Chapter 14.20 FIRE CODE

This chapter shall be known as and may be referred to as the city of Normandy Park Fire Code. (Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.020 Adoption of International Fire Code.

The 2021 Edition of the International Fire Code (IFC) as published by the International Code Council, Inc., and as adopted by the State Building Code Council in Chapter 51-54A WAC, and including Appendix B (Fire-Flow Requirements for Buildings), Appendix C (Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution), Appendix D (Fire Apparatus Access Roads), Appendix H (Hazardous Materials Management Plan (HMMP) and Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement (HMIS) Instructions), and Appendix M (High-Rise Buildings—Retroactive Automatic Sprinkler Requirement) is hereby adopted by reference, together with the amendments, additions, deletions, and exceptions as set forth in this chapter. (Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.030 Section 104 amended – General authority and responsibility.

(1) IFC Section 104.11.1, Assistance from other agencies, is amended to read as follows:

104.10.1 Assistance from other agencies. Police and other enforcement agencies shall have authority to render necessary assistance in the investigation of fires or the enforcement of this code when requested to do so by the fire code official.

(2) IFC Section 104.12.2, Obstructing operations, is amended to read as follows:

104.2 Obstructing operations. No person shall obstruct the operations of the fire department in connection with extinguishment, control, or investigation of any fire, or actions relative to other emergencies, or disobey any lawful command of the fire chief or 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.

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.040 Section 105 amended – Permits.

(1) IFC Section 105.2.3, Time limitation of application, is amended to read as follows:

105.2.3 Time limitation of application. An application for any operational permit shall be deemed to have been abandoned 180 days after the date of filing, unless such application has been diligently prosecuted or a permit shall have been issued; except that the fire code official is authorized to grant one or more extensions of time for additional periods not exceeding 90 days each. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated.

An application for any fire protection systems construction permit shall be subject to the time limitations as prescribed in NPMC 14.05.280.

(2) IFC Section 105.3.1, Expiration, is amended to read as follows:

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. Fire protection systems construction permits expiration shall be as prescribed in NPMC 14.05.290. Permits are not transferable and any change in occupancy, operation, tenancy or ownership shall require that a new permit be issued.

(3) IFC Section 105.3.2, Extensions, is amended to read as follows:

105.3.2 Extensions. A permittee holding an unexpired operational permit shall have the right to apply for an extension of the time within which the permittee will commence work under that permit when work is unable to be commenced within the time required by this section for good and satisfactory reasons. The fire code official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of the time period of a permit for periods of not more than 180 days each. Such extensions shall be requested by the permit holder in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated.

Fire protection systems construction permits may be extended or renewed in accordance with NPMC 14.05.295.

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.050 Section 111 amended – Board of appeals.

IFC Section 109, Board of Appeals, is not adopted and is replaced as follows:

Section 111 – Means of appeal

111.1 General. Appeals shall be heard by the Hearing Examiner pursuant to NPMC 14.05.400.

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.060 Section 112 amended – Violations.

(1) IFC Section 112.1, Unlawful acts, is amended to read as follows:

Section 112.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to erect, construct, alter, extend, repair, move, remove, demolish or utilize any building, occupancy, premises, structure, property, equipment, or system regulated by this code, or cause same to be done, in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this code. Signs, tags or seals posted or affixed by the code official shall not be mutilated, destroyed or tampered with or removed without authorization from the code official.

(2) IFC Section 112.3, Notice of violation, is amended to read as follows:

Section 112.3 Violation enforcement. Violations shall be enforced as prescribed in NPMC 14.05.405.

(3) IFC Section 112.4, Violation penalties, is amended to read as follows:

Section 112.4 Violation penalties. Violation penalties shall be as prescribed in NPMC 14.05.405.

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.070 Section 113 amended – Stop work order.

IFC Section 113.4, Failure to comply, is amended to read as follows:

113.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to the effects and penalties in NPMC 14.05.405(3) and (4).

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.080 Section 107 amended – Fees.

(1) IFC Section 107.2, Schedule of permit fees, is amended to read as follows:

107.2 Schedule of permit fees. A fee for each permit shall be paid as required in accordance with the city’s contract with King County Fire District #2 and NPMC 14.05.375(2). Plan Review fees shall be in accordance with NPMC 14.05.375(3). Permit Valuations shall be determined in accordance with NPMC 14.05.375(4).

