Chapter 15.08 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE AND FIRE PREVENTION BUREAU

The edition of the International Fire Code, including Appendices B and D, as published by the International Code Council, together with supplements thereto and subject to the modifications set forth by the state of Washington in WAC Title 51-54A, shall be what is adopted in Chapter 19.27 RCW as it is currently written and as it is amended in the future; except for the modifications and/or amendments that are hereinafter specifically set forth within this chapter. (Ord. 3825 § 11, 2021).

15.08.030 Definitions.

A. Wherever the words “fire marshal of the bureau of fire prevention” are used, they mean fire marshal of fire prevention or fire code official as designated by the fire chief.

B. “Fire code official” shall mean the fire marshal of fire prevention for the city of Mount Vernon.

C. Wherever the term “corporation counsel” is used, it means the attorney for the city.

D. Wherever the word “jurisdiction” is used, it means the city of Mount Vernon.

E. “As-built plans” shall mean drawings, blueprints or sketches that accurately reflect the configurations of equipment or system as it is installed on the premises. As-built plans shall have a north arrow, dimensions, and a full floor plan with symbols to identify components of the equipment or system.

F. “Fire apparatus access road” shall mean a road that provides fire apparatus access to a facility, building or portion thereof. This term is inclusive of all other terms such as fire lanes, public street, private street or driveway.

G. “International Fire Code” shall mean the edition of the International Fire Code adopted within MVMC 15.08.020, including Appendices B and D, as published by the International Code Council, as adopted by the Washington State Building Code Council together with supplements thereto and subject to the modifications set forth by the state of Washington in Chapters 51-44 and 51-45 WAC.

H. “NFPA” shall mean National Fire Protection Association.

I. “Watchman or caretakers quarters” shall mean a dwelling unit located on the site of a nonresidential use in approved zones as outlined in MVMC Title 17. The space shall be occupied only by a caretaker or guard and where the space is not more than 750 square feet in size or a fraction thereof and has a minimum of two means of egress, one of which is a direct discharge from the structure through an approved separation.

Exception: In zones allowed and where the building is fully sprinklered and approved egress is provided, the square footage shall not be limited. (Ord. 3825 § 12, 2021).

15.08.040 Establishment and duties of the bureau of fire prevention.

A. The fire prevention bureau shall be under the direction of the chief of the fire department.

B. The Mount Vernon fire code shall be enforced by the bureau of fire prevention in the fire department of the city, which is hereby established and which shall be operated under the supervision of the fire marshal of fire prevention.

C. The fire marshal of fire prevention of the bureau of fire prevention shall also be the fire marshal for the city and be appointed by the chief of the fire department.

D. The chief of the fire department may detail such members of the fire department as inspectors as shall from time to time be necessary. The chief of the fire department shall recommend to the mayor the employment of technical inspectors who, when such authorization is made, shall be selected through an examination to determine their fitness for the position. The examination shall be open to members and nonmembers of the fire department, and appointments made after examination shall be for an indefinite term with removal only for cause. (Ord. 3685 § 1, 2016).

15.08.050 Establishment of limits of districts in which storage of flammable or combustible liquids in outside aboveground tanks is prohibited.

The limits referred to in Sections 5704.2.9.5 and 5704.2.9.6.1 of the International Fire Code in which the storage of flammable or combustible liquids is restricted are hereby established as follows: The storage of Class I and Class II liquids shall be permitted only in C-2, P, M-1, and M-2 zones. The individual capacity of any one installation shall not exceed 10,000 gallons or 40,000 aggregate capacity in C-2, M-1, M-2 and C-L zones, and 1,000 gallons aggregate capacity in P zones. (Ord. 3825 § 13, 2021).

15.08.060 Establishment of limits in which storage of liquefied petroleum gases is to be restricted.

The limits referred to in Section 6104.2 of the International Fire Code, in which storage of liquefied petroleum gas is restricted, are hereby established as follows: The storage of LP gas shall be restricted for the protection of heavily populated or congested commercial areas; the aggregate capacity of any one installation shall not exceed a 2,000-gallon water capacity. (Ord. 3685 § 1, 2016).

15.08.070 Establishment of limits of districts in which storage of explosives and blasting agents to be prohibited.

The limits referred to in Section 5601.2.3 of the International Fire Code, in which storage of explosives and blasting agents is prohibited, are hereby established as follows: The storage of explosive material shall be permitted only in M-2 zones. (Ord. 3685 § 1, 2016).

