Chapter 13.01 FIRE CODES

Chapter 13.01
FIRE CODES Revised 3/24

Sections:

13.01.010 Fire code – Adopted. Revised 3/24

13.01.020 Code conflicts. Revised 3/24

13.01.030 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 1, Scope and Administration. Revised 3/24

13.01.040 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 2, Definitions. Revised 3/24

13.01.050 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 3, General Requirements. Revised 3/24

13.01.060 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 5, Fire Service Features. Revised 3/24

13.01.070 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 6, Building Services and Systems. Revised 3/24

13.01.080 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 7, Fire and Smoke Prevention Features. Revised 3/24

13.01.090 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 9, Fire Protection Systems. Revised 3/24

13.01.100 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 11, Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings. Revised 3/24

13.01.110 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 80, Referenced Standards. Revised 3/24

13.01.120 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Appendix B, Fire-Flow Requirements for Buildings. Revised 3/24

13.01.130 Fire codes – Fees. Revised 3/24

13.01.140 Appeals. Revised 3/24

13.01.010 Fire code – Adopted. Revised 3/24

In accordance with Chapter 19.27 RCW, the International Fire Code, 2021 Edition, published by the International Code Council, Inc., together with any additions, deletions, and exceptions currently enacted or as may be amended from time to time by the state of Washington through its Building Code Council pursuant to Chapter 51-54A WAC, and as further amended in this chapter, is hereby adopted and incorporated by this reference.

One copy of the International Fire Code and the appendices adopted in KCC 13.01.030(A) is on file with the city clerk as provided for by RCW 35.21.180.

(Ord. No. 3691, § 1, 5-4-04; Ord. No. 3840, § 1, 5-15-07; Ord. No. 3957, § 1, 5-18-10; Ord. No. 4082, § 1, 5-21-13; Ord. No. 4201, § 1, 5-17-16; Ord. No. 4386, § 1, 12-8-20; Ord. No. 4462, § 1, 5-16-23)

13.01.020 Code conflicts. Revised 3/24

To the extent allowed by RCW 19.27.040, if a conflict exists between the provisions of the International Fire Code adopted and amended by the Washington State Building Code Council and the provisions of this chapter, the Kent City Code provisions shall govern.

13.01.030 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 1, Scope and Administration. Revised 3/24

The following local amendments to Chapter 1 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Scope and Administration,” including all amendments enacted by the state of Washington, are hereby adopted and incorporated into the International Fire Code as follows:

A. Scope and general requirements – Fire code appendix adopted. Section 101 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Scope and General Requirements,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 101.6:

Sec. 101.6. Fire code appendix adopted. Appendix B of the International Fire Code is hereby adopted.

B. Duties and powers of the fire code official – Retained authority – Additional conditions. Section 104 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Duties and Powers of the Fire Code Official,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 104.1.1:

Sec. 104.1.1. Retained authority – Additional conditions. The fire code official retains the authority to impose additional conditions where the official determines it necessary to mitigate identified fire protection impacts and problematic fire protection systems. These conditions may include, by way of example and without limitation, increased setbacks, use of fire-retardant materials, installation or modification of standpipes, automatic fire sprinkler and fire alarm systems.

C. Duties and powers of the fire code official – Lot lines and setback lines. Section 104 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Duties and Powers of the Fire Code Official,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 104.13:

Sec. 104.13. Lot lines and setback lines. Notwithstanding the authority of the fire code official to administer and enforce the fire code, the fire code official shall have no duty to verify or establish lot lines or setback lines. No such duty is created by this code and none shall be implied.

D. Permits – Expiration of applications. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by substituting subsection 105.2.3 with the following:

Sec. 105.2.3. Expiration of applications. Project permit applications that are subject to Ch. 12.01 KCC or that require SEPA review are subject to those deadlines. All other construction permit applications shall expire automatically if no permit is issued within 180 days after the date a determination has been made that a fully complete project permit application has been submitted, unless the fire code official determines, in his or her sole discretion, that the application has been pursued in good faith. The fire code official may extend the time for action on the permit application for one or more periods, each period not exceeding 90 days, upon written request by the applicant if the applicant can demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the fire code official, that circumstances beyond the applicant’s control have prevented action from being taken. If an application has expired, plans and other data previously submitted for review may thereafter be returned to the applicant or destroyed by the fire code official. In order to renew action on an expired application, the applicant shall resubmit plans and pay a new review fee.

E. Permits – Expiration. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by substituting subsection 105.3.1 with the following:

Sec. 105.3.1. Expiration. An operational permit shall remain in effect until reissued, renewed or revoked, or for such a period of time as specified in the permit. Construction permit expiration shall be governed by the following:

1. Every permit issued by the fire code official under the provisions of this chapter shall expire automatically three years after the date of permit issuance. However, the permit shall expire earlier if the work authorized by such permit is not commenced within one year from the date the permit is issued, or once work commences, if work is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days or more.

2. The fire code official, after finding that no significant changes have or will be made to the originally approved plans and specifications for the approved work, may extend a permit’s expiration date or revive a permit which has been canceled due to inactivity, at the fire code official’s discretion, under the following circumstances:

a. A permit issued and related to a single-family residence, if it has expired due to inaction, may be extended for a 90-day period, up to two times. However, this subsection does not alter the permit’s overall three-year expiration date as provided for in subsection 105.3.1.1.

b. A permit issued and related to a single-family residence may be extended for a 90-day period if work is started and continuously performed, and necessary periodic inspections are made.

c. For permits other than those related to a single-family residence, the fire code official may grant a single 90-day extension when only the final inspection approval is remaining and all other work has been approved.

3. No permit extension will be granted for any property that is the subject of a code enforcement proceeding under Ch. 1.04 KCC.

F. Permits – Required operational permits. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by substituting subsection 105.5 with the following:

Sec. 105.5. Required operational permits. The fire code official is authorized to issue operational permits for the operations set forth in Sections 105.5.1 through 105.5.56.

G. Permits – Mobile food preparation vehicles. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by substituting subsection 105.5.32 with the following:

Sec. 105.5.32. Mobile food preparation vehicles. A permit is required for mobile preparation vehicles equipped with appliances that produce smoke or grease-laden vapors or utilize LP-gas systems or CNG systems.

Exception: Mobile food preparation vehicles which are not parked at or visiting a location for more than three consecutive calendar days.

H. Permits – Commercial kitchens. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 105.5.53:

Sec. 105.5.53 Commercial Kitchens. An operational permit is required for all commercial kitchens with type I hood systems.

Exception: No fee will be required if another operational fire permit in accordance with Section 105.5 is issued for the occupancy.

I. Permits – Emergency and standby power systems. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 105.5.54:

Sec. 105.5.54. Emergency and standby power systems. An operational permit is required for emergency or standby power systems required by code and identified in NFPA 110.

J. Permits – Fire protection system contractor. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 105.5.55:

Sec. 105.5.55. Fire Protection System Contractor. An operational permit is required for all contractors or other entities performing any installation, inspection, service, maintenance, or repair of any fire protection system.

K. Permits – Commercial kitchen hood and duct systems contractor. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 105.5.56:

Sec. 105.5.56. Commercial Kitchen Hood and Duct Systems Contractor. An operational permit is required for all contractors or other entities performing any inspection or cleaning of commercial kitchen hood and duct systems.

L. Permits – Required construction permits. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by substituting subsection 105.6 with the following:

Sec. 105.6. Required construction permits. The fire code official is authorized to issue construction permits for work as set forth in Sections 105.6.1 through 105.6.26.

M. Permits – Emergency and standby power systems. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 105.6.26:

Sec. 105.6.26. Emergency and standby power systems. A construction permit is required for the installation of an emergency or standby power system required by code and identified in NFPA 110.

N. Fees. Section 107 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fees,” is amended by substituting subsection 107.1 with the following:

Sec. 107.1. Fees. The fire code official shall collect fees as a condition to issuance or renewal of any permit or certificate.

O. Fees – Schedule of permit fees. Section 107 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fees,” is amended by substituting subsection 107.2 with the following:

Sec. 107.2. Schedule of Permit Fees. The fire code official shall prepare a resolution establishing a schedule of fees for council consideration, which fees shall include the cost involved in the processing, issuance, and renewal of permits and certificates. Any fee schedule adopted by resolution shall govern the fee amount to be assessed for any permit or certificate.

P. Fees – Work commencing before permit issuance. Section 107 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fees,” is amended by substituting subsection 107.4 with the following:

Sec. 107.4. Work commencing before permit issuance. When work for which a permit is required by this code has commenced without a permit, the fees shall be doubled. The payment of such fees shall not relieve any persons from the requirements of this code or from any penalties prescribed by this code.

