed, three shall be appointed
for terms of one year, three shall be appointed for terms of two years and three shall be
appointed for terms of three years. The two alternate members shall be appointed for
two-year terms. After the initial appointment, members to the board shall be appointed
for three-year terms. In no case shall a member serve more than six consecutive years.
Continued absence of any member from required meetings of the board shall, at the
discretion of the applicable governing body, render any such member subject to
immediate removal from office.
112.5. Quorum and voting. Five members of the board shall constitute a quorum.
In varying any provision of this code or modifying a decision of the building official,
affirmative votes of the majority present, but not less than five affirmative votes, shall be
required. In the event that regular members are unable to attend a meeting, the
alternate members shall vote.
112.6. Board acting in an advisory capacity. In addition to other duties noted
herein, the board shall act as an advisory board on matters of building code
requirements, modifications or amendments. The board may hear evidence of any
proposals from the building code administrator or other persons and may present
opinions of such proposals to the city council for further action.
SECTION 113 VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES
113.1 Unlawful acts. Any person, firm, corporation or agent who shall violate a
provision of the technical codes, or fail to comply therewith, or with any of the
requirements thereof, or who shall erect, construct, alter, install, demolish or move any
structure, electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, or has erected, constructed,
altered, repaired, moved or demolished a building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical
or plumbing system, in violation of a detailed statement or drawing submitted and
permitted thereunder, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. Each such person shall be
deemed guilty of a separate offense for each and every day during which any violation
of any of the provisions of this code is committed or continued, and upon conviction of
any such violation such person shall be punished by a fine as provided in section 1-14.
Any person found doing work without meeting the licensing, bond and liability insurance
requirements set forth in section 105 shall be punished by a fine of not less than
$500.00.
113.2 Responsibility for enforcement; police powers. The local Building and Code
Administration Division, the code compliance and code enforcement officers and other
authorized employees of the division shall have all of the powers and authority of peace
officers to the extent only, and no further, of enforcing all of the International Codes
adopted by ordinance and other city ordinances relating to buildings, electrical,
plumbing, mechanical, health and safety, landscaping, and zoning. No person shall
interFere in any manner or give false information to the above-mentioned employees in
the performance of their duties."
Section 115. Unsafe Structures
115.1 Unsafe Buildings or Systems. All such unsafe buildings are hereby
declared illegal and shall be abated by repair and rehabilitation or by demolition in
accordance with the provisions of the current city dangerous buildings or structures
ordinance, codified as Chapter 22, Article VIII, at Sections 22-601 through 22-608.
Alterations, repairs or rehabilitation work shall be subject to the following
requirements:
(a) Alterations, repairs or rehabilitation work shall not cause an existing
building to become unsafe as defined in this section.
(b) Whenever a building or structure on one side of a party wall or adjacent
wall is removed, the remaining party wall or adjacent wall shall be left in a safe,
weatherproof condition.
Permanent bracing or other repairs shall be provided as necessary whenever, in
the opinion of the building official, the stability of the remaining wall is affected. Open
beam holes, or other openings between the top wall and roof, shall be closed in such
manner as to make the remaining building closed to the effects of weather. All such
repairs, stabilizing and/or weatherproofing must be done in a manner approved by the
building official, and all work will be done at the expense of the person who removes the
building or structure. After repairs are completed and approved, continued maintenance
of the remaining wall will become the responsibility of the person who owns the
remaining building.
(c) Whenever a building or structure is removed, the site shall be left in such
condition so as to prevent the accumulation of water that may undermine foundations of
adjacent buildings or structures.
(d) After a building or structure is removed, the owner of the remaining
building must be allowed access to the adjacent property for the purpose of
maintenance of the remaining wall."
Section 202. Definitions
Historic Buildings. Buildings that are listed in the National Register of Historic
Places, or designated as historic under an appropriate state or local law or were
constructed prior to 1936. See Section 3406.
Section 1612. Flood Loads
SECTION 1612 FLOOD LOADS
The applicable provisions of Chapter 54 of the Code of Ordinances shall govern
flood loads.
Section 3410 is deleted
SECTION 2, Part II of the Code of Ordinances, at Chapter 22, Buildings and Building
Regulations, Article IV, Plumbing Codes, is amended to read as follows:
Sec. 22-481. Adopted.
The following code, published by the International Code Council, is adopted by
reference as though it were copied fully in this section: 2006 International Plumbing
Code, including Chapters 1--13, and Appendices B through G.
Sec. 22-482. Changes, deletions and amendments.
The following changes, deletions and amendments are made in the 2006
International Plumbing Code adopted in section 22-481 and shall read as follows:
101.1 Title,
These regulations shall be known as the International Plumbing Code of the City
of Wichita Falls hereinafter referred to as "this code."
"SECTION 103. BUILDING AND CODE ADMINISTRATION DIVISION
103.1 General. There is hereby established a division to be called building and
code administration, and the person in charge shall be known as the building and code
administrator. Any reference in this code or other code to building official or code official
shall be held to mean the building and code administrator.