15.08.080 Establishment of limits of districts in which the storage of compressed natural gas is to be prohibited.

In accordance with Section 104.1 of the International Fire Code in which supplemental policies and regulations are authorized: The storage of CNG shall be restricted for the protection of heavily populated or congested commercial areas; the aggregate capacity of any one installation shall not exceed 183,000 cubic feet. (Ord. 3685 § 1, 2016).

15.08.090 Establishment of limits of districts in which the storage of stationary containers of flammable cryogenic fluids are to be prohibited.

The limits referred to in Section 5504.3.1.1 of the International Fire Code in which the storage of cryogenic fluids in stationary containers is prohibited is hereby established as follows: The storage of flammable cryogenic fluids shall be restricted for the protection of heavily populated or congested areas; the aggregate capacity of any one installation shall not exceed 75,000 gallons. The storage of flammable cryogenic fluids shall be permitted only in C-1, C-3, LC, M-1, M-2 and P zones. (Ord. 3685 § 1, 2016).

15.08.100 Establishment of limits of districts in which the storage of hazardous materials is to be prohibited or limited.

In accordance with Section 104.1 of the International Fire Code in which supplemental policies and regulations are authorized: The storage of hazardous material shall be restricted for the protection of heavily populated or congested commercial areas. The storage of hazardous materials is permitted only in C-1, C-3, LC, M-1, M-2 and P zones. (Ord. 3685 § 1, 2016).

15.08.110 Amendments – General.

Pursuant to authority granted by the Revised Code of Washington under the State Building Code Act, the following amendments to the edition of the International Fire Code adopted within MVMC 15.08.020, and Appendices B and D are hereby adopted and apply within this jurisdiction. (Ord. 3825 § 14, 2021).

15.08.120 International Fire Code – Chapter 1 – Amended.

Chapter 1 of the International Fire Code is amended in the following sections and shall read as follows:

A. Section 104.6, Official Records.

The fire code official shall keep official records as required by Sections 104.6.1 through 104.6.4. Such official records shall be retained in accordance with the State of Washington Local Government Record Retention Schedules.

B. Section 104.11.2, Obstructing Operations.

No person shall obstruct the operations of the fire department in connection with extinguishment or control of any fire or actions relative to the emergency, to include the investigation of the fire for cause and origin. No person shall disobey any lawful command of the fire chief, commissioned officer or acting officer of the fire department in charge of the emergency, or any part thereof, or any lawful order of a police officer assisting the fire department.

C. Section 105.2.2, Inspection Authorized.

Before an operational permit is approved, the fire code official is authorized to inspect the receptacles, vehicles, buildings, devices, premises, storage spaces or areas used to determine compliance with this code or any operational constraints required. Inspections for operational permits shall occur with new business inspections and annual inspections. The operational permit shall not be issued until all requirements of this code are met.

D. Section 105.2.3, Time Limitations of Applications.

Fire permit applications shall be subject to the requirements of MVMC 14.05.110.

E. Section 105.3.1, Expiration.

1. An operational permit shall remain in effect until reissued, renewed or revoked, or for such a period of time as specified in the permit.

2. Issued construction permits shall expire within the time frames outlined in MVMC 14.05.140.

F. Section 105.4.1, Submittals.

Construction documents and supporting data shall be submitted electronically with each application for a permit and in such form and detail as required by the MVMC Chapter 14.05 and the fire code official. The construction documents shall be prepared by a certified or registered professional as listed.

Commercial kitchen hood systems including fire suppression designers and installers shall hold a current certification for the system submitted for review.

G. Section 106.2.3, Special Inspections.

The fire code official is authorized to require special inspections for any permit by an approved agency at no cost to the city. The special inspection shall be completed by a qualified person who shall demonstrate competence to the satisfaction of the fire code official, for the inspection of the particular type of construction or operation requiring the special inspection.

H. Section 106.2.3.1, Report Requirements.

Special inspectors shall keep records of inspections. The special inspector shall furnish inspection reports to the fire code official. Reports shall indicate the work inspected, acceptance of work or corrections required per approved construction documents and nationally recognized reference installation standards. A correction noticed shall be left on site with the project supervisor and a copy forwarded to the fire code official.

