Chapter 16.32
FIRE CODE Revised 8/24
16.32.000 Chapter Contents
Sections:
16.32.020 Definitions.
16.32.045 Inspection fee -- Assessed.
16.32.046 Inspection fee -- Payment obligation.
16.32.047 Inspection fee -- Collection procedure.
16.32.048 Inspection fee -- Applicability.
16.32.050 Access roadways for fire apparatus.
16.32.053 Chapter 9, Section 904 amended.
16.32.060 Flammable liquid storage.
16.32.070 Liquefied petroleum gas storage.
16.32.080 Add Section 905.11, International Fire Code -- Standpipe Systems in Marinas. Revised 8/24
16.32.090 Deletions.
16.32.095 Adoption of codes of National Fire Protection Association.
16.32.100 Enforcement.
16.32.110 Violations -- Misdemeanor -- Gross Misdemeanor -- Civil Infraction.
16.32.120 International Fire Code, Appeals.
16.32.130 Add Subsection 3001.3 Compressed Natural Gas to International Fire Code Section 3001.
16.32.140 Amendment of Section 903.2.8 of the International Fire Code.
(Ord. 7271 §10, 2021; Ord. 6722 §5, 2010, repealed Sections 16.32.051 and 16.32.150; Ord. 6635 §2, 2009, repealed Section 16.32.010; Ord. 6463 §4-5, 2007; Ord. 6310 §25, §28, §31, §32, 2004).
16.32.020 Definitions
For the purposes of this chapter:
A. Corporation Counsel. Whenever "corporation counsel" is used in the International Fire Code, it means the city attorney of the city of Olympia.
B. Jurisdiction. Whenever "jurisdiction" is used in the International Fire Code, it means the city of Olympia.
C. For the purpose of this chapter, whenever the term "bulk storage" is used in the International Fire Code, it means a single or multiple container exceeding 124 gallons (472.3L) water capacity.
(Ord. 7026 §3, 2016; Ord. 6854 §3, 2013; Ord. 6722 §5, 2010; Ord. 5799 §16, 1998; Ord. 3701 §3, 1972).
16.32.045 Inspection fee -- Assessed
The fire chief, or the fire chief’s designee, is authorized to assess a base rate for inspections made of commercial and multifamily buildings under International Fire Code Chapter 1, Section 104. The base rate shall be assessed at the time the inspection is made. The initial amount of said base rate shall be based on the following formula for each building or occupancy as determined by the fire chief or his or her designee:
(Square Foot Factor)* multiplied by (Degree of Difficulty Factor)** multiplied by (Base Rate)*** = Inspection Fee
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*Square Foot Factor: |
||
|
#1 |
= |
0 - 1,000 Sq. Ft. |
|
#2 |
= |
1,001 - 3,000 Sq. Ft. |
|
#3 |
= |
3,001 - 10,000 Sq. Ft. |
|
#4 |
= |
10,001 - 40,000 Sq. Ft. |
|
#5 |
= |
40,001 - 80,000 Sq. Ft. |
|
#6 |
= |
80,001 Sq. Ft. or higher |
** Degree of Difficulty Factor:
#1 - Low. Basic fire inspection on fire extinguishers, exiting, combustible storage, minimal International Fire Code knowledge.
#2 - Medium. Basic (1) plus knowledge on hood/duct systems, fire extinguishing systems, fire alarm systems. Considerable knowledge on International Building Code, International Fire Code, and their adopting ordinances, National Fire Protection Association 13 (Installation of Sprinkler Systems), National Fire Protection Association 72 (National Fire Alarm Code), National Fire Protection Association 96 (Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operation).
#3 - High. Extensive knowledge of (1) and (2) plus International Building Code, International Fire Code, National Fire Protection Association, National Electrical Code, International Mechanical Code, and their adopting ordinances. Special hazards, flammable and combustible liquids, special systems (CO2-Carbon Dioxide Extinguishing System).
