3-1-2021 Building and Standards Commission Agenda with Associated Documents
MEETING AGENDA
Building & Standards Commission
March 1, 2021
HAL BALDWIN MUNICIPAL COMPLEX COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1400 SCHERTZ PARKWAY BUILDING #4
SCHERTZ, TEXAS 78154
CITY OF SCHERTZ CORE VALUES
Do the right thing
Do the best you can
Treat others the way you want to be treated
Work cooperatively as a team
AGENDA
MONDAY, MARCH 1, 2021 at 6:00 p.m.
1.CALL TO ORDER
2.SEAT ALTERNATE TO ACT IF REQUIRED
3.HEARING OF RESIDENTS
This time is set aside for any person who wishes to address the Building & Standards
Commission. Each person should fill out the Speaker’s register prior to the meeting.
Presentations should be limited to no more than three (3) minutes. Discussion by the
Commission of any item not on the agenda shall be limited to statements of specific factual
information given in response to any inquiry, a recitation of existing policy in response to an
inquiry, and/or a proposal to place the item on a future agenda. The presiding officer, during
the Hearing of Residents portion of the agenda, will call on those persons who have signed up
to speak in the order they have registered.
4.ACTION ITEMS:
A.Minutes for the February 8, 2021 Regular Meeting.
5.PUBLIC HEARING:
A.
Hold a public hearing, consider and make a recommendation on amending the Schertz Code of
Ordinances, Chapter 18, Buildings and Building Regulations, by repealing existing International
Codes and adopting new International Codes and adopting the revised Schertz Code of
Ordinance, Chapter 18, Building and Building Regulations. (G. Durant/L. Wood)
Building and Standards Commission March 1, 2021 Page 1 of 2
B.Hold a public hearing, consider and make a recommendation on amending the Schertz Code of
Ordinances, Chapter 30, Fire Prevention and Protection, by amending existing International Fire
Code and Schertz Code of Ordinance, Chapter 30, Fire Prevention and Protection. (Kade
Long/Ben Boney)
6.ADJOURNMENT OF THE REGULAR MEETING
CERTIFICATION
I, Tiffany Danhof, Administrative Assistant, of the City of Schertz, Texas, do hereby certify that the above agenda was posted on the official bulletin boards on this the 26 day of
February, 2021 at 9:00 a.m., which is a place readily accessible to the public at all times and that said notice was posted in accordance with chapter 551, Texas Government Code.
Tiffany Danhof
Tiffany Danhof, Administrative Assistant
I certify that the attached notice and agenda of items to be considered by the Building and Standards Commission was removed from the official bulletin board on
_____day of _______________, 2021. _______________title:_____________
This facility is accessible in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Handicapped parking spaces are available. If you require special assistance or have a request for
sign interpretative services or other services please call 619-1030 at least 24 hours in advance of meeting.
The Building & Standards Commission for the City of Schertz reserves the right to adjourn into executive session at any time during the course of this meeting to discuss any of the
matters listed above, as authorized by the Texas Open Meetings Act.
Executive Sessions Authorized: This agenda has been reviewed and approved by the City’s legal counsel and presence of any subject in any Executive Session portion of the agenda
constitutes a written interpretation of Texas Government Code Chapter 551 by legal counsel for the governmental body and constitutes an opinion by the attorney that the items
discussed therein may be legally discussed in the closed portion of the meeting considering available opinions of a court of record and opinions of the Texas Attorney General
known to the attorney. This provision has been added to this agenda with the intent to meet all elements necessary to satisfy Texas Government Code Chapter 551.144(c) and the
meeting is conducted by all participants in reliance on this opinion.
Building and Standards Commission March 1, 2021 Page 2 of 2
BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION MEETING: 03/01/2021
Agenda Item 4 A
TO:Building and Standards Commission
PREPARED BY:Tiffany Danhof, Administrative Assistant
SUBJECT:Minutes for the February 8, 2021 Regular Meeting.
Attachments
Draft Minute for February 8, 2021 Regular Meeting
D R A F T
BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION MINUTES
February 8, 2021
The Schertz Building and Standards Commission convened on February 8, 2021 at 6:00
p.m. at the Municipal Complex, Council Chambers, 1400 Schertz Parkway Building #4,
Schertz, Texas.
Present: Daniel 'Frenchy' Bourgeois, Chair; Glen Outlaw, Vice Chair; Bruce Johnson,
Commissioner; Patricia Cullum, Commissioner; Matthew Wood, Commissioner
Absent: Shawn Moore, Commissioner; Andrew Buratowski, Commissioner
City
Staff:
Lesa Wood, Director of Planning & Community Development; Brian James, Assistant City
Manager; Gil Durant, Chief Building Official; Tiffany Danhof, Administrative Assistant;
Thomas Pinder, Fire Marshal; Ben Boney, Fire Inspector; Jerry Perez, Code Enforcement
Officer; William Sutton, Deuty Marshal Corp.
1.CALL TO ORDER
Mr. Chairman Bourgeois "Frenchy" called the meeting to order at 6:00
P.M.
2.SEAT ALTERNATE TO ACT IF REQUIRED
No one was seated.
3.HEARING OF RESIDENTS
Residents who choose to watch the meeting via live stream, but who
would like to participate in Hearing of Residents, should email their
comments to the Inspections Division, at Inspections@schertz.com by
noon on Monday, February 8, 2021, so that the Inspection division
may read the public comments into the record under the hearing of
residents. In the body of the email please include your name, your
address, phone number, agenda item number if applicable or subject
of discussion, and your comments.
This time is set aside for any person who wishes to address the
Building & Standards Commission. Each person should fill out the
Speaker’s register prior to the meeting. Presentations should be
limited to no more than three (3) minutes. Discussion by the
Commission of any item not on the agenda shall be limited to
statements of specific factual information given in response to any
inquiry, a recitation of existing policy in response to an inquiry, and/or
a proposal to place the item on a future agenda. The presiding officer,
during the Hearing of Residents portion of the agenda, will call on
those persons who have signed up to speak in the order they have
registered.
No one spoke.
4.ACTION ITEMS:
A.Minutes for the December 14, 2021 Regular Meeting.
There was a brief discussion between the Building and Standards
Commissioners, and City Staff on the drafted minutes.
Motioned by Commissioner Patricia Cullum, seconded by
Commissioner Bruce Johnson to approve the action item
Vote: 5 - 0 Passed
5.WORKSHOP & DISCUSSION:
A.Workshop and discussion related to the amending and adoption of the
Schertz Code of Ordinances, Chapter 18 Building and Building
Regulations and local amendments.
Mr. Durant gave a detailed presentation on proposed amendments for
the following:
2018 International Building Code (IBC)
2018 International Residential Code (IRC)
2018 International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC)
2018 International Mechanical Code (IMC)
2018 International Plumbing Code (IPC)
2018 International Existing Building Code (IEBC)
2020 National Electrical Code (NEC)
2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
2019 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC)
2009 Manual of Cross Connection Control, Tenth Edition
Ms. Wood explained the public input meeting schedule.
B.Workshop and discussion related to amending and adoption of the
B.Workshop and discussion related to amending and adoption of the
Schertz Code of Ordinances, Chapter 30 Fire Prevention and
Protection and local amendments.
Mr. Pinder gave a presentation on the 2018 on the Schertz Code of
Ordinances, chapter 30 fire prevention and Protection and local
amendments.
There was discussion between the Building and Standards
Commissioners and City staff on the following:
Sprinkler Installion and requirements
25 ft fire lanes
ISO fire insurance rating
6.ADJOURNMENT OF THE REGULAR MEETING
Mr. Chairman Bourgeois "Frenchy" adjourned the regular meeting at
7:50 P.M.
____________________________________
Chairman, Building and Standards Commission
______________________________
Recording Secretary, City of Schertz
BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION MEETING: 03/01/2021
Agenda Item 5 A
TO:Building and Standards Commission
PREPARED
BY:Lesa Wood, Director
SUBJECT:
Hold a public hearing, consider and make a recommendation on amending the Schertz
Code of Ordinances, Chapter 18, Buildings and Building Regulations, by repealing
existing International Codes and adopting new International Codes and adopting the
revised Schertz Code of Ordinance, Chapter 18, Building and Building Regulations. (G.
Durant/L. Wood)
BACKGROUND
The City of Schertz Planning and Community Development Department – Inspections Division has
determined a need to revise the City adopted building codes regarding sanitation, fire, building, plumbing,
mechanical, fuel/gas and electrical requirements. It is the City’s desire to protect the safety and welfare of
the community through regulation of certain construction activities with the City. The current 2012 code
was adopted in 2015 and industry standards change to provide for implementation of new construction
practices and improvements in safety standard for the safety and welfare of the community.
The local amendments proposed are intended to ensure the proper construction of structures built in the
City and help mitigate regional climate (i.e weathering), environmental conditions (i.e. wind, flooding,
wildfire, etc.), geological, topographic and natural hazards. Some of those amendments are part of the
building appendix written by the International Code Council for municipalities to adopt new construction
practices or trending construction and some are local and based on industry professional
recommendations.
City staff holds monthly contractors’ meetings (a short hiatus during COVID) to discuss construction
practices and gain input from the development/construction community. Homebuilders, Electricians,
Plumbers, Mechanical Contractors, Greater San Antonio Builder Association, and other Professional
Individuals have provided input on codes that they feel need to be amended through these meetings.
Planning and Community Development – Inspections Division staff invited various stake holder groups
and conducted stakeholder meetings in February of 2021 to gain input on the proposed changes from the
Chamber of Commerce, Homebuilders, Engineers, Architects, Contractors, EDC, Electricians, Plumbers,
Mechanical Contractors, Greater San Antonio Builder Association and the community. Three workshops
were conducted to gain input from City Council, Building and Standards Commission and the public. The
proposed local amendments that include the redline changes were posted on the City Website on February
12, 2021 for public review. Through this process we were offered feedback from those groups based on
their experiences.
Building code adoption and amendments include:
Adoption of the following codes:
International Building Code (IBC) 20181.
International Residential Code for One and Two Family Dwellings (IRC) 20182.
International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) 20183.
International Mechanical Code (IMC) 20184.
International Plumbing Code (IPC) 20185.
International Existing Buildings Code (IEBC) 20186.
International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) 20187.
Manual of Cross Connection Control, Tenth edition (2009)8.
National Electrical Code 2020 – State mandated9.
International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) 2015 – State mandated10.
International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) 2018 – State mandated11.
A summary of the major Building Code local amendments are listed below. The full redlines attached
include all additions, deletions, and updated wording for your review.
Article 1 – In General
Updated and deleted wording to bring the codes consistent with digital processes, inspection
requirements, license requirement for a General Contractor, etc.
Deleted Insurance requirements for Electrical, Plumbing and Mechanical contractors during the
registration process since the State of Texas regulates the requirement to acquire and maintain
insurance as well as the amount of insurance required.
2018 International Building Code
Included Pergolas, Arbors and Trellis under 300 square feet to 105.2 Work exempt from permit.
Included definitions for Pergolas, Arbors or Trellis in 202 Definitions.
Added a requirement in1008.3 Room and Spaces for all handicap restrooms to be equipped with an
emergency light fixture and a requirement for emergency light in the room by an exit in school
classrooms.
Deleted eight (8) of engineering foundation documents required by 1801.2.1 Design basis to require
only 2 documents.
Updated the sound attenuation requirements related to the certification process.
Added an appendix to allow for Shipping Containers used for permanent use.
Deleted various sections in the local amendments to remove duplicate information already provided
in the code book being adopted.
2018 International Residential Code
Included Pergolas, Arbors and Trellis under 300 square feet to 105.2 Work exempt from permit.
Included definitions for Pergolas, Arbors or Trellis in 202 Definitions.
Added an exemption from an engineered foundation for porches under 300 square feet with specific
construction requirements.
Deleted seven (7) of engineering foundation documents required by 1801.2.1 Design basis to require
only 3 documents.
Added a Table R301.2 Climatic and Geographic Design Criteria as prescribed by the code book.
Amended the rough in water test to reflect the 2018 International Plumbing Code test requirements.
Replace the IRC Part VIII Electrical with the National Electrical Code 2020 as adopted by the State
of Texas.
Adding the adoption of the following Appendixes to include - Appendix M – Home Day Cares;
Appendix P – Sizing of Water Piping System; Appendix Q – Tiny Houses; Appendix R – Light
Straw-Clay Construction; Appendix S – Straw Bale Construction; Appendix U- Chapter 31; Section
3114 Shipping Containers as described in the IBC with all the same protections.
2020 National Electrical Code
Deleted 210.11 Branch Circuits required for bathroom circuits.
Deleted 210.11 Branch Circuits required for bathroom circuits.
Deleted 210.19 Minimum Ampacity and Size
Deleted 210.52 Dwelling Unit Receptacle locations in bathrooms.
Added 230.70 (A) (1) requirement for service to be readily accessible.
2018 International Plumbing Code
Deleted 305.3 Pipes through Foundation Walls
Deleted 312.10.2 Testing Exception for lawn sprinkler irrigation backflow devices.
Deleted Table 702.3 Building Sewer Pipe for Cellular core drain waste vent.
Deleted Appendix C - Vacuum Drainage System but retained the new Appendix C - Structural
Safety and included
Deleted Appendix B-Rates of Rainfall for various cities; Appendix D – Degree Day and Design
Temperatures; Appendix E – Sizing of Water Piping System
2018 International Fuel Gas Code - No changes
2018 International Existing Building Code - No changes
2018 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code - Deleted the appendixes
2018 International Existing Building Code - No changes
2018 International Property Maintenance Code - No changes
2009 Manual of Cross-Connection Control - No changes
Staff recommendation:
Staff recommends approval of the amendments to the Schertz Code of Ordinances, Chapter 18, Buildings
and Building Regulations by repealing existing International Codes and adopting new International Codes
and adopting the amended Schertz Code of Ordinances, Chapter 18, Building and Building Regulations as
presented.
Commission consideration:
In accordance with UDC, Article 3, Sec. 21.3.6 (D) (2) (f), the Building and Standards Commission must
review and make a recommendation to the City Council on the proposed adoption and amendments to the
building codes.
Attachments
Ordinance 21-C-07 draft
Ord. Exhibit B - draft
Exhibit A draft
Article I & II
Article III
Article IV
Article V
Article VI
Article VII
Article VIII
Article IV
Article X
Article XI
Article XII
Article XIII
all redlines
ORDINANCE NO. 21-C-07
AN ORDINANCE BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SCHERTZ, TEXAS
AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF SCHERTZ CHAPTER
18, BUILDINGS AND BUILDING REGULATIONS BY REPEALING EXISTING
INTERNATIONAL CODES AND ADOPTING NEW INTERNATIONAL CODES;
PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY.
WHEREAS, the Texas Local Governmental Code empowers the cities to enact building codes
and regulations and provide for their administration, enforcement, and amendment; and
WHEREAS, the International Code Council (ICC) has developed a set of comprehensive
and coordinated national model construction codes (known generally as the “International
Codes”; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to protect the safety and welfare of the citizens of the
City through regulation of construction activities in the City; and
WHEREAS, the City has adopted previous versions of the ICC International codes; and
WHEREAS, the City’s building and construction codes are intended to be updated
periodically and City Staff has undertaken a review of the newly adopted international codes
as compared to the City’s existing codes and recommend adoption the international codes
provided for herein along with certain amendments; and
WHEREAS, City Staff presented the International Codes provided for herein along with
their amendments to the Building and Standards Commission and they have voted to
recommend approval of the provisions regulating construction activities set forth herein at
the Building and Standards Commission meeting on March 1, 2021.
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that it is in the best interest of residents of the City
to adopt the International Codes with local amendments, as set forth herein, to regulate
construction activities in the City.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SCHERTZ, TEXAS:
THAT:
Section 1. Repealer. Chapter 18, “Buildings and Building Regulations” of the Code
of Ordinances, City of Schertz, Texas, Articles I – XIII are hereby repealed.
Section 2. Amendments. Chapter 18, “Buildings and Building Regulations” of the
Code of Ordinances, City of Schertz, Texas, is hereby amended as described in Exhibit A
& Exhibit B.
Section 3. The recitals contained in the preamble hereof are hereby found to be true, and
such recitals are hereby made a part of this Ordinance for all purposes and are adopted as a part of
the judgment and findings of the Council.
Section 4. All ordinances and codes, or parts thereof, which are in conflict or inconsistent
with any provision of this Ordinance are hereby repealed to the extent of such conflict, and the
provisions of this Ordinance shall be and remain controlling as to the matters resolved herein.
Section 5. This Ordinance shall be construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of
the State of Texas and the United States of America.
Section 6. If any provision of this Ordinance or the application thereof to any person or
circumstance shall be held to be invalid, the remainder of this Ordinance and the application of
such provision to other persons and circumstances shall nevertheless be valid, and the City hereby
declares that this Ordinance would have been enacted without such invalid provision.
Section 7. It is officially found, determined, and declared that the meeting at which this
Ordinance is adopted was open to the public and public notice of the time, place, and subject matter
of the public business to be considered at such meeting, including this Ordinance, was given, all
as required by Chapter 551, as amended, Texas Government Code.
Section 8. This Ordinance shall be effective upon the date of final adoption hereof and any
publication required by law.
Section 9. This Ordinance shall be cumulative of all other ordinances of the City of
Schertz, and this Ordinance shall not operate to repeal or affect any other ordinances of the City
of Schertz except insofar as the provisions thereof might be inconsistent or in conflict with the
provisions of this Ordinance, in which event such conflicting provisions, if any, are hereby
repealed.
Approved on first reading the 9th day of March, 2021.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED on final reading the 23rd day of March, 2021.
____________________________________
Ralph Gutierrez, Mayor
ATTEST:
________________________________
Brenda Dennis, City Secretary
(SEAL OF THE CITY)
EXHIBIT B
Evaluation of Zoning within Airfield Noise Contours JBSA Randolph
Exhibit “A” includes the following attachments:
Building code adoption and amendments include:
Adoption of the following codes:
1. General Information
2. International Building Code (IBC) 2018
3. International Residential Code for One and Two Family Dwellings (IRC) 2018
4. National Electrical Code 2020 – State mandated
5. International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) 2018
6. International Mechanical Code (IMC) 2018
7. International Plumbing Code (IPC) 2018
8. International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) 2018
9. International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) 2015 – State mandated
10. Manual of Cross Connection Control, Tenth edition (2009)
11. International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) 2018 – State mandated
12. International Existing Buildings Code (IEBC) 2018
13. Violations and penalties.
Chapter 18 - BUILDINGS AND BUILDING REGULATIONS
ARTICLE I. - IN GENERAL
Sec. 18-1. - Scheduling inspections.
(a) Posting permit and plans. Work requiring a permit shall not commence until the permit holder or his
agent posts the permit in a conspicuous place on the premises. The permit holder shall maintain the
approved plans on site and make them available to the Building Official or his or her designee until
the certificate of occupancy or completion certificate is issued by the building official or his or her
designee.
Sec. 18-2. – General building contractors registration.
It shall be the duty of every contractor who engages in the construction, erection, alteration, repair,
moving, demolition, installation or replacements of any building, structure, swimming pool, or sign,
whether permanent or temporary, obtain all the necessary permits. Such contractor shall be registered by
the City of Schertz.
(1) Insurance required. It shall be the duty of all contractors who practice their trade within the City
of Schertz, Texas to show proof of general commercial liability insurance for claims for property
damage, or bodily injury regardless of whether the claim arises from a negligence claim or on a
contract claim. Coverage amount of liability insurance shall not be less than $300,000.00.
(2) Application. An application for a contractor's registration will be submitted to the building official
or his or her designee on a form prescribed by the city along with the required initial fee.
(3) Renewal. All renewals shall be due January 1, of each year.
(4) Revocation. Any registration issued under this section may be revoked by the building official
or his or her designee for failure to remedy unsatisfactory work, violations of the chapter, failure
to obtain permits, or failure to obtain proper inspections in addition to any additional penalties
provided by this chapter.
(5) Appeal. An applicant, whose registration has been denied or revoked, may appeal to the
Building and Standards Commission.
Sec. 18-3. - Electrical registration.
No person shall install, repair or remove electrical wiring or devices unless he is licensed as an
electrical contractor issued by the State of Texas who employs any of the listed tradesmen as established
by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). A licensed master, sign master,
journeyman, sign journeyman, residential wireman, or journeyman lineman must directly supervise work
done by an apprentice or sign apprentice.
Directly supervise is defined as follows:
(1) Where a single family or duplex residential structure is under construction. The supervisor shall
be on the property while any electrical work as defined by TDLR Rules and Law is underway.
(2) Where a commercial or industrial project is under construction. The supervisor shall be not less
than one supervisor per 50,000 square feet or each story above the first floor or sub-floor over
50,000 square feet and shall be on the property while any electrical work as defined by TDLR
Rules and Law is underway.
Exception:
(1) A registration is not required of a homeowner who is doing electrical work on his own home.
The homeowner may receive help from others to do such work, provided that the principal
occupation of the person giving help is not that of an electrical contractor or electrician.
(2) A registration is not required of a person who is hired as a full-time employee to perform normal
maintenance excluding alterations and additions of electrical systems in commercial
establishments, provided that the person does not work as an electrician or electrical contractor
for the general public.
Renewal. All renewals shall be due January 1, of each year.
Sec. 18-4. - Mechanical registration.
It shall be the duty of all mechanical contractors who practice their trade within the City of Schertz,
Texas to show proof of state license as required by the Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR),
as referenced in Texas State Law.
Sec. 18-5. - Plumbing registration.
It shall be the duty of all plumbing contractors who practice their trade within the City of Schertz,
Texas to show proof of state license as required by the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners. A
registered master plumber, master plumber, journeyman, residential utilities installer, drain cleaner or
tradesman plumber are to directly supervise as defined below where compliant with the TSBPE rules and
laws.
Directly supervise is defined as follows:
(1) Where a single family or duplex residential structure is under construction. The supervisor shall
be on the property while any plumbing work as defined by Texas State Board of Plumbing
Examiners Rules and Law is underway.
(2) Where a commercial or industrial project is under construction. The supervisor shall be not less
than one supervisor per 50,000 square feet or each story above the first floor or sub-floor over
50,000 square feet and shall be on the property while any plumbing work as defined by TSBPE
Rules and Law is underway.
Sec. 18-6. - Building and standards commission.
All appeals relative to the application and interpretation of the codes adopted in this chapter shall be
to the Building and Standards Commission as established under the Unified Development Code, Article 3,
Boards, Commissions and Committees.
Secs. 18-7—18-39. - Reserved.
ARTICLE II. - INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE
Sec. 18-40. - Adopted.
The International Building Code, 2018Edition is hereby adopted with the amendments as provided
for in this article.
Sec. 18-41. - Amendments.
The International Building Code, 2018Edition is hereby amended as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Building Code of the City of Schertz, Texas,
hereinafter referred to as "this code."
Permits.
105.2 Work exempt from permit. This section shall be amended to include additions and deletions
as follows:
Building:
ADD TO EXEMPTIONS
14. Pergolas, Arbors and Trellis under 300 square feet in total size. All materials used shall
be of approved fire-resistant materials where fire setbacks as defined in the IBC are
required.
DELETE FROM EXEMPTIONS
2. Fences not over 7’ high.
4. Retaining Walls
6. Sidewalks and Driveways
107.3.4 Design professional in responsible charge. The design professional shall be an architect
or engineer legally registered under the laws of the State of Texas regulating the practice of
architecture or engineering and shall affix his/her seal to said drawings, specifications and
accompanying data.
113 Board of Appeals. The Board of Appeals is hereby repealed in its entirety and is replaced by
the Building and Standards Commission.
202 Definitions. This section is amended to include the following non-referenced definitions:
Applicable governing body as referenced within any code adopted under this chapter shall mean
the City Council of the City of Schertz
As Built Plans are plans submitted after the building is complete showing any alterations, additions
or changes that have occurred after construction has begun. All alterations, additions or changes
may require Building Division approval.
Service Systems are electrical, fire, mechanical, plumbing or other services not associated with
structural elements.
Pergolas, Arbors, and Trellis are open un-roofed structure intended only to support vegetation or
décor shadowing.
1008.3.3 Room and Spaces amended to include the following:
(5) Public restrooms equipped for handicap use shall have a minimum of one emergency fixture to
provide one foot-candle of illumination throughout the restroom to the point of discharge into the exit
pathway.
(6) School classrooms shall have one emergency light at or near the primary or secondary exit
door(s) that shall illuminate the egress door from the classroom side of the exit.
1612.3 Insert: City of Schertz
1612.3 Insert: Guadalupe County November 2, 2007; Bexar County September 29, 2010 and Comal
County September 9, 2009.
1801.2.1 Design basis. All foundations shall be designed by a Professional Engineer licensed in the
State of Texas and all drawings and documentation must be signed and sealed per Texas Board of
Professional Engineers rules. Design Engineers must be registered with the City of Schertz.
Documentation shall include:
1. Design letter referencing soils report project numbers, date of report, and soils engineer
name; specific location including lot, block and subdivision; specific design criteria
including soil bearing capacity and design plasticity index or Post-Tensioning Institute
parameters.
6. The engineer must provide to the City of Schertz a Letter of Final Acceptance stating that
the foundation has been placed in compliance with the design prior to issuance of a
Certificate of Occupancy.
1807.1(a) Foundation Walls, Retaining Walls and Embedded Posts and Poles.
Construction of a retaining wall in excess of four (4) feet in height, as measured from the bottom of
the footing of the wall to the top of the wall, constructed on private property and that will not be
dedicated to the City as a public improvement, as a part of the building permit application process,
shall require submission to, and approval by, the building official of the City of detailed retaining wall
design plans sealed by an engineer licensed to practice in the State of Texas, prior to commencing
construction of such wall. Construction of such retaining wall shall also require submission to, and
approval by, the building official of the City of a sealed engineering inspection report verifying the
construction of the retaining wall in conformance with the retaining wall design plans in order to close
out the building permit.
1207 Sound Transmission Standards for High Noise Areas. All habitable portions of structures
located within the 65 dBA as shown on Exhibit A attached, shall be designed and constructed to
achieve either:
1. an outside to inside noise level reduction (NLR) of at least twenty-five (25) a-weighted
decibels (dBA), or
2. be built to the standards set forth in subsection 2. below.
Options for Compliance. Compliance may be demonstrated using one of the following methods:
1. Use simultaneous noise readings of instantaneous outside and inside noise levels in
accordance with ASTM E 966 to ensure the structure achieves an outside to inside NLR of
at least twenty-five (25) dBA; or
2. Utilize construction materials with a minimum tested or listed sound transmission class
(STC) rating of forty (40), in accordance with ASTM E 90, for walls and ceilings, and with a
minimum tested or listed STC rating for doors and windows as specified below, in
accordance with the following construction methods:
a. Walls. The specific exterior wall assemblies listed below shall include the interior
finishes set forth therein. Exception: Exterior wall assemblies or materials that have
been tested or listed with a minimum STC rating of forty (40).
i. Brick veneer. When exterior walls are constructed using brick veneer, a minimum
of one-half (1/2) inch gypsum drywall shall be applied as the interior finish, or a
minimum of three and one-half (3- 1/2) inches of foam insulation shall be sprayed
in as allowed by the building and fire code.
ii. Vinyl or cement sidings. When exterior walls are constructed using vinyl or
cement sidings, a minimum of five-eighths (5/8) inch gypsum drywall shall be
applied as the interior finish, or a minimum of three and one-half (3-1/2) inches of
foam insulation shall be sprayed in as allowed by the building and fire code.
iii. Other assemblies and materials. All other exterior wall assemblies or materials
shall have a tested or listed minimum STC rating of forty (40).
b. Roof/Ceiling Assemblies. Roof/ceiling assemblies shall be constructed in accordance
with the requirements of subsections (i) or (ii) below.
Exception: Roof/ceiling assemblies or materials that have been tested or listed with a
minimum STC rating of forty (40).
i. Ceilings with unconditioned attic space shall be insulated with a minimum of one-
half (1/2) inch gypsum drywall on the interior ceiling side covered with a minimum
of twelve (12) inches of blown in fiberglass insulation, or a minimum of three and
one-half (3-1/2) inches of spray foam insulation shall be applied to the underside
of the roof deck as allowed by the building and fire code.
ii. Ceilings without attic space above shall be insulated with a minimum of five-
eighths (5/8) inch gypsum drywall on the interior side filled with a minimum of
nine (9) inches of fiberglass batt insulation with a one (1) inch air space between
the roof sheathing and the fiberglass, or a minimum of three and one-half (3-1/2)
inches of spray foam insulation shall be applied to the underside of the roof deck
as allowed by the building and fire code.
c. Windows. The cavity between the wood framing and the window frame shall be
insulated with fiberglass insulation or foam insulation to the depth of the window
frame.
i. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise no more than thirty percent
(30%) of the total exterior wall area, all windows shall have a minimum tested or
listed STC rating of thirty (30).
ii. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise more than thirty percent
(30%) but no more than forty percent (40%) of the total exterior wall area, all
windows shall have a minimum tested or listed STC rating of thirty-two (32).
iii. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise more than forty percent
(40%) of the total exterior wall area, all windows shall have a minimum tested or
listed STC rating of forty (40).
d. Doors.
i. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise no more than thirty percent
(30%) of the total exterior wall area, all exterior doors shall have a minimum
tested or listed STC rating of thirty (30).
ii. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise more than thirty percent
(30%) but no more than forty percent (40%) of the total exterior wall area, all
exterior doors shall have a minimum tested or listed STC rating of thirty-two (32).
iii. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise more than forty percent
(40%) of the total exterior wall area, all exterior doors shall have a minimum
tested or listed STC rating of forty (40).
Exception: An exterior door may have a tested or listed STC rating of less than forty (40)
when installed with a storm door which when combined, achieve a minimum tested or
listed STC rating of forty (40).
e. Mechanical Systems. Mechanical ventilation systems (HVAC) shall provide minimum
air circulation and fresh air requirements for various uses in occupied rooms without
the need to open any windows, doors, or other openings to the exterior.
i. In-window, through-wall, or through-floor air conditioning, ventilating, or heating
units may be used if:
1) the above insulation requirements for walls, ceilings, windows and doors are
implemented, or
2) walls, ceilings, windows and doors have a minimum tested or listed STC
rating of forty (40).
ii. Evaporative coolers may be installed if the following is implemented to reduce
sound entering through the unit:
1) Insert a duct extension with at least two (2) ninety degree (90°) "elbows"
between the structure and the unit.
2) Add acoustically designed "up-ducts" in the ceiling of each room to allow
proper circulation of air while windows are closed.
Certification.
1. Prior to approval of final inspection or issuance of a certificate of occupancy, all project
applicants shall submit to the Building Inspection Division, a signed statement certifying
compliance with this section.
2. A single certification statement for multiple structures in the same development may be
used as long as the structures implement the same floor plans and construction methods.
A110.7 Inspection by Engineer of Record. The Engineer of Record may conduct required
inspections in-lieu-of the building official unless precluded by State Law. Prior to issuance of a
permit, the Engineer of Record must notify in writing the building official which inspections he will be
conducted. The building official may require such documentation as he deems necessary, including
assigned sealed letter by the Engineer of Record indicating the construction was per the approved
plans and all applicable code requirements. The building official may require any additional
documentation as he deems necessary and may also require notice at least 24 hours prior to the
inspections.
Chapter 31 Special Construction, Section 3114. Shipping Container for Approved Permanent
Construction Use {Reference Acceptance Criteria for Structural Building Materials from Shipping
Containers (AC462) published by the International Code Council Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) as
approved in October 2018}
In order to be an acceptable material used for construction of either a business, residential or
accessory building the building permit would need the following:
1. Certification for compliance with Rules for Certification of Cargo Containers and the International
Convention for Safe Containers (CSC) by the American Bureau of Shipping, Bureau Veritas, or
Lloyd's Registry.
2. Copies of the Container specifications and detail drawings for each shipping container
manufacturer in English.
3. A copy of the quality control program inspection for seaworthiness in accordance with the
International Convention for Safe Containers after removal from service as a shipping container and
prior to use as a source of building materials.
4. Any modifications to the original design of the container will require a Texas Engineer's approval,
designs and details to be provided.
5. The permanent foundation shall be approved by a Texas Engineer as acceptable for use as a
structural support for the anticipated building design and use will be provided for permitting.
6. If manufactured as a complete assembly with electrical, plumbing and mechanical systems, a
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation Industrialized Housing and Buildings Approval
Certification will be provided with the building plans.
Specific standards:
(a) Industrialized buildings must have all local permits and licenses that are applicable to other
housing or buildings.