Q. Fees – Termination. Section 107 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fees,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 107.7:

Sec. 107.7. Termination. Failure to pay for the required renewal within 60 days of the date notice is given shall result in the City’s termination of the permit.

R. Maintenance – Recordkeeping. Section 109 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Maintenance,” is amended by substituting subsection 109.3 with the following:

Sec. 109.3. Recordkeeping. A record of periodic inspections, tests, servicing and other operations and maintenance shall be maintained on the premises or other approved location for not less than three years, or a different period of time where specified in this code or referenced standards.

1. Records shall be made available for inspection by the Fire Code Official, and a copy of the records shall be provided to the Fire Code Official upon request.

2. The Fire Code Official is authorized to prescribe the form and format of such recordkeeping.

3. The Fire Code Official is authorized to require that certain required records be filed with the Fire Code Official.

4. All reports must be filed with the Compliance Engine (www.TheComplianceEngine.com) within 14 days of the reportable activity.

S. Means of appeals. Section 111 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Means of Appeals,” is amended by substituting Section 111 with the following:

Sec. 111. Board of appeals. The City of Kent hearings examiner is designated as the board of appeals in order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions, or determinations made by the fire code official relative to the suitability of alternate materials, designs, and methods of construction and appeals of the reasonable application and interpretation of the building and fire codes. Appeals shall be made as set forth in section 13.01.140 of the Kent City Code.

T. Violation – Penalties. Section 112 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Violations,” is amended by substituting subsection 112.4 with the following:

Sec. 112.4. Violation – penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code, or fails to comply with any of its requirements, or who erects, constructs, alters, or repairs a building or structure in violation of (a) the approved construction documents, (b) a directive of the fire code official, or (c) a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall be subject to penalties as set forth in Ch. 13.02 of the Kent City Code or as otherwise provided by law.

13.01.040 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 2, Definitions. Revised 3/24

The following local amendments to Chapter 2 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Definitions,” including all amendments enacted by the state of Washington, are hereby adopted and incorporated into the International Fire Code as follows:

A. Definitions – General Definitions. Section 202 of the International Fire Code, entitled “General Definitions,” is amended by adding the following definitions to subsection 202:

OUTDOOR STORAGE. The on-site storage of materials outdoors, including materials stored in vehicles, which are not in transit.

PROBLEMATIC FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM. A fire protection system that generates repeated preventable alarms.

(Ord. No. 4082, § 1, 5-21-13; Ord. No. 4201, § 1, 5-17-16; Ord. No. 4386, § 1, 12-8-20; Ord. No. 4462, § 1, 5-16-23)

13.01.050 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 3, General Requirements. Revised 3/24

The following local amendments to Chapter 3 of the International Fire Code, entitled “General Requirements,” including all amendments enacted by the state of Washington, are hereby adopted and incorporated into the International Fire Code as follows:

A. Open flames – Sky lanterns. Section 308 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Open Flames,” is amended by substituting subsection 308.1.6.3 with the following:

Sec. 308.1.6.3 Sky Lanterns. The use of sky lanterns is prohibited.

13.01.060 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 5, Fire Service Features. Revised 3/24

The following local amendments to Chapter 5 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Service Features,” including all amendments enacted by the state of Washington, are hereby adopted and incorporated into the International Fire Code as follows:

A. Fire service features – Fire apparatus access roads. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access Roads,” is hereby adopted.

B. Fire apparatus access roads – Buildings and facilities. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access Roads,” is amended by substituting subsection 503.1.1 with the following:

Sec. 503.1.1. Buildings and Facilities. Approved fire apparatus access roads shall be provided for every facility, building or portion of a building hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction. The fire apparatus access road must comply with the requirements of this section and shall extend within 150 feet of all portions of the facility and all portions of the exterior wall of the first story of the building as measured by an approved route around the building or facility.

Exception: The Fire Code Official is authorized to increase the distance:

1. Up to 300 feet where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic fire sprinkler system.

2. Where the fire apparatus access roads cannot be installed because of location on property, topography, waterways, nonnegotiable grades or other similar conditions, and an approved alternative means of fire protection is provided.

3. There are no more than two Group R-3 or Group U occupancies.

C. Fire apparatus access roads – Additional access. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access Roads,” is amended by substituting subsection 503.1.2 with the following:

Sec. 503.1.2. Additional Access. The Fire Code Official is authorized to require more than one fire apparatus access road based on the potential for impairment of a single road by vehicle congestion, condition of the terrain, climatic conditions or other factors that could limit access.

D. Fire apparatus access roads – Dimensions. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access Roads,” is amended by substituting subsection 503.2.1 with the following:

Sec. 503.2.1. Dimensions. The following minimum dimensions shall apply for fire apparatus access roads:

1. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet (6,096 mm), except for approved security gates in accordance with section 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches (4,115 mm).

2. Fire apparatus access road routes shall be approved by the fire code official.

3. Where a fire hydrant is located on a fire apparatus access road, the minimum road width shall be 26 feet for 20 feet on both sides of the hydrant operating nut and shall be marked as a fire lane per Section 503.3.

Exception: When the fire apparatus access road is serving no more than 2 single family houses and all are equipped with approved automatic system, the Fire Code Official may approve a reduced width, but the reduction shall not be less than 16 feet wide.

E. Fire apparatus access roads – Surface. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access Roads,” is amended by substituting subsection 503.2.3 with the following:

Sec. 503.2.3. Surface. Fire apparatus access roads shall be constructed with a surface of asphalt or concrete capable of supporting the imposed load of fire apparatus weighing at least 30 tons (27,240 kg).

F. Fire apparatus access roads – Turning radius. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access Roads,” is amended by substituting subsection 503.2.4 with the following:

Sec. 503.2.4. Turning radius. All fire apparatus access roads shall have a 30-foot minimum inside turning radius and a 50-foot minimum outside turning radius. The radius must be measured from the travel lane edge, unless otherwise approved.

G. Fire apparatus access roads – Dead ends. Section 503 of the International Fire Code is amended by substituting subsection 503.2.5 with the following:

Sec. 503.2.5. Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet (45.72 m) in length shall be provided with an approved turnaround designed as illustrated in the Kent Design and Construction Standards, unless otherwise approved.

Exception: The Fire Code Official is authorized to increase the length up to 300 feet for dead-end access roads when all of the following apply:

1. The road serves no more than 4 single-family homes that are equipped throughout with an approved automatic fire sprinkler system.

2. The road has an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches.

3. Where the vertical distance between the grade plane and the highest point of the roof eave is no more than 30 feet for any of the structures served by the fire access road.

H. Fire apparatus access roads – Bridges and elevated surfaces. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access Roads,” is amended by substituting subsection 503.2.6 with the following:

Sec. 503.2.6. Bridges and elevated surfaces. Where a bridge or an elevated surface is part of a fire apparatus access road, the bridge or elevated surface shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with specifications established by the fire code official and the City’s public works director, or their designees; at a minimum, however, the bridge or elevated surface shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with AASHTO Standard Specifications for Highway Bridges. Bridges shall also meet the following requirements:

1. Bridges and elevated surfaces shall be designed for a live load sufficient to carry the imposed loads of a 30 or more ton fire apparatus, the total imposed load to be determined by the fire code official.

2. Vehicle load limits shall be posted at both entrances to bridges when required by the fire code official.

3. Where elevated surfaces designed for emergency vehicle use are adjacent to surfaces which are not designed for that use, approved barriers or approved signs, or both, shall be installed and maintained, if required by the fire code official.

I. Fire apparatus access roads – Grade. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access Roads,” is amended by substituting subsection 503.2.7 with the following:

Sec. 503.2.7. Grade. Fire apparatus access roads shall comply with the following:

1. Fire apparatus access roads shall not exceed 15 percent longitudinal and/or 6 percent laterally in grade.

2. Driveway approach and departure angles shall not exceed 10 percent for the first 75 feet when measured from the right of way, unless otherwise approved by the fire code official.

J. Fire apparatus access roads – Marking. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access Roads,” is amended by substituting subsection 503.3 with the following:

Sec. 503.3. Marking. Fire apparatus access roads shall be marked whenever necessary to maintain the unobstructed minimum required width of roadways. Subject to the fire code official’s prior written approval, marked fire apparatus access roads, or “fire lanes” may be established or relocated at the time of plan review, pre-construction site inspection, and/or post construction site inspection as well as any time during the life of the occupancy. Only those fire apparatus access roads established by the fire code official can utilize red marking paint and the term “fire lane.” Fire lanes shall be marked as directed by the fire code official with one or more of the following types of markings in accordance with the Kent Design and Construction Standards:

Sec. 503.3.1. Type 1. Type 1 marking shall be installed to identify fire lanes on hammerhead turnarounds, commercial and multi-family developments or as directed by the fire code official.