*** Base Rate = $39.00 commencing January 1, 2009. Commencing January 1, 2010 and each year thereafter on January 1, the Base Rate shall be increased by the Seattle CPI-W (June) for the previous year, but no less than two percent (2%). Such Base Rate increases shall be rounded up to the nearest dollar.
This fee shall cover the initial inspection and one follow-up visit. Any additional follow-up inspections necessitated by noncompliance and inspections for which no fee is specifically indicated, shall be billed at $85.00 per hour.
(Ord. 7187 §3, 2019; Ord. 7026 §3, 2016; Ord. 6854 §3, 2013; Ord. 6722 §5, 2010; Ord. 6599 §1, 2008; Ord. 6293 §1, 2003; Ord. 6239 §1, 2002; Ord. 6154 §1, 2001; Ord. 6063 §1, 2000; Ord. 5976 §1, 1999; Ord. 5854 §1, 1998; Ord. 5520 §2, 1995; Ord. 4971 §1, 1989).
16.32.046 Inspection fee -- Payment obligation
The obligation to pay the fee assessed in Section 16.32.045 shall fall to the tenant or the owner of the building as determined pursuant to an inspection accounts process established by the Olympia Fire Department.
(Ord. 7026 §3, 2016; Ord. 6854 §3, 2013; Ord. 6722 §5, 2010; Ord. 4984 §1, 1989; Ord. 4971 §2, 1989).
16.32.047 Inspection fee -- Collection procedure
The fees established in Section 16.32.045 shall be billed directly to the party responsible by the director of administrative services. For accounts delinquent for more than 30 days, the director is authorized to assess a monthly fee of $5.00 or one percent, whichever is greater, and may revoke the business license of the party responsible after giving that party an informal hearing to show cause why the license should not be revoked; or the director may use any other lawful means to collect the obligation, including the use of collection agencies.
(Ord. 7026 §3, 2016; Ord. 6854 §3, 2013; Ord. 6722 §5, 2010; Ord. 4971 §3, 1989).
16.32.048 Inspection fee -- Applicability
Sections 16.32.045 through 16.32.048 shall equally apply to buildings owned or leased or otherwise used by other governmental jurisdictions and to buildings generally for which a business license has not been procured, insofar as such buildings are within the coverage of the International Fire Code. Collection of the fees from said jurisdiction shall be accomplished by any available legal means.
(Ord. 7026 §3, 2016; Ord. 6854 §3, 2013; Ord. 6722 §5, 2010; Ord. 4971 §4, 1989).
16.32.050 Access roadways for fire apparatus
A. Every building hereafter constructed shall be accessible to fire department apparatus by way of access roadways constructed to the standards contained in the Development Guidelines and Public Works Standards adopted by reference in this code, and capable of supporting the imposed loads of fire apparatus and having a minimum of 13' 6" of vertical clearance. All required roadways in excess of 150' that dead end shall have a turnaround area with a minimum inside radius of 30' with a minimum of 20' unobstructed roadway measured from any point on the perimeter. In addition, all required access roadway grades shall conform to the following:
1. Positive transition grades shall be no greater than ten percent in 20' measured at any point. Steeper grades in 20' behind the sidewalk may be allowed if profiles are submitted to the engineering and fire departments for approval, including a design grade that will allow clearance for fire apparatus.
2. Negative transition grades shall be no greater than eight percent for a distance of 12'. Steeper grades in 12' behind the sidewalk may be allowed if profiles are submitted to the engineering and fire departments for approval, indicating a clearance for fire apparatus.
3. Roadway and driveway surfaces shall be all weather (one layer of asphalt over approved base per City of Olympia Engineering Design Standards) prior to the commencement of vertical combustible construction.
Exception: When there are not more than two group R, Division 3 or M occupancies, as defined in the building code, the requirement of this section may be modified when, in the opinion of the chief, firefighting or rescue operations would not be impaired.
B. The required width of access roadways shall not be obstructed in any manner, including parking vehicles, NO PARKING/FIRE LANE signs and/or other appropriate notice prohibiting obstructions may be required and shall be maintained.