(2) IFC Section 107.4, Work commencing before permit issuance, is amended to read as follows:

107.4 Work commencing before permit issuance. Any person who commences any work, activity or operation regulated by this code before obtaining the necessary permits shall be subject to the penalties and requirements of NPMC 14.05.375(5).

(3) IFC Section 107.6, Refunds, is amended to read as follows:

107.6 Refunds. Refunds may be authorized by the City Manager or his/her designee in accordance with NPMC 14.05.375(7).

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.085 Section 202 amended – General definitions.

(1) IFC Section 202, Definitions, is amended by addition of the following:

POWER TAP. A listed device for indoor use consisting of an attachment plug on one end of a flexible cord and two or more receptacles on the opposite end, and has overcurrent protection.

SUBSTANTIALLY ALTERED. Any repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, alteration, addition or other improvement of a building or structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50 percent of the assessed value of the structure per King County Assessor before the improvement or repair is started.

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016).

14.20.090 Section 308.3 amended – Group A occupancies – Exceptions.

IFC Section 308.3, Group A occupancies – Exceptions, is amended by addition of a fourth exception to read as follows:

4. Where approved by the fire code official (see also Section 308.1.8).

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.100 Section 314.4 amended – Indoor displays – Vehicles.

Repealed by Ord. 1008. (Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.110 Section 503 amended – Fire apparatus access roads.

(1) IFC Section 503, Fire apparatus access roads, is adopted along with the following amendments.

(2) IFC Section 503.3, Marking, is amended to read as follows:

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 shall be replaced or repaired when necessary to provide adequate visibility. Marked fire apparatus access roads, or “fire lanes” as defined above 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 as needed to provide and maintain fire department access. The fire code official or his/her designee may require that areas specified for use as driveways or private thoroughfares shall be designated as fire lanes and be marked or identified as required by this Section. All designated fire lanes shall be clearly marked in the following manner:

(a) Vertical curbs (6 inch) shall be painted red on the top and side, extending the length of the designated fire lane. The pavement adjacent to the painted curbs shall be marked with minimum 18 inch in height block lettering with a minimum 3-inch brush stroke reading: “NO PARKING – FIRE LANE.” Lettering shall be red and spaced at 50-foot intervals or portions thereof, or

(b) Rolled curbs or surfaces without curbs shall have a red 6-inch-wide stripe painted extending the length of the designated fire lane. The surface adjacent to the stripe shall be marked with minimum 18 inch in height block lettering with a minimum 3-inch brush stroke reading: “NO PARKING – FIRE LANE.” Lettering shall be in red and spaced at 50-foot intervals or portions thereof, or

(i) Reflective in nature.

(ii) Red letters on white background.

(iii) Signs shall be spaced at 50-foot intervals or portions thereof apart and posted on or immediately next to the curb.

(iv) Top of signs shall be not less than 4 feet or more than 6 feet from the ground.

(v) Signs may be placed on a building when approved by the fire code official.

(vi) When posts are required they shall be a minimum of 2-inch galvanized steel or 4-inch x 4-inch pressure treated wood. Signs shall be placed so they face the direction of the vehicular travel.

(d) Diagonal red striping across the width of the Fire Lane shall be used when required by the fire code official. They shall be used in conjunction with a 6-inch red stripe and lettering indicated in item “b.” They shall run at a 30 to 60-degree angle and shall be parallel with each other. The stripes shall be a minimum of 6 inches in width and a minimum of 24 inches apart.

(3) IFC Section 503.4, Obstruction of fire apparatus roads, is amended to read as follows:

503.4 Obstruction of fire apparatus roads/fire lanes. Fire apparatus access roads/fire lanes 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.

(a) The obstruction of a designated fire lane by a parked vehicle or any other object is prohibited and shall constitute a traffic and fire hazard and be deemed an immediate hazard to life and property.

(b) No person shall stop, stand, or park a vehicle whether occupied or not within a designated Fire Lane, except; momentarily to pick up or discharge a passenger or passengers provided the driver does not leave the vehicle.