(b) For purposes of this section, industrialized housing is real property.
(c) The single-family or duplex industrialized housing structure to:
(1) have an appraised value equal to or greater than the median taxable value for each single-
family dwelling located within 500 feet of the lot on which the industrialized housing is proposed to
be located, as determined by the most recent certified tax appraisal roll for each county in which
the properties are located; and
(2) have exterior siding, roofing, roofing pitch, foundation fascia, and fenestration compatible with
the single-family dwellings located within 500 feet of the lot on which the industrialized housing is
proposed to be located; and
(3) have exterior siding, roofing, roof pitch, foundation fascia, and fenestration compatible with the
single-family dwellings located within 500 feet of the lot on which the industrialized housing is
proposed to be located; and
(4) comply with municipal aesthetic standards, building setbacks, side and rear yard offsets,
subdivision control, architectural landscaping, square footage, and other site requirements
applicable to single-family dwellings; and
(5) be securely fixed to a permanent foundation.
(d) For purposes of Subsection (c), "value" means the taxable value of the industrialized housing and
the lot after installation of the housing.
(e) Except as provided by Subsection (c), the City of Schertz may not adopt a regulation under this
section that is more restrictive for industrialized housing than that required for a new single-family or
duplex dwelling constructed on-site.
(f) This section does not:
(1) limit the authority of a municipality to adopt regulations to protect historic properties or historic
districts; or
(2) affect deed restrictions.
(g) All non-residential buildings or structures shall comply with the City of Schertz Unified
Development Code.
ARTICLE III. - INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE FOR ONE AND TWO FAMILY DWELLINGS
Sec. 18-60. - Adopted.
The International Residential Code for One and Two Family Dwellings Code, 2018 Edition is hereby
adopted with the amendments as provided for in this Article.
Sec. 18-61. - Amendments.
The International Residential Code for One and Two Family Dwellings, 2018 Edition is hereby
amended as follows:
R101.1 Title. Insert: City of Schertz, Texas
Permits.
R105.2 Work exempt from permit. This section shall be amended to include additions and
deletions as follows:
Building:
Insert:
1. One story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and
similar uses on the same lot as a one or two family dwelling; provided the floor area is 120
square feet or less and the structure can be moved if necessary, except where located in a
flood hazard area.
a. The foundation for a detached accessory structure, storage sheds, playhouses and similar
uses, if any, will require a flatwork permit; and the location and placement of the accessory
structure shall comply with Article 8 of the Schertz Unified Development Code.
b. Areas located in floodplain hazard areas will require permits.
2. Replacement Fences on the property of a one or two family dwelling, provided they comply with
the following criteria, except where located in a flood hazard area.
a. The fence complies with all of the applicable requirements of the City of Schertz Unified
Development code including but not limited to height, location and materials.
b. The replacement fence is in the same location, the same height and of the same materials
as the fence being replaced (e.g., a 6' wood privacy fence for a 6' wood privacy fence or a
4' chain link fence for a 4' chain link fence).
c. Pergolas, Arbors and Trellis under 300 square feet in total size. All materials used shall be
of approved fire-resistant materials where fire setback as defined by the IRC are required.
Foundations for arbors, if any, will require a flat work permit. The arbor shall not be located
in any utility easement; and shall comply with the setback requirements of Article 8 of the
Schertz Unified Development Code with the exception that an arbor may be attached to the
main structure.
d. Areas located in floodplain hazard areas will require permits.
DELETED EXEMPTION:
3. Retaining Walls
5. Sidewalks and driveways
10. Decks not exceeding 200 square feet.
R106.1 Submittal Documents.
Design professional. The design professional shall be an architect or engineer legally registered
under the laws of the State of Texas regulating the practice of architecture or engineering and shall
affix his/her seal to said drawings.
R109.5 Inspection by Engineer of Record. The Engineer of Record may conduct required
inspections in-lieu-of the building official unless precluded by State Law. Prior to issuance of a
permit, the Engineer of Record must notify in writing the building official which inspections he will be
conducted. The building official may require such documentation as he deems necessary, including
assigned sealed letter by the Engineer of Record indicating the construction was per the approved
plans and all applicable code requirements. The building official may require any additional
documentation as he deems necessary and may also require notice at least 24 hours prior to the
inspections.
Exception: During emergency situations where authorized by the Authority having Jurisdiction.
R112 Board of Appeals. The Board of Appeals is hereby repealed in its entirety and is replaced by
the Building and Standards Commission.
R202 Definitions. This section is amended to include the following non-reference definitions.
Applicable governing body as referenced within any code adopted under this chapter shall mean
the City Council of the City of Schertz
As Built Plans are plans submitted after the building is complete showing any alterations, additions
or changes that have occurred after construction has begun. All alterations, additions or changes
may require Building Division approval.
Residential Arbors are defined as trellises and not as a building when less than 300 square feet in
size. Arbors shall be built without a solid roof covering; used only to support vegetation; or acting as
a shadow box attached or unattached to the primary or secondary structure; or free standing
anchored solidly into the soil or to a permanent foundation and capable of withstanding the
environmental conditions as established in the International Residential Code.
Service Systems are electrical, fire, mechanical, plumbing or other services not associated with
structural elements.
Pergolas, Arbors and Trellis are open un-roofed structure intended only to support vegetation or
décor shadowing.
R106.1.4 Submittal documents. All foundations shall be designed by a Professional Engineer
licensed in the State of Texas and all drawings and documentation must be signed and sealed per
Texas Board of Professional Engineers rules. Design Engineers must be registered with the City of
Schertz. Documentation shall include:
1. Design letter referencing soils report project number, date of report, and soils engineer name;
specific location including lot, block and subdivision; specific design criteria including soil
bearing capacity and plasticity index or Post-Tensioning Institute parameters. The engineer
shall also approve a concrete mix design with performance criteria based on soils and seasonal
conditions.
5. The engineer must provide to the City of Schertz a Letter of Final Acceptance stating that the
foundation has been placed in compliance with the design spedifications and requirements prior
to issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy.
10. Prior to receiving a Certificate of Occupancy, a final survey indicating final grade elevations
and verifying positive drainage away from the foundation must be submitted to the City.
Exemption: The Building Official or designee may waive these requirements where the addition is
300 square feet or smaller with a load bearing roof or single story structure directly connected to this
foundation.
For free standing column supports the footings shall be 12 inches in diameter, not less than 24
inches in depth below soil grade or to a weight bearing strata with a minimum of a #6 by 6 by 6 steel
reinforcement cage installed one inch below the surface of the poured concrete to the one inch
above the base of the footing and “belled” two inches at the base.
All other pier and beam construction shall have a footing designed not less than as allowed for highly
expansive soils per the IRC and in no case shall the width of the footing be less than twelve inches
with four #4 bars with #4 stirrups on twelve-inch centers. The monolithic slab shall be three- and
one-half inches in depth with #6 by 6 by 6 mesh or #3 bar on 12-inch centers located in the center of
the monolithic slab. No single monolithic slab shall have an area greater than 300 square feet
without interior twelve inch by twelve-inch beams with four # 4 bar reinforcement one inch from the
sides and one inch from the bottom of the interior beam. Stirrups are required on 12 inch centers and
not less than #4 bar. Corner bars shall be installed at all intersections and at both interior and
exterior corner edges of the new foundation. An engineer’s approval will be required if the new
foundation addition is to be connected by dowels to a post tension designed primary foundation. A
minimum of 4 inches of compacted base will be required under the new monolithic slab free of any
contaminating debris.
Table R301.2 (1) Climatic and Geographic Design Criteria.
R404.4.1 Retaining Walls.
Construction of a retaining wall in excess of four (4) feet in height, as measured from the bottom of
the footing of the wall to the top of the wall, constructed on private property and that will not be
dedicated to the City as a public improvement, as a part of the building permit application process,
shall require submission to, and approval by, the building official of the City of detailed retaining wall
design plans sealed by an engineer licensed to practice in the State of Texas, prior to commencing
construction of such wall. Construction of such retaining wall shall also require submission to, and
approval by, the building official of the City of a sealed engineering inspection report verifying the
construction of the retaining wall in conformance with the retaining wall design plans in order to close
out the building permit.
R703.7.2 Exterior veneer support, R703.7.2.1 Support by steel angle, 703.7.2.2 Support by roof
construction and R703.7.3 Lintels. Lintels shall be attached to the wood framing above all
openings wider than 2 feet by fasteners as required by the design professional prior to a framing
inspection being requested.
R807.1 Attic Access. Where attic access is required for appliance maintenance the access shall be
provided by a ceiling pull down ladder capable of supporting (250) two hundred and fifty pounds and
have an opening large enough to remove the largest single section or the entire unit. If the attic is
designed for storage a pull down ladder is required to the same specifications as above. .
P2503.5.1 Rough plumbing (1) Water test. Each section shall be filled with water to a point not less
than 10 feet above the highest fitting connection in that section, or to the highest point in the
completed system, or to 1 foot above the highest finished interior wall per floor level. Water shall be
held in the section under test for a period of 15 minutes. The system shall prove leave free by visual
inspection.
P2603.5.1 Sewer Depth. Insert: 12 inches
Insert: 12 inches
The following Appendixes are adopted:
Appendix A - Sizing and Capacities of Gas Piping
Appendix B - Sizing of Venting Systems Serving appliances equipped with Draft hood, Category
1 Appliances, and Appliances listed for use with Type B Vents
Appendix C - Exit Terminals of Mechanical draft and Direct-Vent Venting Systems
Appendix E - Manufactured Homes used as Dwellings
Appendix H - Patio Covers
Appendix J - Existing Buildings and Structures
Appendix K Sound Transmission
AK 101 Sound Transmission Standards for High Noise Areas
All habitable portions of structures located within the 65 dBA as shown on Exhibit A attached
shall be designed and constructed to achieve either:
1. an outside to inside noise level reduction (NLR) of at least twenty-five (25) a-weighted
decibels (dBA), or
2. be built to the standards set forth in subsection 2. below.
Options for Compliance. Compliance may be demonstrated using one of the following methods:
1. Use simultaneous noise readings of instantaneous outside and inside noise levels in
accordance with ASTM E 966 to ensure the structure achieves an outside to inside NLR of
at least twenty-five (25) dBA; or
2. Utilize construction materials with a minimum tested or listed sound transmission class
(STC) rating of forty (40), in accordance with ASTM E 90, for walls and ceilings, and with a
minimum tested or listed STC rating for doors and windows as specified below, in
accordance with the following construction methods:
a. Walls. The specific exterior wall assemblies listed below shall include the interior
finishes set forth therein. Exception: Exterior wall assemblies or materials that have
been tested or listed with a minimum STC rating of forty (40).
i. Brick veneer. When exterior walls are constructed using brick veneer, a minimum
of one-half (1/2) inch gypsum drywall shall be applied as the interior finish, or a
minimum of three and one-half (3- 1/2) inches of foam insulation shall be sprayed
in as allowed by the building and fire code.
ii. Vinyl or cement sidings. When exterior walls are constructed using vinyl or
cement sidings, a minimum of five-eighths (5/8) inch gypsum drywall shall be
applied as the interior finish, or a minimum of three and one-half (3-1/2) inches of
foam insulation shall be sprayed in as allowed by the building and fire code.
iii. Other assemblies and materials. All other exterior wall assemblies or materials
shall have a tested or listed minimum STC rating of forty (40).
b. Roof/Ceiling Assemblies. Roof/ceiling assemblies shall be constructed in accordance
with the requirements of subsections (i) or (ii) below.
Exception: Roof/ceiling assemblies or materials that have been tested or listed with a
minimum STC rating of forty (40).
i. Ceilings with unconditioned attic space shall be insulated with a minimum of one-
half (1/2) inch gypsum drywall on the interior ceiling side covered with a minimum
of twelve (12) inches of blown in fiberglass insulation, or a minimum of three and
one-half (3-1/2) inches of spray foam insulation shall be applied to the underside
of the roof deck as allowed by the building and fire code.
ii. Ceilings without attic space above shall be insulated with a minimum of five-
eighths (5/8) inch gypsum drywall on the interior side filled with a minimum of
nine (9) inches of fiberglass batt insulation with a one (1) inch air space between
the roof sheathing and the fiberglass, or a minimum of three and one-half (3-1/2)
inches of spray foam insulation shall be applied to the underside of the roof deck
as allowed by the building and fire code.
c. Windows. The cavity between the wood framing and the window frame shall be
insulated with fiberglass insulation or foam insulation to the depth of the window
frame.
i. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise no more than thirty percent
(30%) of the total exterior wall area, all windows shall have a minimum tested or
listed STC rating of thirty (30).
ii. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise more than thirty percent
(30%) but no more than forty percent (40%) of the total exterior wall area, all
windows shall have a minimum tested or listed STC rating of thirty-two (32).
iii. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise more than forty percent
(40%) of the total exterior wall area, all windows shall have a minimum tested or
listed STC rating of forty (40).
d. Doors
i. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise no more than thirty percent
(30%) of the total exterior wall area, all exterior doors shall have a minimum
tested or listed STC rating of thirty (30).
ii. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise more than thirty percent
(30%) but no more than forty percent (40%) of the total exterior wall area, all
exterior doors shall have a minimum tested or listed STC rating of thirty-two (32).
iii. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise more than forty percent
(40%) of the total exterior wall area, all exterior doors shall have a minimum
tested or listed STC rating of forty (40).
Exception: An exterior door may have a tested or listed STC rating of less than forty (40)
when installed with a storm door which when combined, achieve a minimum tested or
listed STC rating of forty (40).
e. Mechanical Systems. Mechanical ventilation systems (HVAC) shall provide minimum
air circulation and fresh air requirements for various uses in occupied rooms without
the need to open any windows, doors, or other openings to the exterior.
i. In-window, through-wall, or through-floor air conditioning, ventilating, or heating
units may be used if:
1) the above insulation requirements for walls, ceilings, windows and doors are
implemented, or
2) Walls, ceilings, windows and doors have a minimum tested or listed STC
rating of forty (40).
ii. Evaporative coolers may be installed if the following is implemented to reduce
sound entering through the unit:
1) Insert a duct extension with at least two (2) ninety degree (90°) "elbows"
between the structure and the unit.
2) Add acoustically designed "up-ducts" in the ceiling of each room to allow
proper circulation of air while windows are closed.
Certification.
1. Prior to approval of final inspection or issuance of a certificate of occupancy, all project
applicants shall submit to the Building Inspection Division, a signed statement certifying
compliance with this section.
2. A single certification statement for multiple structures in the same development may be used as
long as the structures implement the same floor plans and construction methods.
Part VIII - Electrical. Is deleted.
The following Appendix is adopted:
Appendix M – Home Day Care – R 3 Occupancy
Appendix P - Sizing of Water Piping System
Appendix Q – Tiny Houses
Appendix R – Light Straw-Clay Construction
Appendix S – Straw bale Construction
Appendix U - Shipping Container for Approved Permanent Construction Use {Reference
Acceptance Criteria for Structural Building Materials from Shipping Containers (AC462) published by
the International Code Council Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) as approved in October 2018}
In order to be an acceptable material used for construction of either a business, residential or
accessory building the building permit would need the following:
1. Certification for compliance with Rules for Certification of Cargo Containers and the International
Convention for Safe Containers (CSC) by the American Bureau of Shipping, Bureau Veritas, or
Lloyd's Registry.
2. Copies of the Container specifications and detail drawings for each shipping container
manufacturer in English.
3. A copy of the quality control program inspection for seaworthiness in accordance with the
International Convention for Safe Containers after removal from service as a shipping container and
prior to use as a source of building materials.
4. Any modifications to the original design of the container will require a Texas Engineer's approval,
designs and details to be provided.
5. The permanent foundation shall be approved by a Texas Engineer as acceptable for use as a
structural support for the anticipated building design and use will be provided for permitting.
6. If manufactured as a complete assembly with electrical, plumbing and mechanical systems, a
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation Industrialized Housing and Buildings Approval
Certification will be provided with the building plans.
Specific standards:
(a) Industrialized buildings must have all local permits and licenses that are applicable to other
housing or buildings.
(b) For purposes of this section, industrialized housing is real property.
(c) The single-family or duplex industrialized housing structure to:
(1) have an appraised value equal to or greater than the median taxable value for each single-
family dwelling located within 500 feet of the lot on which the industrialized housing is proposed to
be located, as determined by the most recent certified tax appraisal roll for each county in which
the properties are located; and
(2) have exterior siding, roofing, roofing pitch, foundation fascia, and fenestration compatible with
the single-family dwellings located within 500 feet of the lot on which the industrialized housing is
proposed to be located; and
(3) have exterior siding, roofing, roof pitch, foundation fascia, and fenestration compatible with the
single-family dwellings located within 500 feet of the lot on which the industrialized housing is
proposed to be located; and
(4) comply with municipal aesthetic standards, building setbacks, side and rear yard offsets,
subdivision control, architectural landscaping, square footage, and other site requirements
applicable to single-family dwellings; and
(5) be securely fixed to a permanent foundation.
(d) For purposes of Subsection (c), "value" means the taxable value of the industrialized housing and
the lot after installation of the housing.
(e) Except as provided by Subsection (c), the City of Schertz may not adopt a regulation under this
section that is more restrictive for industrialized housing than that required for a new single-family or
duplex dwelling constructed on-site.
(f) This section does not:
(1) limit the authority of a municipality to adopt regulations to protect historic properties or historic
districts; or
(2) affect deed restrictions.
(g) All non-residential buildings or structures shall comply with the City of Schertz Unified
Development Code.
Secs. 18-62—18-79. - Reserved.
ARTICLE IV. - NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
Sec. 18-80. - Adopted.
The National Electrical Code, 2020 edition to include, revisions, amendments and corrections,
published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), is hereby adopted by reference as the
electrical code of the City of Schertz, Texas, subject to and including such amendments as herein shall
appear. The State of Texas will mandate all future code editions through the Texas Department of
Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) as to the date of future adoptions.
Sec. 18-81. - Amendments.
The National Electrical Code, 2020 Edition is hereby amended as follows:
210.11 Branch Circuits Required. No more than (12) twelve duplex receptacle outlets shall be
installed per circuit serving general lighting circuits.
210.52 Dwelling Unit Receptacle Outlets (B) (3) Kitchen Receptacle Requirements. No more
than (4) four duplex receptacle outlets per kitchen countertop circuit.
Refrigerators, freezers, microwaves, dishwashers, garbage compactors, and washing machines shall
be located on dedicated individual circuits. Such receptacle outlets shall comply with 210.8 Ground-
Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection for Personnel and 210.12 Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection
as needed. Garbage Disposals shall be permitted to be on the same circuit for a kitchen counter top
circuit.
230.70 (A) (1) Readily Accessible Location – The service disconnecting means shall be installed
at a readily accessible location outside of a building or structure nearest the point of entrance of or
attachment to the service conductors.
230.71 Maximum Number of Disconnects. An exterior disconnecting means shall be provided at
each building serviced where more than two circuits supply the structure. A shunt trip device
designed to de-energize the service disconnect equipment at all load side connections, is acceptable
on the exterior of the structure at a location approved by the City of Schertz as an alternative means
of disconnection.
Secs. 18-82—18-99. - Reserved.
ARTICLE V. - INTERNATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE
Sec. 18-100. - Adopted.
The International Fuel Gas Code, 2018 Edition is hereby adopted with the amendments as provided
for in this Article.
Sec. 18-101. - Amendments.
The International Fuel Gas Code, 2018 Edition is hereby amended as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Fuel Gas Code of the City of Schertz, Texas,
hereinafter referred to as "this code."
109 Means of Appeal. The Board of Appeals is hereby repealed in its entirety and replaced by
Building and Standards Commission
The following appendixes are adopted:
Appendix A (IFGS) - Sizing and Capacities of Gas Piping A.1 shall be altered as follows: for any
gas piping system, or special appliance, or for conditions other than those covered by the tables
provided in the code, such as longer runs, greater gas demands, or greater pressure drops, the
size of each gas piping system shall be determined by standard engineering practices
acceptable to the code official.
Appendix B (IFGS) Sizing of Venting Systems Servicing Appliances Equipped with Draft Hoods,
Category 1 Appliance and Appliances Listed for Use with Type B Vents Appendix C (IFGS) Exit
Terminals of Mechanical Draft and Direct-vent Venting Systems.
Secs. 18-102—18-119. - Reserved.
ARTICLE VI. - INTERNATIONAL MECHANICAL CODE
Sec. 18-120. - Adopted.
The International Mechanical Code, 2018 Edition is hereby adopted with the amendments as
provided for in this article.
Sec. 18-121. - Amendments.
The International Mechanical Code, 2018 Edition is hereby amended as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Mechanical Code of the City of Schertz, Texas,
hereinafter referred to as "this code."
109 Means of Appeal. The Board of Appeals is hereby repealed in its entirety and replaced by
Building and Standards Commission.
Secs. 18-122—18-139. - Reserved.
ARTICLE VII. - INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE
Sec. 18-140. - Adopted.
The International Plumbing Code, 2018 Edition is hereby adopted with the amendments as provided
for in this article.
Sec. 18-141. - Amendments.
The International Plumbing Code, 2018 Edition is hereby amended as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the International Plumbing Code of the city of
Schertz, Texas hereinafter referred to as "this code."
109 Means of Appeal. The Board of Appeals is hereby repealed in its entirety and replaced by
Building and Standards Commission.
305.4.1 Sewer Depth. Building sewers that connect to private disposal systems shall be not less
than 12 inches below grade at the point of the septic tank connection. All building sewers shall be a
minimum of 12 inches below finished grade.
311.1 Toilet Facilities for Workers. Portable toilets shall be provided for construction sites so that
the path of travel to such facilities shall not exceed 500 feet. Exception: A single portable toilet may
be used for small individual construction jobs when approved by the building official.
The following Appendixes are adopted:
Appendix B - Rates of Rainfall for Various Cities
Appendix D - Degree Day and Design Temperatures
Appendix E - Sizing of Water Piping System
Appendix C- Structural Safety
Secs. 18-142—18-159. - Reserved.
ARTICLE VIII. - INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE
Sec. 18-160. - Adopted.
The International Property Maintenance Code, 2018 Edition is hereby adopted with the amendments
as provided for in this article.
Sec. 18-161. - Amendments.
The International Property Maintenance Code, 2018 Edition is hereby amended as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the International Property Maintenance Code of the
City of Schertz, Texas, hereinafter referred to as "this code."
111 Means of Appeal. Means of Appeal is hereby repealed in its entirety.
302.4 Weeds. All premises and exterior property shall be maintained free from weeds or grass
growth in excess of eight inches.
302.7 Accessory Structures. All Accessory structures, including detached garages, fences and
walls, shall be maintained structurally sound and in good repair.
No accessory structure shall be more than twenty (20) degrees out of vertical (using an (8) eight foot
level) along any 20 feet of wall surface to obtain an accurate determination of the degrees from
vertical.
Fences and walls twenty (20) degrees or more in each directional run (vertical or horizontal) shall not
have more than twenty-five (25) percent of any directional run (vertical or horizontal) to be of
decayed or damaged material.
The following Appendix is adopted:
Appendix A - Boarding Standard
Secs. 18-162—18-179. - Reserved.
ARTICLE IX. - INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE
Sec. 18-180. - Adopted.
The International Energy Conservation Code, 2015 Edition is hereby adopted with the amendments
as provided for in this article. The State of Texas will mandate all future code editions through the Texas
Comptroller's State Energy Conservation Office (SECO) as to the date of future adoptions.
Sec. 18-181. - Amendments.
The International Energy Conservation Code, 2015 Edition is hereby amended as follows:
C101.1 Title. This code shall be known as the International Energy Conservation Code of the City of
Schertz, Texas, and shall be cited as such. It is referred to herein as "this code."
C109 Board of Appeals. The Board of Appeals is hereby repealed in its entirety and replaced by the
Building and Standards Commission.
Secs. 18-182—18-199. - Reserved.
ARTICLE X. - MANUAL OF CROSS-CONNECTION CONTROL
Sec. 18-200. - Adopted.
The Manual of Cross-Connection Control by the University of Southern California, Tenth edition
published October 2009, by the Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research,
University of Southern California, is hereby adopted and incorporated as the Backflow and Cross-
Connection Code of the City of Schertz, Texas, subject to and including by reference as herein shall
appear.
Sec. 18-201. - Amendments.
The Manual of Cross-Connection Control, Tenth Edition, October 2009 is hereby amended as
follows:
Irrigation Back Flow Device Location. The residential irrigation RP or PVB shall be located
immediately adjacent to the residential structure and shall be located a minimum of twelve (12)
inches above the highest lawn sprinkler head. A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter receptacle that is
weather proof while in operation is recommended to be located immediately adjacent to the back
flow device for the installation of a heat tape to prevent freezing. A rain sensor(s) shall be installed
on all systems.
The Commercial irrigation RP and PVB or other approved back flow devices shall be protected from
traffic if not located immediately adjacent to the structure and shall be located a minimum of twelve
(12) inches above the highest lawn sprinkler head. A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter receptacle that
is weather proof while in operation is recommended to be located immediately adjacent to the back
flow device for the installation of a heat tape to prevent freezing. Freeze protection shall be
considered in all designs. A rain sensor(s) shall be installed on all systems.
Any RP or PVB located in a flood plain shall be 1 foot above the Design Flood Elevation (DFE) or
designed in such a way that will prevent floodwaters from entering or accumulating within system
components and to additionally ensure that floodwater does not contaminate the potable water
supply system. (Ref: FEMA 348 November 1999)
Adopting the backflow and cross-connection requirements in no way shall appeal or set aside any of
the requirements of the International Plumbing Code.
Secs. 18-202—18-219. - Reserved.
ARTICLE XI. - INTERNATIONAL SWIMMING POOL AND SPA CODE
Sec. 18-220. - Adopted.
The International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, 2018 Edition is hereby adopted with the
amendments as provided for in this article. The State of Texas will mandate all future code editions
through the Texas Department of State Health Services as to the date of future adoptions.
Sec. 18-221. - Amendments.
The International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, 2018 Edition is hereby amended as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code of
the City of Schertz, Texas, hereinafter referred to as "this code."
108 Means of Appeal. The Board of Appeals is hereby repealed in its entirety and replaced by
Building and Standards Commission.
Secs. 18-222—18-239. - Reserved.
ARTICLE XII. - INTERNATIONAL EXISTING BUILDING CODE
Sec. 18-240. - Adopted.
The International Existing Building Code, 2018 Edition is hereby adopted with the amendments as
provided for in this article.
Sec. 18-241. - Amendments.
The International Existing Building Code, 2018 Edition is hereby amended as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the International Existing Building Code of the City
of Schertz, Texas, hereinafter referred to as "this code."
112 Board of Appeals. The Board of Appeals is hereby repealed in its entirety and replaced by
Building and Standards Commission.
Secs. 18-242—18-254. - Reserved.
ARTICLE XIII
Sec. 18-255. - Violations and penalties.
Any person, firm, corporation or agent who shall violate a provision of this chapter, 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 in violation of the detailed statement
or drawings submitted and permitted thereunder, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. Such persons shall be
considered guilty of a separate offense for each and every day or portion thereof during which any
violation of any of the provisions of this chapter is committed or continued, and upon conviction of any
such violation such person shall be punished by a fine of not more than $500.00 for each offense unless
said violation is a violation of a regulation governing fire safety or public health and sanitation then by a
fine of not more than $2,000.00 for each offense. All such violations shall be prosecuted in accordance
with section 1-8 General penalty for violations of Code; continuing violations of the Schertz Municipal
Code of Ordinances.
Chapter 18 - BUILDINGS AND BUILDING REGULATIONS
ARTICLE I. - IN GENERAL
Sec. 18-1. - Scheduling inspections.
(a) Posting permit and plans. Work requiring a permit shall not commence until the permit holder or his
agent posts the inspection card andpermit plans in a conspicuous place on the premises. The
inspection card and plans shall be protected from the weather and located in such a position as to
permit the building official or designee or assigned inspector to conveniently make the required
entries thereon. The permit holder shall maintain the inspection card and approved plans on site and
make them available to the Building Official or his or her designee in such position until the certificate
of occupancy or completion certificate is issued by the building official or his or her
designeedesignee or assigned inspector.
(b) Inspection requirements. A 24-hour notice is required before an inspection is desired, excluding
Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. To insure a 24-hour service, all inspections must be called in by
4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and shall include the permit number, address of the inspection site,
contact information of the requester, and type of inspections being requested. Any inspections
requested but unable to be performed on the requested day shall be given priority on the next
business day.
If a re-inspection has been called for and the second inspection revealed that the original turn down items
have not been corrected in part or in whole, a 72-hour hold on the failed segment may be given
before another re-inspection will be made. Each subsequent fail on the same re-inspection may be
rescheduled no sooner than 72-hours which will not include weekends or holiday time periods.
Sec. 18-2. -– General Bbuilding contractors registration.
It shall be the duty of every contractor who engages in the shall make contracts for the construction,
erection, alteration, repair, moving, demolition, installation or replacements of any building, structure,
swimming pool, or sign, whether permanent or temporary, obtain all the necessary permits. Such
contractor shall be registered by the City of Schertz.
(1) Insurance required. It shall be the duty of all contractors who practice their trade craft within the
City of Schertz, Texas to show proof of general commercial liability insurance for claims for
property damage, or bodily injury regardless of whether the claim arises from a negligence
claim or on a contract claim. Coverage amount of liability insurance shall not be less than
$300,000.00. The insurance shall run for a concurrent term with the registration.
(2) Application. An written application for a contractor's registration will be submitted to the building
official or his or her designee or assigned inspector on a form prescribed by the city along with
the required initial fee. and evidence of qualifications as follows:
• Required initial fee;
• Renewal fee as applicable;
• Completed application;
The building official or designee or assigned inspector, within 30 days from the receipt of the
completed application, will issue the registration or give a written refusal setting out the reasons
for refusal.
(3) Renewal. All renewals shall be due January 1, of each year. Failure to renew within 30 days
after the renewal date will require the applicant to reapply for registration at the initial fee rate.
(4) Revocation. Any registration issued under this section may be revoked by the building official
or his or her designee or assigned inspector for failure to remedy unsatisfactory work, violations
of the chapter, failure to obtain permits, or failure to obtain proper inspections in addition to any
additional penalties provided by this chapter.
(5) Appeal. An applicant, whose registration has been denied or revoked, may appeal to the
Building and Standards Commission. board of appeals within 30 days, in writing along with an
established filing fee.
Sec. 18-3. - Electrical registration.
No person shall install, repair or remove electrical wiring or devices unless he is licensed as an
electrical contractor issued by the State of Texas who employs any of the listed tradesmen as established
by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). A licensed master, sign master,
journeyman, sign journeyman, residential wireman, or journeyman lineman must directly supervise work
done by an apprentice or sign apprentice.
Directly supervise is defined as follows:
(1) Where a single family or duplex residential structure is under construction. The supervisor shall
be on the property while any electrical work as defined by TDLR Rules and Law is underway.
(2) Where a commercial or industrial project is under construction. The supervisor shall be not less
than one supervisor per 50,000 square feet or each story above the first floor or sub-floor over
50,000 square feet and shall be on the property while any electrical work as defined by TDLR
Rules and Law is underway.
A master, sign master, journeyman, sign journeyman, residential wireman, or journeyman lineman
electrician may supervise not more than eight apprentice electricians for commercial construction and not
more than four apprentice electricians for residential construction.
Exception:
(1) A registration is not required of a homeowner who is doing electrical work on his own home.
The homeowner may receive help from others to do such work, provided that the principal
occupation of the person giving help is not that of an electrical contractor or electrician.
(2) A registration is not required of a person who is hired as a full-time employee to perform normal
maintenance excluding alterations and additions of electrical systems in commercial
establishments, provided that the person does not work as an electrician or electrical contractor
for the general public.
Renewal. All renewals shall be due January 1, of each year. Failure to renew within 180 days after
the renewal date will require the applicant to reapply for registration at the initial fee rate.
Revocation. Any registration issued under this section may be revoked by the building official or
designee or assigned inspector for failure to remedy non-code compliant work, violation of the electrical
code, failure to obtain a permit or failure to obtain proper inspections in addition to any additional
penalties provided by this chapter. A complaint shall also be filed with the TDLR by the building official or
designee or assigned inspector.
Insurance required. It shall be the duty of all electrical contractors who practice their craft within the
City of Schertz, Texas to show proof of general liability insurance for claims for property damage, or
bodily injury regardless of whether the claim arises from a negligence claim or on a contract claim.