Sec. 503.3.2. Type 2. Type 2 marking shall be installed to identify fire lanes in one- and two-family dwelling developments, or as directed by the fire code official.

Sec. 503.3.3. Type 3. Type 3 marking shall be installed to address situations where neither Type 1 or 2 marking is effective as determined by the fire code official.

1. Specific areas designated by the fire code official shall be marked with diagonal striping across the width of the fire lane. Diagonal marking shall be used in conjunction with painted curbs and/or edge striping and shall run at an angle of 30 to 60 degrees from one side to the other. These diagonal lines shall be in red traffic paint, parallel with each other, at least 6 inches in width, and 24 inches apart. Lettering shall occur as with Type 1 marking.

K. Fire apparatus access roads – Required gates or barricades. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access Roads,” is amended by substituting subsection 503.5 with the following:

Sec. 503.5. Required gates or barricades. The fire code official is authorized to require the installation and maintenance of gates or other approved barricades across fire apparatus access roads, trails, or other accessways, not including public streets, alleys, or highways. Installations shall meet the following:

1. Electric gate operators, where provided shall be listed in accordance with UL 325.

2. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed, and installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM F 2200 and must be equipped with “Click 2 Enter” or similar equipment that is approved by the fire code official, that allows for operations of the gate by fire and police personnel via their vehicle mobile radio, on a dedicated radio frequency, with a hold-open for a specified amount of time.

3. Gates over the fire apparatus access road that are intended for automatic operation shall be designed to operate during a loss of power or fail in the open position.

4. Gates shall be at a minimum as wide as the required access road width.

5. If manually operated, a Knox padlock is required if the gate is locked.

6. Installations must be set back 40 feet from the roadway edge of pavement.

Exception: Automated gates meeting the requirements of item 2 of this subsection.

L. Fire apparatus access roads – Security gates, bollards, and other obstructions. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access Roads,” is amended by substituting subsection 503.6 with the following:

Sec. 503.6. Security gates, bollards, and other obstructions. The installation of security gates, bollards, and other obstructions across a fire apparatus access road shall be approved by the fire code official. Where installed, they shall have an approved means of emergency operation. The installation and emergency operation shall be maintained operational at all times. The installation of security gates, bollards and other obstructions shall be in accordance with 503.5. The use of directional-limiting devices (tire spikes) is prohibited.

M. Fire apparatus access roads – Establishment of fire lanes. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access Roads,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 503.7:

Sec. 503.7 Establishment of fire lanes. Fire lanes in conformance with this code shall be established by the fire code official or designee, and shall be in accordance with 503.7.1 through 503.7.8.

Sec. 503.7.1 Obstruction of fire lanes prohibited. The obstruction of a designated fire lane by a parked vehicle or any other object is prohibited and shall constitute a traffic hazard as defined in State law and an immediate hazard to life and property.

Sec. 503.7.2 Existing fire lane signs and markings. The following signs and markings shall be provided:

1. Signs (minimum nine-inch by 16-inch) may be allowed to remain until there is a need for replacement and at that time the sign shall meet the requirements of subsection 503.3.2

2. Markings may be allowed to remain until there is a need for repainting and at that time the provisions outlined in 503.3 shall be complied with.

Sec. 503.7.3 Maintenance. Fire lane markings shall be maintained at the expense of the property owner(s) as often as needed to clearly identify the designated area as being a fire lane.

Sec. 503.7.4 Towing notification. At each entrance to property where fire lanes have been designated, signs shall be posted in a clearly conspicuous location and shall clearly state that vehicles parked in fire lanes may be impounded, and the name, telephone number, and address of the towing firm where the vehicle may be redeemed.

Sec. 503.7.5 Responsible property owner. The owner, manager, or person in charge of any property upon which designated fire lanes have been established shall prevent the parking of vehicles or placement of other obstructions in such fire lanes.

Sec. 503.7.6 Violation – Penalty. Any person who fails to mark or maintain the marking of a designated fire lane as prescribed herein, or who obstructs or allows the obstruction of a designated fire lane, shall be deemed to have committed a violation. The penalty for violation of this section shall be the monetary penalty identified in the current fee resolution.

Sec. 503.7.7 Violation – Civil penalty. In addition to, or as an alternate to, the penalties specified above, a violation of any provision of this chapter constitutes a civil violation under Chapter 1.04 KCC for which a monetary penalty may be assessed and abatement may be required and/or otherwise enforced as provided therein.

Sec. 503.7.8 Impoundment. Any vehicle or object obstructing a designated fire lane is declared a traffic hazard and may be abated without prior notification to its owner by impoundment pursuant to the applicable State law. The owner or operator shall be responsible for all towing and impound charges.

N. Fire apparatus access roads – Commercial and industrial developments. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access Roads,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 503.8:

Sec. 503.8. Commercial and Industrial Developments. Fire apparatus access roads serving commercial and industrial developments shall be in accordance with Sections 503.8.1 through 503.8.3.

Sec. 503.8.1. Buildings exceeding three stories or 30 feet in height. Buildings or facilities exceeding 30 feet or three stories in height shall have at least two means of fire apparatus access for each structure.

Sec. 503.8.2. Buildings exceeding 62,000 square feet in area. Buildings or facilities having a gross building area of more than 62,000 square feet shall be provided with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads.

Exception: Projects having a gross building area of up to 124,000 square feet that have a single approved fire apparatus access road when all buildings are equipped throughout with approved automatic sprinkler systems.

Sec. 503.8.3. Remoteness. Where two access roads are required, they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served, measured in a straight line between accesses or as approved by the fire code official and the fire chief.

O. Fire apparatus access roads – Aerial fire apparatus access roads. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access Roads,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 503.9:

Sec. 503.9. Aerial fire apparatus roads. The fire apparatus access roads that accommodate aerial fire apparatus shall be in accordance with Sections 503.9.1 through 503.9.4.

Sec. 503.9.1. Where required. Buildings or portions of buildings or facilities exceeding 30 feet in height above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall be provided with approved fire apparatus access roads that are capable of accommodating fire department aerial apparatus. Overhead utility and power lines shall not be located within the aerial fire apparatus access roadway.

Sec. 503.9.2 Width. Aerial fire apparatus access roads shall have a minimum unobstructed width of 26 feet, exclusive of shoulders, in the immediate vicinity of any building or portion of building more than 30 feet in height.

Sec. 503.9.3 Proximity to building. At least one of the required access routes meeting this condition shall be positioned parallel to one entire side of the building. The location of the parallel access route shall be approved.

Sec. 503.9.4. Obstructions. Overhead utility and power lines shall not be located over the aerial fire apparatus access road or between the aerial apparatus access road and the building. Other obstructions shall be permitted to be placed with the approval of the fire code official.

P. Fire apparatus access roads – Multifamily residential developments. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access Roads,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 503.10:

Sec. 503.10. Multi-family residential developments. The fire apparatus access roads serving multi-family residential developments shall be in accordance with Sections 503.10.1 through 503.10.3.

Sec. 503.10.1. Projects having from 100 through 200 dwelling units. Multi-family residential projects having from 100 through 200 dwelling units shall be provided with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads.

Exception: Projects having up to 200 dwelling units may have a single approved fire apparatus access road when all buildings, including nonresidential occupancies, are equipped throughout with approved automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

Sec. 503.10.2. Projects having more than 200 dwelling units. Multi-family residential projects having more than 200 dwelling units shall be provided with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads regardless of whether they are equipped with an approved automatic sprinkler system.

Sec. 503.10.3. Remoteness. Where two access roads are required, they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served, measured in a straight line between accesses or as approved by the fire code official and the fire chief.

Q. Fire apparatus access roads – One- and two-family residential developments. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access Roads,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 503.11:

Sec. 503.11. One- and Two-family residential developments. The fire apparatus access roads serving one- and two-family residential developments shall be in accordance with Section 503.11.1 and 503.11.2.

Sec. 503.11.1. Projects having more than 30 dwelling units. Developments of one- or two-family dwellings where the number of dwelling units exceeds 30 shall be provided with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads.

Exceptions:

1. Where there are more than 30 dwelling units on a single public or private fire apparatus access road and all dwelling units are equipped throughout with approved automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2, or 903.3.1.3 of the International Fire Code, access from two directions shall not be required.