(d) Any vehicle or object obstructing a designated fire lane is hereby declared a traffic and fire hazard and may be immediately impounded pursuant to applicable state law, without prior notification to its owner. Pursuant to state law, the owner may be held responsible for all impound fees.

(e) The owner, manager, or person in charge of any property upon which designated fire lanes have been established shall provide marking as required above and, shall prevent the parking of vehicles or placement of other obstructions in such fire lanes.

(f) 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.

(g) Notice of infractions for violations of this section may be issued by any police officer.

(h) Penalties for infractions of this section shall be in accordance with NPMC 8.04.090.

(i) Each day or part of a day during which the unlawful act or violation occurs shall constitute a separate offense.

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1020 § 4 (Exh. A § 3), 2021; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.120 Section 506 amended – Key boxes – Where required.

IFC Section 506.1, Where required, is amended by the addition of a second paragraph and exception as follows:

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 fire-fighting purposes, the fire code official is authorized to require a key box to be installed in an approved location. The key box shall be of an approved type listed in accordance with UL 1037 and shall contain keys to gain necessary access as required by the fire code official.

All occupancies equipped with an automatic sprinkler system or fire alarm system shall have a key box mounted in a location approved by the fire code official.

Exception: One- and two-family dwellings.

(2) IFC Section 506 – Key boxes, is amended by addition of the following section:

506.3 Compliance. Existing buildings, gates, or barriers with non-compliant key boxes or locks installed shall comply with modification within six months of notification.

New construction installation of required key boxes shall be of the flush mount, or through-bolt type.

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.130 Section 507 amended – Fire protection water supplies.

(1) IFC 507.2, Type of water supply, is amended to read as follows, or where necessary to meet the public safety objectives of the jurisdiction:

507.2 Type of water supply. The type of water supply shall be approved by the building official, fire chief, and the water purveyor. Existing substandard water supply mains and/or hydrant installations, which serve new constructions, alterations, or additions shall be upgraded as required by the Fire Code Official. Fire hydrants and their supplying mains shall be installed to the standard of the water purveyor and shall be dedicated along with repair easements, where needed, to the purveyor. This section shall not apply to conditions existing prior to the effective date of this chapter.

(2) IFC Section 507.3, Fire flow, is amended to read as follows:

507.3 Fire flow. Fire flow requirements for buildings or portions of buildings and facilities shall be determined by use of Appendix B as amended.

Exceptions:

1. Fire flow is not required for structures under 500 square feet with a B, U or R-1 occupancy where structures are at least 30 feet from any other structure and are used only for recreation.

2. In rural and suburban areas in which adequate and reliable water supply systems do not exist, the fire code official is authorized to utilize NFPA 1142 or the International Wildland-Urban Interface Code.

(3) IFC Section 507.5.1, Where required, is amended to read as follows:

507.5.1 Where required. Where a portion of the facility or building hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction is more than 150 feet from a hydrant on a fire apparatus access road, as measured by an approved route around the exterior of the facility or building, on-site fire hydrants and mains shall be provided where required by the fire code official. Fire hydrant locations and distribution shall be in accordance with Appendix C.

Exceptions:

1. For Group R-3 and Group U occupancies, the distance requirement shall be 350 feet.

2. For Group R-3 and Group U occupancies equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system the distance requirement may be modified by the fire code official.

(4) IFC Section 507.5.1.1 Hydrant for standpipe systems is amended to read as follows:

507.5.1.1 Hydrant for standpipe and sprinkler systems.

Buildings equipped with a standpipe system installed in accordance with Section 905 and/or a sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903 shall have a fire hydrant within 50 feet (30 480 mm) of the fire department connections, if present.

Exception: The distance shall be permitted to exceed 50 feet (30 480 mm) where approved by the fire code official.

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1020 § 4 (Exh. A § 4), 2021; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.140 Section 508.1 amended – Fire command center – Penetrations.

IFC Section 508.1, General, is amended by the addition of a new subsection 508.1.2.1, Penetrations, to read as follows:

508.1.2.1 Penetrations. Penetrations into and openings through a fire command center are prohibited except for required exit doors, equipment and ductwork necessary for heating, cooling or ventilation, sprinkler branch line piping, electrical raceway for fire department communication and control and electrical raceway serving the fire command center or being controlled from the fire command center. Such penetrations shall be protected in accordance with Section 714 of the International Building Code.