SECTION 104 DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE CODE OFFICIAL
104.1 General. This section shall comply with Chapter 22, Buildings and Building
Regulations, Section 22-27, Changes, deletions and amendments, Section 104, Duties
and Powers of the Building Official, in the Code of Ordinances, City of Wichita Falls,
Texas.
SECTION 105 PLUMBERS LICENSING
Section 105.1 License for Plumbers Required. It shall be unlawful for any
person, firm or corporation to engage in the practice of plumbing in Wichita Falls without
first securing from the State of Texas a proper license issued by the state board of
plumbing examiners at Austin, Texas, pursuant to the Plumbing License Law, Vernon's
Ann. Civ. St. art. 6243-101, as it may be amended from time to time. It shall be unlawful
for any person, firm or corporation to represent themselves as a registered and licensed
plumber of any class set out in this code, or to use falsely the words "plumbing
contractor," "journeyman plumber," or "plumber," or words of similar import or meaning
on signs, cards, stationery, or by other misleading manner whatsoever within the City of
Wichita Falls, unless such person, firm or corporation is, in fact, registered and holds a
valid license within the meaning of the words used and as provided in this code.
Section 105.2 Registration of Plumbing Contractors: Any person, company, firm,
partnership or corporation desiring to engage in the business of plumbing within the
corporate limits of the City of Wichita Falls, Texas, shall register with the City of Wichita
Falls, Building and Code Administration Division with an annual registration fee of
$75.00.
Section 105.3 Insurance Requirement for Plumbing Contractors. Plumbing
Contactors shall provide proof of insurance as required by the State.
Section 105.4 Licensing of Irrigators. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or
corporation, who are not licensed plumbers, to engage in the practice of irrigation
installation in Wichita Falls without first securing from the State of Texas a proper
license issued by the state board of irrigators at Austin, Texas, pursuant to The
Licensed Irrigators Act, Vernon's Ann. Civ. St. art. 3751, as it may be amended from
time to time. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to represent
themselves as a registered and licensed irrigator or to use falsely the words "irrigator" or
"licensed irrigator," or words of similar import or meaning, on signs, cards, stationery, or
by other misleading manner whatsoever within the City of Wichita Falls, unless such
person, firm or corporation is, in fact, registered and holds a valid state license.
Section 105.5 Registration of Irrigators. Any person, company, firm, partnership
or corporation desiring to engage in the business as an irrigator within the corporate
limits of the City of Wichita Falls, Texas, shall register with the City of Wichita Falls,
Building and Code Administration Division with an annual registration fee of $75.00.
SECTION 106 PERMITS
106.1 When required. Any property owner who occupies the building or structure
as his homestead, authorized agent or registered plumbing contractor who desires to
construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building
or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any
plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any
such work to be done, shall first make application to the code official and obtain the
required permit for the work.
106.6.2 Fee schedule.
The fees for all plumbing work shall be as indicated in the schedule located in
City of Wichita Falls code of ordinances, Chapter 2 Administration, Article VI,
Development Fees at Section 2-908, Plumbing permits, or as amended hereafter:
106.6.3 Fee refunds.
The code official is authorized to establish a refund policy.
SECTION 109 MEANS OF APPEAL
109.1 General. This section shall comply with Chapter 22, Section 22-27,
Changes, deletions and amendments, Section 112, Board of Appeals, in the Code of
Ordinances, City of Wichita Falls, Texas.
312.2 Drainage and vent water test. A water test shall be applied to the drainage
system either in its entirety or in sections. If applied to the entire system, all openings in
the piping shall be tightly closed, except the highest opening, and the system shall be
filled with water to point of overflow. If the system is tested in sections, each opening
shall be tightly plugged except the highest openings of the section under test, and each
section shall be filled with water, but no section shall be tested with less than a 5-foot
(3048 mm) head of water. In testing successive sections, at least the upper 10 feet
(3048 mm) of the next preceding section shall be tested so that no joint or pipe in the
building, except the uppermost 10 feet (3048 mm) of the system, shall have been
submitted to a test of less than a 5-foot (3048 mm) head of water. The water shall be
kept in the system, or in the portion under test, for at least 15 minutes before inspection
starts. The system shall then be tight at all points.
Exception: Drainage lines outside of the building footprint are exempt
unless covered by concrete or asphalt.
Section 312.6 is deleted
Section 312.7 is deleted.
312.9 Inspection and testing of backftow prevention assemblies.
312.9.1 Approval and testing
1. Approval of devices. All devices used for the prevention of backflow or
back siphonage shall meet the requirements of table P2902.4.3. Devices installed in a
potable water supply for protection against backflow shall be maintained in an operable
condition by the property owner or other person having control of such devices. The
City of Wichita Falls Building and Code Administration Division shall require periodic
testing of such devices and, when found to be inoperative or defective, shall require that
they be repaired or replaced.
2. Testing of backflow prevention devices. All backflow prevention
devices shall be tested in accordance with manufacturer's recommended performance
standards. Testing shall be conducted at the time of installation, then every five years
thereafter. If the device is repaired or relocated, testing of the device shall be
conducted at the time of repair or relocation, and every five years of service thereafter.