Coverage amount of liability insurance shall not be less than the amount mandated by the Texas
Department of Licensing and Regulation Administrative Code Chapter 73.40 Insurance Requirements.
(1) Electrical contractors, electrical sign contractors, and residential appliance installation
contractors are required to maintain at least the minimum general liability insurance coverage at all times
to satisfy proof of financial responsibility.
a. The insurance must be at least $300,000.00 per occurrence (combined for property damage
and bodily injury);
b. Be at least $600,000.00 aggregate (total amount the policy will pay for property damage
and bodily injury coverage); and
c. Be at least $300,000.00 aggregate for products and completed operations.
(2) A license applicant or licensee shall file with TDLR a completed certificate of insurance or
other evidence satisfactory to the department when applying for initial and renewal licenses
and upon request of the department.
(3) Proof of the required general liability and workers' compensation insurance can be
submitted on an industry standard certificate of insurance form with a 30-day cancellation
notice. Workers' compensation coverage may be established by a certificate of authority to
self-insure, or an applicant may state that it has elected not to obtain workers'
compensation coverage.
(4) A licensed contractor shall furnish the name of the insurance carrier, policy number,
name, address, and telephone number of the insurance agent with whom the contractor is
insured to any customer who requests it.
(5) Insurance must be obtained from an admitted company or an eligible surplus lines carrier,
as defined in the Texas Insurance Code, Chapter 981, or other insurance companies that
are rated by A.M. Best Company as B+ or higher.
Sec. 18-4. - Mechanical registration.
It shall be the duty of all mechanical contractors who practice their trade craft within the City of
Schertz, Texas to show proof of state license and insurance as required by the Department of Licensing
and Regulation (TDLR), as referenced in Texas State Law, Article 8861, TDLE-ACR-75.11/v.l/93.
Insurance required. It shall be the duty of all Mechanical contractors who practice their craft within
the City of Schertz, Texas to show proof of general liability insurance for claims for property damage, or
bodily injury regardless of whether the claim arises from a negligence claim or on a contract claim.
Coverage amount of liability insurance shall not be less than the amount mandated by the TDLR
Administrative Code Chapter 75.40 Contractor Insurance Requirements.
(1) Class A licensees must maintain commercial general liability insurance at all times during a
license period:
a. Of at least $300,000.00 per occurrence (combined for property damage and bodily injury);
b. Of at least $600,000.00 aggregate (total amount the policy will pay for property damage
and bodily injury coverage); and
c. Of at least $300,000.00 aggregate for products and completed operations.
(2) Class B licensees must maintain commercial liability insurance at all times during a license
period:
a. Of at least $100,000.00 per occurrence (combined for property damage and bodily injury);
b. Of at least $200,000.00 aggregate (total amount the policy will pay for property damage
and bodily injury coverage); and
c. Of at least $100,000.00 aggregate for products and completed operations.
(3) Insurance must be obtained from an insurance provider authorized to sell liability insurance in
Texas pursuant to the Texas Insurance Code.
(4) A license applicant or licensee must file with TDLR a completed certificate of insurance or other
evidence satisfactory to TDLR when applying for an initial license, changing a business name or
affiliation, and upon request of TDLR.
(5) Requests to waive the insurance requirements because the license holder does not contract
with the public must:
a. Be submitted in writing to TDLR; and
b. Contain a detailed explanation of the conditions under which the waiver is requested.
(6) A licensee who has received a waiver of insurance cannot perform or offer to perform air
conditioning and refrigeration contracting under his license with the general public.
(7) A licensee or an air conditioning and refrigeration contracting company must furnish the
name of the insurance carrier, policy number, name, address, and telephone number of the
insurance agent with whom the licensee or company is insured to any customer who
requests it.
Sec. 18-5. - Plumbing registration.
It shall be the duty of all plumbing contractors who practice their trade craft within the City of Schertz,
Texas to show proof of state license and insurance as required by the Texas State Board of Plumbing
Examiners. in accordance with, Vernon's Civil Statues, Article 6243-101. A registered master plumber,
master plumber, journeyman, residential utilities installer, drain cleaner or tradesman plumber are to
directly supervise as defined below where compliant with the TSBPE rules and laws.
Plumbing supervision:
A master, journey man, residential utilities installer, drain cleaner or tradesman plumber may directly
supervise not more than eight apprentice plumbers for commercial construction and not more than
four apprentice plumbers for residential.
Directly supervise is defined as follows:
(1) Where a single family or duplex residential structure is under construction. The supervisor shall
be on the property while any plumbing work as defined by Texas State Board of Plumbing
Examiners Rules and Law is underway.
(2) Where a commercial or industrial project is under construction. The supervisor shall be not less
than one supervisor per 50,000 square feet or each story above the first floor or sub-floor over
50,000 square feet and shall be on the property while any plumbing work as defined by TSBPE
Rules and Law is underway.
Insurance required. It shall be the duty of all plumbing contractors who practice their craft within the
City of Schertz, Texas to show proof of general liability insurance for claims for property damage, or
bodily injury regardless of whether the claim arises from a negligence claim or on a contract claim.
Coverage amount of liability insurance shall not be less than the amount mandated by the Texas Board of
Plumbing Examiners Board Rules, Section 367.3 Requirements for Plumbing Companies, Responsible
Master Plumbers (RMP); Certificate of Insurance.
(1) The certificate of insurance must:
a. Be written by a company licensed to do business in this state;
b. Provide for commercial general liability insurance for the RMP for claims for property
damage or bodily injury, regardless of whether the claim arises from a negligence claim or
on a contract claim an d shall include all types of plumbing that will be performed under the
RMP' s license, including, but not limited to:
1. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) plumbing;
2. Medical gas plumbing; and
3. Multipurpose residential fire protection sprinkler systems; and
c. Be in a coverage amount of not less than $300,000.00 for all claims arising in any one-year
period;
d. State the name and license number of the master plumber for whom the coverage is
provided;
e. State the name of the plumbing company for which the master plumber is acting as the
RMP.
1. Insurance coverage specified in part (a) of this subsection, shall be maintained at all times
during which a master plumber acts as a RMP.
2. The certificate of insurance form expires on the date that the insurance coverage, specified
in section (a) of this subsection, expires.
3. The RMP shall furnish the TSBPE with a completed certificate of insurance form not later
than ten days after the expiration on the previously furnished certificate of insurance form.
Sec. 18-6. - Building and standards commission.
All appeals relative to the application and interpretation of the codes adopted in this chapter shall be
to the Building and Standards Commission as established under the Unified Development Code, Article 3,
Boards, Commissions and Committees.
Secs. 18-7—18-39. - Reserved.
ARTICLE II. - INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE
Sec. 18-40. - Adopted.
The International Building Code, 2012 2018 Edition is hereby adopted with the amendments as
provided for in this article.
Sec. 18-41. - Amendments.
The International Building Code, 2012 2018 Edition is hereby amended as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Building Code of the City of Schertz, Texas,
hereinafter referred to as "this code."
Permits.
105.2 Work exempt from permit. 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: This section shall be amended to include additions and deletions as follows:
Building:
1. Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons
and the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed two to one.
2. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.
3. Temporary motion picture, television and theater stage sets and scenery.
4. Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, but not including
service systems.
5. Swings and other temporary playground equipment accessory to one and two-family
dwellings.
6. Window awnings supported by an exterior wall of R-3 - One and Two Family Dwellings as
applicable in Section 101.2 and Group U occupancies of the International Building Code
2012 as defined in Chapter 3 - Use and Occupancy Classification.
7. Movable cases, countertops and partition not over (5) five feet (9) nine inches in height.
ADD TO EXEMPTIONS
14. Pergolas, Arbors and Trellis under 300 square feet in total size. All materials used shall
be of approved fire-resistant materials where fire setbacks as defined in the IBC are
required.
DELETE FROM EXEMPTIONS
2. Fences not over 7’ high.
4. Retaining Walls
6. Sidewalks and Driveways
Electrical:
1. Normal maintenance work, such as replacement of lamps, sockets, fuses, drop cords, snap
switches, or other similar minor repairs as may be permitted by the building official or
designee or assigned inspector;
2. Connection of portable electrical equipment to suitable existing permanently installed
receptacles.
3. Replacement of a motor of the same horsepower and rating and installation of pressure
devices and similar controls, when the electrical supply for the same has been properly
installed by a licensed electrician.
4. The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to electrical equipment used for radio and
television transmission, but does apply to equipment and wiring for power supply and the
installations of towers and antennas.
Gas:
1. Portable heating appliance.
2. Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such
equipment unsafe.
Mechanical:
1. Portable heating appliance;
2. Portable ventilation equipment;
3. Portable cooling unit;
4. Steam, hot or chilled water piping within any heating or cooling equipment regulated by this
chapter;
5. Replacement of any part which does not alter its approval or make it unsafe;
6. Portable evaporative cooler;
7. Self-contained refrigeration system containing ten pounds or less of refrigerant and
actuated by motors of one horsepower or less.
Plumbing:
1. The stopping of leaks in drains, water, soil, waste or vent pipe; provided, however, that if
any concealed trap, drain-pipe, water, soil, waste or vent pipe becomes defective and
becomes necessary to remove and replace the same with new material, such work shall be
considered as new work and a permit shall be obtained and inspection made as provided
in this chapter.
2. The clearing of stoppages or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves or fixtures, and the
removal and reinstallation of water closets, provided such involve or require the
replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes or fixtures.
105.3.1 Action on Application.
Ref: Texas Local Government Code Section 214.904 Time for Issuance of Municipal Building
Permit.
1. This section applies only to a permit required by a municipality to erect or improve a
building or other structure in the municipality.
2. Not later than the 45th calendar day after the date an application for a permit is submitted
the municipality must;
a. grant or deny the permit
b. provide written notice to the applicant stating the reasons why the municipality has
been unable to grant or deny the permit application: or
c. reach a written agreement with the applicant providing for a deadline for granting or
denying the permit.
3. For a permit application for which notice is provided under Subsection (2)(b), the
municipality may grant or deny the permit not later than the 30th day after the date the
notice is received.
4. If a municipality fails to grant or deny a permit application in the time required by
Subsection (3) or by an agreement under Subsection (2)(c), the municipality:
a. may not collect any permit fees associated with the application; and
b. shall refund to the applicant any permit fees associated with the application that have
been collected.
Public right-of-way, alleys and easements. A permit shall not be given by the building official
or designee or assigned inspector for the construction of any building or structure, or alteration
of any building or structure that will encroach upon any right-of-way, alley, or utility or drainage
easement.
107.3.4 Design professional in responsible charge. The design professional shall be an architect
or engineer legally registered under the laws of the State of Texas regulating the practice of
architecture or engineering and shall affix his/her seal to said drawings, specifications and
accompanying data., for the following:
1. All group A, E and I occupancies as defined in the IBC, Chapter 3.
The City of Schertz Building Inspection Division may send plans to an accredited third party review
service at the City of Schertz's discretion to expedite the plan review process.
109.2 Fees. Provide a copy of the contract or proposal signed by both the contractor and the person
responsible for the property that the construction will occur on when requested by the Building
Inspections Division to verify the value of the work for miscellaneous activities such as remodeling,
re-roofing, and foundations.
111.1 Use and Occupancy. New Certificate of Occupancy for Existing Structures. A certificate of
occupancy is required of all commercial or industrial establishments and must be applied for prior to
occupancy of the space. A new certificate is required if a business is relocated, ownership is
changed, occupancy use and classification is changed or the name of a business is changed.
Certificates of Occupancy are not transferable.
The building official or designee or assigned inspector along with any other city staff required, shall
inspect the building or structure and finding no violations of the provisions of this code or other laws
that are enforced by the Departments of Development Services, Engineering, Fire, Parks or Health
and all applicable fees are paid, a certificate of occupancy shall be issued.
111.2. Certificate of Occupancy Issued. After the building official or designee or assigned
inspector inspects a building or structure and finds no violations of the provisions of this chapter or
other laws that are enforced by this department, the building official or designee or assigned
inspector shall issue a certificate of occupancy that shall contain the following:
1. The building permit number;
2. The address of the structure;
3. The name and address of the owner;
4. A description of that portion of the structure for which the certification is issued based on
approved City of Schertz Zoning determination.
5. The name of the building official or designee or assigned inspector;
6. Edition of the code under which the permit was issued;
7. The classification of use and occupancy in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 3 of
International Building Code;
8. Type of construction as defined in Chapter 6 of the International Building Code;
9. The design occupant load;
10. If an automatic sprinkler system is required or not;
11. Any special stipulations or condition for occupancy.
12. The Zoning District in which the occupancy is located.
113 Board of Appeals. The Board of Appeals is hereby repealed in its entirety and is replaced by
the Building and Standards Commission.
202 Definitions. This section is amended to include the following non-referenced definitions:
Applicable governing body as referenced within any code adopted under this chapter shall mean
the City Council of the City of Schertz
As Built Plans are plans submitted after the building is complete showing any alterations, additions
or changes that have occurred after construction has begun. All alterations, additions or changes
may require Building Division approval.
Service Systems are electrical, fire, mechanical, plumbing or other services not associated with
structural elements.
Pergolas, Arbors, and Trellis are open un-roofed structure intended only to support vegetation or
décor shadowing.
508.4.4 Separation. Individual occupancies shall be separated from adjacent occupancies in
accordance with Table 508.4 but in no case shall the fire barrier be less than (1) one hour
where permitted with or without an automatic sprinkler system.
1008.3.3 Room and Spaces amended to include the following:
(5) Public restrooms equipped for handicap use shall have a minimum of one emergency fixture to
provide one foot-candle of illumination throughout the restroom to the point of discharge into the exit
pathway.
(6) School classrooms shall have one emergency light at or near the primary or secondary exit
door(s) that shall illuminate the egress door from the classroom side of the exit.
1612.3 Insert: City of Schertz
1612.3 Insert: Guadalupe County November 2, 2007; Bexar County September 29, 2010 and Comal
County September 9, 2009.
1801.2.1 Design basis. All foundations shall be designed by a Professional Engineer licensed in the
State of Texas and all drawings and documentation must be signed and sealed per Texas Board of
Professional Engineers rules. Design Engineers must be registered with the City of Schertz.
Documentation shall include:
1. Design letter referencing soils report project numbers, date of report, and soils engineer
name; specific location including lot, block and subdivision; specific design criteria
including soil bearing capacity and design plasticity index or Post-Tensioning Institute
parameters. The engineer shall also approve a concrete mix design with performance
criteria based on soils and seasonal conditions.
2. Signed and sealed drawings clearly indicating the strand and reinforcement placement,
pier size, depth, location, and reinforcing, beam size and location, and any special details.
Design calculations must be included.
3. A representative of the design engineer must perform a pre-pour inspection and provide
the City of Schertz with a signed and sealed document stating that the foundation has been
inspected and approved. This inspection must take place prior to requesting a foundation
inspection from the City of Schertz. A representative of the design engineer shall be
present during placement of concrete to verify concrete mix design and seasonal
conditions during placement, and to verify tensioning and elongation of cables if it is a post-
tensioned foundation.
5. A letter from an engineer or surveyor indicating that rough grading of the lot occurred
immediately after form removal, or after final tendon stressing if a Post-Tensioned slab, to
maintain drainage away from foundation during the construction process shall be provided
6. The engineer must provide to the City of Schertz a Letter of Final Acceptance stating that
the foundation has been placed in compliance with the design prior to issuance of a
Certificate of Occupancy.
7. Prior to issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy, the engineer shall provide a letter
indicating that a strength test was performed on the batch of concrete and the results of the
concrete strength test were consistent with the acceptable range specified in the
foundation design. Copies of relevant logs or test results from the concrete manufacturer
shall also be provided.
8. After foundation construction, but prior to commencement of framing, the owner or
applicant shall provide the building official of the City with a sealed certification from an
engineer licensed to practice in the State of Texas and registered with the City of Schertz
that the concrete has adequately cured to allow for framing of the first floor only to occur.
Prior to placing any additional load on the slab the owner or applicant shall provide the
building official of the City with a sealed certification from an engineer licensed to practice
in the State of Texas that the concrete has adequately cured to allow an additional load to
be placed on the slab, including framing above the first floor. In no event shall this be less
than 3 days after completion of concrete placement.
9. If the foundation is a post-tensioned foundation, a letter shall be provided to the City that
the foundation was designed after the engineer's consideration of (a) the Post-Tensioning
Institute's Construction and Maintenance Manual for Post-Tensioned Slab-on-Ground
Foundations, 3d Edition; (b) the Post-Tensioning Institute's Design of Post- Tensioned
Slabs-on-Ground, 3d Edition with 2008 Supplement; and soil test conducted for the lot.
10. Post-Tensioned foundations must be inspected by a Post-Tensioning Institute (PTI) Slab-
on-Ground Installer-Stressor or Level 1 or 2 Unbonded PT Inspector prior to placing a load
on the slab or commencement of framing. Additionally, the Inspector must provide
foundation design drawings, shipping lists, material certifications, jack certifications,
stressing records, and concrete placement records (as described in the Post-Tensioning
Institute's Construction and Maintenance Manual for Post-Tensioned Slab-on-Ground
Foundations, 3d Edition) to the City.
1803.1.1 General. Notwithstanding the foregoing, prior to issuance of a building permit, the owner or
applicant shall provide to the building official for the City a soil test (geotechnical investigation) for the
lot signed, sealed, and made by a geotechnical engineer licensed to practice in the State of Texas.
The soil test shall contain design recommendations. The soil test shall be conducted within the area
where the building foundation is to be located and the owner shall provide a survey of the lot to the
City indicating the location of the soil test. Such soil test report shall be referenced on the building
permit application along with a signed and sealed statement from an engineer licensed to practice in
the State of Texas that the foundation(s) on the lot was/were designed in consideration of the results
shown in the soil test report for that lot. The owner(s) of the property shall provide a letter stating that
no cut or fill was done subsequent to the soil test being conducted.
1807.1(a) Foundation Walls, Retaining Walls and Embedded Posts and Poles. Construction of a
retaining wall in excess of four (4) feet in height, as measured from the bottom of the footing of the
wall to the top of the wall, constructed on public property or to be dedicated to the City as a public
improvement, as a part of the overall subdivision civil plans and the Development Permit application
process, shall require submission to, and approval by, the City Engineer of the City of detailed
retaining wall design plans sealed by an engineer licensed to practice in the State of Texas, prior to
commencing construction of such wall. Construction of such retaining wall shall also require
submission to, and approval by, the City Engineer of the City of a sealed engineering inspection
report verifying the construction of the retaining wall in conformance with the retaining wall design
plans in order to close out the Development Permit.
Construction of a retaining wall in excess of four (4) feet in height, as measured from the bottom of
the footing of the wall to the top of the wall, constructed on private property and that will not be
dedicated to the City as a public improvement, as a part of the building permit application process,
shall require submission to, and approval by, the building official of the City of detailed retaining wall
design plans sealed by an engineer licensed to practice in the State of Texas, prior to commencing
construction of such wall. Construction of such retaining wall shall also require submission to, and
approval by, the building official of the City of a sealed engineering inspection report verifying the
construction of the retaining wall in conformance with the retaining wall design plans in order to close
out the building permit.
On lots with a retaining wall in excess of four (4) feet in height, as measured from the bottom of the
footing to the top of the wall, in addition to the designated rear and side yard setbacks, a
maintenance and access easement for the benefit of the adjacent property owners and the City on
either side of the retaining wall, as necessitated by the design of the retaining wall and in accordance
with the signed and sealed engineering plans, shall be required for retaining wall maintenance and to
prevent any incursion into fill material. The required area of the easement shall vary according to the
retaining wall design and adjacent property access and shall, at a minimum, include all of the fill
area. Any incursion into a retaining wall fill for maintenance and construction of utilities shall require
the submission to, and approval by, the building official of the City of detailed design plans, sealed by
an engineer licensed to practice in the State of Texas, prior to commencing construction on such
incursion. All other incursions are prohibited."
PTI Level 1 or 2 Unbonded PT Inspector is a certified individual meeting the requirements of the IBC
2012, Section 1704 Special Inspections, Contractor Responsibility and Structural Observations,
Table 1705.3 Required Verification and Inspection of Concrete Construction.
1207 Sound Transmission Standards for High Noise Areas. All habitable portions of structures
located within the 65 dBA as shown on Exhibit A attached, shall be designed and constructed to
achieve either:
1. an outside to inside noise level reduction (NLR) of at least twenty-five (25) a-weighted
decibels (dBA), or
2. be built to the standards set forth in subsection 2. below.
Options for Compliance. Compliance may be demonstrated using one of the following methods:
1. Use simultaneous noise readings of instantaneous outside and inside noise levels in
accordance with ASTM E 966 to ensure the structure achieves an outside to inside NLR of
at least twenty-five (25) dBA; or
2. Utilize construction materials with a minimum tested or listed sound transmission class
(STC) rating of forty (40), in accordance with ASTM E 90, for walls and ceilings, and with a
minimum tested or listed STC rating for doors and windows as specified below, in
accordance with the following construction methods:
a. Walls. The specific exterior wall assemblies listed below shall include the interior
finishes set forth therein. Exception: Exterior wall assemblies or materials that have
been tested or listed with a minimum STC rating of forty (40).
i. Brick veneer. When exterior walls are constructed using brick veneer, a minimum
of one-half (1/2) inch gypsum drywall shall be applied as the interior finish, or a
minimum of three and one-half (3- 1/2) inches of foam insulation shall be sprayed
in as allowed by the building and fire code.
ii. Vinyl or cement sidings. When exterior walls are constructed using vinyl or
cement sidings, a minimum of five-eighths (5/8) inch gypsum drywall shall be
applied as the interior finish, or a minimum of three and one-half (3-1/2) inches of
foam insulation shall be sprayed in as allowed by the building and fire code.
iii. Other assemblies and materials. All other exterior wall assemblies or materials
shall have a tested or listed minimum STC rating of forty (40).
b. Roof/Ceiling Assemblies. Roof/ceiling assemblies shall be constructed in accordance
with the requirements of subsections (i) or (ii) below.
Exception: Roof/ceiling assemblies or materials that have been tested or listed with a
minimum STC rating of forty (40).
i. Ceilings with unconditioned attic space shall be insulated with a minimum of one-
half (1/2) inch gypsum drywall on the interior ceiling side covered with a minimum
of twelve (12) inches of blown in fiberglass insulation, or a minimum of three and
one-half (3-1/2) inches of spray foam insulation shall be applied to the underside
of the roof deck as allowed by the building and fire code.
ii. Ceilings without attic space above shall be insulated with a minimum of five-
eighths (5/8) inch gypsum drywall on the interior side filled with a minimum of
nine (9) inches of fiberglass batt insulation with a one (1) inch air space between
the roof sheathing and the fiberglass, or a minimum of three and one-half (3-1/2)
inches of spray foam insulation shall be applied to the underside of the roof deck
as allowed by the building and fire code.
c. Windows. The cavity between the wood framing and the window frame shall be
insulated with fiberglass insulation or foam insulation to the depth of the window
frame.
i. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise no more than thirty percent
(30%) of the total exterior wall area, all windows shall have a minimum tested or
listed STC rating of thirty (30).
ii. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise more than thirty percent
(30%) but no more than forty percent (40%) of the total exterior wall area, all
windows shall have a minimum tested or listed STC rating of thirty-two (32).
iii. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise more than forty percent
(40%) of the total exterior wall area, all windows shall have a minimum tested or
listed STC rating of forty (40).
d. Doors.
i. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise no more than thirty percent
(30%) of the total exterior wall area, all exterior doors shall have a minimum
tested or listed STC rating of thirty (30).
ii. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise more than thirty percent
(30%) but no more than forty percent (40%) of the total exterior wall area, all
exterior doors shall have a minimum tested or listed STC rating of thirty-two (32).
iii. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise more than forty percent
(40%) of the total exterior wall area, all exterior doors shall have a minimum
tested or listed STC rating of forty (40).
Exception: An exterior door may have a tested or listed STC rating of less than forty (40)
when installed with a storm door which when combined, achieve a minimum tested or
listed STC rating of forty (40).
e. Mechanical Systems. Mechanical ventilation systems (HVAC) shall provide minimum
air circulation and fresh air requirements for various uses in occupied rooms without
the need to open any windows, doors, or other openings to the exterior.
i. In-window, through-wall, or through-floor air conditioning, ventilating, or heating
units may be used if:
1) the above insulation requirements for walls, ceilings, windows and doors are
implemented, or
2) walls, ceilings, windows and doors have a minimum tested or listed STC
rating of forty (40).
ii. Evaporative coolers may be installed if the following is implemented to reduce
sound entering through the unit:
1) Insert a duct extension with at least two (2) ninety degree (90°) "elbows"
between the structure and the unit.
2) Add acoustically designed "up-ducts" in the ceiling of each room to allow
proper circulation of air while windows are closed.
Certification.
1. Prior to approval of final inspection or issuance of a certificate of occupancy, all project
applicants shall submit to the Building Inspection Division, a signed statement certifying
compliance with this section. from an accredited third party testing agency if sound
attenuation is achieved per Section 1207.1. Options for Compliance or by a letter from the
builder if sound attenuation is achieved per Section 1207.2. Options for Compliance.
2. A single certification statement for multiple structures in the same development may be
used as long as the structures implement the same floor plans and construction methods.
Definition: Accredited is defined as certified through the National Voluntary Laboratory
Accreditation Program (NVLAP).
A110.7 Inspection by Engineer of Record. The Engineer of Record may conduct required
inspections in-lieu-of the building official unless precluded by State Law. Prior to issuance of a
permit, the Engineer of Record must notify in writing the building official which inspections he will be
conducted. The building official may require such documentation as he deems necessary, including
assigned sealed letter by the Engineer of Record indicating the construction was per the approved
plans and all applicable code requirements. The building official may require any additional
documentation as he deems necessary and may also require notice at least 24 hours prior to the
inspections.
Chapter 31 Special Construction, Section 3114. Shipping Container for Approved Permanent
Construction Use {Reference Acceptance Criteria for Structural Building Materials from Shipping
Containers (AC462) published by the International Code Council Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) as
approved in October 2018}
In order to be an acceptable material used for construction of either a business, residential or
accessory building the building permit would need the following:
1. Certification for compliance with Rules for Certification of Cargo Containers and the International
Convention for Safe Containers (CSC) by the American Bureau of Shipping, Bureau Veritas, or
Lloyd's Registry.
2. Copies of the Container specifications and detail drawings for each shipping container
manufacturer in English.
3. A copy of the quality control program inspection for seaworthiness in accordance with the
International Convention for Safe Containers after removal from service as a shipping container and
prior to use as a source of building materials.
4. Any modifications to the original design of the container will require a Texas Engineer's approval,
designs and details to be provided.
5. The permanent foundation shall be approved by a Texas Engineer as acceptable for use as a
structural support for the anticipated building design and use will be provided for permitting.
6. If manufactured as a complete assembly with electrical, plumbing and mechanical systems, a
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation Industrialized Housing and Buildings Approval
Certification will be provided with the building plans.
Specific standards:
(a) Industrialized buildings must have all local permits and licenses that are applicable to other
housing or buildings.
(b) For purposes of this section, industrialized housing is real property.
(c) The single-family or duplex industrialized housing structure to:
(1) have an appraised value equal to or greater than the median taxable value for each single-
family dwelling located within 500 feet of the lot on which the industrialized housing is proposed to
be located, as determined by the most recent certified tax appraisal roll for each county in which
the properties are located; and
(2) have exterior siding, roofing, roofing pitch, foundation fascia, and fenestration compatible with
the single-family dwellings located within 500 feet of the lot on which the industrialized housing is
proposed to be located; and
(3) have exterior siding, roofing, roof pitch, foundation fascia, and fenestration compatible with the
single-family dwellings located within 500 feet of the lot on which the industrialized housing is
proposed to be located; and
(4) comply with municipal aesthetic standards, building setbacks, side and rear yard offsets,
subdivision control, architectural landscaping, square footage, and other site requirements
applicable to single-family dwellings; and
(5) be securely fixed to a permanent foundation.
(d) For purposes of Subsection (c), "value" means the taxable value of the industrialized housing and
the lot after installation of the housing.
(e) Except as provided by Subsection (c), the City of Schertz may not adopt a regulation under this
section that is more restrictive for industrialized housing than that required for a new single-family or
duplex dwelling constructed on-site.
(f) This section does not:
(1) limit the authority of a municipality to adopt regulations to protect historic properties or historic
districts; or
(2) affect deed restrictions.
(g) All non-residential buildings or structures shall comply with the City of Schertz Unified
Development Code.
ARTICLE III. - INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE FOR ONE AND TWO FAMILY DWELLINGS
Sec. 18-60. - Adopted.
The International Residential Code for One and Two Family Dwellings Code, 2012 2018 Edition is
hereby adopted with the amendments as provided for in this Article.
Sec. 18-61. - Amendments.
The International Residential Code for One and Two Family Dwellings, 2012 2018 Edition is hereby
amended as follows:
R101.1 Title. These provisions shall be known as the Residential Code for One-and Two-family
Dwellings of the Insert: City of Schertz, Texas, and shall be cited as such and will be referred to
herein as "this code."
Permits.
R105.2 Work exempt from permit. 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: This section shall be amended to include additions and deletions as follows:
Building:
Insert:
1. Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons and
the ratio of height to diameter or width does not exceed two to one.
2. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.
3. Temporary motion picture, television and theater stage sets and scenery.
4. Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, but not including service
systems.
5. Swings and other temporary playground equipment accessory to one and two-family dwellings.
6. Window awnings supported by an exterior wall of R-3 - One and Two Family Dwellings as
applicable in Section 101.2 and Group U occupancies of the International Building Code 2012
as defined in Chapter 3 - Use and Occupancy Classification. Movable cases, countertops and
partition not over (5) five feet (9) nine inches in height.
17. One story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and
similar uses on the same lot as a one or two family dwelling; provided the floor area is 120
square feet or less and the structure can be moved if necessary, except where located in a
flood hazard area.
a. The foundation for a detached accessory structure, storage sheds, playhouses and similar
uses, if any, will require a flatwork permit; and the location and placement of the accessory
structure shall comply with Article 8 of the Schertz Unified Development Code.
b. Areas located in floodplain hazard areas will require permits.
28. Replacement Fences on the property of a one or two family dwelling, provided they comply
with the following criteria, except where located in a flood hazard area.
a. The fence complies with all of the applicable requirements of the City of Schertz Unified
Development code including but not limited to height, location and materials.
b. The replacement fence is in the same location, the same height and of the same materials
as the fence being replaced (e.g., a 6' wood privacy fence for a 6' wood privacy fence or a
4' chain link fence for a 4' chain link fence).
c. Pergolas, Arbors and Trellis under 300 square feet in total size. All materials used shall be
of approved fire-resistant materials where fire setback as defined by the IRC are required.
Foundations for arbors, if any, will require a flat work permit. The arbor shall not be located
in any utility easement; and shall comply with the setback requirements of Article 8 of the
Schertz Unified Development Code with the exception that an arbor may be attached to the
main structure.
d. Areas located in floodplain hazard areas will require permits.
DELETED EXEMPTION:
3. Retaining Walls
5. Sidewalks and driveways
10. Decks not exceeding 200 square feet.
Electrical:
1. Normal maintenance work, such as replacement of lamps, sockets, fuses, drop cords, snap
switches, or other similar minor repairs as may be permitted by the building official or designee
or assigned inspector;
2. Connection of portable electrical equipment to suitable existing permanently installed
receptacles.
3. Replacement of a motor of the same horsepower and rating and installation of pressure devices
and similar controls, when the electrical supply for the same has been properly installed by a
licensed electrician.
4. The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to electrical equipment used for radio and
television transmission, but does apply to equipment and wiring for power supply and the
installations of towers and antennas.
Gas:
1. Portable heating appliance.
2. Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such
equipment unsafe.
Mechanical:
1. Portable heating appliance;
2. Portable ventilation equipment;
3. Portable cooling unit;
4. Steam, hot or chilled water piping within any heating or cooling equipment regulated by this
chapter;
5. Replacement of any part which does not alter its approval or make it unsafe;
6. Portable evaporative cooler;
7. Self-contained refrigeration system containing ten pounds or less of refrigerant and actuated by
motors of one horsepower or less.
Plumbing:
1. The stopping of leaks in drains, water, soil, waste or vent pipe; provided, however, that if any
concealed trap, drain-pipe, water, soil, waste or vent pipe becomes defective and becomes
necessary to remove and replace the same with new material, such work shall be considered as
new work and a permit shall be obtained and inspection made as provided in this chapter.
2. The clearing of stoppages or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves or fixtures, and the removal
and reinstallation of water closets, provided such involve or require the replacement or
rearrangement of valves, pipes or fixtures.
