Chapter 15.24
FIRE CODE
Sections:
15.24.010 Adoption of the Washington State Fire Code.
15.24.020 Establishment and duties of the bureau of fire prevention.
15.24.080 Amendments to the Washington State Fire Code.
15.24.100 New materials, processes or occupancies which may require permits.
15.24.110 Application of chapter 15.06 SMC, Enforcement.
15.24.120 Plans – Professional approval.
15.24.130 Plans – City approval.
15.24.010 Adoption of the Washington State Fire Code.
Pursuant to RCW 35A.12.140, there is hereby adopted by the city council of the city of Sumner, for the purpose of prescribing regulations governing conditions hazardous to life and property from fire, hazardous materials or explosion, that certain code known as the Washington State Fire Code, published by the International Code Council as amended by the Washington State Building Code Council and published in chapter 51-54A WAC, which adoption shall take place immediately upon the effective date issued by the Washington State Building Code Council and the whole thereof including Appendix B and Appendix D, save and except such portions as are hereinafter deleted, modified or amended by SMC 15.24.080. The same are hereby adopted and incorporated as fully as if set out at length herein, including any amendments or successor editions thereto, and from the date on which the ordinance codified in this chapter shall take effect, the provisions thereof shall be controlling within the limits of the city of Sumner. (Ord. 2892 § 1 (Exh. D), 2024; Ord. 2796 § 4, 2021; Ord. 2568 § 5, 2016: Ord. 2452 § 1 (part), 2013: Ord. 2328 § 1 (part), 2010)
15.24.020 Establishment and duties of the bureau of fire prevention.
The individual or entity designated by the city administrator as the fire code official, as defined in SMC 15.24.030, has the authority to enforce the Washington State Fire Code as adopted. (Ord. 2892 § 1 (Exh. D), 2024; Ord. 2796 § 5, 2021; Ord. 2778 § 1 (Exh. A), 2021; Ord. 2452 § 1 (part), 2013: Ord. 2328 § 1 (part), 2010)
15.24.030 Definitions.
For purposes of this chapter:
“Fire code official” means the city’s building fire safety inspector. (Ord. 2892 § 1 (Exh. D), 2024; Ord. 2796 § 6, 2021; Ord. 2778 § 1 (Exh. A), 2021; Ord. 2452 § 1 (part), 2013: Ord. 2328 § 1 (part), 2010)
15.24.040 Establishment of limits of districts in which storage of flammable or combustible liquids in outside aboveground tanks is prohibited.
The limits referred to in Section 5704.2.9.6 of the currently adopted Washington State Fire Code, in which the storage of flammable or combustible liquids is restricted, are hereby established within areas zoned other than M-1 or M-2. (Ord. 2892 § 1 (Exh. D), 2024; Ord. 2796 § 7, 2021; Ord. 2452 § 1 (part), 2013: Ord. 2328 § 1 (part), 2010)
15.24.050 Establishment of limits of districts in which storage of liquefied petroleum gases is prohibited.
The limits referred to in Section 6104.2 of the currently adopted Washington State Fire Code, in which storage of liquefied petroleum gas is restricted, are hereby established within areas zoned other than M-1 or M-2. (Ord. 2892 § 1 (Exh. D), 2024; Ord. 2796 § 8, 2021; Ord. 2452 § 1 (part), 2013: Ord. 2328 § 1 (part), 2010)
15.24.060 Establishment of limits of districts in which storage of explosives and explosive materials is to be prohibited.
The limits referred to in Section 5601 of the currently adopted Washington State Fire Code, in which storage of explosives and explosive materials is prohibited, are hereby established within all areas lying within the corporate limits. (Ord. 2892 § 1 (Exh. D), 2024; Ord. 2796 § 9, 2021; Ord. 2452 § 1 (part), 2013: Ord. 2328 § 1 (part), 2010)
15.24.070 Establishment of limits of districts in which the storage of compressed gas and flammable cryogenic fluids is to be prohibited.