I. Section, 109 Board of Appeals. Sections 109.1 and 109.3, establishing a board of appeals and setting forth qualifications, are hereby repealed.

Section 109.2 Limitations on authority is amended to read as follows: an application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the intent of this code or the rules legally adopted hereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply, or an equivalent method of protection or safety is proposed. The Hearing Examiner shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code.

J. 110.4, Violation Penalties.

Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in violation of approved construction documents or directive of the fire code official or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code shall be subject to civil and criminal penalties described below:

a. Mount Vernon Municipal Code Title 19, Code Enforcement.

b. Beginning work or completion of without a permit. The person or company responsible for the work will receive additional fees as outlined in MVMC 15.08.170, Fees.

(Ord. 3825 § 15, 2021).

15.08.125 International Fire Code 2015 – Chapter 2 – Amended.

Chapter 2 of the edition of the International Fire Code adopted under MVMC 15.08.020, the following definitions shall be added:

Private fire hydrant – Means a fire hydrant on the flow side of a DCDA valve for the protection of a building or multiple buildings where the water utility district doesn’t take ownership of such water main and valves, including fire hydrants.

Public fire hydrant – Means a fire hydrant connected to the water utilities mains and is situated so that the fire department has access at all times without restriction.

Water Utility District – Means Skagit County Public Utility District #1 (PUD#1).

(Ord. 3825 § 16, 2021).

15.08.127 International Fire Code – Chapter 3 – Amended.

Chapter 3 of the International Fire Code is amended in the following sections and shall read as follows:

A. Subsection 308.1.4, Open-Flame Cooking Devices.

Charcoal burners and other open flame cooking devices including portable fire pits shall not be operated on combustible balconies covered egress paths or within 10 feet of combustible construction.

Exception:

1. Single family dwellings.

2. Where buildings, balconies, decks and cover egress pathways are protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system.

3. LP-gas container with a water capacity not greater than 2 1/2 pounds.

B. Subsection 308.1.6.3, Sky Lanterns.

The use of, transfer, discharge or sale of sky lanterns shall be prohibited within the city limits of Mount Vernon.

(Ord. 3825 § 17, 2021).

15.08.129 International Fire Code – Chapter 4 – Amended.

Repealed by Ord. 3825. (Ord. 3685 § 1, 2016).

15.08.130 International Fire Code – Chapter 5 – Amended.

Chapter 5 of the International Fire Code is amended in the following sections and shall read as follows:

A. Section 503.1, Fire Apparatus Access Roads.

Fire apparatus access roads shall be approved and maintained in accordance with the following sections. Plans for fire apparatus access roads shall be submitted to the fire department for review and approval prior to construction.

B. Section 503.1.1, Building 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 shall comply with the requirements of this section and shall extend to within 150 feet (45,720 mm) of all portions of the facility and all portions of the exterior walls of the first story of the building as measured by an approved route around the exterior of the building or facility. Measuring distance for fire apparatus roads shall start at the finished edge of an approved right of way as defined by Mount Vernon City Standards.

Exception:

The fire code official is authorized to increase the dimension of 150 feet (45,720 mm) where:

1. The building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3.

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

3. There are not more than two Group R-3 or Group U occupancies.

C. Section 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 terrain, climatic conditions or other factors that could limit access to commercial developments.

D. Section 503.2, Specifications.

Fire apparatus access roads shall be installed and arranged in accordance with Sections 503.2.1 through 503.2.7, Appendix D of the edition of the International Fire Code adopted under MVMC 15.08.020, and MVMC Chapter 16.16.

E. Section 503.2.1, Dimensions.

Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches.

Exceptions:

1. Approved security gates in accordance with Section 503.6 and Appendix D Subsection D103.5.

2. Approved aerial fire apparatus access roads in accordance with Appendix D, Section 105.

3. Where fire hydrants are present, the fire apparatus access road shall be in accordance with Appendix D, Section 103.

F. Section 503.2.2, Authority.

The fire code official shall have the authority to require an increase in the minimum access widths where they are inadequate for fire service operations.

G. Section 503.2.4, Turning Radius.

The required inside turning radius of a fire apparatus access road shall be 28 feet. The outside radius shall be 45 feet.