R105.3.1 Action on Application.
Ref: Texas Local Government Code Section 214.904 Time for Issuance of Municipal Building Permit.
1. This section applies only to a permit required by a municipality to erect or improve a building or
other structure in the municipality.
2. Not later than the 45 th day after the date an application for a permit is submitted the municipality
must;
a. grant or deny the permit
b. provide written notice to the applicant stating the reasons why the municipality has been
unable to grant or deny the permit application: or
c. reach a written agreement with the applicant providing for a deadline for granting or
denying the permit.
3. For a permit application for which notice is provided under Subsection (2)(b), the municipality
may grant or deny the permit not later than the 30th day after the date the notice is received.
4. If a municipality fails to grant or deny a permit application in the time required by Subsection (3)
or by an agreement under Subsection (2)(c), the municipality:
a. may not collect any permit fees associated with the application; and
b. shall refund to the applicant any permit fees associated with the application that have been
collected.
Public right-of-way, alleys and easements. A permit shall not be given by the building official or
designee or assigned inspector for the construction of any building or structure, or alteration of any
building or structure that will encroach upon any right-of-way, alley, or utility or drainage easement.
R106.1 Submittal Documents.
Design professional. The design professional shall be an architect or engineer legally registered
under the laws of the State of Texas regulating the practice of architecture or engineering and shall
affix his/her seal to said drawings., specifications and accompanying data, for the following
1. All group A, E and I occupancies as defined in the IBC, Chapter 3.
The City of Schertz Building Inspection Division may send plans to an accredited third party review
service at the City of Schertz's discretion to expedite the plan review process.
R108.3 Fees. Provide a copy of the contract or proposal signed by both the contractor and the
person responsible for the property that the construction will occur on when requested by the
Building Inspections Division to verify the value of the work for miscellaneous activities such as
remodeling, re-roofing, and foundations.
R109.5 Inspection by Engineer of Record. The Engineer of Record may conduct required
inspections in-lieu-of the building official unless precluded by State Law. Prior to issuance of a
permit, the Engineer of Record must notify in writing the building official which inspections he will be
conducted. The building official may require such documentation as he deems necessary, including
assigned sealed letter by the Engineer of Record indicating the construction was per the approved
plans and all applicable code requirements. The building official may require any additional
documentation as he deems necessary and may also require notice at least 24 hours prior to the
inspections.
R110.3 Certificate of Occupancy Issued. After the building official or designee or assigned
inspector inspects a building or structure and finds no violations of the provisions of this chapter or
other laws that are enforced by this department, the building official or designee or assigned
inspector shall issue a certificate of occupancy that shall contain the following:
1. The building permit number;
2. The address of the structure;
3. The name and address of the owner;
4. A description of the building use;
5. The name of the building official or designee or assigned inspector;
6. Edition of the code under which the permit was issued;
7. The classification use of the structure;
8. Type of construction as defined in Chapter 6 of the International Building Code;
9. If an automatic sprinkler system is required or not;
10. Any special stipulations or condition for occupancy.
11. The Zoning District in which the occupancy is located.
R111.3 Authority to Disconnect Service Utility.
1. Portable Generators for residential home use where used to remove the one or two family
dwelling from the public electric utility grid permanently are prohibited.
Exception: During emergency situations where authorized by the Authority hHaving Jurisdiction.
R112 Board of Appeals. The Board of Appeals is hereby repealed in its entirety and is replaced by
the Building and Standards Commission.
R202 Definitions. This section is amended to include the following non-reference definitions.
Applicable governing body as referenced within any code adopted under this chapter shall mean
the City Council of the City of Schertz
As Built Plans are plans submitted after the building is complete showing any alterations, additions
or changes that have occurred after construction has begun. All alterations, additions or changes
may require Building Division approval.
Residential Arbors are defined as trellises and not as a building when less than 2300 square feet in
size. Arbors shall be built without a solid roof covering; used only to support vegetation; or acting as
a shadow box attached or unattached to the primary or secondary structure; or free standing
anchored solidly into the soil or to a permanent foundation and capable of withstanding the
environmental conditions as established in the International Residential Code.
Service Systems are electrical, fire, mechanical, plumbing or other services not associated with
structural elements.
Pergolas, Arbors and Trellis are open un-roofed structure intended only to support vegetation or
décor shadowing.
R106.1.4 Submittal documents. All foundations shall be designed by a Professional Engineer
licensed in the State of Texas and all drawings and documentation must be signed and sealed per
Texas Board of Professional Engineers rules. Design Engineers must be registered with the City of
Schertz. Documentation shall include:
1. Design letter referencing soils report project number, date of report, and soils engineer name;
specific location including lot, block and subdivision; specific design criteria including soil
bearing capacity and plasticity index or Post-Tensioning Institute parameters. The engineer
shall also approve a concrete mix design with performance criteria based on soils and seasonal
conditions.
2. Signed and sealed drawings clearly indicating the strand and reinforcement placement, pier
size, depth, location, and reinforcing, beam size and location, and any special details. Design
calculations must be included.
3. A representative of the design engineer must perform a pre-pour inspection and provide the City
of Schertz with a signed and sealed document stating that the foundation has been inspected
and approved. This inspection must take place prior to requesting a foundation inspection from
the City of Schertz. A representative of the design engineer shall be present during placement
of concrete to verify concrete mix design and seasonal conditions during placement, and to
verify tensioning and elongation of cables if it is a post-tensioned foundation.
4. A letter from an engineer or surveyor indicating that rough grading of the lot occurred
immediately after form removal, or after final tendon stressing if a Post-Tensioned slab, to
maintain drainage away from foundation during the construction process shall be provided.
5. The engineer must provide to the City of Schertz a Letter of Final Acceptance stating that the
foundation has been placed in compliance with the design spedifications and requirements prior
to issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy.
6. Prior to issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy, the engineer shall provide a letter indicating that
a strength test was performed on the batch of concrete and the results of the concrete strength
test were consistent with the acceptable range specified in the foundation design. Copies of
relevant logs or test results from the concrete manufacturer shall also be provided.
7. After foundation construction and prior to commencement of framing, the owner or applicant
shall provide the building official of the City with a sealed certification from an engineer licensed
to practice in the State of Texas and registered with the City of Schertz that the concrete has
adequately cured to allow for framing of the structure. In no event shall this be less than 3 days
after the completion of concrete placement.
8. If the foundation is a post-tensioned foundation, a letter shall be provided to the City that the
foundation was designed after the engineer's consideration of (a) the Post-Tensioning Institute's
Construction and Maintenance Manual for Post-Tensioned Slab-on-Ground Foundations, 3d
Edition; (b) the Post-Tensioning Institute's Design of Post- Tensioned Slabs-on-Ground, 3d
Edition with 2008 Supplement; and soils report conducted for the lot.
9. Post-Tensioned foundations must be inspected by a Post-Tensioning Institute (PTI) Slab-on-
Ground Installer-Stressor or Level 1 or 2 Unbonded PT Inspector prior to placing a load on the
slab or commencement of framing. Additionally, the Inspector must provide foundation design
drawings, shipping lists, material certifications, jack certifications, stressing records, and
concrete placement records (as described in the Post-Tensioning Institute's Construction and
Maintenance Manual for Post-Tensioned Slab-on-Ground Foundations, 3d Edition) to the City.
10. Prior to receiving a Certificate of Occupancy, a final survey indicating final grade elevations
and verifying positive drainage away from the foundation must be submitted to the City.
Exemption: The Building Official or designee may waive these requirements where the addition is
300 square feet or smaller with a load bearing roof or single story structure directly connected to this
foundation.
For free standing column supports the footings shall be 12 inches in diameter, not less than 24
inches in depth below soil grade or to a weight bearing strata with a minimum of a #6 by 6 by 6 steel
reinforcement cage installed one inch below the surface of the poured concrete to the one inch
above the base of the footing and “belled” two inches at the base.
All other pier and beam construction shall have a footing designed not less than as allowed for highly
expansive soils per the IRC and in no case shall the width of the footing be less than twelve inches
with four #4 bars with #4 stirrups on twelve-inch centers. The monolithic slab shall be three- and
one-half inches in depth with #6 by 6 by 6 mesh or #3 bar on 12-inch centers located in the center of
the monolithic slab. No single monolithic slab shall have an area greater than 300 square feet
without interior twelve inch by twelve-inch beams with four # 4 bar reinforcement one inch from the
sides and one inch from the bottom of the interior beam. Stirrups are required on 12 inch centers and
not less than #4 bar. Corner bars shall be installed at all intersections and at both interior and
exterior corner edges of the new foundation. An engineer’s approval will be required if the new
foundation addition is to be connected by dowels to a post tension designed primary foundation. A
minimum of 4 inches of compacted base will be required under the new monolithic slab free of any
contaminating debris.
Table R301.2 (1) Climatic and Geographic Design Criteria.
R401.4.3 Soil Tests. Notwithstanding the foregoing, prior to issuance of a building permit, the owner
or applicant shall provide to the building official of the City a soil test (geotechnical investigation) for
the residential lot made by a geotechnical engineer licensed to practice in the State of Texas. The
soil test shall contain design recommendations. The soil test shall be conducted within the area
where the building foundation is to be located and the owner shall provide a survey of the lot to the
City indicating the location of the soil test. Such soil test report shall be referenced on the building
permit application along with a signed and sealed statement from an engineer licensed to practice in
the State of Texas that the foundation on the residential lot was designed in consideration of the
results shown in the soil test report for that lot and that no cut or fill was done subsequent to the soil
test being conducted.
R404.4.1 Retaining Walls. Construction of a retaining wall in excess of four (4) feet in height, as
measured from the bottom of the footing of the wall to the top of the wall, constructed on public
property or to be dedicated to the City as a public improvement, as a part of the overall subdivision
civil plans and the Development Permit application process, shall require submission to, and
approval by, the City Engineer of the City of detailed retaining wall design plans sealed by an
engineer licensed to practice in the State of Texas, prior to commencing construction of such wall.
Construction of such retaining wall shall also require submission to, and approval by, the City
Engineer of the City of a sealed engineering inspection report verifying the construction of the
retaining wall in conformance with the retaining wall design plans in order to close out the
Development Permit.
Construction of a retaining wall in excess of four (4) feet in height, as measured from the bottom of
the footing of the wall to the top of the wall, constructed on private property and that will not be
dedicated to the City as a public improvement, as a part of the building permit application process,
shall require submission to, and approval by, the building official of the City of detailed retaining wall
design plans sealed by an engineer licensed to practice in the State of Texas, prior to commencing
construction of such wall. Construction of such retaining wall shall also require submission to, and
approval by, the building official of the City of a sealed engineering inspection report verifying the
construction of the retaining wall in conformance with the retaining wall design plans in order to close
out the building permit.
On residential lots with a retaining wall in excess of four (4) feet in height, as measured from the
bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, in addition to the designated rear and side yard setbacks,
a maintenance and access easement for the benefit of the adjacent property owners and the City on
either side of the retaining wall, as necessitated by the design of the retaining wall and in accordance
with the signed and sealed engineering plans, shall be required for retaining wall maintenance and to
prevent any incursion into fill material. The required area of the easement shall vary according to the
retaining wall design and adjacent property access and structures and shall, at a minimum, include
all of the fill area. All incursions are prohibited, including but not limited to the planting of trees,
except that a fence may be constructed but shall require the submission to, and approval by, the
building official of the City of detailed design plans, sealed by an engineer licensed to practice in the
State of Texas, prior to commencing construction on such incursion. Additionally motor vehicles shall
not be parked within the easement.
R703.7.2 Exterior veneer support, R703.7.2.1 Support by steel angle, 703.7.2.2 Support by roof
construction and R703.7.3 Lintels. Lintels shall be attached to the wood framing above all
openings wider than 2 feet by fasteners as required by the design professional prior to a framing
inspection being requested.
R807.1 Attic Access. Where attic access is required for appliance maintenance the Attic access
shall be provided by a ceiling pull down ladder capable of supporting (250) two hundred and fifty
pounds. If an appliance is and located in the attic, have an opening large enough to remove the
largest single section or the entire unit. If the attic is designed for storage a pull down ladder is
required to the same specifications as above. shall be installed with a walkwayprovided in
accordance with the IRC or IMC.
P2503.8.2 Testing. Backflow prevention devices used for residential lawn sprinkler systems shall be
tested at the time of installation, immediately after repairs or relocation
P2603.3. Breakage and Corrosions Through Foundation Walls. Any pipe that passes under a
footing or through a foundation wall shall be provided with a relieving arch, or a pipe sleeve shall be
built into the foundation wall. The sleeve shall be two pipe sizes greater than the pipe passing
through the wall. Pipes used for p-traps with in a foundation shall not be located within footings or
beams.
P2503.5.1 Rough plumbing (1) Water test. Each section shall be filled with water to a point not less
than 10 feet above the highest fitting connection in that section, or to the highest point in the
completed system, or to 1 foot above the highest finished interior wall per floor level. Water shall be
held in the section under test for a period of 15 minutes. The system shall prove leave free by visual
inspection.
P2603.5.1 Freezing Sewer Depth. Insert: 12 inches
All building sewers shall be a minimum ofInsert: 12 inches below
finished grade.
P2609 Installation of Materials. Cellular core pipe for all underground use will require four (4)
inches of granular material to encapsulate the pipe due to soil conditions in the City of Schertz.
The following Appendixes are adopted:
Appendix A - Sizing and Capacities of Gas Piping
Appendix B - Sizing of Venting Systems Serving appliances equipped with Draft hood, Category
1 Appliances, and Appliances listed for use with Type B Vents
Appendix C - Exit Terminals of Mechanical draft and Direct-Vent Venting Systems
Appendix E - Manufactured Homes used as Dwellings
Appendix G- Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs
Appendix H - Patio Covers
Appendix J - Existing Buildings and Structures
Appendix K Sound Transmission
AK 101 Sound Transmission Standards for High Noise Areas
All habitable portions of structures located within the 65 dBA as shown on Exhibit A attached
shall be designed and constructed to achieve either:
1. an outside to inside noise level reduction (NLR) of at least twenty-five (25) a-weighted
decibels (dBA), or
2. be built to the standards set forth in subsection 2. below.
Options for Compliance. Compliance may be demonstrated using one of the following methods:
1. Use simultaneous noise readings of instantaneous outside and inside noise levels in
accordance with ASTM E 966 to ensure the structure achieves an outside to inside NLR of
at least twenty-five (25) dBA; or
2. Utilize construction materials with a minimum tested or listed sound transmission class
(STC) rating of forty (40), in accordance with ASTM E 90, for walls and ceilings, and with a
minimum tested or listed STC rating for doors and windows as specified below, in
accordance with the following construction methods:
a. Walls. The specific exterior wall assemblies listed below shall include the interior
finishes set forth therein. Exception: Exterior wall assemblies or materials that have
been tested or listed with a minimum STC rating of forty (40).
i. Brick veneer. When exterior walls are constructed using brick veneer, a minimum
of one-half (1/2) inch gypsum drywall shall be applied as the interior finish, or a
minimum of three and one-half (3- 1/2) inches of foam insulation shall be sprayed
in as allowed by the building and fire code.
ii. Vinyl or cement sidings. When exterior walls are constructed using vinyl or
cement sidings, a minimum of five-eighths (5/8) inch gypsum drywall shall be
applied as the interior finish, or a minimum of three and one-half (3-1/2) inches of
foam insulation shall be sprayed in as allowed by the building and fire code.
iii. Other assemblies and materials. All other exterior wall assemblies or materials
shall have a tested or listed minimum STC rating of forty (40).
b. Roof/Ceiling Assemblies. Roof/ceiling assemblies shall be constructed in accordance
with the requirements of subsections (i) or (ii) below.
Exception: Roof/ceiling assemblies or materials that have been tested or listed with a
minimum STC rating of forty (40).
i. Ceilings with unconditioned attic space shall be insulated with a minimum of one-
half (1/2) inch gypsum drywall on the interior ceiling side covered with a minimum
of twelve (12) inches of blown in fiberglass insulation, or a minimum of three and
one-half (3-1/2) inches of spray foam insulation shall be applied to the underside
of the roof deck as allowed by the building and fire code.
ii. Ceilings without attic space above shall be insulated with a minimum of five-
eighths (5/8) inch gypsum drywall on the interior side filled with a minimum of
nine (9) inches of fiberglass batt insulation with a one (1) inch air space between
the roof sheathing and the fiberglass, or a minimum of three and one-half (3-1/2)
inches of spray foam insulation shall be applied to the underside of the roof deck
as allowed by the building and fire code.
c. Windows. The cavity between the wood framing and the window frame shall be
insulated with fiberglass insulation or foam insulation to the depth of the window
frame.
i. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise no more than thirty percent
(30%) of the total exterior wall area, all windows shall have a minimum tested or
listed STC rating of thirty (30).
ii. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise more than thirty percent
(30%) but no more than forty percent (40%) of the total exterior wall area, all
windows shall have a minimum tested or listed STC rating of thirty-two (32).
iii. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise more than forty percent
(40%) of the total exterior wall area, all windows shall have a minimum tested or
listed STC rating of forty (40).
d. Doors
i. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise no more than thirty percent
(30%) of the total exterior wall area, all exterior doors shall have a minimum
tested or listed STC rating of thirty (30).
ii. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise more than thirty percent
(30%) but no more than forty percent (40%) of the total exterior wall area, all
exterior doors shall have a minimum tested or listed STC rating of thirty-two (32).
iii. If the exterior windows and doors together comprise more than forty percent
(40%) of the total exterior wall area, all exterior doors shall have a minimum
tested or listed STC rating of forty (40).
Exception: An exterior door may have a tested or listed STC rating of less than forty (40)
when installed with a storm door which when combined, achieve a minimum tested or
listed STC rating of forty (40).
e. Mechanical Systems. Mechanical ventilation systems (HVAC) shall provide minimum
air circulation and fresh air requirements for various uses in occupied rooms without
the need to open any windows, doors, or other openings to the exterior.
i. In-window, through-wall, or through-floor air conditioning, ventilating, or heating
units may be used if:
1) the above insulation requirements for walls, ceilings, windows and doors are
implemented, or
2) Walls, ceilings, windows and doors have a minimum tested or listed STC
rating of forty (40).
ii. Evaporative coolers may be installed if the following is implemented to reduce
sound entering through the unit:
1) Insert a duct extension with at least two (2) ninety degree (90°) "elbows"
between the structure and the unit.
2) Add acoustically designed "up-ducts" in the ceiling of each room to allow
proper circulation of air while windows are closed.
Certification.
1. Prior to approval of final inspection or issuance of a certificate of occupancy, all project
applicants shall submit to the Building Inspection Division, a signed statement certifying
compliance with this section. from an accredited third party testing agency if sound attenuation
is achieved by Options for Compliance method 1.; or by a letter from the builder if sound
attenuation is achieved by Options for Compliance method 2.
2. A single certification statement for multiple structures in the same development may be used as
long as the structures implement the same floor plans and construction methods.
Accredited is defined as certified through the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program
(NVLAP)
Part VIII - Electrical. The International Residential Code for One and Two Family Dwellings, 2012
Edition, Chapters 34 - 43, Electrical is repealed in its entirety and is replaced by reference with the
National Electric Code (NEC) 2014 as published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
which is specifically adopted as if fully set forth herein. Is deleted.
The following Appendix is adopted:
Appendix M – Home Day Care – R 3 Occupancy
Appendix P - Sizing of Water Piping System
Appendix Q – Tiny Houses
Appendix R – Light Straw-Clay Construction
Appendix S – Straw bale Construction
Appendix U - Shipping Container for Approved Permanent Construction Use {Reference
Acceptance Criteria for Structural Building Materials from Shipping Containers (AC462) published by
the International Code Council Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) as approved in October 2018}
In order to be an acceptable material used for construction of either a business, residential or
accessory building the building permit would need the following:
1. Certification for compliance with Rules for Certification of Cargo Containers and the International
Convention for Safe Containers (CSC) by the American Bureau of Shipping, Bureau Veritas, or
Lloyd's Registry.
2. Copies of the Container specifications and detail drawings for each shipping container
manufacturer in English.
3. A copy of the quality control program inspection for seaworthiness in accordance with the
International Convention for Safe Containers after removal from service as a shipping container and
prior to use as a source of building materials.
4. Any modifications to the original design of the container will require a Texas Engineer's approval,
designs and details to be provided.
5. The permanent foundation shall be approved by a Texas Engineer as acceptable for use as a
structural support for the anticipated building design and use will be provided for permitting.
6. If manufactured as a complete assembly with electrical, plumbing and mechanical systems, a
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation Industrialized Housing and Buildings Approval
Certification will be provided with the building plans.
Specific standards:
(a) Industrialized buildings must have all local permits and licenses that are applicable to other
housing or buildings.
(b) For purposes of this section, industrialized housing is real property.
(c) The single-family or duplex industrialized housing structure to:
(1) have an appraised value equal to or greater than the median taxable value for each single-
family dwelling located within 500 feet of the lot on which the industrialized housing is proposed to
be located, as determined by the most recent certified tax appraisal roll for each county in which
the properties are located; and
(2) have exterior siding, roofing, roofing pitch, foundation fascia, and fenestration compatible with
the single-family dwellings located within 500 feet of the lot on which the industrialized housing is
proposed to be located; and
(3) have exterior siding, roofing, roof pitch, foundation fascia, and fenestration compatible with the
single-family dwellings located within 500 feet of the lot on which the industrialized housing is
proposed to be located; and
(4) comply with municipal aesthetic standards, building setbacks, side and rear yard offsets,
subdivision control, architectural landscaping, square footage, and other site requirements
applicable to single-family dwellings; and
(5) be securely fixed to a permanent foundation.
(d) For purposes of Subsection (c), "value" means the taxable value of the industrialized housing and
the lot after installation of the housing.
(e) Except as provided by Subsection (c), the City of Schertz may not adopt a regulation under this
section that is more restrictive for industrialized housing than that required for a new single-family or
duplex dwelling constructed on-site.
(f) This section does not:
(1) limit the authority of a municipality to adopt regulations to protect historic properties or historic
districts; or
(2) affect deed restrictions.
(g) All non-residential buildings or structures shall comply with the City of Schertz Unified
Development Code.
Secs. 18-62—18-79. - Reserved.
ARTICLE IV. - NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
Sec. 18-80. - Adopted.
The National Electrical Code, 2014 2020 edition to include, revisions, amendments and corrections,
published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), is hereby adopted by reference as the
electrical code of the City of Schertz, Texas, subject to and including such amendments as herein shall
appear. The State of Texas will mandate all future code editions through the Texas Department of
Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) as to the date of future adoptions.
Sec. 18-81. - Amendments.
The National Electrical Code, 2014 2020 Edition is hereby amended as follows:
210.11 Branch Circuits Required. No more than (12) twelve duplex receptacle outlets shall be
installed per circuit serving general lighting circuits.
210.11 Branch Circuits Required (C) (3) Bathroom Branch Circuits. If more than one bathroom
group is to be installed, the required receptacle 15/20 volt-ampere 125 volt devices are to be GFCI
protected. Exhaust fans and lighting shall be in compliance with 210.12 Arc-fault Circuit-Interrupter
Protection for Personnel and be located on a different circuit.
210.19 Minimum Ampacity and Size. No branch circuit shall have wire smaller than 14 AWG.
Maximum total length of the 14 AWG run is limited to (120) one hundred and twenty feet or a 5%
voltage drop as allowed by Article II Branch-Circuit Ratings 210.19 Conductors -Minimum Ampacity
and Size. Informational Note No. 4. This does not prohibit smaller wire for circuits 90 volts and lower
for control circuits.
210.52 Dwelling Unit Receptacle Outlets (B) (3) Kitchen Receptacle Requirements. No more
than (4) four duplex receptacle outlets per kitchen countertop circuit.
Refrigerators, freezers, microwaves, dishwashers, garbage compactors, and washing machines shall
be located on dedicated individual circuits. Such receptacle outlets shall comply with 210.8 Ground-
Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection for Personnel and 210.12 Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection
as needed. Garbage Disposals shall be permitted to be on the same circuit for a kitchen counter top
circuit.
210.52 Dwelling Unit Receptacle Outlets (D) Bathrooms. In dwelling units, at least one receptacle
outlet shall be installed in bathrooms with 900 mm (3 ft.) of the outside edge of each basin. The
receptacle outlet shall be located on a wall or partition that is adjacent to the basin or basin
countertop, location the countertop, or installed on the side or face of the basin cabinet. In no case
shall the receptacle be located more than 300 mm (12 in.) below the top of the basin. Receptacle
outlet assemblies listed for the application shall be permitted to be installed in the countertop. No
light or fan switch, or receptacle outlet shall be closer than 3 feet to a shower or bathtub from the
inside edge of the fixture.
Exception: Where a Combination Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter/Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter over-
current protective device is installed for the circuit supplying luminaires, switches, receptacles, and
other electrical equipment located in the same room, and not directly associated with a bathtub or
shower, no minimum clearances shall be required; but these devices shall be installed in accordance
with the requirements of Chapters 1 through 4 of the National Electrical Code covering the
installation of that equipment in bathrooms.
230.70 (A) (1) Readily Accessible Location – The service disconnecting means shall be installed
at a readily accessible location outside of a building or structure nearest the point of entrance of or
attachment to the service conductors.
230.71 Maximum Number of Disconnects. An exterior disconnecting means shall be provided at
each building serviced where more than two circuits supply the structure. A shunt trip device
designed to de-energize the service disconnect equipment at all load side connections, is acceptable
on the exterior of the structure at a location approved by the City of Schertz as an alternative means
of disconnection.
Secs. 18-82—18-99. - Reserved.
ARTICLE V. - INTERNATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE
Sec. 18-100. - Adopted.
The International Fuel Gas Code, 2012 2018 Edition is hereby adopted with the amendments as
provided for in this Article.
Sec. 18-101. - Amendments.
The International Fuel Gas Code, 2012 2018 Edition is hereby amended as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Fuel Gas Code of the City of Schertz, Texas,
hereinafter referred to as "this code."
109 Means of Appeal. Means of Appeal is hereby repealed in its entirety. The Board of Appeals is
hereby repealed in its entirety and replaced by Building and Standards Commission
The following appendixes are adopted:
Appendix A (IFGS) - Sizing and Capacities of Gas Piping A.1 shall be altered as follows: for any
gas piping system, or special appliance, or for conditions other than those covered by the tables
provided in the code, such as longer runs, greater gas demands, or greater pressure drops, the
size of each gas piping system shall be determined by standard engineering practices
acceptable to the code official.
Appendix B (IFGS) Sizing of Venting Systems Servicing Appliances Equipped with Draft Hoods,
Category 1 Appliance and Appliances Listed for Use with Type B Vents Appendix C (IFGS) Exit
Terminals of Mechanical Draft and Direct-vent Venting Systems.
Secs. 18-102—18-119. - Reserved.
ARTICLE VI. - INTERNATIONAL MECHANICAL CODE
Sec. 18-120. - Adopted.
The International Mechanical Code, 2012 2018 Edition is hereby adopted with the amendments as
provided for in this article.
Sec. 18-121. - Amendments.
The International Mechanical Code, 2012 2018 Edition is hereby amended as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Mechanical Code of the City of Schertz, Texas,
hereinafter referred to as "this code."
109 Means of Appeal. Means of is hereby repealed in its entirety. The Board of Appeals is hereby
repealed in its entirety and replaced by Building and Standards Commission.
Secs. 18-122—18-139. - Reserved.
ARTICLE XII. - INTERNATIONAL EXISTING BUILDING CODE
Sec. 18-240. - Adopted.
The International Existing Building Code, 2012 2018 Edition is hereby adopted with the amendments
as provided for in this article.
Sec. 18-241. - Amendments.
The International Existing Building Code, 2012 2018 Edition is hereby amended as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the International Existing Building Code of the City
of Schertz, Texas, hereinafter referred to as "this code." ·
112 Board of Appeals. The Board of Appeals is hereby repealed in its entirety and replaced by
Building and Standards Commission.
Secs. 18-242—18-254. - Reserved.
ARTICLE VIII. - INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE
Sec. 18-160. - Adopted.
The International Property Maintenance Code, 2012 2018 Edition is hereby adopted with the
amendments as provided for in this article.
Sec. 18-161. - Amendments.
The International Property Maintenance Code, 2012 2018 Edition is hereby amended as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the International Property Maintenance Code of the
City of Schertz, Texas, hereinafter referred to as "this code."
112 111 Means of Appeal. Means of Appeal is hereby repealed in its entirety.
302.4 Weeds. All premises and exterior property shall be maintained free from weeds or grass
growth in excess of eight inches.
302.7 Accessory Structures. All Accessory structures, including detached garages, fences and
walls, shall be maintained structurally sound and in good repair.
No accessory structure shall be more than twenty (20) degrees out of vertical (using an (8) eight foot
level) along any 20 feet of wall surface to obtain an accurate determination of the degrees from
vertical.
Fences and walls twenty (20) degrees or more in each directional run (vertical or horizontal) shall not
have more than twenty-five (25) percent of any directional run (vertical or horizontal) to be of
decayed or damaged material.
The following Appendix is adopted:
Appendix A - Boarding Standard
Secs. 18-162—18-179. - Reserved.
ARTICLE IX. - INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE
Sec. 18-180. - Adopted.
The International Energy Conservation Code, 20152009 Edition is hereby adopted with the
amendments as provided for in this article.
The State of Texas will mandate all future code editions through the Texas Comptroller's State
Energy Conservation Office (SECO) as to the date of future adoptions.
Sec. 18-181. - Amendments.
The International Energy Conservation Code, 20152009 Edition is hereby amended as follows:
C101.1 Title. This code shall be known as the International Energy Conservation Code of the City of
Schertz, Texas, and shall be cited as such. It is referred to herein as "this code."
C109 Board of Appeals. The Board of Appeals is hereby repealed in its entirety and replaced by the
Building and Standards Commission.
Secs. 18-182—18-199. - Reserved.
ARTICLE X. - MANUAL OF CROSS-CONNECTION CONTROL
Sec. 18-200. - Adopted.
The Manual of Cross-Connection Control by the University of Southern California, Tenth edition
published October 2009, by the Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research,
University of Southern California, is hereby adopted and incorporated as the Backflow and Cross-
Connection Code of the City of Schertz, Texas, subject to and including by reference as herein shall
appear.
Sec. 18-201. - Amendments.
The Manual of Cross-Connection Control, Tenth Edition, October 2009 is hereby amended as
follows:
Irrigation Back Flow Device Location. The residential irrigation RP or PVB shall be located
immediately adjacent to the residential structure and shall be located a minimum of twelve (12)
inches above the highest lawn sprinkler head. A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter receptacle that is
weather proof while in operation is recommended to be located immediately adjacent to the back
flow device for the installation of a heat tape to prevent freezing. A rain sensor(s) shall be installed
on all systems.
The Commercial irrigation RP and PVB or other approved back flow devices shall be protected from
traffic if not located immediately adjacent to the structure and shall be located a minimum of twelve
(12) inches above the highest lawn sprinkler head. A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter receptacle that
is weather proof while in operation is recommended to be located immediately adjacent to the back
flow device for the installation of a heat tape to prevent freezing. Freeze protection shall be
considered in all designs. A rain sensor(s) shall be installed on all systems.
Any RP or PVB located in a flood plain shall be 1 foot above the Design Flood Elevation (DFE) or
designed in such a way that will prevent floodwaters from entering or accumulating within system
components and to additionally ensure that floodwater does not contaminate the potable water
supply system. (Ref: FEMA 348 November 1999)
Adopting the backflow and cross-connection requirements in no way shall appeal or set aside any of
the requirements of the International Plumbing Code.
Secs. 18-202—18-219. - Reserved.
ARTICLE XI. - INTERNATIONAL SWIMMING POOL AND SPA CODE
Sec. 18-220. - Adopted.
The International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, 2012 2018 Edition is hereby adopted with the
amendments as provided for in this article. The State of Texas will mandate all future code editions
through the Texas Department of State Health Services as to the date of future adoptions.
Sec. 18-221. - Amendments.
The International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, 2012 2018 Edition is hereby amended as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code of
the City of Schertz, Texas, hereinafter referred to as "this code."
108 Means of Appeal. Means of Appeal is hereby repealed in its entirety. The Board of Appeals is
hereby repealed in its entirety and replaced by Building and Standards Commission.
The following Appendixes are adopted:
Symbols
Appendix B: Field Checklist for identifying Suction Entrapment Hazards shall be completed by
the pool installer or his or her authorized agent. The information in the Appendix B shall be
provided to the Inspector for final approval.