Exception: Metallic piping with no joints or openings.

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.145 Section 510 amended – Emergency responder communication coverage.

IFC Section 510, Emergency responder communication coverage, is amended to read as follows:

510.1 Emergency responder communication coverage in new buildings. Approved communication coverage for emergency responders shall be provided within buildings meeting any of the following conditions:

1. High rise buildings;

2. The total building area is 50,000 square feet or more;

3. The total basement area is 10,000 square feet or more;

4. There are floors used for human occupancy more than 30 feet below the finished floor of the lowest level of exit discharge; or

5. Buildings or structures where the Fire or Police Chief determines that in-building radio coverage is critical because of its unique design, location, use or occupancy.

The communication 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 in 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 communication coverage signal strength levels of the Puget Sound Emergency Radio Network (PSERN) within the building in accordance with Section 510.4.1 without the use of a communication coverage system.

2. In facilities where emergency responder communication 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 communication coverage system.

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

510.2 Emergency responder communication coverage in existing buildings.

Existing buildings shall be provided with approved communication coverage for emergency responders as required in Chapter 11.

510.3 Permit required.

A construction permit for the installation of or modification to emergency responder communication 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 Communication System. Such approval is required from PSERN, the single operator of the county wide system.

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/

510.4 Technical requirements.

Systems, components and equipment required to provide the emergency responder communication coverage system shall comply with Sections 510.4.1 through 510.4.2.8.

510.4.1 Emergency responder communication enhancement 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.

[W] 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.

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 PSERN when transmitted from within the building.

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 communication system manager in Section 510.4.2.2.

510.4.2 System design.

The emergency responder communication coverage system shall be designed in accordance with Sections 510.4.2.1 through 510.4.2.8 and NFPA 1221 (2019).

510.4.2.1 Amplification systems and components. Buildings and structures that cannot support the required level of communication coverage shall be equipped with systems and components to enhance the public safety radio signals and achieve the required level of communication 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.

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.

510.4.2.3 Power supply sources. Emergency responder communication 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 communication coverage system at 100-percent system capacity for a duration of not less than 12 hours.

[W] 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 gains under all operating conditions.

5. Bi-Directional Amplifiers (BDAs) used in emergency responder communication 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 communication 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).

510.4.2.5 System monitoring. The emergency responder communication 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 communication enhancement system, a single automatic supervisory signal may be annunciated on the fire alarm system indicating deficiencies of the communication 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 emergency responder communication enhancement system.

510.4.2.6 Additional frequencies and change of frequencies.

The emergency responder communication 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.

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.

510.4.2.8 Radio communication antenna density.

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

Exceptions:

1. Class A narrow band signal booster devices with independent AGC/ALC circuits per channel.

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

[W] 510.5 Installation requirements. The installation of the public safety communication coverage system shall be in accordance with NFPA 1221 and Sections 510.5.1 through 510.5.7.

510.5.1 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.

510.5.2 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 operator’s 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.

510.5.3 Acceptance test procedure. Where an emergency responder communication 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 510.5.3(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 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 510.5.3(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 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 incorporating Class B signal booster devices or Class B broadband fiber remote devices shall be tested using two portable radios simultaneously conducting subjective voice quality checks. One portable radio shall be positioned not greater than 10 feet (3048 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. Documentation maintained on premises. 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 communication 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 510.5.3(2) and 510.5.3(3).

c. Data sheets and/or manufacturer specifications for the emergency responder communication 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. Acceptance test reporting to fire code official. 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 to the fire code official a report of the acceptance test by way of the department’s third-party vendor.

510.5.4 FCC compliance.

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

WS 510.5.5 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.

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.

510.5.7 Identification Signs. Emergency responder communication 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 Communication Coverage System. Control Equipment located in room_____”.

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

510.6 Maintenance.

The emergency responder communication coverage system shall be maintained operational at all times in accordance with Sections 510.6.1 through 510.6.47.

[W] 510.6.1 Testing and proof of compliance. The owner of the building or owner’s authorized agent shall have the emergency responder communication 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 Section 510.5.3 “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 hour 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 510.5.2 are sufficient for the personnel performing this testing.