C. The access roadway shall be extended to within 150' of all portions of the exterior walls of the first story of any building. Where the access roadway cannot be provided, approved fire protection system or systems shall be provided as required and approved by the chief.
D. Where fire protection systems approved by the chief are provided, the clearances required in this section may be modified.
E. The chief shall have the authority to require an increase in the minimum access widths where such width is not adequate for fire or rescue operations.
F. Access width requirements:
1. Twenty (20) feet:
a. All commercial development - no exceptions.
b. Three or more single family.
c. More than two duplexes.
d. Apartment buildings.
2. Fifteen (15) feet:
a. Two or fewer single family or two duplexes.
3. Twelve (12) feet:
a. Under certain conditions, the Olympia Fire Department, at its discretion, will allow a reduction in access.
4. Turn-around required:
a. When required:
i. Three single family dwellings or more.
ii. Three duplex structures or more.
iii. Apartment buildings.
b. Thirty-foot inside radius with 20-foot minimum width for streets/driveways in excess of 150 feet.
Where their standards cannot be met due to impracticality, the Fire Chief may allow fixed fire protective systems to substitute for required roadways and turn-arounds.
(Ord. 7026 §3, 2016; Ord. 6854 §3, 2013; Ord. 6722 §5, 2010; Ord. 6310 §24, 2004; Ord. 5799 §17, 1998; Ord. 5520 §3, 1995; Ord. 5296 §3, 1992; Ord. 4521 §2, 1984; Ord. 4395 §3, 1982; Ord. 4029 §1, 1977).
16.32.053 Chapter 9, Section 904 amended
For installation of commercial type food heat processing equipment that produces grease laden vapors, NFPA 96 and the most current adopted Edition of the International Mechanical Code, shall be used, to include hood and ducts, spacing from combustibles including shaft enclosures, and fire extinguishing systems.
1. All new installations, reinstallations or retrofits shall conform to the requirements of FM300 or NFPA 17A.
2. In no case shall a dry chemical suppression system be installed, reinstalled, altered or expanded.
3. Where a conflict occurs between NFPA 96 and the International Mechanical Code, the more restrictive applies.
(Ord. 7026 §3, 2016; Ord. 6854 §3, 2013; Ord. 6722 §5, 2010; Ord. 6310 §26, 2004; Ord. 5799 §19, 1998; Ord. 5520 §5, 1995).
16.32.060 Flammable liquid storage
The areas referred to in Chapter 57, Section 5704.2 of the International Fire Code where storage of flammable or combustible liquids in outside aboveground tanks is prohibited are established as follows: All use districts as defined in the zoning ordinance of the city, except UW urban waterfront districts, LI-C light industrial commercial districts and I industrial districts; provided that aboveground tanks for collection of used motor oil from the public may be permitted in any zone when in compliance with WAC 212-51 and approved by the fire department.
(Ord. 7026 §3, 2016; Ord. 6854 §3, 2013; Ord. 6722 §5, 2010; Ord. 6310 §27, 2004; Ord. 5569 §27, 1995; Ord. 5520 §6, 1995; Ord. 5296 §4, 1992; Ord. 4714 §26, 1986; Ord. 3701 §4, 1972).
16.32.070 Liquefied petroleum gas storage
The areas referred to in Chapter 61 of the International Fire Code where the bulk storage (single or multiple containers greater than 500 gallons water capacity) of liquefied petroleum gas is prohibited are established as follows: All use zones as described in the zoning ordinance of the city, except UW urban waterfront districts, LI-C light industrial commercial districts and I industrial districts.
(Ord. 7026 §3, 2016; Ord. 6854 §3, 2013; Ord. 6722 §5, 2010; Ord. 5569 §28, 1995; Ord. 5520 §7, 1995; Ord. 5028 §7, 1989; Ord. 4714 §27, 1986; Ord. 3701 §5, 1972).