Backflow devices used in hazardous applications shall be tested annually.
3. Approval of testers. All tests or repairs or backflow prevention devices
shall be conducted by a person who has been certified by an approved agency in
accordance with TCEQ standards.
4. Records of test required. All tests required by this section shall be
recorded on forms provided by the City of Wichita Falls Building and Code
Administration Division. These forms shatl be completed by the tester and submitted to
the City Building and Code Administration Division as part of a permanent record.
The consumer, property owner, or person having control of such devices shall be
responsible for ensuring that all necessary repairs and tests of the devices are initiated.
The tester shall be responsible for the initial testing of any device that they have
installed or repaired and for the completion and submittal of required test forms.
Any consumer, property owner, or tester who shall fail to provide tests or records,
as required by this section, shall be in violation of this section and shall be subject to the
penalties as set forth in the plumbing code and state law.
Section 312.9.2, Testing, is deleted.
[M] 314.2.3 Auxiliary and secondary drain systems.
In addition to the requirements of Section 314.2.1, a secondary drain or auxiliary
drain pan shall be required for each cooling or evaporator coil or fuel-fired appliance
that produces condensate, where damage to any building components will occur as a
result of overFlow from the equipment drain pan or stoppage in the condensate drain
piping. One of the following methods shall be used:
1. An auxiliary drain pan with a separate drain shall be provided under the
coils on which condensation will occur. The auxiliary pan drain shall discharge to a
conspicuous point of disposal to alert occupants in the event of a stoppage of the
primary drain. The pan shall have a minimum depth of 1.5 inches (38 mm), shall not be
less than 3 inches (76 mm) larger than the unit or the coil dimensions in width and
length and shall be constructed of corrosion-resistant material. Metallic pans shall have
a minimum thickness of not less than 0.0276-inch (0.7 mm) galvanized sheet metal.
Nonmetallic pans shall have a minimum thickness of not less than 0.0625 inch (1.6
mm).
2. A separate overflow drain line shall be connected to the drain pan
provided with the equipment. The overflow drain shall discharge to a conspicuous point
of disposal to alert occupants in the event of a stoppage of the primary drain. The
overflow drain line shall connect to the drain pan at a higher level than the primary drain
connection.
3. An auxiliary drain pan without a separate drain line shall be provided
under the coils on which condensate will occur. The pan shall be equipped with a water-
level detection device conforming to UL 508 that will shut off the equipment served prior
to overFlow of the pan. The auxiliary drain pan shall be constructed in accordance with
Item 1 of this section.
504.7 Required pan.
Where water heaters or hot water storage tanks are installed in locations where
leakage of the tanks or connections will cause damage, the tank or water heater shall
be installed in a galvanized steel pan having a minimum thickness of 24 gage, or other
pans approved for such use.
Exception: Replacement water heaters where the existing installation does not
include a pan and drains are not readily accessible.
608.7 Water Supply Control. An accessible one-fourth turn ball valve shall be
installed outside, near the entrance of the water service pipe to the building. The valve
shall be full port bronze one-fourth turn ball valve, 400 WOG (nonshock) 125 psi
saturated steam. It shall be located and assessable in a valve box with a readily
removable access cover which extends to grade level. Combination stop-and-waste
valves or cocks shall not be installed underground.
1002.4 Trap seals.
Each fixture trap shall have a liquid seal of not less than 2 inches (51 mm) and
not more than 4 inches (102 mm), or deeper for special designs relating to accessible
fixtures. Where a trap seal is subject to loss by evaporation, a deep-seal trap consisting
of a 4-inch (102 mm) seal valve shall be installed. A trap seal primer valve shall conform
to ASSE 1018 or ASSE 1044.
SECTION 3 Part II of the Code of Ordinances, at Chapter 22, Buildings and
Building Regulations, Article V, Mechanica/ Codes, is amended to read as follows:
Sec. 22-511. Adopted.
The following code, published by the International Code Council, is adopted by
reference as though it were copied fully in this section: 2006 International Mechanical
Code, including Chapters 1--15.
Sec. 22-512. Changes, deletions and amendments.
The following changes, deletions and amendments are made in the International
Mechanical Code adopted in section 22-511:
101.1 Title.
These regulations shall be known as the Mechanical Code of the City of Wichita
Falls, Texas, hereinafter referred to as "this code."
"SECTION 103. BUILDING AND CODE ADMINISTRATION DIVISION
103.1 General. There is hereby established a division to be called building and
code administration, and the person in charge shall be known as the building and code
administrator. Any reference in this code or other code to building official or code official
shall be held to mean the building and code administrator.
SECTION 104 DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE CODE OFFICIAL
104.1 General. This section shall comply with Chapter 22, Buildings and Building
Regulations, Section 22-27, Changes, deletions and amendments, Section 104, Duties
and Powers of the Building Official, in the Code of Ordinances, City of Wichita Falls,
Texas.
SECTION 105 MECHANICAL CONTRACTOR LICENSING
Section 105.1 Insurance and Licensing Requirements.