Appendix C Warning - Drowning Hazard signage shall only apply to non-residential installation
for signage and is only recommended for single and two family residential installations.
Secs. 18-222—18-239. - Reserved.
ARTICLE XII. - INTERNATIONAL EXISTING BUILDING CODE
Sec. 18-240. - Adopted.
The International Existing Building Code, 2012 2018 Edition is hereby adopted with the amendments
as provided for in this article.
Sec. 18-241. - Amendments.
The International Existing Building Code, 2012 2018 Edition is hereby amended as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the International Existing Building Code of the City
of Schertz, Texas, hereinafter referred to as "this code." ·
112 Board of Appeals. The Board of Appeals is hereby repealed in its entirety and replaced by
Building and Standards Commission.
Secs. 18-242—18-254. - Reserved.
ARTICLE XIII
Sec. 18-255. - Violations and penalties.
Any person, firm, corporation or agent who shall violate a provision of this chapter, 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 in violation of the detailed statement
or drawings submitted and permitted thereunder, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. Such persons shall be
considered guilty of a separate offense for each and every day or portion thereof during which any
violation of any of the provisions of this chapter is committed or continued, and upon conviction of any
such violation such person shall be punished by a fine of not more than $500.00 for each offense unless
said violation is a violation of a regulation governing fire safety or public health and sanitation then by a
fine of not more than $2,000.00 for each offense. All such violations shall be prosecuted in accordance
with section 1-8 General penalty for violations of Code; continuing violations of the Schertz Municipal
Code of Ordinances.
BUILDING AND STANDARDS COMMISSION MEETING: 03/01/2021
Agenda Item 5 B
TO:Building and Standards Commission
PREPARED
BY:Kade Long, Fire Chief
SUBJECT:Hold a public hearing, consider and make a recommendation on amending the Schertz
Code of Ordinances, Chapter 30, Fire Prevention and Protection, by amending existing
International Fire Code and Schertz Code of Ordinance, Chapter 30, Fire Prevention and
Protection. (Kade Long/Ben Boney)
BACKGROUND
The City of Schertz Fire Department – Prevention Division has determined a need to amend the City’s
adopted fire codes regarding, fire codes regarding, fire, and life safety system components.
The purpose of the fire code is to establish the minimum requirements to provide a reasonable level of
safety, public health 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,
explosion and other hazards, and to provide a reasonable level of safety to firefighters and emergency
responders during emergency operations.
When adopting new or amended International Fire Codes cities generally adopt some local amendments.
Local amendments are adopted to mitigate regional climate (i.e. weathering), environmental conditions
(i.e., wind, flooding, wildfire, etc.), geological, topographic, and natural hazards. Some of those
amendments are part of the appendix written by the International Code Council for municipalities to
adopt new construction practices or trending construction and some are local and base on industry
professional recommendations.
Municipalities adopt new fire codes because of industry standard changes and to provide for
implementation of new construction practices and improvements in safety standards for the safety and
welfare of the community. The codes are also intended to ensure the proper construction of structures
built and to follow compliance with the requirements of the Insurance Service Office Inc. (ISO) which
regulates estimated insurance costs. The ISO program evaluates a community’s code enforcement with
the intent to encourage code compliant construction ultimately providing discounts on property insurance
within municipalities with effective codes adopted and that are well-enforced.
Staff is recommending approval of the local amendments.
Attachments
Redlines
2018 Schertz Code Amendments V7
ARTICLE II. FIRE MARSHAL
Sec. 30-22. –Responsibilities. Is amended to read.
The Fire Marshal and his designee, must be a state-certified peace officer. The Fire
Marshal, and his designee, shall perform such duties as prescribed by law and other
ordinances. The Fire Marshal shall be the authority having jurisdiction concerning
nuisances, arson, fire prevention and/or fire code matters.
ARTICLE IV. FIRE WORKSFIREWORKS CODE. Is amended as follows.
Section 30-64. –Fireworks prohibited
(a) Except as provided hereinafter, it shall be unlawful for a person to manufacture,
assemble, store, transport, sell, offer or have in possession with intent to sell, use,
discharge, ignite, or otherwise set -in action any fireworks within the corporate limits of
the cityor its extraterritorial jurisdiction..
(a) Except as provided hereinafter, it shall be unlawful for a person to manufacture,
assemble, store, have in possession with intent to use, discharge, ignite, or
otherwise set in action any fireworks within 5000 feet outside of the City’s
corporate limits.
(b) Packaged or unopened fireworks cannot be confiscated by the municipal authority.
Sec30-67. –Seizure and disposal. Repealed.
(b) The City of Schertz Fire or Police Department cannotconfiscate unopened fireworks.
(Texas Local Government Code Sec. 342.013)
ARTICLE V.–FIRE PREVENTION CODE
Sec. 30-81. -Fire Prevention Code adopted. Is amended to read.
The International Fire Code, 20122018 Edition (IFC-20122018), as amended, revised and
corrected, including Appendices B, C, D, F, H, I, and all future editions, revisions,
amendments, and corrections, published by the International Code Council (ICC), one
copy of which is on file with the city secretary, is hereby adopted and incorporated by
reference as the Fire Prevention Code of the City of Schertz, subject to and including by
reference such amendments as herein shall appear. Any codes reference within this code,
City of Schertz will use the current addition of that referenced code.
Sec. 30-82 –Amendments
The International Fire Code, 20122018 Edition (IFC-20122018) is hereby
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amended as stated below.
CHAPTER 1
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
Section [A] 101.1 is amended to read as follows:
[A] 101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Fire Code of City of
Schertz,hereinafter referred to as “"this code”.."
Section [A] 102.9 is amended by adding 102.9.1 Fire Chief Authorization as follows:
[A] 102.9.1 Fire Chief Authorization The Fire Chief is authorized to make and enforce
such rules and regulations for the prevention and control of fires and fire hazards as may
be necessary from time to time to carry out the intent of this Code.
Section 104 GENERAL AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITIES,is amended
by adding Section [A] 104.1.1 entitled Authority of the Fire Chief and the Fire
Department and Section [A] 104.1.2 entitled Additional Duties and Police Powers of Fire
Department Members as follows:
[A] 104.1.1Authority of the Fire Chief and the Fire Department.. The Fire Chief is duly
authorized to act by any means he deems necessary to protect life and property from make and
enforce such rules and regulations for the prevention and control of fires and fire
hazards.as may be necessary from time to time to carry out the intent of this Code.The
Fire Chief may delegate his power to any other member of the Schertz Fire Department.
[A] 104.1.2Additional Duties and Police Powers of Schertz Fire Department Members.
In addition to the dutiesAdditional Duties required or prescribed for members of the Schertz
Fire Department in connection with thetheir regular functions of such department, when so
required by the order of the City Manager inMayor. In the case of riots, floods, or other
public emergencies or catastrophes or. Or the public danger of any sort,and all fires by
order of the Fire Chief, Assistant Chief, Division Chief, Battalion Chief, or any Captain
or Lieutenant of the Schertz Fire Department, each and all members of the Fire
Department shall be and become vested with full Police powers and. It shall perform all
duties required for the protection of persons or property or the preservation of public
safety, peace,and order.
Section [A] 104.3 Right of Entry, is amended by adding subsection [A] 104.3.2 entitled
Photographic Documentation to read as follows:
[A] 104.3.2 Photographic Documentation. MembersMember(s)of the Schertz Fire
Department making such examinations or inspections shall have the right, with proper
credentials, and be authorized to take a reasonable number of photographs or videotapes
for evidence and for records for useto be used by the Schertz Fire Department to study
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hazards and scientific control for fire safety.
Section 105.2.5 Investigation Fee/Working Without a Permit, shall be added, and read:
105.2.5 Investigation Fee/Working without a permit. Work requiring a permit shall not
commence until said permit is posted in a conspicuous place on the job site and approved
plans are available at this location. Where work is commenced prior to obtaining said
permit, the fees provided in the City Code may be doubled. The payment of such double
fee shall not relieve any person from fully complying with the requirements of this
ordinance in the execution of the work nor of any other penalties prescribed herein.
Section [A] 105.4.2 Information on construction documents is amended by adding
Section [A] 105.4.2.2 entitled Occupancy Classification Letter as follows:
[A] 105.4.2.2 Occupancy Classification Letter.Two copiesA copy of a completed
"Occupancy Classification Letter" (a.k.a. "Commodities Letter") or other approved Fire
Protection report shall be submitted to the City for buildings or portions thereof that are
to be used for any of the following purposes:
1. Warehousing or storage
2. Retail including rack display of products
3. Hazardous material storage and/or use
4. Manufacturing
The Occupancy Classification Letter is required to be submitted
1. with the building permit submittal documents when seeking a building permit,
2. to the Fire Inspector during a Certificate of Occupancy inspection, or
3. at any other time when required by the fire code official.
The Occupancy Classification Letter is to be prepared by the owner and/or tenant of the
building/space in question or a registered design professional. It is to be signed, dated
and on company letterhead. If the Occupancy Classification Letter is prepared by a
registered design professional representing the owner and/or tenant of the
building/space in question, the letter is to be countersigned by the owner and/or tenant.
The Occupancy Classification Letter is to be kept on site at all times. Prior to a change in
1) the type or amount of hazardous material(s) used or stored, 2) the type or amount of
storage or storage height or method, or 3) the manufacturing process, a revised
Occupancy Classification Letter is to be submitted to the Fire Chief or his designee for
review.
Section 105.6 Required operational permits is amended by adding Section 105.6.47 Food
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Booths, and Section [A] 105.6.48 entitled Mobile Food Establishments as follows:
[A] 105.6.47 Food Booths.
An operational permit is required for the operation of a food booth. For permit to operate
a food booth, see Section 320.
[A]105.6.48 Mobile Food Establishments.
An operational permit is required for the operation and maintenance of a mobile food
establishment. Small, light weight vendor push carts, as determined by the fire code
official, are not covered under this section. For permit to operate a Mobile Food
Establishment, see Section 321.
Section [A] 105.7.11 LP-gas is hereby amended as follows:
[A]105.7.11 LP-gas. A construction permit is required for installation of or modification
to an LP-gas system that contains 120 gallons or more.Maintenance performed in
accordance with this code is not considered to be a modification and does not require a
permit.
Section [A] 110.2 Evacuation is amended by adding [A] 110.109.1 Board of Appeals is
hereby created and shall read:
Sec.[A] 109.1 Building and Standards Commission. All appeals relative to the
application and interpretation of the codes adopted in this chapter shall be to the
Building and Standards Commission as established under the Unified Development
Code, Article 3, Boards, Commissions and Committees.
Section 110.4 Violation penalties shall read:
110.4 Violation penalties.Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail
to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or
do work in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire code
official, or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of
a [SPECIFY OFFENSE], punishable by a fine of not more than $ 2,000.00. Each day
that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate
offense.
Section 111.2.1 Removal of Occupants is added, and shall read:
[A] 110111.2.1 Removal of Occupants.if Occupancy Load has exceeded.A member of
the Schertz Fire Department is authorized to require the removal of have occupants at a
location to be removed when actual occupancy exceeds the permitted or posted occupant
load. A person commits an offense if he refuses to obey an order to vacate.
Section 111[A] 112.4 (IFC-2012) Failure to comply. Such provision is hereby
amended to read as follows:
Section 111.4 (IFC-2012) Failure to comply "Comply. Any person who shall continue any
work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is
directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be guilty of a violation
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of Class C Misdemeanor. Punishable by fine not to exceed $2000 per day and per offense"liable
to a fine of not less than $ 200.00 or more than $ 2000.00.
SECTION 202, GENERAL Section 113.1.1 Prohibition of Utility Service is added and
shall read;
CHAPTER 2
DEFINITIONS is amended by adding
Section 202 Add to definitions and modifying existing ones as follows: in section 202:
SECTION 202
GENERAL DEFINITIONS
Change of Occupancy is amended to read as follows:
Change of Occupancy. A change in High-rise building(s). Any building with an
occupied floor located more than 50 feet above the purpose orlowest level of activity to
include changefire department vehicle access. Any other definition or description
described throughout this code shall be disregarded.
FIRE HAZARD shall mean any condition or act which increases or may cause an
increase of the hazard or menace of ownership, within fire to a buildinghigher degree than
that involves a changecustomarily recognized as reasonable by persons in applicationthe
public service regularly engaged in preventing, suppressing or extinguishing fire, or
which may obstruct, delay, hinder or interfere with the operations of the requirementsfire
department or the egress of this codeoccupants in the event of fire.
Fire Lane is amended to read as follows:
Fire Lane. ShallFIRE LANE shall mean any area appurtenant to entrances or exits of a
building deemed necessary by the Fire Chief or his designee to remain free and clear of
parked vehicles for access to such building in case of fire or other emergency and
designated by him as such, and may include sidewalks, driveways, portions of parking
lots, or any other area adjacent to or near building entrances or exits, or any fire hydrant.
Fire Watch is amended to read as follows:
FIRE MARSHAL shall mean the fire code official responsible for investigations of fires,
inspection of facilities, and code enforcement.
FIRE WATCH.Qualified individuals are defined as State Certified Fire Inspectors assigned to
the Fire Prevention Division of the City of Schertz, or, if approved by the Fire MarshalChief or
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designee are, Texas Certified Firefighters, Peace Officers, individuals employed by a
private security firm, or other designated individuals whose sole duty when assigned a
fire watch is to perform constant patrols of the premises and keep watch for signs of
unwanted fire. A written attendance log must be maintained,and personnel must have at
least one approved means of notifying the fire department of fire or other emergencies.
When fire watch is being performed and is not deemed adequate, the Fire Chief or
designee shall institute that members of the Schertz Fire Department to be used in the
place of what currently being used. The cost of the fire watch shall be at the current
overtime rate of the individual preforming the task and shall be the sole responsibility of
the owner/contractor to pay. The fire watch fee shall be paid to the City of Schertz within
30 days before final approval is granted on system work.
Foster Care Family Home is added as follows:
FOSTER CARE FAMILY HOME shall mean a single independent residential occupancy
that is the primary residence of the caregiver and licensed by the state to provide twenty -
four (24) hour care for six or fewer children (including those related to the caregiver) up
to the age of eighteen (18) years.
Mobile Food Establishment is added as follows:
MOBILE FOOD ESTABLISHMENT shall mean a mobile food operation using any
heat -producing equipment to cook, fry, or warm products for consumption from a
motorized vehicle, towable trailer, or watercraft.
PARK shall mean the standing of a vehicle, whether occupied or not, upon a street
otherwise than temporarily for the purpose of, and while actively engaged in, receiving or
discharging passengers or loading or unloading merchandise or in obedience to traffic
regulations, signs, or signals or an involuntary stopping of a vehicle by reason of a cause
beyond the control of the operator of the vehicle.
OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION. For the purposes of this code, certainspecific
occupancies are defined as follows:
[BG] Residential Group R-3 is amended to add the following:
[BG] Residential Group R-3. Residential Group R-3 occupancies where the occupants
are primarily permanent in nature and not classified as Group R-1, R-2, R-4 or I, including:
Foster Care Family Homes
Special Event is added as follows:
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SPECIAL EVENT shall mean an indoor or outdoor event that, in the opinion of the Fire
Code Official or their designee, meets any of the following criteria:
1.Constitutes a use or occupant load ordinarily not permitted by the face of the
Certificate of Occupancy.
2. Requires the means of egress to be altered from a configuration that was
previously approved by the Building Code Official, Fire Code Official, or their designee
(e.g., installation of booths, curtains, partitions, tables/chairs, etc. or the locking of select
doors to limit access to portions of a building or area).
3.Poses a condition that compromises any life safety systems that were previously
approved by the Building Code Official, Fire Code Official, or their designee (e.g.,
reduced lighting, increased sound levels, installation of alternate interior finishes, etc.).
4.Poses a condition that reduces the effectiveness of public safety services of any
kind (e.g., Conditions that result in reduced access to fire hydrants, sprinkler riser/pump
rooms, Fire Department Connections, etc.)."
Section 307.1 General Whenever the word "JURISDICTION" is amended by adding
Section 307.1.2 Carrying Burning Materials as follows:
307.1.2 Carrying Burning Materials. No personused in the city International Fire
Code, it shall carry or causebe held to be carried, in any street or other thoroughfare,
any burning coal or firebrands, unless the same is shut up in a covered vessel.
Section 307.4 Location. Such provision is hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 307.4 Location The location and conditions for open burning shall be in accordance
with rules established bymean the City of Schertz, Texas Commission on Environmental
Quality (TCEQ) and in effect at the time the permit is issued. Location and conditions shall be
further restricted, as follows:.
1.Forecasted wind speed of 15 mph or less;
2.Open burning shall not be allowed in residential areas on lot sizes less than
three (3) acres;
3.Open burning shall not be allowed on days subject to an "Air Quality Health
Alert" or other air quality warning."
4.Failure for permit holder to keep a control burn under control through
negligence, which activates an emergency response by Fire Department will
require the permit holder to pay for the cost of the fire response in accordance
to fees set forth in Exhibit-1-Fee Schedule.
Whenever the words "Chief of the Bureau of Fire Prevention," or "Fire Code
Official" is used in the International Fire Code, it shall be held to mean "The Fire Chief."
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Chapter 3
General Requirements
Section 307.6 Sky Lanterns prohibited is added, and shall read:
307.6 Sky Lanterns. Sky lanterns; also known as Chinese lanterns, sky candles, or fire
balloons, which are airborne lanterns constructed of a combustible material and contain a
candle or fuel cell that when lit, causes the device to go airborne and travel in the air; are
prohibited within the city limits.
Section 308.1.4 Open-flame cooking devices isare amended by deleting exception 2 and
3 and renumbering as follows:
308.1.4 Open-flame cooking devices. Charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking
devices shall not be operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet (3048 mm) or
combustible constructionNo person living within any multifamily housing such as an
apartment, apartment condominium, hotel, motel, or any other multifamily type
occupancy shall construct, install, store, maintain or use any incinerator, barbecue pit,
charcoal or propane grill or container of any kind for the purpose of igniting any
combustible materials for whatever domestic purpose such as cooking or washing, within
10 feet of a combustible multifamily housing occupancy.
Exceptions:
1.Exception: One-and two-family dwellings. Delete Exceptions two and three.
2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an automatic sprinkler system.
3. LP-gas cooking devices having LP-gas container with a water capacity not greater than 21/2 pounds
[nominal 1 pound (0.454 kg) LP-gas capacity.
Section 308 OPEN FLAMES is amended by adding Section 308.5 entitled Fire Hazard
Prohibited as follows:
308.5 Fire Hazard Prohibited. In Group R, Division 1 & 2 occupancies, a person shall
not construct, erect, install, maintain or use any incinerator or barbecue pit or so burn any
combustible material as to constitute or occasion a fire hazard by the use or burning
thereof or as to endanger the life or property of any person thereof.
The use or burning of any such devices under the following conditions shall constitute a
fire hazard and is strictly prohibited:
1.Within 10 linear feet of any combustible surface, including but not limited to decks,
porches, balconies, walls, or verandas.
2.Beneath any balcony, porch, roof overhang, deck, or veranda.
CHAPTER 3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS is amended by adding a new Section 319
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PARADE FLOATS to read as follows:
SECTION 319
PARADE FLOATS
319.1 Decorative Materials. Decorative material on parade floats shall be
noncombustible or flame retardant.
319.2 Fire Protection. Motorized parade floats and towing apparatus shall be provided
with a minimum 2-A, 10-B:C-rated portable fire extinguisher readily accessible to the
operator.
319.3 Exhaust Pipes. Motorized float exhaust pipes must be extended past the exterior of
the float and be clear of all decorative material.
319.4 Escape Hatch. Motorized floats shall be equipped with a quick escape hatch from
interior driver compartments.
311.2.2 Fire protection. Exception 3 shall read: Where approved by the fire code
official, fire alarm and sprinkler systems are permitted to be placed out of service in
seasonally occupied buildings: that will not be heated; where fire protection systems will
be exposed to freezing temperatures; where fire areas do not exceed 10,000 square feet
(1115 m2); and that do not store motor vehicles or hazardous materials.
CHAPTER 3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS is amended by adding a new Section 320
FOOD BOOTHS as follows:
SECTION 320
FOOD BOOTHS
320.1 Permits. For permit to operate a food booth, see Section 105.6.47. It shall be
unlawful to operate a food booth without a permit.
320.2 Fire Extinguishers. One 2A-10 BC fire extinguisher shall be required for all food
booths. Booths containing deep fat fryers shall have a class K portable fire extinguisher
for up to four fryers having a maximum cooking medium capacity of 80 pounds each. For
every additional group of four fryers having a maximum cooking capacity of 80 pounds
each, an additional class K extinguisher will be required. For individual fryers exceeding
6 square feet in surface area, class K extinguishers will be installed in accordance with
manufacturers' recommendations. All fire extinguishers shall have a current (within a
year) inspection sticker from a licensed extinguisher company or provide proof that the
extinguisher is new (store receipt).
320.3 Location. Food booths utilized for cooking shall have a minimum of 10 feet
clearance on two sides. Booths shall not be placed in fire lanes unless otherwise approved
by the fire code official. Booths shall not be placed within 10 feet of amusement rides or
devices.
320.4 Cooking equipment location. Barbeque pits shall not be located within 10 feet of
combustible materials. Barbeque pits shall not be located under the food booth canopy.
9
320.5 Acceptable Cooking Sources. The following are the only approved cooking
sources for food booths:
1.Wood or charcoal
2.Propane
3.Natural Gas
4.Electricity
320.6 Generators. Fuel tanks shall be of adequate capacity to permit uninterrupted
operation during normal operating hours. Generators shall be isolated from contact with
the public. Storage of gasoline is not allowed in or near generators or food booths.
320.7 Decorations. All decorative material shall be at least six feet away from any open
flame, cooking element, or heat source or be flame resistant.
320.8 Escape route. All concession stands shall have a minimum of a three ft. aisle for
emergency escape.
320.9 Propane. All equipment used in conjunction with propane tanks must be UL
Listed for the purposes in which they will be used. Tanks shall be secured to prevent
falling. Tanks shall only be white or aluminum in color. Only one spare tank will be
allowed in a food booth. Emptied propane tanks are to be removed from the site
immediately after use. Regulators shall be attached to the tanks as close as possible.
Leaks can be detected using a soap and water solution. Tank shutoff valves and/or
additional shutoff valves shall be accessible and away from the cooking appliance(s).
Propane tanks shall not be within five feet of an ignition source. Propane tanks shall not
be located within 10 feet of a building door or window.
CHAPTER 3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS is amended by adding a new Section 321
MOBILE FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS to read as follows:
SECTION 321
MOBILE FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS
321.1 Permits.
321.1.1 It shall be unlawful to operate mobile food establishments without a permit as
required by Section 105.6.48. Annual mobile food establishment permits must be
displayed in a visible location in or on the mobile food establishment.
321.1.2 Mobile food establishments left on site for more than 24 hours at carnivals,
fairs, festivals, or other public events will be subject to Food Booth permit
requirements, inspections, and fees as set forth in Section 320 and Section 105.6.47 of
this code in addition to any fees associated with the annual mobile food establishment
permits.
321.2Fire Extinguishers -Fire extinguishers are required in mobile food
establishments in accordance with sections 321.2.1 through 321.2.4
321.2.1 All mobile food vendors shall have at minimum one (2A10BC) portable fire
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extinguisher mounted in a conspicuous place within the kitchen area.
321.2.2 Mobile food vendors with portable generators shall have a (3A40BC) portable
fire extinguisher.
321.2.3 All portable fire extinguishers shall be serviced, inspected, and tagged annually.
321.2.4 In addition to any other required fire extinguisher, all mobile food vendors who
deep fat fry shall have a class K portable fire extinguisher for up to four fryers having a
maximum cooking medium capacity of 80 pounds each. For every additional group of
four fryers having a maximum cooking capacity of 80 pounds each, an additional class
K extinguisher will be required. For individual fryers exceeding six square feet in
surface area, class K extinguishers will be installed in accordance with manufacturers'
recommendations.
321.3 Use of LPG -Liquefied Petroleum Gas usage shall comply with sections 321.3.1
through 321.3.5.
321.3.1 L.P. Gas containers shall be located and secured on the exterior of the mobile
food establishment, open to atmosphere or if containers are kept in compartment, said
compartment must be separate from the interior food preparation area. Access must be
from the exterior of the unit and compartment floor and exterior door must be vented to
the atmosphere.
321.3.2 All mobile units with propane shall post a "NO SMOKING" sign next to or
directly above the propane bottle and visible to the public. Such sign shall be posted
with a minimum of four inch lettering.
321.3.3 Any hose used to pipe L.P. Gas to a device shall be listed by UL, FM, or other
approved agency and listed specifically for LP Gas service. All couplings, fittings, and
any other devices shall meet the requirements for LP Gas Service as outlined in the
International Fuel Gas Code, NFPA 58 and 54, or be deemed unapproved and removed
from service.
321.3.4 LPG tanks shall be located outside the mobile food establishment a minimum of
five feet from the primary means of egress.
321.4 Baffles and Closures
321.4.1 All deep-fat fryers shall have a steel baffle between the fryer and surface flames
of an adjacent appliance or shall maintain a 16 inch separation distance. The baffle, if
installed, shall be eight inches in height.
321.5 Emergency Egress. Emergency egress shall comply with Sections 321.5.1
through Section 321.5.2.2
321.5.1 Mobile food establishments shall have a clear, unobstructed height over the
aisle-way portion of the unit of at least 74 inches from floor to ceiling, and a minimum
of 30 inches of unobstructed horizontal aisle space.
321.5.2 Should travel distance from any portion of the interior exceed 10 feet, the
mobile food establishments shall have a minimum of two exits located remote from
each other and so arranged as to provide a means of unobstructed travel to the outside
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of the vehicle.
321.5.2.1 A secondary means of egress shall be located remote of the main exit door,
with an unobstructed minimum passage of 24" X 24 " to the outside. The bottom of this
secondary means of egress shall not be more than four feet above the vehicle floor or a
readily accessible horizontal surface capable of supporting a weight of 300 pounds
minimum opening to the outside.
321.5.2.2 The latch mechanism of any exit facility shall be operable by hand, and shall
not require the use of a key or special knowledge for operation from the inside. The
secondary exit shall be labeled with the word "EXIT" with two inch minimum letters on
contrasting background.
321.6 Generator Refueling
321.6.1 Refueling of generators shall be performed in an approved location not less
than 20 feet from the mobile food establishment. Fuel shall be stored in a UL or FM
approved flammable liquid safety container in an approved location. Generators shall be
grounded in an approved method. Generators shall not be refueled in areas occupied by
the public.
Chapter 4
EMERGENCY PLANNING AND PREPAREDNESS
Section 405.2 Frequency is amended by adding a new Section 405.2.1 Fire Drill Records
to read as follows:
405.2.1 Fire Drills for E Occupancies. The operator of premises housing an E
Occupancy shall conduct fire drills:
1. Without warning;
2. In a manner requiring:
a. all students to immediately leave the structure upon hearing the fire drill
signal;
ab. A roll call by classes outside the structure; and
doorsc. Doors to be closed as each area is evacuated;
3. In a manner simulating fire conditionscondition;
4. In a manner prohibiting students from running or playing;
5. If approved, in a manner permitting security persons to remain inside the
structure during drills;
6. Which include:
a. Complete checks of each section of the structure;
b. The use of varying evacuation routes;
c. Occasional simulation of blocked exits;
d. Provisions for calling the fire department; and
e. The use of varying drill times;
7. During weather which does not pose a health threat to students;
8. As an exercise in discipline and procedure, rather than speed; and
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1. By pulling a manual pull station.
Section 405.2 Frequency is amended by adding a new Section 405.2.2 Fire Drills for E
Occupancies to read as follows:
405.2.2 Fire Drills for E Occupancies. FIRE CHIEF'S POWER TO ORDER FIRE
DRILL. The Fire Chief may require a fire drill at any E Occupancy at any time.
Chapter 5
FIRE SERVICE FEATURES
Section 503.1.1 Buildings and facilities isare amended by adding Section 503.1.1.1
Access from the adjacent lot as follows:
503.1.1.1 Access from an adjacent lot. Where fire apparatus access roads for a building
or buildings are provided from an adjacent lot, a fire lane easement or ingress/egress
easement is required to be recorded on the adjacent lot's plat that is providing the
common access. The adjacent lot's plat is to clearly show the easement graphically
clearly.
Exception: In lieu of the graphical easement, a note may be placed on the plat that, at a
minimum, states, the following: "Ingress and egress shall be provided between all
adjacent lots for adequate fire department vehicle access per the City of Schertz Fire
Code. The cross access shall not be blocked,nor may this note be taken off the plat
without written permission from the City of Schertz Director of Development Services
and the Schertz Fire Department Fire Marshal." Chief or designee."
Section 503.2.1 Dimensions is amended by adding Section shall read:
503.2.1.2 Mountable Curbs are added Dimensions.Fire apparatus access roads shall have
an unobstructed width of not less than 24 feet, exclusive of shoulders, except where a fire
hydrant is located on a fire department access road. An unobstructed vertical clearance of
not less than 14 feet and shall always be required and maintained. Security gates shall be
sized to read as follows: match the required clear width.
503.2.1.2 Mountable Curbs. Mountable curbs are permitted when approved by the Fire
Marshal.
Section 503.2.3 Surface is amended by adding a second paragraph to read as
follows:
503.2.3 Surface. Drivable grass surfaces, or other alternative drivable surfaces, are
permitted when approved by the Fire Marshal or his designee and in accordance with all
of the following conditions:
1. Sealed documents indicating compliance with the provisions of 503.2.3 shall be
submitted by a registered design professional for review.
2. The drivable grass surface, or alternative drivable surface, shall not be used as the
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primary access to the site.
3. The surface shall be capable of supporting the imposed load of fire apparatus
weighing at least 75,000 pounds.
4. Blue traffic reflectors shall be provided on each side of the surface every 20 feet to
clearly mark its boundaries. Vegetation on and surrounding the surface shall be
maintained such that said reflectors are visible at all times.
5. Sod is not permitted to be placed over the drivable base.
6. If the surface proposed is to be used as the aerial apparatus access road for the
facility, concrete curbing, or other approved edging, shall be installed along both
sides of the portion to be used as such for enhanced lateral stability. A registered
design professional shall design said curbing. Sealed drawings of the design shall be
provided to the Fire Department and Development Services for review.
7. If sand or other free-flowing fill is used as a main structural component for the
surface, concrete curbing or other approved edging shall be installed along both sides
of the surface for material containment. A registered design professional shall design
such curbing. Sealed drawings of the design shall be provided to the Fire Department
and Development Services for review.
A signed letter from the manufacturer shall be provided to the Fire Marshal
certifying that the installation meets all requirements in the manufacturer's
installations prior to issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy.
1. The surface shall be maintained in proper working order at all times when utilized as
a required fire lane. Should the surface become damaged or fall into disrepair, the
Fire Marshal or his designee shall be authorized to require the repair and re-
certification of said surface.
Section 503.2.4 Turning radius is amended by adding a second paragraph to , shall
read as follows: :
503.2.4 Turning radius. The required turning radius of a fire apparatus access road
shall be determined by the fire code official.
The turning radii of a fire apparatus access roadway shall require a minimum of 50 feet
outside radius,and a minimum of 25 feet clear distance to the inside radius on all turns in
excess ofmore than 30 degrees.
Section 503.2.5Dead Ends is amended to read as follows:
503.2.5 Dead Ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet in length
shall be provided with approved provisions for the turning around of fire apparatus. Turn
arounds approved by the Fire Marshal or as permitted by Appendix D are acceptable.
Exception: Where the building is equipped throughout with an approved sprinkler
system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2, or 903.3.1.3, the maximum
length of dead-end fire apparatus access roads shall be increased to 200 feet. This
increase shall not be applicable to Groups H and I Occupancies, buildings with
occupancies having High-Piled Combustible Storage and high-rise buildings.
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Section 503.2.7 Grade is amended to read as follows:
503.2.7 Grade. The gradient for a fire apparatus access road shall not exceed 12%.twelve
percent (12%).
Section 503.3 Markings is repealed2.8 Angles of approach and replaced with a new
departure shall read:
Section 503.3 Markings as follows: 2.8 Angles of approach and departure.An angle of
approach and an angle of departure shall be designed so that at least 8 degrees shall be
maintained at the front and the rear of the department's apparatus when it is loaded to the
estimated in-service weight.
Section 503.3 Markings. Such provision is hereby amended to read as follows:
Striping, signs or other markings, when approved by the fire code official,added shall be
provided for fire apparatus access roads to identify such roads or prohibit the obstruction thereof.