H. Section 503.2.5, Dead Ends.

Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet in length measured from the finished edge of a public or private street, alley or lane to the end of the fire apparatus access road shall have an approved turn around for fire apparatus. The following are approved styles.

Exception: Where an approved automatic sprinkler system is installed throughout a building in accordance with 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 and 903.1.2 the fire code official may waive or reduce fire apparatus turn arounds.

Dead ends more than 250 feet in length measured from the finished edge of a public street or Private Street, alley or lane to the end of the fire apparatus access road shall be a minimum of 26 feet wide with an approved turn around.

Table

Requirements for Dead-End Fire Apparatus Access Roads
LENGTH (feet)	WIDTH (feet)	TURNAROUNDS REQUIRED
0-150	20	None required
151-750	26	120-foot Hammerhead, 60-foot “Y” or 90-foot-diameter cul-de-sac
Over 750	Special approval required

I. Section 503.2.6, Bridges and Elevated Surfaces.

Where a bridge or an elevated surface is part of a fire apparatus access road, the bridge shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with the City of Mount Vernon Engineering Standards. Bridges and elevated surfaces shall be designed for a live load sufficient to carry the imposed loads of fire apparatus.

Vehicle load limits shall be posted at both entrances to bridges when required by the fire code official. Where elevated surfaces designed for emergency vehicle use are adjacent to surfaces which are not designed for such use, approved barriers, approved signs or both shall be installed and maintained when required by the fire code official.

J. Section 503.2.8, Angle of Approach and Departure.

The angles of approach and departure for fire apparatus roads shall be within the limits established by the fire code official based on the fire department’s apparatus.

K. Section 503.3, Marking.

Where required by the fire code official, approved signs or other approved notices shall be provided for fire apparatus access roads to identify such roads or prohibit the obstruction thereof. Signs or notices shall be maintained in a clean and legible condition at all times and is replaced or repaired when necessary to provide adequate visibility. The following shall be the approved fire lane marking:

1. Curbs shall be painted dark red on the face and top of the curb. 4 inch tall white letters, block style shall be stenciled over the dark red paint on the face side of the curb. The letter reading “NO PARKING FIRE LANE” shall be stenciled every 30 feet or at least once per planter island.

2. Where curbs are not present, a minimum of a 12 inch wide dark red painted stripe shall run the entire length of the fire lane. 12 inch tall, white block style letters shall be stenciled over the top of the dark red painted stripe reading “NO PARKING FIRE LANE” every 30 feet.

3. No parking signs in accordance with Appendix D, Section D103.6.

4. Fire hydrants access shall be marked in one of the approved methods listed above. The restricted area being identified shall be from the center line of the fire hydrant, 15 feet to each side for a total of 30 feet an access.

5. Combination of the above.

L. Section 503.4, Obstruction of Fire Apparatus Access Roads.

Fire apparatus access roads shall not be obstructed in any manner, including the parking of vehicles. The minimum widths and clearances established in Section 503.2.1 shall be maintained at all times.

M. Section 503.4.1, Traffic Calming Devices.

Traffic calming devices shall be prohibited unless approved by the fire code official.

N. Section 503.6, Security Gates.

The installation of security gates across roads shall be approved by the fire code official. Where security gates are installed they shall be operated by an optical emitter or other device approved by the fire code official. The security gate and emergency operation shall be maintained at all times by the party responsible for the gate. Electric gate operators, where allowed shall be listed in accordance with UL 325. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed and installed to comply with requirements of ASTM F2200.

O. Section 504.4, Ground Ladder Access.

For all new buildings constructed as a single story shall allow access via ground ladder to one side of the building. The location shall be approved by the fire code official.

P. Section 505.1, Address identification.

New and existing buildings shall be provided with approved address identification. The address identification shall be legible and placed in a position that is visible from the street or road fronting the property.

Address identification characters shall contrast with their background.

Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters.

Numbers shall not be spelled out.

Each character shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm) high with a minimum stroke width of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) for single family residential. Exception: single family residential houses setback more than 100 feet shall have 6" numbers.

Each character shall be not less than 6 inches (153 mm) high with a minimum stroke width of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) for multi-family residential, commercial, and all other types occupancies. Exception: structures setback more than 100 feet shall have 15" numbers.

Where required by the fire code official, address identification shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response.

Where access is by means of a private road and the building cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification shall be maintained.