2. The number of dwelling units on a single fire apparatus access road shall not be increased unless fire apparatus access roads will, within a reasonable time, connect with future development, as determined by the fire code official.

Sec. 503.11.2. Remoteness. Where two access roads are required, they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served, measured in a straight line between accesses or as approved by the fire code official and the fire chief.

R. Fire apparatus access roads – Underground structures. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled, “Fire Apparatus Access Roads,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 503.12:

Sec. 503.12. Underground structures. Installation of underground structures under or within 10 feet of fire apparatus access roads shall be designed using approved load criteria that shall accommodate the loading of fire department aerial apparatus unless otherwise approved.

S. Access to building openings and roofs – Buildings with interior courtyards. Section 504 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Access to Building Openings and Roofs,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 504.4:

Sec. 504.4. Buildings with interior courtyards. New buildings with enclosed interior courtyards shall have a straight/direct access corridor and/or stairway from the exterior to the courtyard at a location acceptable to the fire code official. If a stairway is used it shall comply with Section 1011 and a corridor shall comply with Section 1020. The access shall have a minimum width of 5 feet and be large enough to carry a 35-foot-long sectional ladder (minimum folded length 20 feet) directly from the exterior to the courtyard without obstructions. The access door shall be marked at the street as “Direct Fire Access to Courtyard”.

T. Key boxes – Where required. Section 506 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Key Boxes,” is amended by substituting subsection 506.1 with the following:

Sec 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 life-saving or firefighting purposes, the fire code official is authorized to require a key box/vault to be installed. The key box shall be a Knox KLS product listed in accordance with UL 1037 and shall contain keys to gain necessary access. The location, key box and key requirements shall be in accordance with the Rapid Entry System Policy of the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority.

U. Key boxes – Where required. Section 506 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Key Boxes,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 506.3:

Sec. 506.3. Compliance. Compliance with this chapter shall be in accordance with the following:

1. Newly constructed buildings not yet occupied or buildings currently under construction and all buildings applying for a certificate of occupancy, shall comply prior to occupancy, permit final or approval of any certificate.

2. Existing buildings, gates, or barriers without existing key boxes shall comply within 180 days of notification.

3. Existing buildings, gates, or barriers with non-compliant key boxes or locks installed shall comply within 1 year of notification.

V. Fire protection water supplies – Physical protection. Section 507 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Protection Water Supplies,” is amended by substituting subsection 507.5.6 with the following:

Sec. 507.5.6. Physical protection. Where fire hydrants are subject to impact by a motor vehicle, guard posts shall be designed and installed in accordance with the Kent Design and Construction Standards.

W. Fire protection water supplies – Fire hydrant. Section 507 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Protection Water Supplies,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 507.5.7:

Sec. 507.5.7. Fire hydrant. Fire hydrants shall be designed and installed in accordance with the local water purveyor’s design and construction standards.

X. Fire protection water supplies – Backflow prevention. Section 507 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Protection Water Supplies,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 507.5.8:

Sec. 507.5.8. Backflow prevention. All private fire systems shall be isolated by an approved method in accordance with the local water purveyor.

Y. Fire protection water supplies – Capacity for residential areas. Section 507 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Protection Water Supplies,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 507.6:

Sec. 507.6. Capacity for residential areas. All hydrants installed in single family residential areas shall be capable of delivering 1,500 gpm fire-flow over and above average maximum demands at the farthest point of the installation.

Z. Fire protection water supplies – Spacing. Section 507 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Protection Water Supplies,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 507.7:

Sec. 507.7. Spacing. The spacing of hydrants shall be in accordance with Sections 507.7.1 through 507.7.5.

Sec. 507.7.1. Single family. The maximum fire hydrant spacing serving single family residential areas shall be 600 feet as measured along the fire apparatus access road.

Sec. 507.7.2. Commercial, industrial and multi-family. The maximum fire hydrant spacing serving commercial, industrial, multi-family or other areas shall be 300 feet as measured along the fire apparatus access road.

Sec. 507.7.3. Medians. Where streets are provided with median dividers which cannot be crossed by firefighters pulling hose lines, hydrants shall be provided on each side of the street and be arranged on an alternating basis, providing, on each side of the street, no more than the maximum spacing.

Sec. 507.7.4. Arterials. Where arterial streets are provided with four or more traffic lanes hydrants shall be provided on each side of the street and be arranged on an alternating basis, providing, on each side of the street, no more than the maximum spacing.

Sec. 507.7.5. Transportation. Where new water mains are extended along streets where hydrants are not needed for protection of structures or similar fire problems, fire hydrants shall be provided at a spacing not to exceed 1,000 feet to provide for transportation hazards.

AA. Fire protection water supplies – Required hydrants. Section 507 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Protection Water Supplies,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 507.8:

Sec. 507.8. Required hydrants. The number of hydrants required for a building shall be based on the calculated fire-flow. The first hydrant will be calculated for up to 1,500 gpm. An additional hydrant will be required for every additional 1,000 gpm, or fraction thereof. The required hydrants shall be within 600 feet of the building as measured along the fire apparatus access roads serving the building.

BB. Fire protection water supplies – Notification. Section 507 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Protection Water Supplies,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 507.9:

Sec. 507.9. Notification. The owner of property on which private hydrants are located and the public agencies that own or control public hydrants must provide the fire code official with the following written service notifications in accordance with 507.9.1 and 507.9.2:

Sec. 507.9.1. In-service notification. The fire code official shall be notified when any newly installed hydrant or main is placed into service.

Sec. 507.9.2. Out-of-service notification. Where any hydrant is out of service or has not yet been placed in service, the hydrant shall be identified as being out of service and shall be appropriately marked as out of service, by a method approved by the fire code official.

CC. Fire protection water supplies – Building permit requirements. Section 507 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Protection Water Supplies,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 507.10:

Sec. 507.10. Building permit requirements. No building permit shall be issued until all plans required by this section have been submitted and approved in accordance with the provisions of this section.

No construction beyond the foundation shall be allowed until all hydrants and mains required by this section are in place and approved.

DD. Emergency responder communication coverage. Section 510 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Emergency Responder Communication Coverage,” is amended by substituting Section 510 with the following:

Sec. 510.1. Emergency responder communication coverage in new buildings. Approved in-building, two-way emergency responder communication coverage for emergency responders shall be provided within all new buildings.

The radio coverage system shall be installed in accordance with Sections 510.4 through 510.5.5 of this code and with the provisions of NFPA 1221 (2019). This section shall not require improvement of the existing public safety communication systems.

Point of Information

When determining if the minimum signal strength referenced 510.4.1.1 exists at a subject building, the signal strength shall be measured at any point on the exterior of the building up to the highest point on the roof.

Exceptions:

1. Buildings and areas of buildings that have minimum radio coverage signal strength levels of the King County Regional 800 MHz Radio System within the building in accordance with Section 510.4.1 without the use of a radio coverage system.

2. In facilities where emergency responder radio coverage is required and such systems, components or equipment required could have a negative impact on the normal operations of that facility, the fire code official shall have the authority to accept an automatically activated emergency responder radio coverage system.

3. One- and two-family dwellings and townhouses.

Sec. 510.2. Emergency responder communication coverage in existing buildings. Existing buildings shall be provided with approved radio coverage for emergency responders as required in Chapter 11.

Sec. 510.3. Permit required. A construction permit for the installation of or modification to emergency responder radio coverage systems and related equipment is required as specified in Section 105.6.4. Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered a modification and does not require a permit.

Point of Information

Prior coordination and approval from the Public Safety Radio System Operator is required before installation of an Emergency Responder Radio System. Until PSERN becomes the single operator of the county wide system, such approval is required from EPSCA, King County, Seattle or ValleyCom depending on the location of the installation.

In order to be forward compatible, designers and contractors should be aware of PSERN’s requirements for Distributed Antenna Systems which can be found via https://psern.org/requirements/

Sec. 510.4. Technical requirements. Equipment required to provide in-building, two-way emergency responder communication shall be listed in accordance with UL 2524. Systems, components and equipment required to provide the emergency responder radio coverage system shall comply with Sections 510.4.1 through 510.4.2.8.

Sec. 510.4.1. Emergency responder communication coverage system signal strength. The building shall be considered to have acceptable emergency responder communications enhancement system coverage when signal strength measurements in 95 percent of all areas on each floor of the building meet the signal strength requirements in Sections 510.4.1.1 through 510.4.1.3.