Striping, signs, and other markings shall be maintained in a clean and legible condition at all
times and shall be replaced or repaired necessary to provide adequate visibility. read:
503.3.1 Striping –.Fire apparatus access roads shall be continuously marked by
painted lined of red traffic paint six inches (6”)")in width to show the boundaries of the
lane. The words “"NO PARKING FIRE LANE”"or “"FIRE LANE NO PARKING”"
shall appear in four -inch (4”)")white letters at twenty -five feet (25’25') intervals on the
red border markings along both sides of the fire lanes. Where a curb is available, the
striping shall be on the vertical and horizontal of the curb.
503.3.2. Signs-Signs, when approved by the fire code official, shall read “NO
PARKING FIRE LANE” or “FIRE LANE NO PARKING” and shall be twelve inches
(12”) wide and eighteen inches (18”) high. Signs shall be on a white background with
letters and borders in red, using not less than two inch (2”) tall lettering. Signs shall be
permanently affixed to a stationary post and the bottom of the sign shall be six feet, six
inches (6’ 6”) above finished grade. Signs shall be spaced not more than fifty feet (50’)
apart along both sides. Signs may be installed on permanent buildings or walls or as
approved by the Fire Chief.
Section 503.6 Security gates is hereby amended by adding the following language and
adding a new Section 503.6.1 Direction of Swing to read as follows:
503.6 Security gates. The installation of security gates across a fire apparatus access
road shall be approved by the fire chief. Where security gates are installed, they shall
have an approved means of emergency operation to include a fire department specific
key switch, lock, or box. Upon loss of power to electric gate operators, a secondary
power source or clearly marked and identified manual release shall be provided.The
security gates and the emergency operation shall be maintained operational at all times.
Electric gate operators, where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL 325. Gates
intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed and installed to comply
with the requirements of ASTM F 2200.
503.6.1 Direction of Swing. Security gates installed across a Fire Apparatus Access
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Road shall swing in the direction of travel towards the building or open horizontally to
avoid backing up of Fire Apparatus and to allow for an expedited response.
SECTION 503 FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS is amended by adding
Sections 503.7 Fire MarshalChief or designee Authority to Designate Fire Lanes, 503.8
Summons to be Issued for Parking Violation, 503.9 Removal of Vehicle by Property
Owner, 503.10 Removal of Vehicle by Fire Chief, and 503.11 Abandonment of Fire Lane
to read as follows:
503.7 Fire Marshal Authority to Designate Fire Lanes. The Fire MarshalChief or
designee is hereby authorized to designate fire lanes on designated premises where such
areas must be free of parked vehicles and other obstructions to provide ready access to
buildings therein, in case of fire or other emergencies. The Fire Marshal'sChief's or
designee designation of such fire lanes does not obviate the owner of such property of
their responsibility to maintain the area. Further, owners of the private property or their
designated representative may request that the Fire Chief or designee designates
additional fire lanes be designated by the Fire Marshal.
503.8 Summons to be Issued for Parking Violation.A summons or notice to appear in
answer to a charge of parking in violation of this section specifying the location of the fire lane in
which such violation occurred and the date and time of such violation,Violation(s)may be
issued by any police officer,or any inspector in theCertified Fire Prevention Bureau of
theInspector with Schertz Fire Department.. Texas Transportation Code 545.302 will
apply to this section.
503.9 Removal of Vehicle by Property Owner. Except for an authorized emergency
vehicle, the owner of private property, or their agent, may have any motor vehicle that is
parked in a legally designated fire lane removed and stored at either their own expense or
that of the vehicle operator.
The owner of the premises, or their agent, who has a vehicle removed and stored, is not
liable for damages incurred as a result of removal or storage, if the vehicle is removed by
a vehicle wrecker service insured against liability for property damage incurred in towing
vehicles and is stored by a storage company insured against liability for property damage
incurred in the storage of vehicles.
503.10 Removal of Vehicle by Fire Chief or designee. Any vehicle parked in any
designated fire lane or blocking fire hydrants may be removed at the vehicle owners'
expense upon the authorization of the Fire Chief or designee under the following
conditions:
1.When the vehicle is in violation by parking in a fire lane, or
2.2. When parked in front of a fire hydrant, or
3. When a vehicle blocks the ingress/egress of a business, theater, night
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clubnightclub, apartment complex, gymnasium,or a place of assembly, or
3.4. When a vehicle's presence threatens the life safety of the public by
impeding the ability of the fire apparatus and emergency medical equipment to
respond to an emergency.
The Fire Chief shall cause such vehicle to be removed by the towing service operating
under a contract with the city and shall further cause such vehicle to be impounded in one
of the Police Department Vehicle Storage sections.
503.11 Abandonment of Fire Lane. No owner, manager,or person in charge of any
premises served by a required fire lane shall abandon or close any such fire lane without
the written permission of the Fire Marshal. Chief or designee.
Section 503.6.1.2 Gate timing is added and shall read:
503.6.1.2 Gate timing.Gates must fully open within 15 seconds of activation and remain
in the open position until closed by operation of the electrical control device.
Section 503.6.1.3 Failsafe position is added and shall read:
503.6.1.3 Failsafe position.Fire department access gates shall fail safe (open) in the
event of a power failure.
Section 503.6.1.5 Access controls are added and shall read:
503.6.1.5 Access controls.Access controls shall be exterior to the gate and located for
activation by the vehicle operator without leaving the vehicle. The height of the
lockbox/control panel shall be 66 inches, measured from the finished grade line of the
street.
Section 503.6.1.6 Additional access is added and shall read:
503.6.1.6 Additional access. If required by the Fire Chief or designee, additional "exit
only" or "emergency access" gates shall be set up for fire department emergency access.
Exit only gates, which are not motorized, shall be installed per the fire department's
recommendations. Exit only gates shall have a minimum clearance of 20 feet clear width
and be posted with a sign that states "Caution Gate Opens Out" and designated as a Fire
Lane. In addition to Fire Lane markings, the markings on the pavement shall include a 5-
inch yellow stripe showing the depth of the gate swing.
Section 505.1 Address Numbers is amended to read as follows:
505.1 Address identification.New and existing buildings shall have approved address
numbers, building numbers or approved building identification placed in a position that is
plainly legible and visible from the street or road fronting the property. These numbers
shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or
alphabetical letters. Numbers shall be a minimum of six inches high with a minimum
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stroke width of 0.5 inchinches (12.7 mm). Fire Chief or designee has the authority to
increase the size depending on visibility.For buildings with individual suites, the suite
numbers shall be a minimum of foursix inches high with a minimum stroke width of 0.5
inchinches (12.7 mm). Where required by the fire code official, address identification
shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response.
Where access is by means of a private road and the building cannot be viewed from the
public way, a monument, pole,or other sign or means shall be used to identify the
structure. Address numbers shall be maintained. Numbers on the building SHALLbe
located at the Top Right of the Building. Residential address will remain 4 inches high
with a minimum stroke width of 0.5 inches (12.7 mm).
SECTION 505 PREMISES IDENTIFICATION is amended to add sections 505.3,
505.3.1 and 505.4 as follows:
505.3 Multi-Building Complexes. Office, industrial and apartment complexes shall be
identified by name and number on a display board at the main entryentrance roadway.
505.3.1 Multi-Address Complexes. Office and industrial complexes with multiple
addresses contained within shall post all addresses so that they are visible from main
entry or roadway.
505.54 Tenant identification.Each occupied tenant space provided with a secondary
exit to the exterior or exit corridor shall be provided with tenant identification by
business name and address. Letters and numbers shall be posted on the corridor side of
the door, be plainly legible and shall contrast with their background.
Exception: Tenant identification is notSection 506.1 Where required, shall read:
506.1 Where required. Where access to or within a structure or an area is restricted
because of secured openings or where immediate access is necessary for anchor
storeslifesaving or fire-fighting purposes, the fire code official is authorized to require a
key box to be installed in an approved location. The key box shall be a Knox ® rapid
entry system capable of holding the number of keys necessary for operation and access of
necessary equipment, doors, and other areas necessary for access as determined and
approved by the fire code official. The Knox ® rapid entry system shall be keyed to
system code registered for the City.
Section 506.1.1 Locks shall read:
506.1.1 Locks. Any lock required by the fire code official for access, or where a lock is
placed per request of the owner or manager of the business or property, and the area
locked is determined by the fire code official to require access; the lock shall be a Knox
® rapid entry system keyed to the system code registered by the City.
SECTION 506 KEY BOXES,is amended to add Sections 506.2.13 Key Box Accessand
Removal of Keys and Requirement.
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506.3 Key Box Location and Contents as follows:Requirement. The City of Schertz uses
Knox Box. To access a box, go to www.knoxbox.com. Select the City of Schertz and
then select from the list. Knox Caps are also required for the Fire Department
Connection.
506.2.1 Key Box Access and Removal of Keys. The Fire Department shall have the only
key to the key box. Removal of any key by other than the authorized Fire Department
personnel shall be a violation of this Code.
506.3 Key Box Location and Contents. Required key boxes shall be located as follows
and as approved by the Fire Marshal:
1. Between eight feet and 10 feet to the side of the main entrance level to the
building and near fire riser room, or as approved by the Fire Marshal.
The key box shall contain designated keys essential to emergency operations including,
but not limited to, the following:
1.Elevator keys capable of accessing all floors in the building
2.Stairway keys
3.Fire control station keys
4.Alarm System keys
Section 507.3 Fire flow,1 is amended to read as follows and Section 507.3.1 Fire
Flow for Rural Isolated Areas is added to read as follows:
507.3 Fire flow. Fire Flow requirements for buildings or portions of buildings
and facilities shall be as per Appendix B of the International Fire Code or other
approved method as determined by the Fire Marshal. When utilizing Table C105.1 to
determine number and distribution of fire hydrants, and the flow requirement falls
between the values on the table, the flow requirement shall be rounded up to meet the
higher value.
Section 507.4 Water supply test is amended to read as follows:
507.4 Water1 Required water supply test. Adequacy of the water supply shall be
determined by an approved flow test that is conducted on the fire hydrants nearest the
project site unless otherwise approved by the Fire Code Official. The flow test shall be as
follows:
1.The flow test shall have been conducted no more than 12 months prior to
the date of construction document submittal to the City of Schertz.
2.The flow test shall be conducted in accordance with the 2010current
edition of NFPA 291, Recommended Practice for Fire Flow Testing and Marking
of Hydrants, and any other applicable local, state, or national standards and/or
requirements.
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3.The flow test results shall be submitted with the construction documents.
4.If the water supply piping is not yet constructed, hydraulic calculations
for the proposed piping design shall be submitted. The calculations shall be based
on the flow test conducted on the fire hydrants nearest the project site and shall
verify that the piping design provides the minimum requirerequired fire flow at no
less than 25 psi residual. Upon completion of construction and prior to final
certificate of occupancy, a flow test shall be conducted to verify the results of the
calculations.
Section 507.3 Fire flow is amended to read as follows and Section 507.3.1 Fire Flow for
Rural Isolated Areas is added to read as follows:
507.3 Fire flow. Fire Flow requirements for buildings or portions of buildings and
facilities shall be as per Appendix B of the International Fire Code or other approved
method as determined by the Fire Chief or designee. When utilizing Table C102.1 to
determine the number and distribution of fire hydrants, and the flow requirement falls
between the values on the table, the flow requirement shall be rounded up to meet the
higher value.
Section 507.5 Fire Hydrant is amended to add the following:
507.5.1 Where required. Where a portion of the facility or building hereafter
constructed or move into or within the jurisdiction is more than 400 feet (122 m) from a
hydrant on a fire apparatus road, as measured by an approved route around the exterior of
the facility or building, on-site fire hydrants and mains shall be provided where required
by the fire code official.
Hydrant location must follow both of two rules:
1. No structure should be further away, then four hundred (400’) feet from a fire
hydrant as a fire hose would lay.
2. Hydrant spacing along a water main should not exceed five hundred (500’) feet in
single-family residential areas or three hundred (300’) feet in any non-residential,
multifamily dwelling, or heavily congested residential area.
⦁ Fire Hydrant branch lines shall connect to an 8-inch water main and in no
case be longer than one hundred (100’) feet.
⦁ Any new fire hydrant is required to have a hydrant locator type II blue
reflector installed in the roadway or fire lane, perpendicular to the hydrant,
two feet off centerline. Any new Fire Hydrants must comply with City of
Schertz Public Works Guide.
Section 507.5.3 Private fire service mains and water tanks isare amended by adding
Section 507.5.3.1 Private fire service main as follows:
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507.5.3.1 Private Fire Service Main.and water tanks.Private fire mains as used in this
Code are the pipe and its appurtenances on private property between Schertz, other public
water systemsystems, or other sources of water and the base elbow of private fire hydrants
or the rise for automatic sprinkler or standpipe systems. When connected to a public
water system, the private fire main begins at a point designated by the public water
utility. When connected to a gravity tank or pressure tank, the private fire main begins at
the inlet side of the tank check valve.
Section 507.5.5 Clear spaces around hydrants is amended to read as follows:
507.5.5 Clear space around hydrants. A 3-foot (914 mm) clear space.1.2 Private fire lines
shall be maintained aroundmeet the circumference of fire hydrants, except as otherwise required
or approved. The clear space around hydrantCity’s specifications for pipe material and the
access to the hydrant will be no more than eight percent slope.trench backfill. See Public
Works Design Guide.
1. A Double Check Detector Assembly (DCDA) backflow device will be
provided on private fire lines within 100 feet of the City’s water main.
2. The DCDA may be installed in a vault if proper consideration is given for
drainage and clearance to vault walls for access and repair in accordance with
manufacturer’s specifications.
Section 507.5 Fire Hydrant Systems is amended by adding Sections 507.5.7 Design
Criteria for Water Mains and 507.5.8 Fire Hydrant Installation Criteria as follows:
507.5.7 Design Criteria for Water Mains.
1. Where the fire service mains are used to supply required fire hydrants, the
mains shall be sized to flow the required fire flow as determined by Section
507.3.
2. Where the fire service mains are used to supply required fire hydrants
plus fire sprinkler and/or fire standpipe systems, the mains shall be sized to flow
the larger of the fire hydrant flow demand as determined by Section 507.3, the
fire sprinkler demand as determined by Section 903.3 or the fire standpipe
demand as determined by Section 905.2.
3. The required number of fire hydrants for the fire flow determined by
Section 507.3 shall be specified in Appendix C, Table C105.1.
4. When sizing the fire service main, the distribution of the fire flow among
the required fire hydrants (as determined by item no. 1 or 2 above) shall be as
determined by the Fire MarshalChief or designee, but in most cases shall have no
less than 1,000 gpmGPM at the hydraulically remote fire hydrant with the
remaining fire flow equally distributed among the remaining required fire
hydrants.
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5.Main Size:
5.1Minimum diameter for public water mains shall be six inches in
single-family residential areas and eight inches in all other areas. Larger
mains may be required to accommodate fire flow requirements.
5.2Private fire mains shall be hydraulically calculated.
6.Water pressure in private fire mains shall not be less than thirty-five
pounds per square inch (35 psi) with no hydrants in use. When hydrants are in use
supplying the required fire flow, water pressure in the main at the fire hydrant
discharge level shall be not less than 25 pounds per square inch (25 psi) residual.
7.Except for specific requirements of this code, all hydrants and mains
required for private protection shall be designed, constructed, and operated in
conformance with the local water purveyor's criteria, specifications and
regulations for public fire hydrants and mains on public streets and NFPA 24.
Section 510.5.3 Acceptance test procedure is amended to read as follows:
510.5.3 Acceptance Test Procedures. When an emergency responder radio coverage
system is required, and upon completion of installation, the building owner shall have the
radio system tested to ensure that two-way coverage on each floor of the building is a
minimum of 90 percent.Testing will be accomplished by a licensed third party
contractor. The test procedure shall be conducted as follows:
1. Each floor of the building shall be divided into a grid of 20 approximately equal test
areas.
2. The test shall be conducted using a calibrated portable radio of the latest brand and
model used by the agency talking through the agency’s radio communications system.
3. Failure of a maximum of two nonadjacent test areas shall not result in failure of the
test.
4. In the event that three of the test areas fail the test, in order to be more statistically
accurate, the floor shall be permitted to be divided into 40 equal test areas. Failure of a
maximum of four nonadjacent test areas shall not result in failure of the test. If the system
fails the 40-area test, the system shall be altered to meet the 90 percent coverage
requirement.
5. A test location approximately in the center of each test area shall be selected for the
test, with the radio enabled to verify two-way communications to and from the outside of
the building through the public agency’s radio communications system. Once the test
location has been selected, that location shall represent the entire test area. Failure in the
selected test location shall be considered failure of that test area. Additional test locations
shall not be permitted.
6. The gain values of all amplifiers shall be measured and the test measurement results
shall be kept on file with the building owner so that the measurements can be verified
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during annual tests. In the event that the measurement results become lost, the building
owner shall be required to rerun the acceptance test to reestablish the gain values.
7. As part of the installation a spectrum analyzer or other suitable test equipment shall be
utilized to ensure spurious oscillations are not being generated by the signal booster. This
test shall be conducted at time of installation and subsequent annual inspections.
Section 510 Emergency Responder Radio Coverage is amended to add sections 510.7
Five Year Test and 510.8 Qualifications of texting personnel as follows:
510.7 Five Year Test. In addition to the annual test, the building owner shall perform a
radio coverage test a minimum of once every five years to ensure that the radio system
continues to meet the requirements of the original acceptance. The procedure set forth
above shall apply to such tests.
510.8510.7 Qualifications of testing personnel. All tests shall be conducted,
documented, and signed by a person in possession of a current FCC general
radiotelephone operator license. All test records shall be retained at the inspected premise
by the building owner and a copy submitted to the Schertz Fire Rescue within 30 days of
when the test has been conducted. In the event the test shall fail to comply with the
minimum requirements of the City, appropriate repairs shall be made,and additional tests
conducted until tests meet the minimum requirements of the City. Proof of current license
shall be submitted along with third -party testing.
Section 901.6 Inspection, testing and maintenance is amended by adding Section
901.6.3 Maintenance Agreement as follows:
901.6.3 Maintenance Agreement. A maintenance agreement, as defined by Section 202,
with a licensed fire protection company shall be provided to the Fire Marshal for each
fire protection system at all times. Proof of a maintenance agreement shall be provided
during any system acceptance test. Agreements for testing and inspection only as defined
by Section 202 shall not be credited with having met this requirement.
A fire watch will be performed at all times that a system is taken out of service. Except for
emergencies, the fire code official shall be given 72 hours notice before a system is voluntarily
taken out of service. When, at the discretion of the Fire Chief or his designee, there is a life safety
issue, uniformed employees of the Schertz Fire Department or other fire watch personnel as
approved by the Fire Chief or his designee shall perform a fire watch. Fire watch personnel shall
be provided with at least one approved means for notification to the fire department dispatch and
their sole duty shall be to perform constant patrols and watch for safety hazards and occurrences
of fire. The cost of the fire watch shall be at the current overtime rate for fire inspections and shall
be the sole responsibility of the owner/contractor to pay. Chapter 7
Fire and Smoke Protection Features
Section 703.2 identification of protected openings is added and shall read:
703.2 Identification of protected openings.Walls and partitions required to have
protected openings (firewalls, fire barriers, fire partitions, smoke barriers, and smoke
partitions) shall be permanently identified with signs or stenciling. Such identification
shall be above any ceiling or other concealed space. Markings shall be red, in color, with
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at least four (4) inch letters with one half (½) inch stroke width and shall be spaced so
that no more than ten (10) feet is visible without a marking. Markings shall include the
phrase, "Fire Barrier, Protect All Openings."
Chapter 9
Fire Protection and Life Systems
The fire watch fee shall be paid to the City of Schertz within 30 days before final
approval is granted on system work.
Section 903.1 General is amended by adding Section 903.1.3 High Volume Low Speed
Fans in new and existing buildings as follows:
903.1.2 High Volume Low Speed Fans in new and existing buildings. The use of High
Volume Low Speed (HVLS) or High Volume Low Velocity (HVLV) fans in fire
sprinklered areas of new and existing buildings shall only be permitted as follows:
1. HVLS fans are permitted in rack storage and palletized storage arrangements up
to twenty (20) feet in height in buildings with thirty (30) feet or less ceiling
clearance, when Early Suppression Fast Response (ESFR) sprinklers are used to
protect the storage array.
2. HVLS fans are permitted in light-hazard and ordinary-hazard occupancies as
defined in NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems.
3. HVLS fans are not permitted in in sprinklered areas with palletized storage
greater than twelve (12) feet in height protected by control mode sprinklers.
4. IN all cases, HVLS fans are required to be designed and installed to shut down
automatically on any fire alarm signal. This includes automatic shut down upon
sprinkler system waterflow alarm or any manual or automatic fire alarm detection
device provided in the space.
5. In all cases, the clearance between the HVLS fans and the ceiling sprinklers and
the top of storage shall be in compliance with the obstruction and clearance rules
of NFPA 13.
Exception:When a technical opinion and report is provided in accordance with Section
104.7.2, the Fire Marshal or his designee shall analyze the opinion and report and may
approved the use of HVLS or HVLV fans in additional areas when it is determined that
the effectiveness of the fire sprinkler system is not compromised.
Section 903.2 Where Required is amended to read as follows:.1.1 Group A-1, Shall
read:
1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all levels of any new
Group A (Assembly), B (Business), E (Educational), F (Factory), H (Hazardous), I
(Institutional), M (Mercantile), and S (Storage) occupancies of more than 10,000
square feet or where more than two stories in height or where the combined floor area
on all floors, including mezzanines exceeds 10,000 square feet, and throughout all
R-3 (Residential) occupancies of more than 5,000 square feet or more than two
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stories in height. The calculated area shall include all occupied space and exclude
garage if separated from the resident and its attic space, by one-hour firewall
(according to International Building Code-2012 ED. -Table 719.1 (2)) and also
exclude any detached building.
2. Such systems shall be in compliance with International Building and Fire Codes and
installed in accordance with the most current edition of NFPA 13, NFPA 13D or
NFPA 13R, as applicable. If this ordinance is in conflict with the above listed codes
then the more restrictive shall prevail.
3. The requirements of this section shall apply to existing buildings as follows:
A. Existing buildings (Except Group R-3) exceeding 10,000 square feet.
Existing buildings, other than Group R-3, with useable floor space
exceeding 10,000 square feet, are exempt from automatic sprinkler
requirements until such time as:
B. Any addition, renovation, remodeling, or other action results in any
increase in useable floor space; or
C. Any renovation or remodeling project involves 25% or more of the
building; or
D. Any change in Occupancy Group.
E. Existing buildings (Except Group R-3) 10,000 square feet or less.
Existing buildings, other than Group R-3, with useable floor space of
10,000 square feet or less, are exempt from automatic sprinkler system
requirements until such time as:
F. The building is modified to increase useable floor space to more than
10,000 square feet; or
G. The occupancy group changes to Group R-3 and useable floor space
exceeds 5,000 square feet.
H. Existing Group R-3 buildings exceeding 5,000 square feet. Existing
Group R-3 buildings with useable floor space exceeding 5,000 square
feet are exempt from automatic sprinkler requirements until such time as:
I. Any addition, renovation, remodeling, or other action results in any
increase in useable floor space; or
J. Any renovation or remodeling project involves 25% or more of the
building; or
K. The occupancy group changes to other than Group R and useable floor
space exceeds 10,000 square feet.
L. Existing Group R-3 buildings 5,000 square feet or less. Existing Group
R-3 buildings with useable floor space of 5,000 square feet or less, are
exempt from automatic sprinkler system requirements until such time as
the building is modified to increase useable floor space to more than
5,000 square feet.
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Section 903.2.1 Group A is hereby amended by adding the following exception:
Exception: A one-story detached open pavilion consisting of only a roof and
supporting columns that meets all of the following criteria shall not require fire
sprinklers.
1. The detached open pavilion is a Group A2, Group A3, or Group A4
Occupancy.
2. The detached open pavilion shall be less than 10,000 ft² in area.
3. The detached open pavilion shall be separated from adjacent structures by
minimum of 30 feet.
4. The detached open pavilion is open on at least three sides and open a minimum
of 50% of the perimeter of the area covered. In order to be considered “open”
for the purpose of this exception, an open side shall be at least 50% open with
the open area uniformly distributed to prevent the accumulation of smoke and
toxic gases.
5. The detached open pavilion shall have a minimum of 300% of the total number
of required exits and a minimum of 300% of total exit minimum width or
required capacity based upon the occupant load of the pavilion.
903.2.1.1 Group A-1.An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-1
occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 10,000 square feet.
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving
such occupancies.
Section 903.2.1.3 Group A-3 is hereby amended by adding a condition to read as follows:,
Shall read:
903.2.1.3 Group A-3.An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for fire areas
containing Group A-31 occupancies and intervening floors of the building where one of the
following conditions exists:
1.The fire area exceeds 10,000 square feet (1115 m2)..
2.The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
3.The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge
serving such occupancies.
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving
such occupancies.
4.Any Group A-3 occupancy that serves alcohol shall comply with the fire
26
sprinkler requirements for Group A-2 Occupancies in section 903.2.1.2.
Section 903.2.1.4 Group A-4, Shall read:
903.2.1.4 Group A-4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-1
occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 10,000 square feet.
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
3.7 Fire Department Connections The fire area is amended tolocated on a floor other
than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.
Section 903.2.3 Group E shall read:
903.2.3 Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for throughout all
Group E occupancy fire areas greater than 10,000 square feet or with accessible areas
above or below the level of exit discharge.
Section 903.2.4 Group F-1, Shall read:
903.2.4 Group F-1. Automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all
buildings containing Group F-1 occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. A Group F-1 fire area exceeds 10,000 square feet.
2. A Group F-1 fire area is located more than two stories above grade plane.
3. The combined area of all Group F-1 fire areas on all floors, including any
mezzanines, exceeds 10,000 square feet.
Section 903.2.7 Group M shall read:
903.2.7 Group M.An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all
buildings containing Group M occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. A Group M fire area exceeds 10,000 square feet.
2. A Group M fire area is located more than two stories above grade plane.
3. The combined area of all Group M fire areas on all floors, including any
mezzanines, exceeds 10,000 square feet.
4. A Group M occupancy is used for the display and sale of upholstered furniture.
903.2.8.1A Group R-3 (Single Family Residential) An automatic sprinkler system shall
be provided in occupancies of more than 5,000 square feet or more than two stories in
height. The calculated area shall include all occupied space and exclude garage if
separated from the resident and its attic space, by one-hour firewall and also exclude any
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detached building.
Section 903.2.9 Group S-1, Shall read:
903.2.9 Group S-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all
buildings containing Group S-1 occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. A Group S-1 fire area exceeds 10,000 square feet.
2. A Group S-1 fire area is located more than two stories above grade plane.
3. The combined area of all Group S-1 fire areas on all floors, including any
mezzanines, exceeds 10,000 square feet.
4. A Group S-1 fire area used for the storage of commercial trucks or buses where
the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet.
5. A Group S-1 occupancy used for the storage of upholstered furniture or
mattress exceeds 2,500 square feet.
Section 903.2.9.1 Repair garages shall read:
903.2.9.1 Repair Garages.An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout
all buildings used as follows:
The location of fire department connections shall berepair garages in accordance with Section
912.2406.8 of the International Building Code, as amended.shown:
SECTION 903 AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS is amended by adding a
new1. Buildings having more than one story above grade plane, including
basements, with a fire area containing a repair garage exceeding 10,000 square
feet.
2. Buildings not more than one story above grade plane, with a fire area
containing a repair garage exceeding 10,000 square feet.
3. Buildings with repair garages servicing vehicles parked in basements.
4. A Group S-1 fire area used for the repair of commercial motor vehicles where
the fire area exceeds 10,000 square feet.
Section 903.2.10 Group S-2 enclosed parking garages, shall read:
903.2.10 Group S-2 enclosed parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
provided throughout buildings classified as enclosed parking garages in accordance with
Section 406.6 of the International Building Code as follows:
1. Where the fire area of the enclosed parking garage exceeds 10,000 square feet;
or
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2. Where the enclosed parking garage is located beneath other groups.
(No exception to )
Section 903.4 shall read:
903.4 Sprinkler system supervision and alarms and a new Section 903.7 Separation from
Non-Sprinklered Areas as follows:. Valves con-trolling the water supply for automatic
sprinkler systems, pumps, tanks, water levels and temperatures, critical air pressures and
waterflow switches on all sprinkler systems shall be electrically supervised by a listed
fire alarm control unit. With the installation of this fire alarm control unit, section 907.5
will comply for occupancy notification upon activation of the waterflow switch or
another initiation device.
Exception: Valves located outside buildings or in a vault that are sealed or locked in the
open position.
903.7 Separation from Non-Sprinklered Areas.Unless otherwise exempted by the
2012 International Building Code (IBC) or 2012 International Fire Code (IFC) or
required to be of a higher fire resistive construction by the IBC or IFC, a minimum of one
hour fire barrier constructed in accordance with the 2012 International Building Code
shall be between
903.4.1 Monitoring. Alarm, supervisory and trouble signals shall be
distinctly different and shall be automatically transmitted to an approved supervising
station or, where approved by the fire code official, shall sound an audible signal at a
constantly attended location. Deleted exemptions.
Section 903.4.2 shall read:
903.4.2 Alarms.An approved audible device, located on the exterior of the building in
an approved location, shall be connected to each automatic sprinkler system. Such
sprinkler waterflow alarm devices shall be activated by water flow equivalent to the flow
of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Where a fire alarm
system is installed, actuation of the automatic sprinkler system shall actuate the building
fire alarm system.
Approved device will be an Auto/Visual horn with a different tone that is inside the
building.
Section 905.3.9 Building Area is amended to read as follows:
905.3.9 Standpipes. In buildings exceeding ten thousand (10,000) square
feet in area per story, Class I automatic wet or wet standpipes shall be provided where
any portion of the building’s building's interior area is more than two hundred feet
(200’200') of travel, vertically and horizontally, from the nearest point of fire
department vehicle access.
Exception: Automatic dry and semi-automatic dry standpipes are
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allowed as provided for in NFPA 14.
Section 906.2 General requirements is amended by adding Section 906.2.2 Travel
distance as follows:
906.2.2 Travel distance. Travel distance is calculated from a point in the occupancy to
the location of fire extinguisher located on the same floor level in accordance with the
maximum distances listed in Table 906.3(1)or Table 906.3(2).
Travel distance is calculated per floor when determining travel distance to a fire
extinguisher in multi-story buildings.
SECTION 906 PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS is amended by adding
Section 906.5.1 Conspicuous Locations in Group R occupancies as follows:
906.5.1 Conspicuous Locations in Group R occupancies. In addition to other areas
listed herein or in NFPA10, fire extinguishers in R occupancies may also be placed in
any of the following locationlocations to satisfy the requirements:
1.On a wall in the unit;or
2.Inside a closet or pantry as long asif the door has a label indicating that
there is a fire extinguisher inside; or
3.Inside a mechanical closet as long asif the door has a label indicating that
there is a fire extinguisher insider; or
4.Inside storage closets as long asif the door has a label indicating that there
is a fire extinguisher insider and there is no locking device on the door that
requires a key or combination to open it.
Section 907.1 General is amended by adding Section 907.1.4 Testing of Fire Alarm
Systems as follows:
Section 907.1.4 Testing of Fire Alarm Systems. The following are required at the time
of fire alarm acceptance testing unless approved by the Fire Marshal or his/her designee:
1.The written statement required by NFPA 72, section 4.5.1.2
2.A copy of the Record of Completion as required by NFPA 72, section 4.5.2.1
3.A copy of the Texas Department of Insurance Fire Alarm Installation
Certificate
4.Approved plans bearing the original stamp and signature of the fire alarm plan
reviewer
5.Original permit is on site.
6.Proof of current licensing of the technician performing the tests.
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7.Written approvals from the AHJ if partial installation inspections are requested
by the contractor or technician.
8.Site specific software for software based systems.
9.Written sequence of operation.
10. All testing equipment necessary to conduct the test (i.e. decibel meter,
flashlight, intelligibility meter, etc)
Section 907(IFC-2012) Fire alarm and detection Systems is amended by adding
an exception to Section 907.2.3 (IFC-2012) Group E, (Educational).
Exception:Group E occupancies housed in one room with an occupant load of less than
50.