16.32.080 Add Section 905.11, International Fire Code -- Standpipe Systems in Marinas Revised 8/24
The following standards are added as supplements to the current State adopted edition of the International Fire Code, Chapter 36, and is the standard for installation of standpipe systems in marinas:
1. All portions of floats exceeding 250 feet in distance from the point of fire apparatus access shall be provided with an approved dry standpipe system, installed in conformity with NFPA 14 and Chapter 36 of the International Fire Code, current State adopted edition.
2. Hose stations shall be provided at 150-foot intervals, with the most remote station a maximum of 75 feet from the end of the float. Each hose station shall be provided with two 2-1/2 inch standpipe valves with 2-1/2 inch to 1-1/2 inch reducers with caps. Installation of fire hose is not mandatory at standpipe locations. All hose station risers shall be galvanized steel.
3. Each standpipe system shall be provided with a minimum of two 2-1/2" Fire Department connections. The Fire Department connection shall be located on the shore end of the first floating dock.
4. Piping shall be minimum schedule 40 class and shall be sized to deliver 300 GPM at 65 psi residual pressure at the most remote station with a delivered pressure of 150 psi at the Fire Department connection.
5. Sectional valves shall be provided at the change of direction of each float and at each hose station. The valve shall be downstream of the hose station.
6. Each hose station shall be provided with a 4A 40 BC fire extinguisher.
7. An alarm system shall be provided, with manual fire alarm station at each hose station, visual and audible devices and shall be extended to an approved alarm receiving agency. All covered moorage in excess of 5,000 square feet shall be provided with automatic detection.
8. Pressure test. The system shall be pretested by the installing company prior to final test witnessed by the Olympia Fire Department. The system must withstand 200 psi for two hours. The final test will determine if rated flow can be supplied at most remote hose station.
(Ord. 7389 §6, 2024; Ord. 7026 §3, 2016; Ord. 6854 §3, 2013; Ord. 6722 §5, 2010; Ord. 6310 §28, 2004; Ord. 5799 §20, 1998; Ord. 5520 §8, 1995; Ord. 5296 §5, 1992; Ord. 5028 §8, 1989; Ord. 4714 §28, 1986; Ord. 4536 §4, 1984).
16.32.090 Deletions
The following sections are deleted from the International Fire Code, 2016 Edition, and shall not be considered part of the Olympia fire code: Appendix A; Appendix C; Appendix D907.3; Appendix J.
(Ord. 7026 §3, 2016; Ord. 6854 §3, 2013; Ord. 6722 §5, 2010; Ord. 6310 §29, 2004; Ord. 5799 §21, 1998; Ord. 5520 §9, 1995; Ord. 5296 §6, 1992; Ord. 5028 §9, 1989; Ord. 4714 §29, 1986; Ord. 4536 §2, 1984).
16.32.095 Adoption of codes of National Fire Protection Association
In addition to other provisions of this chapter, fire alarm systems shall be governed by NFPA 72.
(Ord. 7026 §3, 2016; Ord. 6854 §3, 2013; Ord. 6722 §5, 2010; Ord. 5799 §22, 1998; Ord. 5520 §10, 1995; Ord. 5296 §7, 1992; Ord. 5028 §10, 1989; Ord. 4714 §30, 1986; Ord. 4536 §5, 1984).
16.32.100 Enforcement
The International Fire Code shall be enforced by the chief of the fire department or the chief of the fire department’s authorized representatives including a fire marshal, assistant fire marshal, and fire inspectors.
(Ord. 7187 §3, 2019; Ord. 7026 §3, 2016; Ord. 6854 §3, 2013; Ord. 6722 §5, 2010; Ord. 6310 §30, 2004; Ord. 3701 §2, 1972).
16.32.110 Violations -- Misdemeanor -- Gross Misdemeanor -- Civil Infraction
A. Any person, firm, or corporation who knowingly violates or fails to comply with any term or provision of this chapter shall be deemed to have committed a misdemeanor, and if found guilty, shall be subject to a fine not to exceed One Thousand Dollars ($1,000), and/or to imprisonment not to exceed ninety (90) days or to both such fine and imprisonment. Each day shall be a separate offense. In the event of a continuing violation or failure to comply, the second and subsequent days shall constitute a gross misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000) and/or imprisonment not to exceed three hundred and sixty-five (365) days or both such time and imprisonment. Continuing violation shall mean the same type of violation which is committed within a year of the initial violation.