Exception: Critical areas, such as the fire command center(s), the fire pump room(s), interior exit stairways, exit passageways, elevator lobbies, standpipe cabinets, sprinkler sectional valve locations, and other areas required by the fire code official, shall be provided with 99 percent floor area radio coverage.

Sec. 510.4.1.1. Minimum signal strength into the building. The minimum inbound signal strength shall be sufficient to provide usable voice communications throughout the coverage area as specified by the fire code official. The inbound signal level shall be a minimum of -95dBm in 95% of the coverage area and 99% in critical areas and sufficient to provide not less than a Delivered Audio Quality (DAQ) of 3.0 or an equivalent Signal-to-Interference-Plus-Noise Ratio (SINR) applicable to the technology for either analog or digital signals.

Sec. 510.4.1.2 Minimum signal strength out of the building. The minimum outbound signal strength shall be sufficient to provide usable voice communications throughout the coverage area as specified by the fire code official. The outbound signal level shall be sufficient to provide not less than a DAQ of 3.0 or an equivalent SINR applicable to the technology for either analog or digital signals. A minimum signal strength of -95 dBm shall be received by the King County Regional 800 MHz Radio System when transmitted from within the building.

Sec. 510.4.1.3. System performance. Signal strength shall be sufficient to meet the requirements of the applications being utilized by public safety for emergency operations through the coverage area as specified by the radio system manager in Section 510.4.2.2.

Sec. 510.4.2. System design. The emergency responder radio coverage system shall be designed in accordance with Sections 510.4.2.1 through 510.4.2.8 and NFPA 1221 (2019).

Sec. 510.4.2.1. Amplification systems and components. Buildings and structures that cannot support the required level of radio coverage shall be equipped with systems and components to enhance the public safety radio signals and achieve the required level of radio coverage specified in Sections 510.4.1 through 510.4.1.3. Public safety communications enhancement systems utilizing radio-frequency-emitting devices and cabling shall be allowed by the Public Safety Radio System Operator. Prior to installation, all RF-emitting devices shall have the certification of the radio licensing authority and be suitable for public safety use.

Sec. 510.4.2.2. Technical criteria. The Public Safety Radio System Operator shall provide the various frequencies required, the location of radio sites, the effective radiated power of radio sites, the maximum propagation delay in microseconds, the applications being used and other supporting technical information necessary for system design upon request by the building owner or owner’s representative.

Sec. 510.4.2.3. Standby Power. Emergency responder radio coverage systems shall be provided with dedicated standby batteries or provided with 2-hour standby batteries and connected to the facility generator power system in accordance with Section 1203. The standby power supply shall be capable of operating the emergency responder radio coverage system at 100-percent system capacity for a duration of not less than 12 hours.

Sec. 510.4.2.4. Signal booster requirements. If used, signal boosters shall meet the following requirements:

1. All signal booster components shall be contained in a National Electrical Manufacturer’s Association (NEMA) 4, IP66-type waterproof cabinet or equivalent.

Exception: Listed battery systems that are contained in integrated battery cabinets.

2. Battery systems used for the emergency power source shall be contained in a NEMA 3R or higher-rated cabinet, IP65-type waterproof cabinet or equivalent.

3. Equipment shall have FCC or other radio licensing authority certification and be suitable for public safety use prior to installation.

4. Where a donor antenna exists, isolation shall be maintained between the donor antenna and all inside antennas to not less than 20dB greater than the system gain under all operating conditions.

5. Bi-Directional Amplifiers (BDAs) used in emergency responder radio coverage systems shall be fitted with anti-oscillation circuitry and per-channel AGC.

6. The installation of amplification systems or systems that operate on or provide the means to cause interference on any emergency responder radio coverage networks shall be coordinated and approved by the Public Safety Radio System Operator.

7. Unless otherwise approved by the Public Safety Radio System Operator, only channelized signal boosters shall be permitted.

Exception: Broadband BDA’s may be utilized when specifically authorized in writing by the Public Safety Radio System Operator.

Point of Information

BDA’s must also comply with PSERN’s (www.psern.org/requirements) detailed requirements, which include channelized, minimum of 28 channels, supporting analog, P25 Phase I (FDMA), and P25 Phase II (TDMA).

Sec. 510.4.2.5. System monitoring. The emergency responder radio enhancement system shall include automatic supervisory and trouble signals that are monitored by a supervisory service and are annunciated by the fire alarm system in accordance with NFPA 72. The following conditions shall be separately annunciated by the fire alarm system, or, if the status of each of the following conditions is individually displayed on a dedicated panel on the radio enhancement system, a single automatic supervisory signal may be annunciated on the fire alarm system indicating deficiencies of the radio enhancement system:

1. Loss of normal AC power supply.

2. System battery charger(s) failure.

3. Malfunction of the donor antenna(s).

4. Failure of active RF-emitting device(s).

5. Low-battery capacity at 70-percent reduction of operating capacity.

6. Active system component malfunction.

7. Malfunction of the communications link between the fire alarm system and the in-building, two-way emergency responder communication coverage system.

8. Oscillation of active RF-emitting device(s).

Sec. 510.4.2.6. Additional frequencies and change of frequencies. The emergency responder radio coverage system shall be capable of modification or expansion in the event frequency changes are required by the FCC or other radio licensing authority, or additional frequencies are made available by the FCC or other radio licensing authority.

Sec. 510.4.2.7. Design documents. The fire code official shall have the authority to require “as-built” design documents and specifications for emergency responder communications coverage systems. The documents shall be in a format acceptable to the fire code official.

Sec. 510.4.2.8. Radio communication antenna density. Systems shall be engineered to minimize the near-far effect. Radio enhancement system designs shall include sufficient antenna density to address reduced gain conditions.

Exception:

Systems where all portable devices within the same band use active power control.

Sec. 510.5. Installation requirements. The installation of the public safety radio coverage system shall be in accordance with NFPA 1221 and Sections 510.5.1 through 510.5.8.

Sec. 510.5.1. Mounting of the donor antenna(s). To maintain proper alignment with the system designed donor site, donor antennas shall be permanently affixed on the highest possible position on the building or where approved by the fire code official. A clearly visible sign shall be placed near the antenna stating, “movement or repositioning of this antenna is prohibited without approval from the fire code official.” The antenna installation shall be in accordance with the applicable requirements in the International Building Code for weather protection of the building envelope.

Sec. 510.5.2. Approval prior to installation. Amplification systems capable of operating on frequencies licensed to any public safety agency by the FCC or other radio licensing authority shall not be installed without prior coordination and approval of the Public Safety Radio System Operator.

Sec. 510.5.3. Minimum qualifications of personnel. The minimum qualifications of the system designer and lead installation personnel shall include both of the following:

1. A valid FCC-issued general radio telephone operators license.

2. Certification of in-building system training issued by an approved organization or approved school, or a certificate issued by the manufacturer of the equipment being installed.

Sec. 510.5.4. Acceptance test procedure. Where an emergency responder radio coverage system is required, and upon completion of installation, the building owner shall have the radio system tested to verify that two-way coverage on each floor of the building is in accordance with Section 510.4.1. 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, with a maximum test area size of 6,400 square feet. Where the floor area exceeds 128,000 square feet, the floor shall be divided into as many approximately equal test areas as needed, such that no test area exceeds the maximum square footage allowed for a test area.

2. Coverage testing of signal strength shall be conducted using a calibrated spectrum analyzer for each of the test grids. A diagram of this testing shall be created for each floor where coverage is provided, indicating the testing grid used for the test in Section 510.5.4(1), and including signal strengths and frequencies for each test area. Indicate all critical areas.

3. Functional talk-back testing shall be conducted using two calibrated portable radios of the latest brand and model used by the agency’s radio communications system or other equipment approved by the fire code official. Testing shall use Digital Audible Quality (DAQ) metrics, where a passing result is a DAQ of 3 or higher. Communications between handsets shall be tested and recorded in the grid square diagram required by section 510.5.4(2): each grid square on each floor; between each critical area and a radio outside the building; between each critical area and the fire command center or fire alarm control panel; between each landing in each stairwell and the fire command center or fire alarm control panel.

4. Failure of more than 5% of the test areas on any floor shall result in failure of the test.

Exception: Critical areas shall be provided with 99 percent floor area coverage.

5. In the event that two 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 not more than two 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 95-percent coverage requirement.

6. 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 to be a failure of that test area. Additional test locations shall not be permitted.

7. 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 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.

8. 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 subject signal booster. This test shall be conducted at the time of installation and at subsequent annual inspections.