Q. Section 505.1.1, Identification Location.

The address identification required in Section 505.1 shall be placed in a position that is visible from the street or road fronting the property with an additional sign located at the driveway entrance when the building is not clearly visible from the street or road. Additional signage may be required by the Fire Code Official due to obstructed views by topography and/or vegetation.

R. Section 505.1.2, Rear Door Marking.

When vehicle access is provided to the rear of residential, commercial, industrial and warehouse buildings, the rear door’s servicing structure shall be marked to indicate address and/or unit identification with letters or numbers at least 4" high.

S. Section 505.1.3, Suite Numbers.

Buildings consisting of separate suites with the same building address shall have their suite number marked so that the suite is readily identifiable.

Suite numbers shall be a minimum of 4 inches tall, block style 0.5 stroke and contrasting in color to its background.

Suite numbers shall be installed in one of 3 locations:

i. Over the top of the door.

ii. On the door, middle upper half.

iii. To the side of the door with the latching device.

Exception: Suites located on an interior hall or corridor shall have lettering at least 2-inch high.

T. Section 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 to be installed.

The brand and style of key box shall be as required by the Fire Code Official.

Key boxes shall be installed not more than 5 feet from grade to the top of the key box and not less than 12 inches from grade. Key boxes shall be located at sprinkler riser rooms or main entrances. Buildings larger than 50,000 square feet or where fire department access is restricted the fire code official can require an additional key box.

U. Section 507.3, Fire Flow.

The fire flow requirements for buildings or portions of buildings and facilities shall be determined by Appendix B of the edition of the International Fire Code adopted under MVMC 15.08.020.

Exception: Group R-4 buildings listed in Appendix B are not adopted by WAC.

V. Section 507.5.1, Where Required.

As a condition of approval of a permit to construct or remodel a building or moved into or within the jurisdiction, fire hydrants and water mains shall be provided in accordance with Section 507. Such fire hydrants shall be installed, tested and accepted prior to construction of any building or remodel. When required, the fire code official or designee shall witness the acceptance test.

W. Section 507.5.1.1, Minimum Fire Hydrants Available.

1. The minimum number of fire hydrants available to a building shall not be less than one for every 1,000 gallons per minute or a fraction thereof based on the required fire flow from Appendix B.

Exception: where the available fire flow quantities up to 1500 gallons per minute only one fire hydrant is required.

2. Buildings requiring a fire flow of 2500 gallons per minute or more shall have fire hydrants served by a minimum 8 inch main that loops the building or complex of buildings and reconnects into a distribution supply main in a separate location.

Exception: Where property lines, topography or other features prevent a fire apparatus access to one or more sides. In that event an approved Automatic sprinkler system and fire alarm system will be installed.

X. Section 507.5.1.2, Available Fire Hydrants.

The total number of available fire hydrants will be determined by new and existing fire hydrants on site or within the maximum distance spacing as determined by Section 507.5.1.3 through 507.5.1.4

Exception: Existing fire hydrants located on opposing side of a principal arterial or minor arterial for new construction or where an addition increases the minimum required fire flow above the available fire flow shall not be counted as available fire hydrants. Fire hydrants on principal and minor arterials shall be installed so that fire hydrants alternate sides of the arterial and meet spacing requirements of 507.5.4 and 507.5.5.

Y. Section 507.5.1.3, Average Spacing in R-1 and R-A Zones.

Fire hydrants installed in R-1 (single family detached residential) and R-A (residential agricultural district) shall be spaced at intersections along public streets and approved fire apparatus access roads and no more than 500 feet between fire hydrants. The most remote portion of the first floor, exterior wall of a building shall not be more 650 feet from a fire hydrant measured in a route around the building and along the fire apparatus access road(s).

Z. Section 507.5.1.4, Average Spacing in All Other Zones.

Fire hydrants installed in any zone other the R-1 and R-A, including buildings being occupied by conditional use permits in R-1 zones shall be spaced at intersections or public and commercial streets and not more than 300 feet between fire hydrants. The most remote portion of the first floor exterior wall of a building shall not be more than 450 feet from a fire hydrant measured in a route around the building and along the fire apparatus access road(s).

AA. Section 507.5.1.5, Required Access

All fire hydrants shall be made accessible to fire department personnel by roads capable of supporting the weight loads of fire department apparatus.