B. As an additional concurrent penalty, it shall be a civil infraction for a person, firm, or corporation to violate or fail to comply with any term or provision of this chapter. Each day shall be a separate infraction. A person, firm, or corporation found to have committed a civil infraction shall be assessed a monetary penalty as follows:
1. First offense: Class 3 ($50), not including statutory assessments.
2. Second offense arising out of the same facts as the first offense: Class 2 ($125), not including statutory assessments.
3. Third offense arising out of the same facts as the first offense: Class 1 ($250), not including statutory assessments.
See also OMC Chapter 4.44, Uniform Civil Enforcement.
(Ord. 7026 §3, 2016; Ord. 6854 §3, 2013; Ord. 6722 §5, 2010; Ord. 6081 §53, 2001; Ord. 3701 §9, 1972).
16.32.120 International Fire Code, Appeals
Appeals under this chapter may be made pursuant to OMC 18.70.170.
(Ord. 7026 §3, 2016; Ord. 6854 §3, 2013; Ord. 6722 §5, 2010; Ord. 6310 §31, 2004; Ord. 5798 §14, 1998).
16.32.130 Add Subsection 3001.3 Compressed Natural Gas to International Fire Code Section 3001
3001.3 Compressed Natural Gas. The areas referred to in Section 3001 of the new International Fire Code where the bulk storage of compressed natural gas is prohibited are established as follows: All zones as described in the zoning ordinance of the city, except UW urban waterfront districts, LI-C light industrial commercial districts, and I industrial districts.
(Ord. 7026 §3, 2016; Ord. 6854 §3, 2013; Ord. 6722 §5, 2010; Ord. 6310 §32, 2004; Ord. 5799 §23, 1998).
16.32.140 Amendment of Section 903.2.8 of the International Fire Code
OMC Section 16.32.140. Amendment of Section 903.2.8 of the International Fire Code is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.8 Group R. Except as provided in Section 903.2.8.1 below, an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area.
903.2.8.1. Group R-3. Automatic Sprinkler System Requirements. A fully automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall be designed, installed, tested and maintained per N.F.P.A. (National Fire Protection Association) 13D, RCW 18.160 and approval of the Fire Chief. The following Group R3 structures require NFPA 13D sprinkler systems:
a. New single family residential units of any size.
b. New Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) with utilities served by a residential unit that has an existing sprinkler system.
c. Any change of use to a residential structure.
d. Any structure that is being demolished and rebuilt for residential use.
e. Any structure that is adding greater than 50 percent of the existing square footage.
f. Any structure that has been damaged by fire such that greater than 50 percent of the structure is being reconstructed or is defined as substantially damaged per applicable code or as determined by the Building Official, or the Building Official’s designee, or the Fire Chief, or the Fire Chief’s designee.
g. Any modular, factory-built dwelling or mobile home that is being placed on an established mobile home or recreational vehicle park.
EXCEPTIONS:
a. Detached carports and greenhouses
b. Sheds and auxiliary structures under 200 square feet and not used for human habitation.
c. Garage conversions to ADU’s and ADU’s with utilities served by an existing single family residence that does not have an existing sprinkler system.
d. Temporary structures specifically designed as part of an emergency housing facility permitted under Chapter 18.50 OMC, or as otherwise permitted by this code, that serve as a temporary shelter to be removed at a future date as determined by the City of Olympia.
e. The removal and replacement of a modular, factory-built, or mobile home in similar kind based on square footage to be placed on an established mobile home or recreational vehicle park prior to January 1, 2021.
(Ord. 7271 §10, 2021; Ord. 7026 §3, 2016; Ord. 6854 §3, 2013; Ord. 6722 §5, 2010; Ord. 6463 §4, 2007)