All persons, firms, corporations, or agents engaged in the installation or repair of
heating, ventilating, duct, air conditioning and refrigeration systems for domestic or
commercial purposes in and about buildings where a person or persons live, work or
assemble in the City of Wichita Falls under terms of this code shall, before they do any
work, execute and deliver to the City of Wichita Falls a certificate of insurance showing
the City of Wichita Falls as an additional insured or a 30 day notice of cancellation
endorsement.
Insurance shall be conditioned that all such heating, ventilation, duct, air conditioning,
and refrigeration systems shall be done so that they conform with all of the rules and
regulations provided by this code. The insurance shall be further conditioned that the
City of Wichita Falls will be indemnified against all loss and damage occasioned by the
negligence of the principal therein failing properly to execute and protect any work done
by him or his employees or under his direction or supervision.
In case the principal on such insurance shall fail or refuse to install or construct any
heating, ventilating, duct, air conditioning or refrigeration systems in accordance with
such rules and regulations contained in this code, the owner of any house or premises
who may be aggrieved or injured thereby may have recourse on such insurance, or the
city may take action on the insurance for the use and benefit of such owner, provided
that, in such case, such work is first disapproved by the mechanical inspector as herein
provided. Should the mechanical inspector refuse to issue his certificate of approval of
such work on account of the failure of the mechanical installer to comply with such rules
and regulations, in case of failure or refusal on the part of such principal to rectify or
change such work so as to make it comply with such rules and regulations, then after
three days from the time notice was given it shall be the duty of the sureties on the
insurance performing the same as herein provided, the said owner, or the city for the
owner's benefit, may have recourse against the principal and sureties on the insurance
herein provided for.
No heating, ventilating, duct, air conditioning and refrigeration systems shall be done by,
and no permit issued to, any contractor unless he has such insurance in full force and
effect.
A person required to have an air conditioning contractor license pursuant to Vernon's
Ann. Civ. St. art. 8861 shall register with the Building and Code Administration Division
with an annual fee of $75.00 prior to performing work within the City of Wichita Falls file
a copy of his license with the city inspection division and shall also file a copy of any
renewal license not later than 30 days after the renewal license is obtained."
SECTION 106, PERMITS
106.1. When required. An owner, authorized agent or contractor who desires to
erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace a mechanical system, the
installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause such work to be done, must
have a Texas Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors License and an E.P.A.
Recovery Certificate to do any work other than duct work, and shall first make
application to the code official and obtain the required permit for the work.
Exception: Where equipment and appliance replacements or repairs must be
performed in an emergency situation, the permit application shall be
submitted within the next working business day to the Building and Code
Administration.
106.5.2 Fee schedule. The fees for mechanical work shall be as indicated in the
schedule located in City of Wichita Falls code of ordinances, Chapter 2, Administration,
Article VI, Development Fees at Section 2-908, Plumbing permits, or as amended
hereafter.
106.5.3 Fee refunds. The code official is authorized to establish a refund policy.
SECTION 109. MEANS OF APPEAL
109.1 General. This section shall comply with Chapter 22, Section 22-27,
Changes deletions and amendments, Section 112, Board of Appeals, in the Code of
Ordinances, City of Wichita Falls, Texas.
Chapter 3 — General Regulations
307.2.3 Auxiliary and secondary drain systems.
In addition to the requirements of Section 307.2.1, a secondary drain or auxiliary
drain pan shall be required for each cooling or evaporator coil or fuel-fired appliance
that produces condensate, where damage to any building components will occur as a
result of overFlow from the equipment drain pan or stoppage in the condensate drain
piping. One of the following methods shall be used:
1. An auxiliary drain pan with a separate drain shall be provided under the
coils on which condensation will occur. The auxiliary pan drain shall discharge to a
conspicuous point of disposal to alert occupants in the event of a stoppage of the
primary drain. The pan shall have a minimum depth of 1.5 inches (38 mm), shall not be
less than 3 inches (76 mm) larger than the unit or the coil dimensions in width and
length and shall be constructed of corrosion-resistant material. Metallic pans shall have
a minimum thickness of not less than 0.0276-inch (0.7 mm) galvanized sheet metal.
Nonmetallic pans shall have a minimum thickness of not less than 0.0625 inch (1.6
mm).
2. A separate overFlow drain line shall be connected to the drain pan
provided with the equipment. Such overflow drain shall discharge to a conspicuous
point of disposal to alert occupants in the event of a stoppage of the primary drain. The
overflow drain line shall connect to the drain pan at a higher level than the primary drain
connection.
3. An auxiliary drain pan without a separate drain line shall be provided
under the coils on which condensate will occur. Such pan shall be equipped with a
water-level detection device conforming to UL 508 that wilt shut off the equipment
served prior to overflow of the pan. The auxiliary drain pan shall be constructed in
accordance with Item 1 of this section.
SECTION 4 Part II of the Code of Ordinances, at Chapter 22, Buildings and Building
Regulations, Article VII, Gas Codes, is amended to read as follows:
Sec. 22-571. Adopted.
