Chapter 16.32
FIRE CODE

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.

16.32.051    Article 10, Section 1007 amended.

16.32.053    Article 10, Section 1006 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.

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 903.2.7 of the International Fire Code

16.32.150    Amendment of Section 903.2.10 of the International Fire Code

(Ordinance 6635 Repealed Section 16.32.010)

(Ord. 6635 §2, 2009; 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 Uniform Fire Code, it means the city attorney of the city of Olympia.

B.    Jurisdiction. Whenever "jurisdiction" is used in the Uniform Fire Code, it means the city of Olympia.

C.    For the purpose of this chapter, whenever the term "bulk storage" is used in the Uniform Fire Code, it means a single or multiple container exceeding 124 gallons (472.3L) water capacity.

(Ord. 5799 §16, 1998; Ord. 3701 §3, 1972).

16.32.045 - Inspection fee –Assessed

The fire chief, or his or her 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

*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. 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. 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. 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 Uniform Fire Code. Collection of the fees from said jurisdiction shall be accomplished by any available legal means.

(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 of 40’ radius 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.

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 shall 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.    Forty-foot 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. 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).

16.32.051 - Article 10, Section 1007 amended

Chapter 9, Section 9 - 907.20.5. NFPA 72 shall be used as standards for maintenance of the systems covered in this section.

(Ord. 6310 §25, 2004; Ord. 5799 §18, 1998; Ord. 5520 §4, 1995).

16.32.053 - Article 10, Section 1006 amended

For installation of commercial type food heat processing equipment that produces grease laden vapors, NFPA 96 and International Mechanical Code, 2003 Edition 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. 6310 §26, 2004; Ord. 5799 §19, 1998; Ord. 5520 §5, 1995).

16.32.060 - Flammable liquid storage

The areas referred to in Chapter 34, Section 3404.2 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. 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 Article 82 of the Uniform Fire Code where the bulk storage 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. 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

The following standards are added as supplements to the International Fire Code, 2003 Edition, Section 905, and shall be 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 Section 905 of the International Fire Code, 2003 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 down stream of the hose station.

6.    Each hose station shall be provided with a 2A 20 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 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. 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, 2003 Edition, and shall not be considered part of the Olympia fire code: Appendix A; Appendix C; Appendix D; Fire Alarm Systems; Standards 10-2, 10-3, 10-4.

(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. 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 referred to in Section 16.32.010 shall be enforced by the chief of the fire department. For this purpose, the chief of the fire department may appoint a fire marshal who shall serve as such at the pleasure of the chief of the fire department, and the chief of the fire department may further appoint such members of the fire department of the city as inspectors as he shall from time to time deem necessary.

(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 Code Enforcement.

(Ord. 6081 §53, 2001; Ord. 3701 §9, 1972).

16.32.120 - International Fire Code, Appeals

A.    General. In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions, or determinations made by the building official relative to the application and interpretation of this code, appeals may be made to the hearing examiner within fourteen (14) days of final decision pursuant to OMC Chapter 18.75.

B.    Limitations of Authority. The hearing examiner shall have no authority relative to interpretation of the administrative provisions of this code nor shall the hearing examiner be empowered to waive requirements of this code.

(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 ligh industrial commercial districts, and I industrial districts.

(Ord. 6310 §32, 2004; Ord. 5799 §23, 1998).

16.32.140 - Amendment of Section 903.2.7 of the International Fire Code

OMC Section 16.32.140. Amendment of Section 903.2.7 Section 903.2.7 of the International Fire Code is hereby amended to read as follows:

903.2.7 Group R. Except as provided in Section 903.2.7.1 below, an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area.

903.2.7.1. 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) 13, current edition, RCW 18.160 and the approval of the Fire Chief, in all Group R-3 structures (including additions and alterations to structures with existing sprinkler systems) when:

(a) the structures are constructed within subdivisions in which internal streets are required to be constructed in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 4, Standard Plan 4-2J of the Engineering Design and Development Standards, as the same were amended in December, 2006, except as provided below; and

(b) the application for subdivision approval for the subdivision in which the structure is located was became vested by operation of law on or after December 1, 2006.

EXCEPTIONS:

a. Detached carports and greenhouses

b. Sheds and auxiliary structures under 200 square feet and not used for human habitation.

(Ord. 6463 §4, 2007)

16.32.150 - Amendment of Section 903.2.10 of the International Fire Code

OMC Section 16.32.150. Amendment of Section 903.2.10. Section 903.2.10 of the International Fire Code is hereby amended to read as follows:

903.2.10 All occupancies except Groups R-4 and U. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in the locations set forth in Sections 903.2.10.1 through 903.2.10.1.4.

Exception: Group R-4 as applicable in Section 101.2 and Group U.

[F] 903.2.10.1 Stories and basements without openings. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout every story or basement of all buildings where the floor area exceeds 1,500 square feet (139.4m2) and where there is not provided at least one of the following types of exterior wall openings: 1. Openings below grade that lead directly to ground level by an exterior stairway complying with Section 1009 or an outside ramp complying with Section 1010. Openings shall be located in each 50 linear feet (15 240 mm), or fraction thereof, of exterior wall in the story on at least one side. 2. Openings entirely above the adjoining ground level totaling at least 20 square feet (1.86 m2) in each 50 linear feet (15 240 mm), or fraction thereof, of exterior wall in the story on at least one side.

[F] 903.2.10.1.1 Opening dimensions and access. Openings shall have a minimum dimension of not less than 30 inches (762 mm). Such openings shall be accessible to the fire department from the exterior and shall not be obstructed in a manner that fire fighting or rescue cannot be accomplished from the exterior.

[F] 903.2.10.1.2 Openings on one side only. Where openings in a story are provided on only one side and the opposite wall of such story is more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) from such openings, the story shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system, or openings as specified above shall be provided on at least two sides of the story.

[F] 903.2.10.1.3 Basements. Where any portion of a basement is located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) from openings required by Section 903.2.10.1, the basement shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system.

[F] 903.2.10.2 Rubbish and linen chutes. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed at the top of rubbish and linen chutes and in their terminal rooms. Chutes extending through three or more floors shall have additional sprinkler heads installed within such chutes at alternate floors. Chute sprinklers shall be accessible for servicing.

[F] 903.2.10.3 Buildings over 55 feet in height. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings with a floor level having an occupant load of 30 or more that is located 55 feet (16 764 mm) or more above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.

EXCEPTIONS:

1. Airport control towers.

2. Open parking structures.

3. Occupancies in Group F-2.

903.2.10.4. Additional Sprinkler Requirements. In all structures or buildings where the gross square footage, basements included, exceeds 7,500 square feet, or in all structures or buildings more than three stories in height (unless other sections are more restrictive). The area and height increases specified in IBC Sections 504, 506, and 507 shall be permitted. For the purposes of this section, portions of buildings separated by a fire wall may be considered as separate buildings.

A single building shall not be divided into a separate building by a fire wall more than once.

In all buildings where the perimeter access, as required under OMC 16.32.050, access roadways for fire apparatus for fire fighting and rescue operations, cannot be provided due to design and/or location.

Ord. 6463 §5, 2007)