5. Other 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.

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 510.5.3.

510.6.1.1 Alternative In-building coverage test. When the comprehensive test documentation required by Section 510.5.3 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 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 510.5.3, or as modified by the fire code official; and

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 communication 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 communication coverage verification testing described in 510.5.3 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.

510.6.2 Additional frequencies.

The building owner shall modify or expand the emergency responder communication 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 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.

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.

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 communication coverage or to disable a system that due to malfunction or poor maintenance has the potential to impact the emergency responder communication system in the region.

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1020 § 4 (Exh. A § 5), 2021; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020).

14.20.150 Section 602 amended – Building services and systems – Definitions.

IFC Section 602.1, Definitions, is amended by addition of the following:

POWER TAP.

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.160 Section 1203.2.11 amended – Emergency and standby power systems – High-rise buildings.

IFC Section 1203.2.11, High-rise buildings, is amended to include new subsection 1203.2.11.1, Penetrations, as follows:

1203.2.11.1, Penetrations. Penetrations into and openings through a room containing a standby power system are prohibited except for required exit doors, equipment and ductwork necessary for heating, cooling or ventilation, sprinkler branch line piping, or electrical raceway serving the standby power system or being controlled by the standby power system. Such penetrations shall be protected in accordance with Section 714 of the International Building Code.

Exception: Metallic piping with no joints or openings where it passes through the standby power system room.

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.170 Section 901 amended – Fire protection systems.

(1) IFC Section 901.4.3, Fire Areas, is amended to include a second paragraph as follows:

901.4.3 Fire areas. Where buildings, or portions thereof, are divided into fire areas so as not to exceed the limits established for requiring a fire protection system in accordance with this chapter, such fire areas shall be separated by fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the International Building Code or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the International Building Code, or both, having a fire-resistance rating of not less than that determined in accordance with Section 707.3.10 of the International Building Code.

For the purpose of this section, fire barriers shall not be used to reduce the calculation of floor areas in this chapter for newly constructed buildings with a gross floor area of 5,000 square feet or greater and existing buildings undergoing a modification or change of use with a cumulative work area of 5,000 square feet or greater.

(2) IFC Section 901.4, Fire protection and life safety systems, is amended by the addition of a new subsection 901.4.8, Additions, change of use, alterations and repairs to buildings, to read as follows:

901.4.8 Additions, change of use, alterations and repairs to buildings. Additions, change of use, alterations and repairs to buildings shall comply with the International Existing Building Code.

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.180 Section 903.2 amended – Automatic sprinkler systems – Where required.

IFC Section 903.2, Where required, is amended to read as follows:

903.2 Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new buildings and structures shall be provided in the locations described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.12, WAC 51-50-903, and in all new and substantially altered buildings with a gross work area of 5,000 square feet or greater, regardless of type or use.

Exceptions: 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 IBC Section 707 Fire Barriers or not less than 2-hour horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with IBC Section 711 Horizontal Assemblies, or both.

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.190 Section 907 amended – Fire alarm and detection systems.

(1) IFC Section 907.1.3, Equipment, is amended to read as follows:

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 the approved supervising station.

(2) IFC Section 907.1, General, is amended by addition of the following section:

907.1.4 System installation. Fire alarm systems shall be installed and maintained in accordance with this code by persons under the direct supervision of individuals that have factory training and certification on the system being installed. Plans submitted for Fire Alarm System permits shall be prepared under the supervision of individuals possessing a NICET (National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies) Level III certification in Fire Alarm Systems; or shall be licensed by the State of Washington as a Professional Fire Protection or Electrical Engineer or certified by the State of Washington. Plans shall identify certification and/or licensing information.

(3) IFC Section 907.8.4, Inspection, testing and maintenance, is amended by addition of a second paragraph to read as follows:

907.8.4 Inspection, testing and maintenance. The building owner shall be responsible to maintain the fire and life safety systems in an operable condition at all times. Service personnel shall meet the qualification requirements of NFPA 72 for inspection, testing and maintenance of such systems. A written record shall be maintained and shall be made available to the fire code official.