The following code, published by the International Code Council, is adopted by
reference as though it were copied fully in this section: 2006 International Fuel Gas
Code, including Chapters 1--7, and Appendices A through C.
Sec. 22-572. Changes, deletions and amendments.
The following changes, deletions and amendments are made in the 2006
International Fuel Gas Code adopted in section 22-571:
"SECTION 103. BUILDING AND CODE ADMINISTRATION DIVISION
103.1 General. There is hereby established a division to be called building and
code administration, and the person in charge shall be known as the building and code
administrator. Any reference in this code or other code to building o�cial or code official
shall be held to mean the building and code administrator.
SECTION 104 DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE CODE OFFICIAL
104.1 General. This section shall comply with Chapter 22, Buildings and Building
Regulations, Section 22-27, Changes, deletions and amendments, Section 104, Duties
and Powers of the Building Official, in the Code of Ordinances, City of Wichita Falls,
Texas.
SECTION 105 APPROVAL
SECTION 106 PERMITS
106.1 When required. An owner, authorized agent or contractor who desires to
erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace an installation regulated
by this code, or to cause such work to be done, shall first make application to the code
official and obtain the required permit for the work.
Exception: Where equipment replacements and repairs are required to be
performed in an emergency situation, the permit application shall be submitted within
the next working business day of the Department of Inspection.
106.2 Permits not required. Permits shall not be required for the following:
1. Any portable heating appliance.
2. Replacement of any minor component of equipment that does not alter
approval of such equipment or make such equipment unsafe.
Exemption from the permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to
grant authorization for work to be done in violation of the provisions of this code or of
other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction.
106.3 Application for permit. Each application for a permit, with the required fee,
shall be filed with the code official on a form furnished for that purpose and shall contain
a general description of the proposed work and its location. The application shall be
signed by the owner or an authorized agent. The permit application shall indicate the
proposed occupancy of all parts of the building and of that portion of the site or lot, if
any, not covered by the building or structure and shall contain such other information
required by the code official.
106.3.1 Construction documents. Construction documents, engineering
calculations, diagrams and other data shall be submitted in two or more sets with each
application for a permit. The code official shall require construction documents,
computations and specifications to be prepared and designed by a registered design
professional when required by state law. Construction documents shall be drawn to
scale and shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature and extent of the
work proposed and show in detail that the work conforms to the provisions of this code.
Construction documents for buildings more than two stories in height shall indicate
where penetrations will be made for installations and shall indicate the materials and
methods for maintaining required structural safety, fire-resistance rating and
fireblocking.
Exception: The code official shall have the authority to waive the submission of
construction documents, calculations or other data if the nature of the work applied for is
such that reviewing of construction documents is not necessary to determine
compliance with this code.
106.4 Permit issuance. The application, construction documents and other data
filed by an applicant for a permit shall be reviewed by the code official. If the code
official finds that the proposed work conforms to the requirements of this code and all
laws and ordinances applicable thereto, and that the fees specified in Section 106.5
have been paid, a permit shall be issued to the applicant.
106.4.1 Approved construction documents. When the code official issues the
permit where construction documents are required, the construction documents shall be
endorsed in writing and stamped "APPROVED." Such approved construction
documents shall not be changed, modified or altered without authorization from the
code official. Work shall be done in accordance with the approved construction
documents.
The code official shall have the authority to issue a permit for the construction of
part of an installation before the construction documents for the entire installation have
been submitted or approved, provided adequate information and detailed statements
have been filed complying with all pertinent requirements of this code. The holder of
such permit shall proceed at his or her own risk without assurance that the permit for
the entire installation will be granted.
106.4.2 Validity. The issuance of a permit or approval of construction documents
shall not be construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, any violation of any of the
provisions of this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction. A permit presuming to
give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code shall be invalid.
The issuance of a permit based upon construction documents and other data
shall not prevent the code official from thereafter requiring the correction of errors in
said construction documents and other data or from preventing building operations from
being carried on thereunder when in violation of this code or of other ordinances of this
jurisdiction.
106.4.3 Expiration. Every permit issued by the code official under the provisions
of this code shall expire by limitation and become null and void if the work authorized by
such permit is not commenced within 180 days from the date of such permit, or is
suspended or abandoned at any time after the work is commenced for a period of 180
days. Before such work recommences, a new permit shall be first obtained and the fee,
therefor, shall be one-half the amount required for a new permit for such work, provided
no changes have been or will be made in the original construction documents for such
work, and further that such suspension or abandonment has not exceeded one year.
106.4.4 Extensions. A permittee holding an unexpired permit shall have the right
to apply for an extension of the time within which he or she will commence work under
that permit when work is unable to be commenced within the time required by this
section for good and satisfactory reasons. The code official shall extend the time for
action by the permittee for a period not exceeding 180 days if there is reasonable
cause. A permit shall not be extended more than once. The fee for an extension shall
be one-half the amount required for a new permit for such work.