9. Systems shall be tested using two portable radios simultaneously conducting subjective voice quality checks. One portable radio shall be positioned not greater than 10 feet (3,048 mm) from the indoor antenna. The second portable radio shall be positioned at a distance that represents the farthest distance from any indoor antenna. With both portable radios simultaneously keyed up on different frequencies within the same band, subjective audio testing shall be conducted and comply with DAQ levels as specified in Sections 510.4.1.1 and 510.4.1.2.

10. At the conclusion of the testing, and prior to issuance of the building Certificate of Occupancy, the building owner or owner’s representative shall place a copy of the following records in the DAS enclosure or the building engineer’s office. The records shall be available to the fire code official and maintained by the building owner for the life of the system:

a. A certification letter stating that the emergency responder radio coverage system has been installed and tested in accordance with this code, and that the system is complete and fully functional.

b. The grid square diagram created as part of testing in Sections 510.5.4(2) and 510.5.4(3).

c. Data sheets and/or manufacturer specifications for the emergency responder radio coverage system equipment; back up battery; and charging system (if utilized).

d. A diagram showing device locations and wiring schematic,

e. A copy of the electrical permit.

11. At the conclusion of the testing, and prior to issuance of the building Certificate of Occupancy, the building owner or owner’s representative shall submit copies of the acceptance test in a form and manner determined by the fire code official.

Sec. 510.5.5. FCC compliance. The emergency responder radio coverage system installation and components shall comply with all applicable federal regulations including, but not limited to, FCC 47 CFR Part 90.219.

Sec. 510.5.6. Wiring. The backbone, antenna distribution, radiating, or any fiber-optic cables shall be rated as plenum cables. The backbone cables shall be connected to the antenna distribution, radiating, or copper cables using hybrid coupler devices of a value determined by the overall design. Backbone cables shall be routed through an enclosure that matches the building’s required fire-resistance rating for shafts or interior exit stairways. The connection between the backbone cable and the antenna cables shall be made within an enclosure that matches the building’s fire-resistance rating for shafts or interior exit stairways, and passage of the antenna distribution cable in and out of the enclosure shall be protected as a penetration per the International Building Code.

Sec. 510.5.7. Identification Signs. Emergency responder radio coverage systems shall be identified by an approved sign located on or near the Fire Alarm Control Panel or other approved location stating “This building is equipped with an Emergency Responder Radio Coverage System. Control Equipment located in room .”

A sign stating “Emergency Responder Radio Coverage System Equipment” shall be placed on or adjacent to the door of the room containing the main system components.

Sec. 510.6. Maintenance. The emergency responder radio coverage system shall be maintained operational at all times in accordance with Sections 510.6.1 through 510.6.7.

Sec. 510.6.1. Testing and proof of compliance. The owner of the building or owner’s authorized agent shall have the emergency responder radio coverage system inspected and tested annually or where structural changes occur including additions or remodels that could materially change the original field performance tests. Testing shall consist of the following items (1) through (7):

1. In-building coverage test as required by the fire code official as described in Sections 510.5.4 (“Acceptance test procedure”) or 510.6.1.1 (“Alternative in-building coverage test”).

Exception: Group R Occupancy annual testing is not required within dwelling units.

2. Signal boosters shall be tested to verify that the gain/output level is the same as it was upon initial installation and acceptance or set to optimize the performance of the system.

3. Backup batteries and power supplies shall be tested under load of a period of 1 hours to verify that they will properly operate during an actual power outage. If within the 1-hour test period the battery exhibits symptoms of failure, the test shall be extended for additional 1-hour periods until the integrity of the battery can be determined.

4. If a fire alarm system is present in the building, a test shall be conducted to verify that the fire alarm system is properly supervising the emergency responder communication system as required in Section 510.4.2.5. The test is performed by simulating alarms to the fire alarm control panel. The certifications in Section 510.5.3 are sufficient for the personnel performing this testing.

5. All active components shall be checked to verify operation within the manufacturer’s specifications.

6. At the conclusion of the testing, a report, which shall verify compliance with Section 510.6.1, shall be submitted to the fire code official by way of the department’s third-party vendor thecomplianceengine.com.

7. At the conclusion of testing, a record of the inspection and maintenance along with an updated grid diagram of each floor showing tested strengths in each grid square and each critical area shall be added to the documentation maintained on the premises in accordance with Section 510.5.4.

Sec. 510.6.1.1. Alternative In-building coverage test. When the comprehensive test documentation required by Section 510.5.4 is available, or the most recent full five-year test results are available if the system is older than six years, the in-building coverage test required by the fire code official in Section 510.6.1(1), may be conducted as follows:

1. Functional talk-back testing shall be conducted using two calibrated portable radios of the latest brand and model used by the agency’s radio communications system or other equipment approved by the fire code official. Testing shall use Digital Audible Quality (DAQ) metrics, where a passing result is a DAQ of 3 or higher. Communications between handsets in the following locations shall be tested: between the fire command center or fire alarm control panel and a location outside the building; between the fire alarm control panel and each landing in each stairwell.

2. Coverage testing of signal strength shall be conducted using a calibrated spectrum analyzer for:

a. Three grid areas per floor. The three grid areas to be tested on each floor are the three grid areas with poorest performance in the acceptance test or the most recent annual test, whichever is more recent; and

b. Each of the critical areas identified in acceptance test documentation required by Section 510.5.4, or as modified by the fire code official; and

c. One grid square per serving antenna.

3. The test area boundaries shall not deviate from the areas established at the time of the acceptance test, or as modified by the fire code official. The building shall be considered to have acceptable emergency responder radio coverage when the required signal strength requirements in 510.4.1.1 and 510.4.1.2 are located in 95 percent of all areas on each floor of the building and 99 percent in Critical Areas, and any non-functional serving antenna are repaired to function within normal ranges. If the documentation of the acceptance test or most recent previous annual test results are not available or acceptable to the fire code official, the radio coverage verification testing described in 510.5.4 shall be conducted.

Point of Information

The alternative in-building coverage test provides an alternative testing protocol for the in-building coverage test in subsection (1) of section 510.6.1. There is no change or alternative to annual testing requirements enumerated in subsections (2) – (7) of Section 510.6.1, which must be performed at the time of each annual test.

Sec. 510.6.2. Additional frequencies. The building owner shall modify or expand the emergency responder radio coverage system at his or her expense in the event frequency changes are required by the FCC or other radio licensing authority, or additional frequencies are made available by the FCC or other radio licensing authority public safety radio system operator or FCC license holder. Prior approval of a public safety radio coverage system on previous frequencies does not exempt this section.

Sec. 510.6.3. Nonpublic safety system. Where other nonpublic safety amplification systems installed in buildings reduce the performance or cause interference with the emergency responder communications coverage system, the nonpublic safety amplification system shall be corrected or removed.

Sec. 510.6.4. Field testing. Agency personnel shall have the right to enter onto the property at any reasonable time to conduct field testing to verify the required level of radio coverage or to disable a system that due to malfunction or poor maintenance has the potential to impact the emergency responder radio system in the region.

(Ord. No. 3691, § 1, 5-4-04; Ord. No. 3810, § 1, 9-5-06; Ord. No. 3840, § 1, 5-15-07; Ord. No. 3957, § 1, 5-18-10; Ord. No. 4082, § 1, 5-21-13; Ord. No. 4201, § 1, 5-17-16; Ord. No. 4313, § 1, 3-5-19; Ord. No. 4386, § 1, 12-8-20; Ord. No. 4462, § 1, 5-16-23. Formerly 13.01.050)

13.01.070 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 6, Building Services and Systems. Revised 3/24

The following local amendments to Chapter 6 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Building Services and Systems,” including all amendments enacted by the state of Washington, are hereby adopted and incorporated into the International Fire Code as follows:

A. Commercial cooking equipment and systems – Where required. Section 606 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Commercial Cooking Equipment and Systems,” is amended by adding the following subsections to section 606.2:

Sec. 606.2.2. Permit Required. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 105.5.

Sec. 606.2.3. Approved drawing. The stamped and approved cook line drawing shall be displayed adjacent to the suppression system pull station prior to the final inspection. The approved drawing shall be maintained and available for inspection.

(Ord. No. 3957, § 1, 5-18-10; Ord. No. 4082, § 1, 5-21-13; Ord. No. 4201, § 1, 5-17-16; Ord. No. 4313, § 2, 3-5-19; Ord. No. 4386, § 1, 12-8-20; Ord. No. 4462, § 1, 5-16-23. Formerly 13.01.060)

13.01.080 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 7, Fire and Smoke Prevention Features. Revised 3/24

The following local amendments to Chapter 7 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire and Smoke Prevention Features,” including all amendments enacted by the state of Washington, are hereby adopted and incorporated into the International Fire Code as follows:

A. Fire and smoke prevention features – Hold-open devices and closures. Section 705 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Door and Window Openings,” is amended by substituting 705.2.3 with the following:

Sec. 705.2.3. Hold-open devices and closers. Hold-open devices and automatic door closures, where provided, shall be maintained. During the period that such device is out of service for repairs, the door it operates shall remain in the closed position.