BB. Section 507.5.1.3.1, Responsibilities for Private Hydrants.

Fire hydrants located on the flow side of a DCDA device or where Skagit Public Utility District No. 1 does not accept ownership of a water line and valves shall be considered a private water system and the property owner shall be responsible for maintenance and repairs.

CC. Section 509.2, Equipment Access.

Approved access shall be provided and maintained for all fire protection equipment to permit immediate safe operation and maintenance of such equipment. Storage, trash and other materials or objects shall not be placed or kept within the room or space of the fire protection equipment.

DD. Section 509.2.1, Fire Protection Equipment Rooms.

1. All buildings required by this code to have an automatic sprinkler system shall have a room dedicated for the sprinkler riser and all other related fire and life safety equipment. The room shall be located on grade level (first floor) as approved by the fire code official. The room shall have an exterior entrance with a minimum of a 36 inch door width. The room shall have a minimum of 1-hour separation and be large enough to have 3 feet of working space on the valve side of the riser.

2. Sprinkler Riser rooms shall maintain a minimum of 40 degrees and when required by the fire code official the room temperature will be monitored.

(Ord. 3825 § 19, 2021).

15.08.140 International Fire Code – Section 901.4.2 – Amended.

Repealed by Ord. 3284. (Ord. 2938, 1999).

15.08.145 International Fire Code – Chapter 6 – Amended.

Repealed by Ord. 3825. (Ord. 3685 § 1, 2016).

15.08.147 International Fire Code – Chapter 8 – Amended.

Chapter 8 of the International Fire Code is amended in the following section and shall read as follows:

A. 807.4.3.3, Upholstered Furniture in Group E Occupancies.

Upholstered furniture in Group E classrooms shall be prohibited. Upholstered furniture shall include but not limited to: couches, ottomans, chairs, beanbags, pillows and the like.

(Ord. 3685 § 1, 2016).

15.08.150 International Fire Code – Chapter 9 – Amended.

Chapter 9 of the International Fire Code is amended in the following sections and shall read as follows:

A. Section 901.5.1, Occupancy.

It shall be unlawful to occupy any portion of a building or structure until the required fire detection, alarm and suppression systems have been tested and approved. All acceptance tests shall be witnessed by the Fire Department, Fire Prevention Bureau prior to occupancy being granted.

B. Section 903.2, Where Required.

Approved automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed in all newly constructed buildings and structures with a gross floor area of 5,000 square feet or greater and in the locations described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.12.

Exceptions: Noncombustible structures that are open on all sides and are not used for the storage of combustible materials.

C. Section 903.4.2, Alarms.

Approved audible and visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided for every automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 907 and throughout areas designated by the fire code official. Sprinkler water-flow alarm devices shall be activated by water flow equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Alarm devices shall be provided on the exterior of the building in an approved location. Where a fire alarm system is installed, actuation of the automatic sprinkler system shall actuate the building fire alarm system.

Exceptions:

1. With approval of the fire code official, audible and visible alarm notification appliances may be omitted for approved residential sprinkler systems in 1 or 2 dwelling units if not otherwise specifically required.

2. Approved domestically supplied local systems with 10 heads or less per building.

D. Section 906.1, “Where required” subsection is hereby amended to delete exception to item number 1.

In all Group A, B, E, F, H, I, M, R-1, R-2, R-4 and S occupancies.

F. Group A.

E. Section 907.2, Where Required in New Buildings, Change of Use or Tenant Improvement.

1. All newly constructed commercial buildings or commercial buildings with a change of use or where an interior tenant improvement occurs and where the building or fire area is 2500 square feet or larger and not protected by an automatic fire sprinkler system shall have an automatic fire alarm system installed per NFPA 72 and the City of Mount Vernon fire alarm standards.

2. Where a watchman, guard or caretakers space is located in a nonresidential structure.

F. Section 907.7.3, Instructions.

Operating, testing and maintenance instructions and record drawings (“as builts”) and equipment specifications shall be provided at an approved location. A pictograph shall be installed next to the FACP and any remote annunciation. The Pictograph shall be computer generated, large enough to visibly read and locate all zones and devices within the building. Zones located on the pictograph shall be color coded and no two zones shall have the same color. The pictograph shall be protected from damage and mounted securely to the wall. The pictograph shall be reviewed and approved before installation.