106.4.5 Suspension or revocation of permit. The code official shall revoke a
permit or approval issued under the provisions of this code in case of any false
statement or misrepresentation of fact in the application or on the construction
documents upon which the permit or approval was based.
106.4.6 Retention of construction documents. One set of construction
documents shall be retained by the code official until final approval of the work covered
therein. One set of approved construction documents shall be returned to the applicant,
and said set shall be kept on the site of the building or work at all times during which the
work authorized thereby is in progress.
106.5 Fees. A permit shall not be issued until the fees prescribed in Section
106.5.2 have been paid, nor shall an amendment to a permit be released until the
additional fee, if any, due to an increase of the installation, has been paid.
106.5.1 Work commencing before permit issuance. Any person who commences
work on an installation before obtaining the necessary permits shall be subject to 100
percent of the usual permit fee in addition to the required permit fees.
106.5.2 Fee schedule. The fees for work shall be as indicated in the schedule
located in City of Wichita Falls code of ordinances, Chapter 2 Administration, Article VI,
Development Fees at Section 2-908, Plumbing permits, or as amended hereafter.
106.5.3 Fee refunds. The code official is authorized to establish a refund policy.
SECTION 109 MEANS OF APPEAL
109.1 General. This section shall comply with Chapter 22, Section 22-27,
changes, deletions and amendments, Section 112, Board of Appeals, in the Code of
Ordinances, City of Wichita Falls, Texas.
304.9 Mechanical combustion air supply.
Where all combustion air is provided by a mechanical air supply system, the
combustion air shall be supplied from the outdoors at a rate not less than 1 square inch
per 1,000 Btu/h 304.9.1 Makeup air.
Where exhaust fans are installed, makeup air shall be provided to replace the
exhausted air.
304.9.2 Appliance interlock.
Each of the appliances served shall be interlocked with the mechanical air supply
system to prevent main burner operation when the mechanical air supply system is not
in operation.
304.9.3 Combined combustion air and ventilation air system.
Where combustion air is provided by the building's mechanical ventilation
system, the system shall provide the specified combustion air rate in addition to the
required ventilation air.
304.10 Size of openings.
There shall be1 square inch per 1000 Btu of uninterrupted air unless specifically
engineered to be less.
SECTION 307 CONDENSATE DISPOSAL
307.1 Evaporators and cooling coils. Condensate drainage systems shail be
provided for equipment and appliances containing evaporators and cooling coils in
accordance with the International Mechanical Code.
307.2 Fuel-burning appliances. Liquid combustion by-products of condensing
appliances shall be collected and discharged to an approved plumbing fixture or
disposal area in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Condensate piping shall be of approved corrosion-resistant material and shall not be
smaller than the drain connection on the appliance. Such piping shall maintain a
minimum slope in the direction of discharge of not less than one-eighth unit vertical in
12 units horizontal (1-percent slope).
[M] 307.3 Drain pipe materials and sizes. Components of the condensate
disposal system shall be cast iron, galvanized steel, copper, polybutylene, polyethylene,
ABS, CPVC or PVC pipe or tubing. All components shall be selected for the pressure
and temperature rating of the installation. Condensate waste and drain line size shall be
not less than 3 /-inch internal diameter (19 mm) and shall not decrease in size from the
drain connection to the place of condensate disposal. Where the drain pipes from more
than one unit are manifolded together for condensate drainage, the pipe or tubing shall
be sized in accordance with an approved method. All horizontal sections of drain piping
shall be installed in uniform alignment at a uniform slope.
307.4 Traps. Condensate drains shall be trapped as required by the equipment
or appliance manufacturer.
SECTION 5 Part II of the Code of Ordinances, at Chapter 22, Buildings and Building
Regulations, Article XI, Residential Codes for One or Two Family Dwellings, is amended
to read as follows:
Sec. 22-700. Adopted.
The following code, published by the International Code Council, is adopted by
reference as though it were copied fully in this section: 2006 International Residential
Code, including Chapters 1--32, and Appendices A through C, E, G.
Sec. 22-701. Changes, deletions and amendments.
The following changes, deletions and amendments are made in the 2006
International Residential Code adopted in section 22-700:
Section 103. Building and Code Administration Division
There is hereby established a division to be called the building and code
administration division, and the person in charge shall be known as the building and
code administrator. Any reference in this code or other code to building official shall be
held to mean the building code administrator.
SECTION 105 BUILDING AND CODE ADMINISTRATION
105.1 General. This section shall comply with Chapter 22, Article II, Section 22-
27 changes, deletions and amendments, Section 105 Building Contractors Licensing, in
the Code of Ordinances, City of Wichita Falls, Texas.
SECTION R106 CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
106.1 General. This section shall comply with Chapter 22, Article II, Section 22-
27 changes, deletions and amendments, Section 106 Construction Documents, in the
Code of Ordinances, City of Wichita Falls, Texas.
SECTION R109 INSPECTIONS
R109.1 General. This section shall comply with Chapter 22, Section 22-27,
Changes deletions and amendments, Section 112, Board of Appeals, in the Code of
Ordinances, City of Wichita Falls, Texas.