The fire code official is authorized to require the installation of hold-open devices of existing door installations where there has been documented use of door closure impairment devices.

(Ord. No. 3957, § 1, 5-18-10; Ord. No. 4082, § 1, 5-21-13; Ord. No. 4201, § 1, 5-17-16; Ord. No. 4386, § 1, 12-8-20; Ord. No. 4462, § 1, 5-16-23. Formerly 13.01.070)

13.01.090 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 9, Fire Protection Systems. Revised 3/24

The following local amendments to Chapter 9 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems,” including all amendments enacted by the state of Washington, are hereby adopted and incorporated into the International Fire Code as follows:

A. Fire protection systems – Scope and application. Section 901 of the International Fire Code, entitled “General,” is amended by substituting subsection 901.1 with the following:

Sec. 901.1. Scope and application. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all occupancies and buildings, shall specify where fire protection systems are required, and shall apply to the design, installation, inspection, operation, testing, and maintenance of all fire protection systems; however, nothing contained in this chapter shall diminish or reduce the requirements of any duly adopted building codes, including state and local amendments, or other city ordinances, resolutions, or regulations. In the event of any conflict in requirements among these codes, ordinances, resolutions, or regulations, the more stringent provision shall apply.

B. Fire protection systems – Fire watch for impaired fire protection systems. Section 901 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire protection systems,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 901.7.7.

Sec. 901.7.7. Fire watch for impaired fire protection systems. In the event of the emergency responder communication system, fire alarm system, fire sprinkler system or any other required fire protection system; or an excessive number of preventable alarm activations, the fire code official is authorized to require the building owner or occupant to provide approved standby personnel until the system is restored, repaired, or replaced.

C. Fire protection systems – General. Section 901 of the International Fire Code, entitled “General,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 901.11:

Sec 901.11. Emergency contacts. It shall be the responsibility of the owner of any monitored fire protection system to provide and maintain a minimum of three emergency contacts that are capable of responding to the system location with their monitoring company.

D. Fire protection systems – Definitions. Section 902 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Definitions,” is amended by adding the following to the list in subsection 902.1:

PROBLEMATIC FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM

E. Automatic sprinkler systems – Where required. Section 903 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Automatic Sprinkler Systems,” is amended by substituting subsection 903.2 with the following:

Sec. 903.2. Where required. Approved automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be installed as follows:

1. In all buildings without adequate fire flow.

Exception: Miscellaneous Group U Occupancies.

2. All new buildings and structures regulated by the International Building Code requiring 2,000 gallons per minute or more fire flow, or with a gross floor area of 10,000 or more square feet (929 m2), or where this code provides a more restrictive floor/fire area requirement, and shall be provided in all locations or where described by this code.

Exception: Spaces or areas in telecommunications buildings used exclusively for telecommunications equipment, associated electrical power distribution equipment, batteries, and standby engines, provided those spaces or areas are equipped throughout with an automatic smoke detection system in accordance with Section 907.2 and are separated from the remainder of the building by not less than 1 hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the International Building Code or not less than 2 hour horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 712 of the International Building Code, or both.

3. Where this code requires the installation of an automatic sprinkler system to protect an occupancy within an otherwise non-sprinklered building, then automatic sprinkler protection will be required throughout the entire building.

4. When the required fire apparatus access roadway grade is 12 percent or greater.

F. Automatic sprinkler systems – Speculative use warehouses. Section 903 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Automatic Sprinkler Systems,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 903.2.9.5:

Sec. 903.2.9.5. Speculative use warehouses. Where the occupant, tenant, or use of the building or storage commodity has not been determined or it is otherwise a speculative use warehouse or building, the automatic sprinkler system shall be designed and installed to protect not less than Class IV non-encapsulated commodities on wood pallets, with no solid, slatted, or wire mesh shelving, and with aisles that are 8 feet or more in width and up to 20 feet in height.

G. Automatic sprinkler systems – Installation requirements. Section 903 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Automatic Sprinkler Systems,” is amended by substituting subsection 903.3 with the following:

Sec. 903.3. Installation Requirements. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections 903.3.1 through 903.3.9.

H. Automatic sprinkler systems – Check valve. Section 903 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Automatic Sprinkler Systems,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 903.3.9:

Sec. 903.3.9. Check valve. All automatic sprinkler system risers shall be equipped with a check valve.

I. Automatic sprinkler systems – Riser room access. Section 903 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Automatic Sprinkler Systems,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 903.7:

Sec. 903.7. Riser room access. All risers shall be located in a dedicated room with an exterior door, and with lighting and heat for the room.

J. Fire alarm and detection systems – General. Section 907 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Alarm and Detection Systems,” is amended by substituting subsection 907.1.3 with the following:

Sec. 907.1.3. Equipment. Systems and their components shall be listed and approved for the purpose for which they are installed. All new alarm systems shall be addressable. Each device shall have its own address and shall annunciate individual addresses at a UL Central Station.

K. Fire alarm and detection systems – Initiating device identification. Section 907 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Alarm and Detection Systems,” is amended by substituting subsection 907.6.3 with the following:

Sec. 907.6.3 Initiating device identification. The fire alarm system shall identify the specific initiating device address, location, device type, floor level where applicable and status including indication of normal, alarm, trouble and supervisory status, as appropriate.

Exception: Special initiating devices that do not support individual device identification.

L. Fire alarm and detection systems – Latched alarms. Section 907 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Alarm and Detection Systems,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 907.12:

Sec. 907.12. Latched alarms. All signals shall be automatically “latched” at the fire alarm control unit until their operated devices are returned to normal condition, and the control unit is manually reset.

M. Fire alarm and detection systems – Resetting. Section 907 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Alarm and Detection Systems,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 907.13:

Sec. 907.13. Resetting. All fire alarm control units shall be reset only by an approved person.

Sec. 907.13.1. Reset code. The reset code for the fire alarm control unit or keypad shall be 1-2-3-4-5. The reset code shall not be changed without approval of the fire code official.

N. Fire alarm and detection systems – Fire alarm control unit location. Section 907 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Alarm and Detection Systems,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 907.14:

Sec. 907.14. Fire alarm control unit location. All fire alarm control units shall be located in the riser room designed and installed in accordance with Section 903.7, or an approved location.

O. Fire protection systems – Signs. Section 912 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Department Connections,” is amended by substituting 912.5 with the following:

Sec. 912.5. Signs. Fire department connections shall be clearly identified in an approved manner.

All fire department connections shall have an approved sign attached below the Siamese clapper. The sign shall specify the type of water-based fire protection system, the structure, and the building areas served.

(Ord. No. 3691, § 1, 5-4-04; Ord. No. 3810, § 2, 9-5-06; Ord. No. 3840, § 1, 5-15-07; Ord. No. 3957, § 1, 5-18-10; Ord. No. 4082, § 1, 5-21-13; Ord. No. 4201, § 1, 5-17-16; Ord. No. 4313, § 3, 3-5-19; Ord. No. 4386, § 1, 12-8-20; Ord. No. 4462, § 1, 5-16-23. Formerly 13.01.080)

13.01.100 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 11, Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings. Revised 3/24

The following local amendments to Chapter 11 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings,” including all amendments enacted by the state of Washington, are hereby adopted and incorporated into the International Fire Code as follows:

A. Fire safety requirements for existing buildings – Additions and alterations. Section 1103 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Safety Requirements for Existing Buildings,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 1103.5.6:

Sec. 1103.5.6. Substantial Alterations. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to substantial alterations to existing buildings regardless of use when a substantial alteration occurs in a structure equaling 10,000 or greater square feet. For purposes of this section, a substantial alteration shall be defined as an alteration that costs 50 percent or more of the current assessed value of the structure and impacts more than 50% of the gross floor area.

B. Fire safety requirements for existing buildings – Fire alarm systems. Section 1103 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Safety Requirements for Existing Buildings,” is amended by substituting 1103.7 with the following:

Sec. 1103.7. Fire alarm systems. An approved fire alarm system shall be installed in existing buildings and structures in accordance with Sections 1103.7.1 through 1103.7.7 and provide occupant notification in accordance with Section 907.5 unless other requirements are provided by other sections of this code.