(Ord. 3825 § 21, 2021).

15.08.153 International Fire Code – Chapter 31 – Amended.

Chapter 31 of the International Fire Code is amended in the following section and shall read as follows:

A. Section 3104.15.5, Cooking Tents.

Cooking where grease laden vapors are produced is prohibited under any tent or membrane structure. Effective date of this section shall be October 1, 2017.

Exception: Where an approved Type I hood system with an approved extinguishing system has been installed and inspected meeting requirements of 609.3.

(Ord. 3685 § 1, 2016).

15.08.155 International Fire Code – Chapter 33 – Amended.

Chapter 33 of the International Fire Code is amended in the following sections and shall read as follows:

A. Section 3310.3, Address.

An approved address shall be posted at all construction sites including PUD’s and land clearing operations.

B. Section 3312.1, Water Supply for Fire Protection.

When required an approved water supply for fire protection shall be made available. Water lines with fire hydrants in PUD’s or smaller development shall be approved and operational before combustible materials arrive. Existing buildings shall have a water supply from either an existing fire hydrant or a new fire hydrant on the property if required. Portable private water tenders shall not be allowed.

(Ord. 3685 § 1, 2016).

15.08.157 International Fire Code – Appendix B – Amended.

Appendix B of the International Fire Code is amended in the following sections and shall read as follows:

A. Section B105 (Table B105.1(1)) Exception.

1. A reduction in required fire-flow of 50 percent, as approved the entire structure is protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system. After all reasonable alternatives to meet the required fire-flow are exhausted, including the use of setbacks, area separations, and an automatic sprinkler system, if the fire flow cannot be achieved then an approved fire alarm system shall be installed and provide up to 25 percent of the fire flow.

B. Section B105 (Table B105.2) Exception.

1. A reduction in required fire-flow of 50 percent, as approved when the entire structure is protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. The resulting fire flow shall not be less than 1500 gallons per minute for the prescribed duration as specified in table B105.1.

2. After all reasonable alternatives to meet the required fire-flow are exhausted, including the use of setbacks, area separations, and an automatic sprinkler system, if the fire flow cannot be achieved then a full fire alarm system including manual pull stations shall be installed and provide up to 25 percent of the fire flow.

(Ord. 3685 § 1, 2016).

15.08.160 International Fire Code – Appendix D – Amended.

Appendix D of the International Fire Code is amended in the following sections and shall read as follows:

A. Section D103, Entitled “Minimum Specifications.”

Section D103.3 turning radius. Fire apparatus access roads shall meet minimum specifications as set forth in MVMC 15.08.130.

Section D103.4 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads shall meet minimum specification as set forth in MVMC 15.08.130 H.

(Ord. 3685 § 1, 2016).

15.08.170 Permit, plan review and inspection fees.

A. Permit, plan review and inspection fees shall be assessed for the fire protection systems and processes outlined in Tables A through J below.

Table A – COMMERCIAL PLAN REVIEW
New or tenant improvement building permits – Applies to all occupancies except Group R-3
Plan Review and Inspection Fees
Construction Valuation:		Fee:
From:	To:	Fee paid at time of building permit and includes review of civil plans associated with building reviews.
$–	$1,000	$0
$1,001	$5,000	$75
$5,001	$10,000	$150
$10,001	$20,000	$200
$20,001	$45,000	$250
$45,001	$100,000	$300
$100,001	$250,000	$400
$250,001	$500,000	$500
$500,001	$1,000,000	$600
$1,000,001	$1,500,000	$750
$1,500,001	$2,000,000	$850
> $2 million		$850 plus $100 per $500,000 over $2 million

Plats, Subdivision and PUD
Preliminary Plat		Hours spent on review multiplied by $125/hour
Final Plat		Hours spent on review multiplied by $125/hour
Short Plat		Hours spent on review multiplied by $125/hour

Table B – SPECIAL ASSEMBLY PERMITS (IFC 105.7.16)
Temporary Membrane Structures, Tents and Canopies
(See IFC 105.7.12 and IFC Chapter 31)
Per membrane structure and/or tent	$50.00

Table C – EXPLOSIVES (IFC 105.6.15)
Retail Fireworks Stand
Retail Sales	$100
Temporary Storage	$300