SECTION R112 BOARD OF APPEALS
112.1 General. This section shall comply with Chapter 22, Section 22-27,
changes, deletions and amendments, Section 112, Board of Appeals, in the Code of
Ordinances, City of Wichita Falls, Texas.
CHAPTER 3 BUILDING PLANNING, SECTION 324 FLOOD-RESISTANT
CONSTRUCTION
324.1 General. This section shall comply with Chapter 54 Floods, in the Code of
Ordinances, City of Wichita Falls, Texas.
CHAPTER 4 FOUNDATIONS, SECTION 403 FOOTINGS
R403.1.4 Minimum depth. All exterior footings shall be placed at least 6 inches
(305 mm) below the undisturbed ground surface. Where applicable, the depth of
footings shall also conform to Sections R403.1.4.1 through R403.1.4.2.
CHAPTER 7 WALL COVERINGS, SECTION 703 EXTERIOR COVERING
R703.7.6 Weepholes. Weepholes shall be provided in the outside wythe of
masonry walls at a maximum spacing of 48 inches (838 mm) on center. Weepholes
shall not be less than 3/16 inch (5 mm) in diameter. Weepholes shall be located
immediately above the flashing.
CHAPTER 13 GENERAL MECHANICAL SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
SECTION M1305 APPLIANCE ACCESS
M1305.1.3 Appliances in attics. Attics containing appliances requiring access
shall have with an opening and a clear and unobstructed passageway large enough to
allow removal of the largest appliance, but not less than 30 inches (762 mm) high and
22 inches (559 mm) wide and not more than 20 feet (6096 mm) long when measured
along the centerline of the passageway from the opening to the appliance. The
passageway shall have continuous solid flooring in accordance with Chapter 5 not less
than 24 inches (610 mm) wide. A level service space at least 30 inches (762 mm) deep
and 30 inches (762 mm) wide shall be present along all sides of the appliance where
access is required. The clear access opening dimensions shall be a minimum of 20
inches by 30 inches (508 mm) by 762 mm), where such dimensions are large enough to
allow removal of the largest appliance. A pull down type stair or permanent ladder is
required.
CHAPTER 17 COMBUSTION AIR, SECTION 1703 ALL AIR FROM
OUTDOORS.
M1703.2.1 Size of openings. There shall be 1 square inch per 1000 Btu of
uninterrupted space from an outside source or vented attic space or crawl space.
CHAPTER 24 FUEL GAS, SECTION 2407 COMBUSTION, VENTILATION AND
DILUTION AIR
G2407.10 (304.10) Size of openings.
There shall be1 square inch per 1000 Btu of uninterrupted air unless specifically
engineered to be less.
CHAPTER 24 FUEL GAS, SECTION 2417 INSPECTION, TESTING AND
PURGING
G2417.4.1 (406.4.1) Test pressure. The test pressure to be used shaii be not
less than one and one-half times the proposed maximum working pressure, but not less
than 3 psig (20 kPa gauge), irrespective of design pressure. Where the test pressure
exceeds 125 psig (862 kPa gauge), the test pressure shall not exceed a value that
produces a hoop stress in the piping greater than 50 percent of the specified minimum
yield strength of the pipe.
Exception: In lieu of the mercury gauge with a manometer or slope gauge
required in this section, one of the following may be used:
1. Low Pressure Systems. Low pressure systems of fourteen (14) inches in
water column or less shall be tested with a pressure gauge, certified annually, having a
3'/z inches minimum diameter dial, a set hand, and a pressure range not to exceed six
(6) PSI with 1/10-pound increments.
2. Medium Pressure Systems. Medium pressure systems exceeding fourteen
(14) inches water column but less than 56 inches of water column shall be tested with a
pressure gauge, certified annually, having a 3'/z inches minimum dial, a set hand, and a
pressure range not to exceed sixteen (16) PSI in 2/10-pound increments."
CHAPTER 27 PLUMBING, SECTION 2713 BATHTUBS
CHAPTER 29 WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION, SECTION 2902
PROTECTION OF POTABLE WATER SUPPLY
P2902.5.3 Lawn irrigation systems. A double-check type backflow preventer
equipped with two ball valves and four test cocks must be testable. It shall have a non-
corrosive body and parts. This double-check shall be used in lawn sprinkler systems, at
the source of the supply of the of the potable water.
CHAPTER 29 WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION, SECTION 2907
DRINKING WATER TREATMENT UNITS
P2907.4 Approval, Testing and Certification of Testers
1. Approval of devices. All devices used for the prevention of backflow or
back siphonage shall meet the requirements of table P2902.4.3. Devices installed in a
potable water supply for protection against backflow shall be maintained in an operable
condition by the property owner or other person having control of such devices. The
City of Wichita Falls Building and Code Administration Division shall require periodic
testing of such devices and, when found to be inoperative or defective, shall require that
they be repaired or replaced.
2. Testing of backflow prevention devices. All backflow prevention
devices shall be tested in accordance with manufacturer's recommended performance
standards. Testing shall be conducted at the time of installation, then every five years
thereafter. If the device is repaired or relocated, testing of the device shall be
conducted at the time of repair or relocation, and every five years of service thereafter.