It shall be the responsibility of an owner of the apartment building, upon every change in tenancy of a dwelling unit, to inspect the fire warning system within such dwelling unit to determine if the same is in operating condition. If the same is not in operating condition, the owner shall repair or replace the same and shall not allow occupancy of such dwelling unit until the fire warning system therein is operating properly. During the term of any tenancy of a dwelling unit in an apartment building, it shall be the responsibility of the tenant, and not the owner, to maintain the fire warning system therein in operating condition.

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.200 Section 5704.2 amended – Flammable and combustible liquids – Storage.

(1) IFC Section 5704.2.9.6.1, Locations where above-ground tanks are prohibited, is amended to read as follows:

5704.2.9.6.1 Locations where above-ground tanks are regulated. Storage of Class I and II liquids in above-ground tanks outside of buildings is subject to the requirements of Chapter 18.36 NPMC – “Critical Areas Development Regulations.”

(2) IFC Section 5704.2.11.1, Location, is amended to read as follows:

5704.2.11.1 Location. Flammable and combustible liquid storage tanks located underground, either outside or under buildings, shall be in accordance with all of the following:

1. Tanks shall be located with respect to existing foundations and supports such that the loads carried by the latter cannot be transmitted to the tank.

2. The distance from any part of a tank storing liquids to the nearest wall of a basement, pit, cellar, or lot line shall not be less than 3 feet (914 mm).

3. A minimum distance of 1 foot (305 mm), shell to shell, shall be maintained between underground tanks.

4. Tank location shall be in accordance with the limitations of Chapter 18.36 NPMC – “Critical Areas Development Regulations.”

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1020 § 4 (Exh. A § 6), 2021; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.210 Section 5706.2.4.4 amended – Special operations – Storage and dispensing of flammable and combustible liquids on farms and construction sites – Locations where above-ground tanks are prohibited.

IFC Section 5706.2.4.4, Locations where above-ground tanks are prohibited, is amended to read as follows:

5706.2.4.4 Locations where above-ground tanks are regulated. The storage of Class I and II liquids in above-ground tanks is subject to the requirements of Chapter 18.36 NPMC – “Critical Areas Development Regulations.”

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.220 Section 5806.2 amended – Flammable cryogenic fluids – Limitations.

IFC Section 5806.2, Limitations, is amended to read as follows:

5806.2 Limitations. Storage of flammable cryogenic fluids in stationary containers outside of buildings is subject to the requirements of Chapter 18.36 NPMC – “Critical Areas Development Regulations.”

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.230 Section 6104.2 amended – Location of LP-gas containers – Maximum capacity within established limits.

IFC Section 6104.2, Maximum capacity within established limits, is amended to read as follows:

6104.2 Maximum capacity within established limits. The aggregate capacity for the storage of Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) of any one installation shall not exceed 2,000 gallons water capacity, except that in particular installations this capacity limit may be altered at the discretion of the fire code official after consideration of special features such as topographical conditions, nature of the occupancy and proximity to buildings, capacity of proposed tanks, degree of private fire protection to be provided, and facilities of the fire department.

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020; Ord. 937 § 3 (Exh. C), 2016; Ord. 897 § 3 (Exh. C), 2013; Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.240 Section 4603.7.1 amended – Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms – Where required.

Repealed by Ord. 897. (Ord. 857 § 12 (Exh. C), 2010).

14.20.245 Chapter 80 Referenced Standards amended – NFPA – 1221-19.

NFPA 1221-19: Standard for the Installation, Maintenance and Use of Emergency Services Communications Systems 510.1, 510.4.2, 510.5. (Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1020 § 4 (Exh. A § 7), 2021).

14.20.250 Appendix B, Section B105.2 – Fire-flow requirements for buildings.

IFC Appendix B, Section B105.2, Fire-flow requirements for buildings, is amended as follows:

B105.2 Buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 buildings and townhouses. The minimum fire-flow and flow duration for buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 buildings and townhouses shall be as specified in Tables B105.2 and B105.1(2).

Exception: A reduction in required fire-flow of up to 75 percent, as approved, is allowed when the building is provided with 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 specified in footnotes a and b of Table B105.2 for the prescribed duration as specified in Table B105.1(2).

(Ord. 1064 § 4 (Exh. C), 2024; Ord. 1008 § 4 (Exh. C), 2020).