C. Fire safety requirements for existing buildings – Fire alarm control unit replacement. Section 1103 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Safety Requirements for Existing Buildings,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 1103.7.7:

Sec. 1103.7.7. Fire alarm control unit replacement. If an existing fire alarm control unit is replaced with identical equipment that has the same part number it shall be considered maintenance.

(Ord. No. 3957, § 1, 5-18-10; Ord. No. 4082, § 1, 5-21-13; Ord. No. 4201, § 1, 5-17-16; Ord. No. 4386, § 1, 12-8-20; Ord. No. 4462, § 1, 5-16-23. Formerly 13.01.090)

13.01.110 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 80, Referenced Standards. Revised 3/24

The following local amendments to Chapter 80 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Referenced Standards,” including all amendments enacted by the state of Washington, are hereby adopted and incorporated into the International Fire Code as follows:

A. Referenced standards – NFPA. Section NFPA of the International Fire Code, entitled “Referenced Standards,” is amended by modifying the standard reference number dates of publication as follows:

13-22	Installation of Sprinkler Systems
13D-22	Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes
13R-22	Installation of Sprinkler Systems in Residential Occupancies up to and Including Four Stories in Height
20-22	Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection
24-22	Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and Their Appurtenances
72-22	National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
110-22	Emergency and Standby Power Systems
111-22	Stored Electrical Energy Emergency and Standby Power Systems
1225-22	Standard for Emergency Services Communications

(Ord. No. 3957, § 1, 5-18-10; Ord. No. 4082, § 1, 5-21-13; Ord. No. 4201, § 1, 5-17-16; Ord. No. 4386, § 1, 12-8-20; Ord. No. 4462, § 1, 5-16-23. Formerly 13.01.100)

13.01.120 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Appendix B, Fire-Flow Requirements for Buildings. Revised 3/24

The following local amendments to Appendix B to the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire-Flow Requirements for Buildings,” including all amendments enacted by the state of Washington, are hereby adopted and incorporated into the International Fire Code as follows:

A. Modifications – Increases. Section B103 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Modifications,” is amended by substituting subsection B103.2 with the following:

B103.2. Increases. The fire chief is authorized to increase the fire-flow requirements where exposures could be impacted by fire. An increase shall not be more than twice that required for the building under consideration.

Exception: For one- and two-family residences when either of the following conditions apply:

1. The building and exposure are equipped with the 1-hour fire resistant rated exterior walls tested in accordance with ASTM E 119 or UL 263 with exposure on the exterior side and projections with 1-hour underside protection, fire blocking installed from the wall top plate to the underside of the roof sheathing and no gable vent openings.

2. The walls are a distance greater than 11' to the nearest exposure or lot line; or face an unbuildable lot, tract or buffer. The distance shall be measured at right angles from the face of the wall.

B. Fire-flow requirements for buildings. Section B105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire-Flow Requirements for Buildings,” is amended by substituting section B105 with the following:

B105.1. One- and two-family dwellings. Fire-flow requirements for one- and two-family dwellings shall be in accordance with Sections B105.1.1 through B105.1.2.

B105.1.1. Buildings less than 3,600 square feet. The minimum fire-flow and flow duration requirements for buildings less than 3,600 square feet shall be 1,000 gallons per minute for 1 hour.

Exception: A reduction in required fire-flow of 50 percent, as approved, is allowed when the building is equipped with an approved automatic sprinkler system.

B105.1.2. Buildings greater than 3,600 square feet or more. The minimum fire-flow and flow duration requirements for buildings that are 3,600 square feet or larger shall not be less than that specified in Table B105.1(2).

Exception: A reduction of fire-flow and flow duration to 1,000 gallons per minute for 1 hour, as approved, is allowed when the building is equipped with the following:

1. An approved automatic sprinkler system.

B105.2. Buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings. The minimum fire-flow and flow duration for buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings shall be as specified in Table B105.1(2).

Exception: A reduction in required fire-flow of 50 percent, as approved, is allowed when the building is provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system. The resulting fire-flow shall not be less than 1,500 gallons per minute for the prescribed duration as specified in Table B105.1(2).

B105.2.1. Tents and Membrane structures. No fire flow is required for tents and membrane structures.

B105.2.2. Accessory residential Group U buildings. Accessory residential Group U buildings shall comply with the requirements of B105.1.

B105.3. Water supply for buildings equipped with an automatic sprinkler system. For buildings equipped with an automatic sprinkler system, the water supply shall be capable of providing the greater of:

1. The automatic sprinkler system demand, including hose stream allowance.

2. The required fire flow.

C. Fire-flow requirements for buildings. Section B105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire-Flow Requirements for Buildings,” is amended by deleting the following tables from Section B105:

Table B105.1(1). Required Fire-Flow for One- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 Buildings and Townhouses.

Table B105.2. Required Fire-Flow for Buildings Other than One- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 Buildings and Townhouses.

D. Section B105 of the International Fire Code is amended by adding new subsection B105.4 as follows:

B105.4. Alternative Fire Flow Mitigation. For development projects, where it has been determined not feasible to extend the water main by the local water purveyor, the following alternative fire flow mitigations are approved for use in accordance with Sections B105.4.1 through B105.4.2

B105.4.1. One- and two-family dwellings. Fire flow will not be required for one- and two-family dwellings if all of the following mitigations are met;

1. The fire-flow calculation area is less than 3600 square feet

2. The construction type of the dwelling is Type VA

3. The dwelling is equipped with an automatic fire sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 with a water supply of no less than 30 minutes

4. The dwelling has a fire separation distance of no less than 150 feet on all sides

B105.4.2. Buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings. Fire flow will not be required for buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings if all of the following mitigations are met;

1. The fire-flow calculation area is less than 3600 square feet

2. The construction type of the building is not Type VB

3. The building is equipped with an automatic fire sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 with a water supply of no less than 30 minutes

4. The building has a fire separation distance of no less than 150 feet on all sides

(Ord. No. 3810, § 3, 9-5-06; Ord. No. 3840, § 1, 5-15-07; Ord. No. 3957, § 1, 5-18-10; Ord. No. 4082, § 1, 5-21-13; Ord. No. 4201, § 1, 5-17-16; Ord. No. 4386, § 1, 12-8-20; Ord. No. 4462, § 1, 5-16-23. Formerly 13.01.110)

13.01.130 Fire codes – Fees. Revised 3/24

The city council shall, by resolution, establish the fees to be assessed to implement and enforce the fire codes adopted in this title.

13.01.140 Appeals. Revised 3/24

A. Appeals to the hearing examiner.

1. Jurisdiction. In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, determinations, or decisions made by the fire code official relative to the suitability of alternate materials, designs, and methods of construction, and to provide for reasonable application and interpretation of the provisions of the International Fire Code, the city of Kent hearing examiner is hereby designated as the board of appeals created pursuant to Section 111 of the International Fire Code adopted in KCC 13.01.030 for all matters concerning the application of the fire codes. The city hearing examiner, however, shall have no authority relative to interpretation of the administrative provisions of these codes, nor shall the city hearing examiner be empowered to waive requirements of these codes.

2. Filing. Appeals shall be filed with the hearing examiner by 5:00 p.m. of the fourteenth calendar day following the date of 7the order, determination, or decision being appealed. When the last day of the appeal period so computed is a Saturday, Sunday, or federal or city holiday, the period shall run until 5:00 p.m. on the next business day. The appeal shall be accompanied by payment of the filing fee. Specific objections to the fire code official’s decision and the relief sought shall be stated in the written appeal.

3. Standing. Standing to bring an appeal under this chapter is limited to the following persons:

a. The applicant and the owner of property to which the permit decision is directed.

b. Another person aggrieved or adversely affected by the order, determination, or decision, or who would be aggrieved or adversely affected by a reversal or modification of the order, determination, or decision. A person is aggrieved or adversely affected within the meaning of this section only when all of the following conditions are present:

i. The order, determination, or decision has prejudiced or is likely to prejudice that person;

ii. A judgment in favor of that person would substantially eliminate or redress the prejudice to that person caused or likely to be caused by the order, determination, or decision; and

iii. The appellant has exhausted his or her administrative remedies to the extent required by law.

B. Appeals to superior court. Appeals to the hearing examiner shall be made pursuant to Chapter 2.32 KCC. The decision of the hearing examiner shall be final and conclusive unless within 21 calendar days of the hearing examiner’s decision an appeal is filed with the superior court. When the last day of the appeal period so computed is a Saturday, Sunday, or federal or city holiday, the period shall run until the next business day.