Backflow devices used in hazardous applications shall be tested annually.
3. Approval of testers. All tests or repairs or backflow prevention devices
shall be conducted by a person who has been certified by an approved agency in
accordance with TCEQ standards.
4. Records of test required. All tests required by this section shall be
recorded on forms provided by the City of Wichita Falls Building and Code
Administration Division. These forms shall be completed by the tester and submitted to
the City Building and Code Administration Division as part of a permanent record.
The consumer, property owner, or person having control of such devices shall be
responsible for ensuring that all necessary repairs and tests of the devices are initiated.
The tester shall be responsible for the initial testing of any device that they have
installed or repaired and for the completion and submittal of required test forms.
Any consumer, property owner, or tester who shall fail to provide tests or records,
as required by this section, shall be in violation of this section and shall be subject to the
penalties as set forth in the plumbing code and state law.
SECTION 6. Any other Code referenced within the 2006 International Codes
hereby adopted, which has not been adopted by the City of Wichita Falls, shall not be
considered as a local ordinance.
SECTION 7. It is the intention of the City Council of the City of Wichita Falls,
Texas, that the provisions of this ordinance shall become a part of the Code of
Ordinances of the City of Wichita Falls, Texas, and that sections of this ordinance may
be renumbered or relettered to accomplish such intention.
SECTION 8. The following codes are hereby repealed: 2000 International
Building Code, 2003 International Building Code, 2000 International Plumbing Code,
2000 International Mechanical Code, 2000 International Fuel Gas Code, 2000
International Fire Code and the 2000 International Residential Code.
SECTION 9. That all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith is
hereby repealed.
SECTION 10. That should any word, phrase, paragraph, section or portion of
this ordinance or the Code of Ordinances, as amended hereby, be held to be void or
unconstitutional, the same shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of said
ordinance or the Code of Ordinances, as amended hereby, which shall remain in full
force and effect.
SECTION 11. It is officially found and determined that the meeting at which this
ordinance was passed was open to the public as required by law.
PASSED AND APPROVED this the 1st day of May, 2007.
MAYOR
ATTEST:
City Clerk
Affidavit of Publication
o�oiNAr�cE No. � THE STATE OF TEXAS #186264
�-�
ORDttiANC� OF THE COUNTY OF WICHITA
CITY COUNCII OF
THE CITX OF WICHI-
I TA FA.�LS, TEXAS,
DESIGNATfNG THE
HOLT HOTEL BUILD- 011 t�11S ^ (Ia of Ma 2007 A D...
I AS A WI�C FALES y y
�� u►r�o,w,RK . personally appeared before me, the undersigned authority
oRa�� � e r,o. Kathy Salan, Sales Assistant for the Times Publishing
ORD.INANCE OF THE Com an of Wichita Falis pu6lishers of the Wichita Falls
CITY COUNCIL OF p y �
THE CITY OF WICHI-
AMENDING PART II Times/Record News, a newspaper published at Wichita Falls in
OF THE CODE OF OR- i Wichita County, Texas, and upon being duly sworn by me, on
DE R 22, UAL D I N G S' O'slt�l StilteS t�lilt tI1C i1ttSCIleCI A(IVCI't1S@I11eIlt 1S A ti'UC SIl(1
AND BUtLDING
REGULATIONS, Arti-' correct copy of advertising published in One (1) issues hereof
cle II Building Codes,'
ArTicle IV Plumbing i on the following date
Codes, Article V Me- i �
chanical Codes, Article i
VI1 Gas Codes and Arti-',
c1e x� Residentia� I May 6 2007
Codes for One and Two� �
Family Dwellings,' BY j
MAKING CERTAIN
ADDITIONS, AMEND- I
MENTS, AND DELE- �
I TIONS THERETO;
ORDINANCE N0.
46-200Z
ORDINANCE OF THE
CITY COUNCI'L OF
THe c�TY oF w�c►+�- Sales Assistant for Times Publish g Company of Wichita Falls
TA FALLS> TEXAS,
AMENDING PART II
OF THE CODE OF OR-
5�0 N FN R E�P R E V E N Subscribed and sworn to before me this the day and year first above written:
TION AND PROTEC-
TION, AT ARTICLE
III, FIRE CODE; PRO-
VIDING A REPEALER
CLAUSE; PROVIDING
FOR INCLUSION IN � �
THE CODE; � (
ORDINANCE N0. G�,� L J v��
47-2007 ° —
: ORDINANCE OF THE .
: CITY COUNCIL OF �
' `THE CITY OF WICHI• �
TA FALLS, TEXAS, �
AMENDIN'G -PART Id —
OF TFIE CODE OF OR-
DINANCES, AT CHAP- '
' TER 46, ENVIRON- =
� MENT, ARTICLE 11, �
% NOISE, BY MAKING �
CERTAIN�ADDITIONS,
AMENDMENTS, AND
DELETIONS THERE-
T0;'