Table D – NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEMS (IFC 105.7.7, 105.7.11)
New, includes communicator	$550
Tenant improvement or modification, includes communicator	$350
Panel and/or communicator only replacement	$175
Gas detection systems	$150
Emergency responder radio system	$550
Smoke control or smoke exhaust systems (includes stairwell pressurization)	$550

Table E – FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS (IFC 105.7.1, 105.7.24, 105.7.26, 105.7.19)
New and tenant improvement, 20+ heads, fee per system (riser)	$550
Tenant improvement or modification fewer than 20 heads	$350
Single-family residential	$275
Standpipe systems (all classes), fee per standpipe	$250
Underground supply	$300
Fire pump, fee per unit	$300
Private fire hydrants, fee per hydrant, does not include underground supply	$75
Kitchen hood fire suppression system	$275
Fixed fire suppression system	$275

Table F – HAZARDOUS MATERIALS FACILITY CONSTRUCTION (IFC 105.7.9)
Hazardous Materials Installation, Repair, Abandonment, Removal, Closure or Substantial Improvement
Permits in addition to annual operational permit
Permits required when quantity exceeds permit amounts in Table 105.6.20

Hazardous materials system or facility	$350

Table G – COMPRESSED GASES (IFC 105.7.3) and CRYOGENIC (IFC 105.7.4) and FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS (IFC 105.7.8) and LP GAS (IFC 105.7.11)
Compressed gas system or facility	$350
Cryogenic fluid systems (outdoor stationary)	$350
Tank install (Includes LPG) 500+ gal, fee per tank	$400
Tank install (Includes LPG) < 500 gal, fee per tank	$200
Tank removal or abandonment, fee per tank	$200

Table H – SPRAY BOOTHS (IFC 105.7.14) and INDUSTRIAL OVENS (IFC 105.7.10)
Spray room, dip tank or booth, fee per unit	$350
Motor vehicle repair rooms and booths	$350
Industrial ovens	$250
Note: Separate sprinkler permit required under Table E

Table I – BATTERY SYSTEMS (IFC 105.7.2) and EMERGENCY RADIO COVERAGE (IFC 105.7.5) and SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER SYSTEMS (IFC 105.7.13)
Battery systems	$250
Solar Photovoltaic Systems	$250
Emergency radio systems	Consultant’s fee plus $150 for permit and inspection

Table J – MISCELLANEOUS FEES
Extraction systems	$550
Gates and barricades across fire apparatus roads	$350
Fuel cell power systems	$250
Capacitor energy storage systems	$250
Work begun or completed before permit issuance	Permit fees double/No inspections until paid
Permit review and/or inspections not classified within Tables A – J	$125 per hour
After-hours inspection, regular hours 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.	$125 per hour/1-hour minimum
Firefighter fire watch or standby	$125 per hour per firefighter, 2-hour minimum per firefighter
Fire flow determination	Skagit PUD (360) 424-7104
Reinspection fee for each inspection after the second site visit, or as required by the fire code official	$125
Technology fee	6% added to all plan review, inspection, and permit fees
Fee for inspection requests before system(s) are ready for testing or inspection – for systems under Chapter 9, in accordance with IFC 901.2.1	$150.00
Preventable Alarms: Buildings and/or occupancies that have more than 3 preventable alarms within a calendar year shall be charged for the fire department’s response at $175.00 per preventable alarm.
Exception: Those buildings and/or occupancies where manual fire alarms are activated by individual(s) without knowledge of the building’s occupant or owner.
For small or short duration projects the fire code official has the ability to charge an hourly fee instead of the fees outlined in Tables A – J.
Outside Consultant Review: The fire code official has the authority to require an outside consultant review. All fees associated with the outside consultant shall be paid directly to the consultant by the applicant or responsible party. An additional fee of 20% shall be applied by the fire department for the permit and inspection of the project. The 20% shall be based on the appropriate table (A – J).
Arson Investigation: Fire cause and determination investigation for fires and explosions determined to be arson shall be billed to the convicted party at $100.00 per hour per investigator for investigation, report preparation, and courtroom preparation and testimony.

(Ord. 3825 § 22, 2021).

15.08.180 Penalties.

Any person violating or failing to comply with any of the provisions in this chapter shall be subject to the enforcement provisions contained in MVMC Title 19, Code Enforcement. (Ord. 3685 § 1, 2016).