Section 907.2.8.2 Automatic smoke detection system is hereby amended to read as
follows:
907.2.8.2 Automatic smoke detection system. An automatic smoke detection system
that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be
installed throughout all interior corridors serving sleeping units. The automatic smoke
detection system requirement is met only by the installation of smoke or beam detectors
whenever possible. If environmental conditions do not allow the installation of smoke
detectors, fire alarm heat detectors may be used on a limited basis when approved by the
fire code official.
Exception: An automatic smoke detection system is not required in buildings that do not
have interior corridors serving sleeping units and where each sleeping unit has a means of
egress door opening directly to an exit or to an exterior exit access that leads directly to
an exit.
Section 907.2.9.1 Manual Fire Alarm System is hereby amended to repeal exception 2.
Section 907.2 Where required -new buildings and structures is amended by adding
Section 907.2.24 High Occupant Load as follows:
907.2.24 High Occupant Load. In addition to the requirements listed in other sections of
this Code, any occupancy having an occupant load of 1000 or more shall be provided
with a manual fire alarm system.
Exception: Open Parking Garages
Section 907.3.5 Fire Alarm Systems -Emergency Control is hereby added to read
as follows:
907.3.5 Fire Alarm Systems -Emergency Control. At a minimum, the following
functions, where provided, shall be activated by the fire alarm system:
1.Elevator capture and control in accordance with ASME/ANSI A17.1b,
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Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators.
2.Release of automatic door closures and hold open devices.
3.Stairwell and/or elevator shaft pressurization.
4.Smoke management and/or smoke control systems.
5.Initiation of automatic fire extinguishing equipment.
6.Emergency lighting control.
7.Unlocking of doors.
8.Emergency shutoff of gas and fuel supplies that may be hazardous
provided the continuation of service is not essential to the preservation of life.
9.Emergency shutoff of audio systems for sound reinforcement or
entertainment (i.e..,music systems, systems for announcement and broadcast
which are separate from public address systems) provided that such systems are
not used to issue emergency instructions.
10.Emergency shutoff of systems used for the creation of displays or special
effects (i.e..,lighting effects, laser light shows, projection equipment)
The Fire Alarm panel SHALL describe the location of the activation. Addressable
panels only allowed within the City of Schertz.
Section 907.4.2.1 Location is amended to add an exception:
907.4.2.1 Location. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be located not more than 5 feet (1524 mm)
from the entrance to each exit. Additional manual fire alarm boxes shall be located so that travel
distance to the nearest box does not exceed 200 feet (60 960 mm).907.4.2.1 Location. Just add
the exception along with verbal within the IFC.
Exception: Where construction of the building prohibits the proper installation of a
manual fire alarm box (e.g..,glass walls, interior brick or rock walls), a manual fire alarm
box shall be allowed to be located in the normal path of egress, where approved by the
Fire MarshalChief or his/her designee.
Section 907.5.1 Presignal feature, is amended to read as follows:
907.5.1 Presignal features and positive alarm sequences. A Presignal feature or Positive
Alarm Sequence as defined in NFPA 72 shall not be installed unless approved by the fire
code official and the fire department. Request to use a Presignal feature or a Positive
Alarm Sequence must be submitted in writing to the Fire Marshal and approval granted
before installation. Where a Presignal feature or Positive Alarm Sequence is provided, a
signal shall be annunciated at a constantly attended location approved by the fire
department, in order that occupant notification can be activated in the event of fire or
other emergency. When approved by the fire code official, the Presignal feature or
Positive Alarm Sequence shall be implemented in accordance with the requirements of
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NFPA 72.
907.5 Occupant notification systems. Delete the exception.
907.5 Occupant notification systems. A fire alarm system shall annunciate at the fire
alarm control unit and shall initiate occupant notification upon activation, in accordance
with Sections 907.5.1 through 907.5.2.3.3. Where a fire alarm system is required by
another section of this code, it shall be activated by:
1. Automatic fire detectors.
2. Automatic sprinkler system waterflow devices.
3. Manual fire alarm boxes.
4. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems.
Section 907.5.2.1 Audible alarms isare amended by adding Sections 907.5.2.1.3 Testing
of Audible Alarms in occupancies other than group R and 907.5.2.1.4 Testing of Audible
Alarms in Group R occupancies as follows:
907.5.2.1.3Testing of Audible Alarms in occupancies other than group R. Audibility
levels for all occupancies other than Group R shall be in accordance with the public mode
requirements of NFPA 72, and shall be tested utilizing the following criteria:
1.A UL listedsound pressure level meter, which has been calibrated within the
last calendar year, and supplied by the fire alarm system installing contractor,
shall be utilized to obtain readings. The audiometer will be held five feet above
floor, pointed in the direction of the audible device.
2.All doors within the occupancy, including bathroom doors and balconies, shall
be in the closed position.
3.Levels shall be taken in the most remote areas of the occupancy first, including
bathrooms and balconies.
4.Initial readings to confirm the average ambient sound level in each area shall be
taken.
5.The fire alarm system shall be activated and readings in the tested areas shall be
retaken and compared with the requirements.
907.5.2.1.4 Testing of Audible Alarms in Group R occupancies. Audibility levels for
all Group R occupancies shall be in accordance with the requirements of Section
907.5.2.1.1, and shall be tested utilizing the following criteria:
1.AUL listed audiometer sound pressure level meter, which has been calibrated
within the last calendar year, and supplied by the fire alarm system installing
contractor, shall be utilized to obtain readings. The audiometer will be held five
feet above floor, pointed in the direction of the audible device.
2.All doors within the occupancy, including the bathroom and balcony doors
shall be in the closed position.
3.Ambient sound level shall be established with the television set at 50 percent of
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maximum volume, showers running, bathroom exhaust systems running, and
air conditioning units running.
4.Levels shall be taken in the most remote area of the dwelling or sleeping unit
first, including bathrooms and balconies.
5.Initial readings to confirm the ambient sound level in each area shall be taken.
6.The fire alarm system shall be activated and readings in the tested areas shall be
retaken and compared with the requirements.
Section 912.3.1 Locking2 Location add to section 912.2:Fire Department Connection
Caps is amended to read as follows:
SECTION 912 FIRE DEPARTMENT CONNECTIONS is amended by adding Section
912.2 Fire Department Connections & Section 912.7 Fire Department Connections as follows:
Section 912.2 (IFC-2012) Fire Department Connections."With respect to hydrants,
driveways, buildings and landscape, fire department connections shall be so located that
fire apparatus and hose connections to supply the system will not obstruct access to the
building for other fire apparatus. Fire department connections shall be located not more
than 120 feet and no closer than 30 feet from the nearest fire hydrant connected to an
approved water supply and shall be approved by the fire marshal.”
912.7 Fire Department Connections..3 Location:Sprinkler system and standpipe fire
department hose connections shall be as follows::
1.Within forty (40) feet of a public street, approved fire lane, or access
roadway;.
2.Within one hundred (120)feet of an approved fire hydrant as measured
per hose lay criteria in Section 507.5.1.2. except for R-2 Apartments in which the fire department
connection shall be within 500 feet of anand approved fire hydrant measured per hose lay criteria in Section
507.5.1.2;by the Fire code official.
3.Minimum of two (2) feet above finished grade and a maximum of four (4)
feet above finished grade for standard inlets and minimum of 30 inches at lowest
point above finished grade and maximum of four (4) feet above finished grade for
the five inch "Stortz"fire (5)inlet;
4.The Fire Code Officialcode official shall approve the location of any
freestanding fire department connections.Freestanding FDCs must be physically
protected against impact per the requirements of Section 312 or other approved means.
5.Where provided, the five -inch "StortzStorz" inlet shall be installed at a
30 -degree angle pointing down;.
6.Fire department connections for H occupancies will be freestanding
remote and located as determined by the Fire Code Official; and.
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7. Where required in automatic or manual fire sprinkler or standpipe
systems, fire department connections shall be provided with
8. Fire department connection(s) shall be located on the main entrance side of the
building and within 100 feet of a fire hydrant.
912.2.4 Fire Department Connection. “With respect tohydrants, driveways, buildings
and landscape, fire department connections shall be so located that fire apparatus and
hose connections to supply the system will not obstruct access to the building for other
fire apparatus. Fire department connections shall be located not more than 120 feet and
no closer than 30 feet from the nearest fire hydrant connection to an approved water
supply and shall be approved by the Fire Chief or designee.”
Section 912.5 Signs add to section:
912.5 Signs.An additional metal sign with dimensions ten (10) inches wide and eight (8)
inches in height shall be posted not more than 72 and not less than 48 inches from the
bottom of the sign to grade level and within 6 feet of the fire department connection. This
additional sign shall have a white reflective background and have the letters "FDC" in red
reflective material and be permanently affixed to a wall or post. The letters shall be at
least 4 inches in height and a ½ inch stroke width.
Chapter 10
Means of Egress
SECTION 1003 GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS is amended by adding Section
[B]1003.8 Special Provisions as follows:
[B]1003.8 Special Provisions. Rooms in E occupancies used for kindergarten or daycare,
children five or under, classified as an E occupancy shall not be located above or below
the first story.
Exceptions: 1. Basements or stories are having floor levels located within four feet,
measured vertically, from the adjacent ground level at the level of exit discharge,
provided.
1. Basements or stories having floor levels located within four feet,
measured vertically, from adjacent ground level at the level of exit
discharge, provided
Section [B] 1006.3 Emergency power for illumination is amended by adding Section
1006.3.Section 1008.2 Illumination in Group E as followsis added, and shall read:
1006.3.2 Illumination in Group E.Group E occupancies shall have emergency lighting
in interior stairs, corridors, window-less areas with student occupancy, shops, and
laboratories.
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Section 1008.1.9.4 Bolt Locks is amended by removing exceptions 3, 4, and 5 to read as
follows:
1008.1.9.4 Bolt Locks. Manually operated flush bolts or surfacebolts are not permitted.
Exceptions:
1. On doors not required for egress in individual dwelling units or
sleeping units.
2. Where a pair of doors serves a storage or equipment room, manually
operated edge or surface-mounted bolts are permitted on the inactive
leaf.
Section 1103.2 Emergency responder radio coverage in existing buildings is amended
to read as follows:
1103.2 Emergency responder radio coverage in existing buildings. Existing buildings
that do not have approved radio coverage for emergency responders within the building
based upon the existing coverage levels of the public safety communication systems of
the jurisdiction at the exterior of the building, shall be equipped with such coverage
according to one of the following:
1.Emergency responder radio coverage as required in section 510 of this code is
installed within a time frame established by the adopting authority.
2.An approved alternative method of emergency responder communication
within the building is provided within a time frame established by the adopting
authority.
Section 1103.8.2 Interconnection is amended by altering the two exceptions as follows:
1103.8.2 Interconnection. Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be installed
within an individual dwelling or sleeping unit, the smoke alarms shall be interconnected
in such a manner that the activation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms in the
individual unit. The alarm shall be clearly audible in all bedrooms over background noise
levels with all intervening doors closed.
Exceptions:
1.Interconnection is not required in buildings that are not undergoing
alterations.
2.Smoke alarms in existing areas are not required to be interconnected where
alterations do not result in the removal of interior wall or ceiling finishes
exposes the structure.
Section 1103.8.3 Power source is amended by adding one new exception as follows:
1103.8.3 Power source. Single-station smoke alarms shall receive their primary power
from the building wiring provided that such wiring is served from a commercial source
and shall be equipped with a battery backup. Smoke alarms with integral strobes that are
not equipped with battery backup shall be connected to an emergency electrical system.
Smoke alarms shall emit a signal when the batteries are low. Wiring shall be permanent
and without a disconnecting switch other than as required for overcurrent protection.
36
Exception:
1.In all R-2 occupancies, smoke alarms are permitted to be solely battery
operatedif added to comply with 1103.8.
SECTION 2301 GENERAL is amended by adding Section 2301.7 Portable Service
Stations as follows:
2301.7 Portable Service Stations.
1.No person shall own, operate or maintain a tank used for the storage of
flammable liquids maintained on skids or a similar type stand which is designed
or intended to be used for dispensing flammable liquids into the fuel tanks of
motor vehicles owned by the public.
2.The foregoing provisions of this article are intended to prohibit the use of so-
called portable service station or similar units constructed to dispense
flammable liquids to the motoring public and designed so that the unit can be
easily picked up and moved.
1008.2 Illumination required. The means of egress serving a room or space shall
be illuminated at all times that the room or space is occupied. Public restrooms equipped
for handicap use shall have a minimum of one emergency fixture to provide one foot-
candle of illumination throughout the restroom to the point of discharge into the exit
pathway.School classrooms shall have one emergency light at or near the primary or
secondary exit door(s) that shall illuminate the egress door from the classroom side of the
exit.
1010.1.9.5 Bolt locks.Delete exceptions; #3, #4, and #5.
Chapter 23
Motor Fuel-Dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages
Section 2303.2 Emergency disconnect switches is hereby amended as follows:
2303.2 Emergency disconnect switches. An approved, clearly identified and readily
accessible emergency disconnect switch shall be provided at an approved location to stop
the transfer of fuel to the fuel dispensers in the event of a fuel spill or other emergency.
An emergency disconnect switch for exterior fuel dispensers shall be located within 100
feet (30 480 mm) of, but not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) from, the fuel dispensers. For
interior fuel-dispensing operations, the emergency disconnect switch shall be installed at
an approved location. Such devices shall be distinctly labeled as; EMERGENCY FUEL
SHUTOFF. Signs shall be provided in approved locations and be a minimum of 18
inches high and 24 inches wide.
Section 2303.2.1.2 Additional Emergency disconnect switches for attended self-
service,is hereby added as follows:
2303.2.12 Additional emergency disconnect for attended self-service.Attended facilities
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shall have an additional emergency disconnect switch located inside the building for
attendanceattendant use at a location approved by the fire code official.
Section 2306.2.1.1 Inventory Control for underground tanks is amended to read as
follows:
2306.2.1.1 Inventory Control for underground tanks.
Accurate daily (normal working days only) inventory records shall be maintained and
reconciled on all Class I, II or III-A liquid storage tanks for indication of possible
leakage from tanks or piping. The records shall be made available for inspection by the
Fire Marshal, and shall include, as a minimum, records showing by product: daily
reconciliation between sales, use, receipts, and inventory on hand. If there is more than
one system consisting of a tank(s), serving pump(s), or dispenser(s) for any product, the
reconciliation shall be made separately for each tank system.
1.Daily inventory shall be maintained for each tank system at each location by the
operator. The inventory records shall be kept for a minimum of the past 12 months
at the premises.
2.Inventory shall be based on the actual daily measurement and recording of tank
product and water levels and the daily recording of actual sales, use and receipts.
Daily measurements shall be made by gauge, gauge stick or by readout from an
automated gauging system. The inventory records shall include a daily compilation
of gain or loss. The mere recording of pump meter reading and product delivery
receipts shall not constitute adequate inventory records.
3.The operator of the location shall be held responsible for notifying the owner or
person(s) in control of the facility to take action to correct any abnormal loss or gain
not explainable by spillage, temperature variations or both causes.
4.The Fire Marshal may require the operator of an underground tank storage system to
test the system for tightness, at the operator's expense, when accurate daily inventory
records have not been maintained as required or when in his judgment conditions
indicate possible leakage of product from the location of such tanks.
5.The Fire Marshal may require copies of Class I, II and III-A liquid storage tank
inventories, deliveries or receipt of product sales and dip gauge stick readings or
other control measures in addition to copies of any tank tightness or line leakage test
results from the station operator, agent, or terminal management.
6.When a service station tank is found to be leaking, its contents shall be removed
immediately. If any investigations or tests indicate the source of such loss, the owner
shall take immediate action to correct the system failure and remove dangerous
spillage from the environment.
7.The Fire Marshal may order the closure of a Service Station by barricading if
necessary and the emptying of contents from storage tanks should the operator of a
service station be unwilling to cooperate with the Fire Department during the search
for the source of such leakage or should the Fire Marshal determine that a hazardous
condition exists that merits such action.
Section 2306.2.3 Above-ground tanks located outside, above grade,is amended
by adding Sections 2306.2.3.1 Inspections, 2306.2.3.2 Required Access, and 2306.2.3.3
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Fire Hydrant Access as follows:
2306.2.3.1 Inspections. An inspection of the installation shall be conducted prior to
loading the tank with fuel.
2306.2.3.2 Required Access.Fire apparatus access roads shall be provided for every
aboveground storage tank. The aboveground storage tank shall not be more than 150 feet
from fire apparatus access roads as measured by an approved route.
2306.2.3.3 Fire Hydrant Access. A minimum of one fire hydrant shall be provided for
every aboveground storage tank. The aboveground storage tank shall not be located more
than 500 feet from a fire hydrant as measured by an approved route.
Chapter 33
Fire Safety During Construction and Demolition
Section 3301.3 Address numbers, is are added to read as follows:
3301.3 Address numbers. Buildings under construction shall place address numbers
and/or building numbers in a position that is plainly legible and visible from the street or
road fronting the property with minimum six -inch numbers.
Section 3314.3 Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment isare hereby added as follows:
3314.3 Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment.In buildings where an automatic sprinkler
system is required, furniture, fixtures, and equipment shall not be stored in the building
until the system has been tested and approved by the fire code official and monitoring of
the system is active.
Exception: As approved by the fire code official.
Chapter 52 COMBUSTIBLE FIBERS is hereby amended by adding section 5206
Construction and Protection Requirements as follows:
5206 Construction and Protection Requirements.
1.Handling and storage of large quantities of waste paper, rags, or other
combustible materials shall not be allowed in a building of any type in excess
of 1500 square feet area unless the building is protected with an approved
automatic sprinkler system.
2.Handling and storage building for waste paper, rags or other combustible
materials shall not exceed one story in height unless of Type I construction and
fully protected with approved automatic sprinkler system.
3.No loose waste paper, rags, trash or rubbish of any kind, or similar combustible
materials shall be allowed on the premises on the outside of any building.
4.Bales, waste paper, rags, and other combustibles in baled lots shall be stored in
buildings. Said buildings shall be required to have aisles when 25,000 cubic
feet or more of such materials are stored. Baled materials, if stored outside of
buildings, shall not be stored within 25 feet of any building. EXCEPTION:
39
Baled materials may be stored within 25 feet of a building's outside wall when a
wall sprinkler curtain is provided on the building.
Section 5003.4.1 Material Safety Data Sheet Submittal is added to read as follows:
5003.4.1 Material Safety Data Sheet Submittal. The Fire Marshal may require that
information on the nature of any and all potentially hazardous material be submitted to
the Fire Department on the Standard Material Safety Data Sheet provided by the U.S.
Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
Section 5601.1.3.1 Unlawful Possession of Fireworks, 5601.1.3.2 Instigating or Aiding
a Minor to Violate the Ordinance Prohibiting Fireworks,and 5601.1.3.3 Summons to be issued
for Violation of Fireworks Ordinance are added to read as follows:
5601.1.3.1 Unlawful Possession of Fireworks. It shall be unlawful for any person to
have, keep, store, sell, offer for sale, give away, use, transport or manufacture fireworks
or pyrotechnics of all kinds in any quantity, within the corporate limits of the City.
It shall be unlawful for any person to store or manufacture fireworks or pyrotechnics of
all kinds in any quantity area extending 5000 feet beyond the City limits.
Packaged or unopened fireworks cannot be confiscated.
Exception: A state or federally licensed importer or distributor established within said
5000 foot area prior to the enactment of this section and using area for storage or for
distribution to governmental agencies or federal or state licensees or permitees.
5601.1.3.3 Summons to be issued for Violation of Fireworks Ordinance. A summons
or notice to appear in answer to a charge of illegal possession or use of fireworks in
violation of this section specifying the location of such violation, the date and time of
such violation, and the name and address of the offender, may be issued by any Police
Officer, Arson Investigator, Fire Inspector or by any Firemen who has been assigned to
citation duties by the Fire Chief.
Packaged or unopened fireworks cannot be confiscated.
Chapter 56
Explosives and Fireworks
Section 5601.2 Permit required is amended by adding new Section 5601.2.6 Prohibited
Explosives as follows:
5601.2.63.1 Prohibited Explosives. It shall be unlawful for any person to have, keep,
store, sell, offer for sale, give away, use, transport or manufacture any of the explosives
listed in Section 5601.3 any quantity, within the corporate limits of the City, or to store,
sell, use or offer for sale such explosives within 5000 feet beyond the City limits unless,
authorized by the Fire MarshalChief.
(Ord. No. 05-C-19, § 2(7-14), 5-3-2005; Ord. No. 15-C-21 , §§ 1, 2, 8-4-2015)
Appendix C
40
Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution
The use of this section will apply; however, the distances will need to comply with
section 507.5.1 Where required. Whichever section is more stringent.
Appendix D Section 5704.2.12.2 Testing of underground tanks is amended to read as
follows:
5704.2.12.2 Testing of underground tanks. Before being covered or placed in use, tanks and piping
connected to underground tanks shall be tested for tightness in the presence of the fire code official. Piping shall be tested
in accordance with Section 5703.6.3. The system shall not be covered until it has been approved.
Each tank shall be tested for tightness hydrostatically or pneumatically at not less than
three pounds per square inch or not more than five pounds per square inch for 60
minutes. Pneumatic testing shall not be used on a tank containing flammable or
combustible liquids or vapors.
Section 5704.2.12.2 Testing of underground tanks is amended by adding Sections
5704.2.12.2.1 Existing Tanks and Piping and 5704.2.12.2.2 Alternate Test Method as
follows:
5704.2.12.2.1 Existing Tanks and Piping. Existing underground storage tanks and
piping shall be tested for leakage every five years at the owner's or operator's expense or
when the Fire Marshal has reasonable cause to believe a leak exists. A log or record shall
be kept and the log shall be made available for inspection by the Fire Marshal when
requested. Notice of test shall be provided in writing to the Fire Marshal by the owner or
operator.
Appendix D FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS is hereby amended to read as
follows:
D103.5 Fire apparatus access road gates. Gates securing the fire apparatus access
roads shall comply with all the following criteria:
1. Where a single gate is provided, the gate width shall be not less than 20 feet
(6096 mm). Where a fire apparatus road consists of a divided roadway, the gate
width shall be not less than 14 feet.
Fire Apparatus Access Roads
Appendix D FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS is hereby amended by amending
section D106.3 Separate Access Roads to read as follows:
D106.3 Separate Access Roads. The requirement for two separate and approved fire
apparatus access roads are met with the following conditions:
1.A minimum of two separate entrances into the complex areis made from
the street or public way.
2.The distance between the two entrances are equal to not less than one half
41
the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to
be served, measured in a straight line between accesses, as per 20122018 IFC,
section D104.3.
Exception: Where it is physically impossible to be one half the diagonal dimension apart,
the access road will be approved if the following conditions are met:
a.The two separate fire apparatus access road must be separated as
far as physically and practically possible.
b.The two separate entrances must be a minimum of 150 feet apart
measured in a straight line between accesses.
3.The two separate entrances are allowed tocan share a common path of travel
on the complex site so long as a blockage in any one area of this path does
not block access from both the primary and secondary access
simultaneously. The two separate entrances can share a common path of
travel on the complex site so long as a blockage in any one area of this path
does not block access from both the primary and secondary access
simultaneously. The two separate entrances are allowed to share a common path
of travel on the complex site so long as blockage in any one area of this path does
not block access from both the primary and secondary access simultaneously.
Each of the two separate fire apparatus roads shall meet the requirements of
the 20122018 IFC, section 503, Fire Apparatus Access Roads.
Article VI –LIFE SAFETY CODE is amended to read.
Section 30-101 Life Safety Code Adopted.
NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, 2015 Edition, as amended, revised and corrected, including
all future editions, revisions, amendments and corrections, published by the National Fire
Protection Association (NFPA), one (1) copy of which is on file with the city secretary, is
hereby adopted and incorporated by reference as the Life Safety Code of the City of
Schertz subject to and including by reference such amendments as herein shall appear.
NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, 2015 Edition, shall be used in conjunction with the
International Fire Code, 2012 Edition.
Section 3. Any person, firm, corporation or agent who shall violate a provision
of this chapter, 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 in violation of the
detailed statement or drawings submitted and permitted thereunder, shall be guilty
of a misdemeanor. Such persons shall be considered guilty of a separate offense
for each and every day or portion thereof during which any violation of any of the
provisions of this chapter is committed or continued, and upon conviction of any
such violation such person shall be punished by a fine of not more than five
hundred dollars ($500.00) for each offense unless said violation is a violation of a
42
regulation governing fire safety or public health and sanitation then by a fine of
not more than $2,000.00 for each offense. All such violations shall be prosecuted
in accordance with Section 1-8 General penalty for violations of Code of
Ordinances; continuing violations of the Schertz Municipal Code of Ordinances.
43
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Chapter 30, “Fire Prevention and Protection” of the Code of Ordinances, City of Schertz,
Texas, Articles IV, V and VI are hereby amended.
Amendments. Chapter 30 “Fire Prevention and Protection” of the Code of Ordinances,
City of Schertz, Texas, is hereby amended to read as follows:
ARTICLE IV. FIREWORKS CODE. Is amended as follows.
Section 30-64. – Fireworks prohibited
(a) Except as provided hereinafter, it shall be unlawful for a person to manufacture, assemble,
store, transport, sell, offer or have in possession with intent to sell, use, discharge, ignite, or
otherwise set-in action any fireworks within the corporate limits of the city.
(b) The City of Schertz Fire or Police Department cannot confiscate unopened fireworks. (Texas
Local Government Code Sec. 342.013)
ARTICLE V. FIRE PREVENTION CODE
Sec. 30-81. - Fire Prevention Code adopted. Is amended to read.
The International Fire Code, 2018 Edition (IFC-2018), as amended, revised and corrected,
including Appendices B, C, D, F, H, I, and all future editions, revisions, amendments, and
corrections, published by the International Code Council (ICC), one copy of which is on file with
the city secretary, is hereby adopted and incorporated by reference as the Fire Prevention Code
of the City of Schertz, subject to and including by reference such amendments as herein shall
appear. Any codes reference within this code, City of Schertz will use the current addition of that
referenced code.
Sec. 30-82 – Amendments
The International Fire Code, 2018 Edition (IFC-2018) is hereby amended as stated below.
CHAPTER 1
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
Section [A] 101.1 is amended to read as follows:
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Fire Code of City of Schertz, hereinafter
referred to as "this code."
Section 104 GENERAL AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITIES is amended by adding
Section [A] 104.1.1 entitled Authority of the Fire Chief and the Fire Department and Section [A]
104.1.2 entitled Additional Duties and Police Powers of Fire Department Members as follows:
104.1.1 Authority of the Fire Chief. The Fire Chief is authorized to make and enforce such rules
and regulations for the prevention and control of fires and fire hazards as may be necessary
from time to time to carry out the intent of this Code. The Fire Chief may delegate his power to
any member of the Schertz Fire Department.
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104.1.2 Additional Duties and Police Powers of Schertz Fire Department Members. Additional
Duties required or prescribed for the Schertz Fire Department in connection with their regular
functions when the order of the Mayor. In the case of riots, floods, or other public emergencies
or catastrophes. Or the public danger of any sort and all fires by order of the Fire Chief,
Assistant Chief, Division Chief, Battalion Chief, Captain or Lieutenant of the Schertz Fire
Department, each and all members of the Fire Department shall be and become vested with full
Police powers. It shall perform all duties required for the protection of persons or property or
the preservation of public safety, peace, and order.
Section [A] 104.3 Right of Entry, is amended by adding subsection [A] 104.3.2 entitled
Photographic Documentation to read as follows:
104.3.2 Photographic Documentation. Member(s) of the Schertz Fire making such examinations
or inspections shall have the right, with proper credentials, and be authorized to take a
reasonable number of photographs or videotapes for records to be used by the Schertz Fire to
study hazards and scientific control for fire safety.
Section 105.2.5 Investigation Fee/Working Without a Permit, shall be added, and read:
105.2.5 Investigation Fee/Working without a permit. Work requiring a permit shall not
commence until said permit is posted in a conspicuous place on the job site and approved plans
are available at this location. Where work is commenced prior to obtaining said permit, the fees
provided in the City Code may be doubled. The payment of such double fee shall not relieve any
person from fully complying with the requirements of this ordinance in the execution of the work
nor of any other penalties prescribed herein.
Section [A] 105.4.2 Information on construction documents is amended by adding Section [A]
105.4.2.2 entitled Occupancy Classification Letter as follows:
105.4.2.2 Occupancy Classification Letter. A copy of a completed "Occupancy Classification
Letter" (a.k.a. "Commodities Letter") or other approved Fire Protection report shall be
submitted to the City for buildings or portions thereof that are to be used for any of the following
purposes:
1. Warehousing or storage
2. Retail including rack display of products
3. Hazardous material storage and/or use
4. Manufacturing
The Occupancy Classification Letter is required to be submitted
1. with the building permit submittal documents when seeking a building permit,
2. to the Fire Inspector during a Certificate of Occupancy inspection, or
3. at any other time when required by the fire code official.
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The Occupancy Classification Letter is to be prepared by the owner and/or tenant of the
building/space in question or registered design professional. It is to be signed, dated and on
company letterhead. If the Occupancy Classification Letter is prepared by a registered design
professional representing the owner and/or tenant of the building/space in question, the letter is
to be countersigned by the owner and/or tenant. The Occupancy Classification Letter is to be
kept on site at all times. Prior to a change in 1) the type or amount of hazardous material(s) used
or stored, 2) the type or amount of storage or storage height or method, or 3) the manufacturing
process, a revised Occupancy Classification Letter is to be submitted to the Fire Chief or his
designee for review.
109.1 Board of Appeals is hereby created and shall read:
Sec.[A] 109.1 Building and Standards Commission. All appeals relative to the application and
interpretation of the codes adopted in this chapter shall be to the Building and Standards
Commission as established under the Unified Development Code, Article 3, Boards,
Commissions and Committees.
Section 110.4 Violation penalties shall read:
110.4 Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to
comply with any of the requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in
violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire code official, or of a
permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a [SPECIFY
OFFENSE], punishable by a fine of not more than $ 2,000.00. Each day that a violation
continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.
Section 111.2.1 Removal of Occupants is added, and shall read:
111.2.1 Removal of Occupants if Occupancy Load has exceeded. A member of the Schertz
Fire is authorized to have occupants at a location to be removed when actual occupancy exceeds
the permitted or posted occupant load.
[A] 112.4 Failure to Comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served
with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a
violation or unsafe condition, shall be liable to a fine of not less than $ 200.00 or more than $
2000.00.
Section 113.1.1 Prohibition of Utility Service is added and shall read;
CHAPTER 2
DEFINITIONS
Section 202 Add to definitions in section 202:
High-rise building(s). Any building with an occupied floor located more than 50 feet above the
lowest level of fire department vehicle access. Any other definition or description described
throughout this code shall be disregarded.
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FIRE HAZARD shall mean any condition or act which increases or may cause an increase of the
hazard or menace of fire to a higher degree than that customarily recognized as reasonable by
persons in the public service regularly engaged in preventing, suppressing or extinguishing fire,
or which may obstruct, delay, hinder or interfere with the operations of the fire department or the
egress of occupants in the event of fire.
FIRE LANE shall mean any area appurtenant to entrances or exits of a building deemed
necessary by the Fire Chief or his designee to remain free and clear of parked vehicles for access
to such building in case of fire or other emergency and designated by him as such, and may
include sidewalks, driveways, portions of parking lots, or any other area adjacent to or near
building entrances or exits, or any fire hydrant.
FIRE MARSHAL shall mean the fire code official responsible for investigations of fires,
inspection of facilities, and code enforcement.
FIRE WATCH Qualified individuals approved by the Fire Chief or designee are, Texas Certified
Firefighters, Peace Officers, individuals employed by a private security firm, or other designated
individuals whose sole duty when assigned a fire watch is to perform constant patrols of the
premises and keep watch for signs of unwanted fire. A written attendance log must be
maintained, and personnel must have at least one approved means of notifying the fire
department of fire or other emergencies. When fire watch is being performed and is not deemed
adequate, the Fire Chief or designee shall institute that members of the Schertz Fire Department
to be used in the place of what currently being used. The cost of the fire watch shall be at the
current overtime rate of the individual preforming the task and shall be the sole responsibility of
the owner/contractor to pay. The fire watch fee shall be paid to the City of Schertz within 30
days before final approval is granted on system work.
FOSTER CARE FAMILY HOME shall mean a single independent residential occupancy that is
the primary residence of the caregiver and licensed by the state to provide twenty-four (24) hour
care for six or fewer children (including those related to the caregiver) up to the age of eighteen
(18) years.
MOBILE FOOD ESTABLISHMENT shall mean a mobile food operation using any heat-
producing equipment to cook, fry, or warm products for consumption from a motorized vehicle,
towable trailer, or watercraft.
PARK shall mean the standing of a vehicle, whether occupied or not, upon a street otherwise
than temporarily for the purpose of, and while actively engaged in, receiving or discharging
passengers or loading or unloading merchandise or in obedience to traffic regulations, signs, or
signals or an involuntary stopping of a vehicle by reason of a cause beyond the control of the
operator of the vehicle.
OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION. For the purposes of this code, specific occupancies are
defined as follows:
Special Event is added as follows:
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SPECIAL EVENT shall mean an indoor or outdoor event that, in the opinion of the Fire Code
Official or their designee, meets any of the following criteria:
1. Constitutes a use or occupant load ordinarily not permitted by the face of the Certificate of
Occupancy.
2. Requires the means of egress to be altered from a configuration that was previously approved
by the Building Code Official, Fire Code Official, or their designee (e.g., installation of booths,
curtains, partitions, tables/chairs, etc. or the locking of select doors to limit access to portions of
a building or area).
3. Poses a condition that compromises any life safety systems that were previously approved by
the Building Code Official, Fire Code Official, or their designee (e.g., reduced lighting,
increased sound levels, installation of alternate interior finishes, etc.).
4. Poses a condition that reduces the effectiveness of public safety services of any kind (e.g.,
Conditions that result in reduced access to fire hydrants, sprinkler riser/pump rooms, Fire
Department Connections, etc.)."
Whenever the word "JURISDICTION" is used in the International Fire Code, it shall be held to
mean the City of Schertz, Texas.
Whenever the words "Chief of the Bureau of Fire Prevention," or "Fire Code Official" is used in
the International Fire Code, it shall be held to mean "The Fire Chief."
Chapter 3
General Requirements
Section 307.6 Sky Lanterns prohibited is added, and shall read:
307.6 Sky Lanterns. Sky lanterns; also known as Chinese lanterns, sky candles, or fire balloons,
which are airborne lanterns constructed of a combustible material and contain a candle or fuel
cell that when lit, causes the device to go airborne and travel in the air; are prohibited within the
city limits.
Section 308.1.4 Open-flame cooking devices are amended by deleting exception 2 and 3 and
renumbering as follows:
308.1.4 Open-flame cooking devices. No person living within any multifamily housing such as
an apartment, apartment condominium, hotel, motel, or any other multifamily type occupancy
shall construct, install, store, maintain or use any incinerator, barbecue pit, charcoal or propane
grill or container of any kind for the purpose of igniting any combustible materials for whatever
domestic purpose such as cooking or washing, within 10 feet of a combustible multifamily
housing occupancy.
Exception: One- and two-family dwellings. Delete Exceptions two and three.
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311.2.2 Fire protection. Exception 3 shall read: Where approved by the fire code official, fire
alarm and sprinkler systems are permitted to be placed out of service in seasonally occupied
buildings: that will not be heated; where fire protection systems will be exposed to freezing
temperatures; where fire areas do not exceed 10,000 square feet (1115 m2); and that do not store
motor vehicles or hazardous materials.
CHAPTER 3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS is amended by adding a new Section 320 FOOD
BOOTHS as follows:
Chapter 4
EMERGENCY PLANNING AND PREPAREDNESS
Section 405.2 Frequency is amended by adding a new Section 405.2.1 Fire Drill Records to read
as follows:
405.2.1 Fire Drills for E Occupancies. The operator of premises housing an E Occupancy shall
conduct fire drills:
1. Without warning;
2. In a manner requiring:
a. all students to immediately leave the structure upon hearing the fire drill signal;
b. A roll call by classes outside the structure; and
c. Doors to be closed as each area is evacuated;
3. In a manner simulating fire condition;
4. In a manner prohibiting students from running or playing;
5. If approved, in a manner permitting security persons to remain inside the structure
during drills;
6. Which include:
a. Complete checks of each section of the structure;
b. The use of varying evacuation routes;
c. Occasional simulation of blocked exits;
d. Provisions for calling the fire department; and
e. The use of varying drill times;
7. During weather which does not pose a health threat to students;
8. As an exercise in discipline and procedure, rather than speed; and
Chapter 5
FIRE SERVICE FEATURES
Section 503.1.1 Buildings and facilities are amended by adding Section 503.1.1.1 Access from
the adjacent lot as follows:
503.1.1.1 Access from an adjacent lot. Where fire apparatus access roads for a building or
buildings are provided from an adjacent lot, a fire lane easement or ingress/egress easement is
required to be recorded on the adjacent lot's plat that is providing the common access. The
adjacent lot's plat is to show the easement graphically clearly.
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Exception: In lieu of the graphical easement, a note may be placed on the plat that, at a
minimum, states, the following: "Ingress and egress shall be provided between all adjacent lots
for adequate fire department vehicle access per the City of Schertz Fire Code. The cross access
shall not be blocked, nor may this note be taken off the plat without written permission from the
City of Schertz Director of Development Services and the Schertz Fire Chief or designee."
Section 503.2.1 Dimensions shall read:
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less
than 24 feet, exclusive of shoulders, except where a fire hydrant is located on a fire department
access road. An unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 14 feet and shall always be
required and maintained. Security gates shall be sized to match the required clear width.
Section 503.2.3 Surface is amended by adding a second paragraph to read as follows:
503.2.4 Turning radius, shall read:
503.2.4 Turning radius. The turning radii of a fire apparatus access roadway shall require a
minimum of 50 feet outside radius, and a minimum of 25 feet clear distance to the inside radius
on all turns more than 30 degrees.
Section 503.2.7 Grade is amended to read as follows:
503.2.7 Grade. The gradient for a fire apparatus access road shall not exceed twelve percent
(12%).
Section 503.2.8 Angles of approach and departure shall read:
Section 503.2.8 Angles of approach and departure. An angle of approach and an angle of
departure shall be designed so that at least 8 degrees shall be maintained at the front and the rear
of the department's apparatus when it is loaded to the estimated in-service weight.
Section 503.3 the added shall read:
503.3.1 Striping. Fire apparatus access roads shall be continuously marked by painted lined of
red traffic paint six inches (6") in width to show the boundaries of the lane. The words "NO
PARKING FIRE LANE" or "FIRE LANE NO PARKING" shall appear in four-inch (4") white
letters at twenty-five feet (25') intervals on the red border markings along both sides of the fire
lanes. Where a curb is available, the striping shall be on the vertical and horizontal of the curb.
SECTION 503 FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS is amended by adding Sections 503.7
Fire Chief or designee Authority to Designate Fire Lanes, 503.8 Summons to be Issued for
Parking Violation, 503.9 Removal of Vehicle by Property Owner, 503.10 Removal of Vehicle by
Fire Chief, and 503.11 Abandonment of Fire Lane to read as follows:
503.7 Authority to Designate Fire Lanes. The Fire Chief or designee is hereby authorized to
designate fire lanes on designated premises where such areas must be free of parked vehicles and
other obstructions to provide ready access to buildings therein, in case of fire or other
emergencies. The Fire Chief's or designee designation of such fire lanes does not obviate the
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owner of such property of their responsibility to maintain the area. Further, owners of the private
property or their designated representative may request that the Fire Chief or designee designates
additional fire lanes.
503.8 Summons to be Issued for Parking Violation. Violation(s) may be issued by any police
officer, or Certified Fire Inspector with Schertz Fire. Texas Transportation Code 545.302 will
apply to this section.
503.9 Removal of Vehicle by Property Owner. Except for an authorized emergency vehicle,
the owner of private property, or their agent, may have any motor vehicle that is parked in a
legally designated fire lane removed and stored at either their own expense or that of the vehicle
operator.
The owner of the premises, or their agent, who has a vehicle removed and stored, is not liable for
damages incurred as a result of removal or storage, if the vehicle is removed by a vehicle
wrecker service insured against liability for property damage incurred in towing vehicles and is
stored by a storage company insured against liability for property damage incurred in the storage
of vehicles.
503.10 Removal of Vehicle by Fire Chief or designee. Any vehicle parked in any designated
fire lane or blocking fire hydrants may be removed at the vehicle owners' expense upon the
authorization of the Fire Chief or designee under the following conditions:
1. When the vehicle is in violation by parking in a fire lane, or
2. When parked in front of a fire hydrant, or
3. When a vehicle blocks the ingress/egress of business, theater, nightclub, apartment
complex, gymnasium, or a place of assembly, or
4. When a vehicle's presence threatens the life safety of the public by impeding the ability
of the fire apparatus and emergency medical equipment to respond to an emergency.
The Fire Chief shall cause such vehicle to be removed by the towing service operating under a
contract with the city and shall further cause such vehicle to be impounded in one of the Police
Department Vehicle Storage sections.
503.11 Abandonment of Fire Lane. No owner, manager, or person in charge of any premises
served by a required fire lane shall abandon or close any such fire lane without the written
permission of the Fire Chief or designee.
Section 503.6.1.2 Gate timing is added and shall read:
503.6.1.2 Gate timing. Gates must fully open within 15 seconds of activation and remain in the
open position until closed by operation of the electrical control device.
Section 503.6.1.3 Failsafe position is added and shall read:
503.6.1.3 Failsafe position. Fire department access gates shall fail safe (open) in the event of a
power failure.
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Section 503.6.1.5 Access controls are added and shall read:
503.6.1.5 Access controls. Access controls shall be exterior to the gate and located for activation
by the vehicle operator without leaving the vehicle. The height of the lockbox/control panel shall
be 66 inches, measured from the finished grade line of the street.
Section 503.6.1.6 Additional access is added and shall read:
503.6.1.6 Additional access. If required by the Fire Chief or designee, additional "exit only" or
"emergency access" gates shall be set up for fire department emergency access. Exit only gates,
which are not motorized, shall be installed per the fire department's recommendations. Exit only
gates shall have a minimum clearance of 20 feet clear width and be posted with a sign that states
"Caution Gate Opens Out" and designated as a Fire Lane. In addition to Fire Lane markings, the
markings on the pavement shall include a 5-inch yellow stripe showing the depth of the gate
swing.
Section 505.1 Address Numbers is amended to read as follows:
505.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings shall have approved address numbers,
building numbers or approved building identification placed in a position that is plainly legible
and visible from the street or road fronting the property. These numbers shall contrast with their
background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Numbers shall be
a minimum of six inches high with a minimum stroke width of 0.5 inches (12.7 mm). Fire
Chief or designee has the authority to increase the size depending on visibility. For buildings
with individual suites, the suite numbers shall be a minimum of six inches high with a minimum
stroke width of 0.5 inches (12.7 mm). Where required by the fire code official, address
identification shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response.
Where access is by means of a private road and the building cannot be viewed from the public
way, a monument, pole, or other sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address
numbers shall be maintained. Numbers on the building SHALL be located at the Top Right
of the Building. Residential address will remain 4 inches high with a minimum stroke width of
0.5 inches (12.7 mm).
SECTION 505 PREMISES IDENTIFICATION is amended to add sections 505.3, 505.3.1 and
505.4 as follows:
505.3 Multi-Building Complexes. Office, industrial and apartment complexes shall be identified
by name and number on a display board at the main entrance roadway.
505.3.1 Multi-Address Complexes. Office and industrial complexes with multiple addresses
contained within shall post all addresses so that they are visible from main entry or roadway.
505.4 Tenant identification. Each occupied tenant space provided with a secondary exit to the
exterior or exit corridor shall be provided with tenant identification by business name and
address. Letters and numbers shall be posted on the corridor side of the door, be plainly legible
and shall contrast with their background.
Section 506.1 Where required, shall read:
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506.1 Where required. Where access to or within a structure or an area is restricted because of
secured openings or where immediate access is necessary for lifesaving or fire-fighting purposes,
the fire code official is authorized to require a key box to be installed in an approved location.
The key box shall be a Knox ® rapid entry system capable of holding the number of keys
necessary for operation and access of necessary equipment, doors, and other areas necessary for
access as determined and approved by the fire code official. The Knox ® rapid entry system shall
be keyed to system code registered for the City.
Section 506.1.1 Locks shall read:
506.1.1 Locks. Any lock required by the fire code official for access, or where a lock is placed
per request of the owner or manager of the business or property, and the area locked is
determined by the fire code official to require access; the lock shall be a Knox ® rapid entry
system keyed to the system code registered by the City.
SECTION 506 KEY BOXES is amended to add Sections 506.3 Key Box Requirement.
506.3 Key Box Requirement. The City of Schertz uses Knox Box. To access a box, go to
www.knoxbox.com. Select the City of Schertz and then select from the list. Knox Caps are also
required for the Fire Department Connection.
Section 507.1 Water supply test is amended to read as follows:
507.1 Required water supply. Adequacy of the water supply shall be determined by an
approved flow test that is conducted on the fire hydrants nearest the project site unless otherwise
approved by the Fire Code Official. The flow test shall be as follows:
1. The flow test shall have been conducted no more than 12 months prior to the date of
construction document submittal to the City of Schertz.
2. The flow test shall be conducted in accordance with the current edition of NFPA 291,
Recommended Practice for Fire Flow Testing and Marking of Hydrants, and any other
applicable local, state, or national standards and/or requirements.
3. The flow test results shall be submitted with the construction documents.
4. If the water supply piping is not yet constructed, hydraulic calculations for the
proposed piping design shall be submitted. The calculations shall be based on the flow
test conducted on the fire hydrants nearest the project site and shall verify that the piping
design provides the minimum required fire flow at no less than 25 psi residual. Upon
completion of construction and prior to final certificate of occupancy, a flow test shall be
conducted to verify the results of the calculations.
Section 507.3 Fire flow is amended to read as follows and Section 507.3.1 Fire Flow for Rural
Isolated Areas is added to read as follows:
507.3 Fire flow. Fire Flow requirements for buildings or portions of buildings and facilities shall
be as per Appendix B of the International Fire Code or other approved method as determined by
the Fire Chief or designee. When utilizing Table C102.1 to determine the number and
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distribution of fire hydrants, and the flow requirement falls between the values on the table, the
flow requirement shall be rounded up to meet the higher value.
Section 507.5 Fire Hydrant is amended to add the following:
507.5.1 Where required. Where a portion of the facility or building hereafter constructed or
move into or within the jurisdiction is more than 400 feet (122 m) from a hydrant on a fire
apparatus road, as measured by an approved route around the exterior of the facility or building,
on-site fire hydrants and mains shall be provided where required by the fire code official.
Hydrant location must follow both of two rules:
1. No structure should be further away, then four hundred (400’) feet from a fire hydrant as
a fire hose would lay.
2. Hydrant spacing along a water main should not exceed five hundred (500’) feet in single-
family residential areas or three hundred (300’) feet in any non-residential, multifamily
dwelling, or heavily congested residential area.
• Fire Hydrant branch lines shall connect to an 8-inch water main and in no case be
longer than one hundred (100’) feet.
• Any new fire hydrant is required to have a hydrant locator type II blue reflector
installed in the roadway or fire lane, perpendicular to the hydrant, two feet off
centerline. Any new Fire Hydrants must comply with City of Schertz Public Works
Guide.
Section 507.5.3 Private fire service mains and water tanks are amended by adding Section
507.5.3.1 Private fire service main as follows:
507.5.3.1 Private Fire Service Main and water tanks. Private fire mains as used in this Code
are the pipe and its appurtenances on private property between Schertz, other public water
systems, or other sources of water and the base elbow of private fire hydrants or the rise for
automatic sprinkler or standpipe systems. When connected to a public water system, the private
fire main begins at a point designated by the public water utility. When connected to a gravity
tank or pressure tank, the private fire main begins at the inlet side of the tank check valve.
507.5.3.1.2 Private fire lines shall meet the City’s specifications for pipe material and trench
backfill. See Public Works Design Guide.
1. A Double Check Detector Assembly (DCDA) backflow device will be provided on
private fire lines within 100 feet of the City’s water main.
2. The DCDA may be installed in a vault if proper consideration is given for drainage and
clearance to vault walls for access and repair in accordance with manufacturer’s
specifications.
Section 507.5 Fire Hydrant Systems is amended by adding Sections 507.5.7 Design Criteria for
Water Mains and 507.5.8 Fire Hydrant Installation Criteria as follows:
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507.5.7 Design Criteria for Water Mains.
1. Where the fire service mains are used to supply required fire hydrants, the mains shall
be sized to flow the required fire flow as determined by Section 507.3.
2. Where the fire service mains are used to supply required fire hydrants plus fire
sprinkler and/or fire standpipe systems, the mains shall be sized to flow the larger of the
fire hydrant flow demand as determined by Section 507.3, the fire sprinkler demand as
determined by Section 903.3 or the fire standpipe demand as determined by Section
905.2.
3. The required number of fire hydrants for the fire flow determined by Section 507.3
shall be specified in Appendix C, Table C105.1.
4. When sizing the fire service main, the distribution of the fire flow among the required
fire hydrants (as determined by item no. 1 or 2 above) shall be as determined by the Fire
Chief or designee, but in most cases shall have no less than 1,000 GPM at the
hydraulically remote fire hydrant with the remaining fire flow equally distributed among
the remaining required fire hydrants.
5. Main Size:
5.1 Minimum diameter for public water mains shall be six inches in single-family
residential areas and eight inches in all other areas. Larger mains may be required
to accommodate fire flow requirements.
5.2 Private fire mains shall be hydraulically calculated.
6. Water pressure in private fire mains shall not be less than thirty-five pounds per square
inch (35 psi) with no hydrants in use. When hydrants are in use supplying the required
fire flow, water pressure in the main at the fire hydrant discharge level shall be not less
than 25 pounds per square inch (25 psi) residual.
7. Except for specific requirements of this code, all hydrants and mains required for
private protection shall be designed, constructed, and operated in conformance with the
local water purveyor's criteria, specifications and regulations for public fire hydrants and
mains on public streets and NFPA 24.
Section 510 Emergency Responder Radio Coverage is amended to add sections 510.7
Qualifications of texting personnel as follows:
510.7 Qualifications of testing personnel. All tests shall be conducted, documented, and signed
by a person in possession of a current FCC general radiotelephone operator license. All test
records shall be retained at the inspected premise by the building owner and a copy submitted to
the Schertz Fire within 30 days of when the test has been conducted. In the event the test shall
fail to comply with the minimum requirements of the City, appropriate repairs shall be made, and
additional tests conducted until tests meet the minimum requirements of the City. Proof of
current license shall be submitted along with third-party testing.
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Chapter 7
Fire and Smoke Protection Features
Section 703.2 identification of protected openings is added and shall read:
703.2 Identification of protected openings. Walls and partitions required to have protected
openings (firewalls, fire barriers, fire partitions, smoke barriers, and smoke partitions) shall be
permanently identified with signs or stenciling. Such identification shall be above any ceiling or
other concealed space. Markings shall be red, in color, with at least four (4) inch letters with one
half (½) inch stroke width and shall be spaced so that no more than ten (10) feet is visible
without a marking. Markings shall include the phrase, "Fire Barrier, Protect All Openings."
Chapter 9
Fire Protection and Life Systems
Section 903.2.1.1 Group A-1, Shall read:
903.2.1.1 Group A-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-1
occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 10,000 square feet.
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such
occupancies.
Section 903.2.1.3 Group A-3, Shall read:
903.2.1.3 Group A-3. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-1
occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 10,000 square feet.
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such
occupancies.
4. Any Group A-3 occupancy that serves alcohol shall comply with the fire sprinkler
requirements for Group A-2 Occupancies in section 903.2.1.2.
Section 903.2.1.4 Group A-4, Shall read:
903.2.1.4 Group A-4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-1
occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 10,000 square feet.
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
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3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such
occupancies.
Section 903.2.3 Group E shall read:
903.2.3 Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for throughout all Group E
occupancy fire areas greater than 10,000 square feet or with accessible areas above or below the
level of exit discharge.
Section 903.2.4 Group F-1, Shall read:
903.2.4 Group F-1. Automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings
containing Group F-1 occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. A Group F-1 fire area exceeds 10,000 square feet.
2. A Group F-1 fire area is located more than two stories above grade plane.
3. The combined area of all Group F-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines,
exceeds 10,000 square feet.
Section 903.2.7 Group M shall read:
903.2.7 Group M. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings
containing Group M occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. A Group M fire area exceeds 10,000 square feet.
2. A Group M fire area is located more than two stories above grade plane.
3. The combined area of all Group M fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines,
exceeds 10,000 square feet.
4. A Group M occupancy is used for the display and sale of upholstered furniture.
903.2.8.1A Group R-3 (Single Family Residential) An automatic sprinkler system shall be
provided in occupancies of more than 5,000 square feet or more than two stories in height. The
calculated area shall include all occupied space and exclude garage if separated from the resident
and its attic space, by one-hour firewall and also exclude any detached building.
Section 903.2.9 Group S-1, Shall read:
903.2.9 Group S-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings
containing Group S-1 occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. A Group S-1 fire area exceeds 10,000 square feet.
2. A Group S-1 fire area is located more than two stories above grade plane.
3. The combined area of all Group S-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines,
exceeds 10,000 square feet.
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4. A Group S-1 fire area used for the storage of commercial trucks or buses where the fire
area exceeds 5,000 square feet.
5. A Group S-1 occupancy used for the storage of upholstered furniture or mattress
exceeds 2,500 square feet.
Section 903.2.9.1 Repair garages shall read:
903.2.9.1 Repair Garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all
buildings used as repair garages in accordance with Section 406.8 of the International Building
Code, as shown:
1. Buildings having more than one story above grade plane, including basements, with a
fire area containing a repair garage exceeding 10,000 square feet.
2. Buildings not more than one story above grade plane, with a fire area containing a
repair garage exceeding 10,000 square feet.
3. Buildings with repair garages servicing vehicles parked in basements.
4. A Group S-1 fire area used for the repair of commercial motor vehicles where the fire
area exceeds 10,000 square feet.
Section 903.2.10 Group S-2 enclosed parking garages, shall read:
903.2.10 Group S-2 enclosed parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
provided throughout buildings classified as enclosed parking garages in accordance with Section
406.6 of the International Building Code as follows:
1. Where the fire area of the enclosed parking garage exceeds 10,000 square feet; or
2. Where the enclosed parking garage is located beneath other groups.
(No exception)
Section 903.4 shall read:
903.4 Sprinkler system supervision and alarms. Valves con- trolling the water supply for
automatic sprinkler systems, pumps, tanks, water levels and temperatures, critical air pressures
and waterflow switches on all sprinkler systems shall be electrically supervised by a listed fire
alarm control unit. With the installation of this fire alarm control unit, section 907.5 will comply
for occupancy notification upon activation of the waterflow switch or another initiation device.
903.4.1 Monitoring. Alarm, supervisory and trouble signals shall be distinctly different and shall
be automatically transmitted to an approved supervising station or, where approved by the fire
code official, shall sound an audible signal at a constantly attended location. Deleted
exemptions.
Section 903.4.2 shall read:
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903.4.2 Alarms. An approved audible device, located on the exterior of the building in an
approved location, shall be connected to each automatic sprinkler system. Such sprinkler
waterflow alarm devices shall be activated by water flow equivalent to the flow of a single
sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Where a fire alarm system is
installed, actuation of the automatic sprinkler system shall actuate the building fire alarm system.
Approved device will be an Auto/Visual horn with a different tone that is inside the building.
Section 905.3.9 Building Area is amended to read as follows:
905.3.9 Standpipes. In buildings exceeding ten thousand (10,000) square feet in area per story,
Class I automatic wet or wet standpipes shall be provided where any portion of the building's
interior area is more than two hundred feet (200') of travel, vertically and horizontally, from the
nearest point of fire department vehicle access.
Exception: Automatic dry and semi-automatic dry standpipes are allowed as provided for
in NFPA 14.
SECTION 906 PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS is amended by adding Section 906.5.1
Conspicuous Locations in Group R occupancies as follows:
906.5.1 Conspicuous Locations in Group R occupancies. In addition to other areas listed
herein or in NFPA10, fire extinguishers in R occupancies may also be placed in any of the
following locations to satisfy the requirements:
1. On a wall in the unit; or
2. Inside a closet or pantry if the door has a label indicating that there is a fire
extinguisher inside; or
3. Inside a mechanical closet if the door has a label indicating that there is a fire
extinguisher insider; or
4. Inside storage closets if the door has a label indicating that there is a fire extinguisher
insider and there is no locking device on the door that requires a key or combination to
open it.
Section 907.3.5 Fire Alarm Systems - Emergency Control is hereby added to read as follows:
907.3.5 Fire Alarm Systems - Emergency Control. At a minimum, the following functions,
where provided, shall be activated by the fire alarm system:
1. Elevator capture and control in accordance with ASME/ANSI A17.1b, Safety Code for
Elevators and Escalators.
2. Release of automatic door closures and hold open devices.
3. Stairwell and/or elevator shaft pressurization.
4. Smoke management and/or smoke control systems.
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5. Initiation of automatic fire extinguishing equipment.
6. Emergency lighting control.
7. Unlocking of doors.
8. Emergency shutoff of gas and fuel supplies that may be hazardous provided the
continuation of service is not essential to the preservation of life.
9. Emergency shutoff of audio systems for sound reinforcement or entertainment (i.e.,
music systems, systems for announcement and broadcast which are separate from public
address systems) provided that such systems are not used to issue emergency instructions.
10. Emergency shutoff of systems used for the creation of displays or special effects (i.e.,
lighting effects, laser light shows, projection equipment)
The Fire Alarm panel SHALL describe the location of the activation. Addressable panels only
allowed within the City of Schertz.
Section 907.4.2.1 Location is amended to add an exception:
907.4.2.1 Location. Just add the exception along with verbal within the IFC.
Exception: Where construction of the building prohibits the proper installation of a manual fire
alarm box (e.g., glass walls, interior brick or rock walls), a manual fire alarm box shall be
allowed to be located in the normal path of egress, where approved by the Fire Chief or designee.
907.5 Occupant notification systems. Delete the exception.
907.5 Occupant notification systems. A fire alarm system shall annunciate at the fire alarm
control unit and shall initiate occupant notification upon activation, in accordance with Sections
907.5.1 through 907.5.2.3.3. Where a fire alarm system is required by another section of this
code, it shall be activated by:
1. Automatic fire detectors.
2. Automatic sprinkler system waterflow devices.
3. Manual fire alarm boxes.
4. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems.
Section 907.5.2.1 Audible alarms are amended by adding Sections 907.5.2.1.3 Testing of
Audible Alarms in occupancies other than group R and 907.5.2.1.4 Testing of Audible Alarms in
Group R occupancies as follows:
Section 912.2 Location add to section 912.2: Fire Department Connection
912.2.3 Location: Sprinkler system and standpipe fire department connections shall be:
1. Within forty (40) feet of a public street, approved fire lane, or access roadway.
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2. Within one hundred (120) feet of an approved fire hydrant as measured and approved
by the Fire code official.
3. Minimum of two (2) feet above finished grade and a maximum of four (4) feet above
finished grade for standard inlets and minimum of 30 inches at lowest point above
finished grade and maximum of four (4) feet above finished grade for the fire (5) inlet;
4. The Fire code official shall approve the location of any freestanding fire department
connections.
5. Where provided, the five-inch "Storz" inlet shall be installed at a 30-degree angle
pointing down.
6. Fire department connections for H occupancies will be freestanding remote and located
as determined by the Fire Code Official.
7. Where required in automatic or manual fire sprinkler or standpipe systems, fire
department connections shall be provided with
8. Fire department connection(s) shall be located on the main entrance side of the
building and within 100 feet of a fire hydrant.
912.2.4 Fire Department Connection. “With respect to hydrants, driveways, buildings and
landscape, fire department connections shall be so located that fire apparatus and hose
connections to supply the system will not obstruct access to the building for other fire apparatus.
Fire department connections shall be located not more than 120 feet and no closer than 30 feet
from the nearest fire hydrant connection to an approved water supply and shall be approved by
the Fire Chief or designee.”
Section 912.5 Signs add to section:
912.5 Signs. An additional metal sign with dimensions ten (10) inches wide and eight (8) inches
in height shall be posted not more than 72 and not less than 48 inches from the bottom of the sign
to grade level and within 6 feet of the fire department connection. This additional sign shall have
a white reflective background and have the letters "FDC" in red reflective material and be
permanently affixed to a wall or post. The letters shall be at least 4 inches in height and a ½ inch
stroke width.
Chapter 10
Means of Egress
SECTION 1003 GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS is amended by adding Section [B]1003.8
Special Provisions as follows:
[B]1003.8 Special Provisions. Rooms in E occupancies used for kindergarten or daycare,
children five or under, classified as an E occupancy shall not be located above or below the first
story.
Exceptions: 1. Basements or stories are having floor levels located within four feet, measured
vertically, from the adjacent ground level at the level of exit discharge, provided.
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Section 1008.2 Illumination in Group E is added, and shall read:
1008.2 Illumination required. The means of egress serving a room or space shall be illuminated
at all times that the room or space is occupied. Public restrooms equipped for handicap use shall
have a minimum of one emergency fixture to provide one foot-candle of illumination throughout
the restroom to the point of discharge into the exit pathway. School classrooms shall have one
emergency light at or near the primary or secondary exit door(s) that shall illuminate the egress
door from the classroom side of the exit.
1010.1.9.5 Bolt locks. Delete exceptions; #3, #4, and #5.
Chapter 23
Motor Fuel-Dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages
Section 2303.2.2 Additional Emergency disconnect switches for attended self-service, is hereby
added as follows:
2303.2.2 Additional emergency disconnect for attended self-service. Attended facilities shall
have an additional emergency disconnect switch located inside the building for attendant use at
a location approved by the fire code official.
Section 2306.2.3 Above-ground tanks located outside, above grade, is amended by adding
Sections 2306.2.3.1 Inspections, 2306.2.3.2 Required Access, and 2306.2.3.3 Fire Hydrant
Access as follows:
2306.2.3.1 Inspections. An inspection of the installation shall be conducted prior to loading the
tank with fuel.
2306.2.3.2 Required Access. Fire apparatus access roads shall be provided for every
aboveground storage tank. The aboveground storage tank shall not be more than 150 feet from
fire apparatus access roads as measured by an approved route.
Chapter 33
Fire Safety During Construction and Demolition
Section 3301.3 Address numbers are added to read as follows:
3301.3 Address numbers. Buildings under construction shall place address numbers and/or
building numbers in a position that is plainly legible and visible from the street or road fronting
the property with minimum six-inch numbers.
Section 3314.3 Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment are hereby added as follows:
3314.3 Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment. In buildings where an automatic sprinkler system
is required, furniture, fixtures, and equipment shall not be stored in the building until the system
has been tested and approved by the fire code official and monitoring of the system is active.
Exception: As approved by the fire code official.
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Chapter 56
Explosives and Fireworks
Section 5601.2 Permit required is amended by adding new Section 5601.2.6 Prohibited
Explosives as follows:
5601.3.1 Prohibited Explosives. It shall be unlawful for any person to have, keep, store, sell,
offer for sale, give away, use, or manufacture any of the explosives listed in Section 5601.3 any
quantity, within the corporate limits of the City, or to store, sell, use or offer for sale such
explosives within the City limits unless, authorized by the Fire Chief.
(Ord. No. 05-C-19, § 2(7-14), 5-3-2005; Ord. No. 15-C-21 , §§ 1, 2, 8-4-2015)
Appendix C
Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution
The use of this section will apply; however, the distances will need to comply with section
507.5.1 Where required. Whichever section is more stringent.
Appendix D
Fire Apparatus Access Roads
Appendix D FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS is hereby amended by amending section
D106.3 Separate Access Roads to read as follows:
D106.3 Separate Access Roads. The requirement for two separate and approved fire apparatus
access roads are met with the following conditions:
1. A minimum of two separate entrances into the complex is made from the street or
public way.
2. The distance between the two entrances are equal to not less than one half the length of
the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served, measured
in a straight line between accesses, as per 2018 IFC, section D104.3.
Exception: Where it is physically impossible to be one half the diagonal dimension apart, the
access road will be approved if the following conditions are met:
a. The two separate fire apparatus access road must be separated as far as
physically and practically possible.
b. The two separate entrances must be a minimum of 150 feet apart measured in a
straight line between accesses.
3. The two separate entrances can share a common path of travel on the complex site so
long as a blockage in any one area of this path does not block access from both the
primary and secondary access simultaneously. The two separate entrances can share a
common path of travel on the complex site so long as a blockage in any one area of this
path does not block access from both the primary and secondary access simultaneously.
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Each of the two separate fire apparatus roads shall meet the requirements of the 2018
IFC, section 503, Fire Apparatus Access Roads.