The limits referred to in Section 5301.1 of the currently adopted Washington State Fire Code, in which the storage of compressed gas is prohibited, are hereby established within all limits zoned other than IC, M-1 or M-2. The limits referred to in Section 5806 of the Washington State Fire Code, in which the storage of flammable cryogenic fluids is prohibited, are hereby established within all limits zoned other than IC, M-1 or M-2. (Ord. 2892 § 1 (Exh. D), 2024; Ord. 2796 § 10, 2021; Ord. 2452 § 1 (part), 2013: Ord. 2328 § 1 (part), 2010)
15.24.080 Amendments to the Washington State Fire Code.
The following sections of the Washington State Fire Code are hereby amended to read as follows:
Chapter 1
Scope and Administration
[A] 106.2.1 Information on construction documents. Construction documents shall be dimensioned and drawn on suitable material, legible scanned copies or digitally created drawings and documents shall be submitted electronically. Electronic media documents are to be submitted following the Cities electronic permit application procedures. Construction documents shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location by physical building address, nature and extent of the work proposed and show in detail that it will conform to the provisions of this code and relevant laws, ordinances, rules and regulations, as determined by the building official.
Chapter 5
BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet or 28 feet with parking on one side except for approved security gates in accordance with Section 503.6 and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches. Including Driveways and Pipestem access roads greater than 150 feet.
503.2.4 Turning Radius. The required turning radius of a fire apparatus access road shall have a minimum inside turning radius of 28 feet.
503.2.5 Dead Ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet in length shall be provided with an approved area for turning around fire apparatus (see Appendix D of the International Fire Code). Including Driveways and Pipestem access roads greater than 150 feet.
503.3 Marking. Where required by the Fire Code Official, approved signs or other approved notices shall be provided for fire apparatus 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 be replaced or repaired when necessary for adequate visibility.
In accordance with the Washington State Highway Commission Sign Fabrication Manual M240-70 HT and the Manual of International Traffic Control Devices issued by the Federal Highway Administration, per illustration:
Lettering Specifications:
3" – Class C Width
2" – Class C Width
1/2" – Class C Width
Entrance Signs: The chief may allow the use of entrance signs for multi-family dwelling occupancies. When allowed, the signs shall be placed at each entrance to the property. Signs shall be in a clearly conspicuous location and shall clearly state “Notice, All Roads Are Emergency Vehicle Lanes, Park in Marked Stalls-Only.”
Lettering Specifications:
4" – Class C Width
3" – Class C Width
1" – Class C Width
503.4 Obstruction of Fire Apparatus roads. Fire apparatus access roads shall not be obstructed in any manner, including the parking of vehicles. The minimum widths and clearances in section 503.2.1 shall be maintained at all times.
503.6 Security Gates. The installation of security gates across a fire apparatus access road shall be approved by the Fire Chief. Where security gates are installed, they shall meet the following requirements:
1. Locked gates shall have an approved key box or key override system installed.
2. Gates serving 10 or more dwelling units shall have an Opticom activation system, Knox key override system or an equivalent and compatible system approved by the Fire Chief.
3. All electrically activated gates shall have default capabilities to the unlock position.
4. The minimum clearance width of a gate shall be compatible with the required width of the fire apparatus access road. Gate posts, keypads and other gate appurtenances shall be located in such a manner that they will not obstruct or restrict ingress and egress of emergency vehicles.
5. The security gate and the emergency operation shall be maintained operational at all times.
6. Gates shall follow Pierce County Gate Standards.
505.1 Premises Identification. New and existing buildings shall have approved address numbers, building numbers or approved building identification placed in a position that is plainly legible and visible from the street or road fronting the property. These numbers shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numerals or alphabet letters. Numbers shall be a minimum of 6 inches high with a minimum stroke width of 0.5 inch. In addition, new and existing buildings located 100’ or more from the street right-of- way shall have the same 6 inch address dimension on the building and at the street.
1. Multi-Family Residential, Commercial, or Small Business:
|
Amount of Setback |
Number/Letter Size |
|---|---|
|
50 Feet or less |
6 inches |
|
51 Feet to 100 Feet |
12 inches |
|
100 Feet or more |
18 inches |
|
Individual Apartment Units |
4 inches |
2. Large Commercial or Industrial Complexes:
|
Amount of Setback |
Number/Letter Size |
|---|---|
|
50 Feet or less |
12 inches |
|
51 Feet to 100 Feet |
18 inches |
|
100 Feet or more |
24 inches |
Chapter 9
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
Section 903
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
903.1 General. Automatic sprinkler systems shall comply with this section.
1. For structures with unknown tenants, the sprinkler density of .39 per 5,600 square feet shall be used for design purposes where required by the Fire Chief.
903.1.1 Alternative Protection. Alternative automatic fire-extinguishing systems complying with Section 904 shall be permitted in lieu of automatic sprinkler protection where recognized by the applicable standard and approved by the fire code official.
903.2 Where Required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new buildings and structures shall be provided in the locations described in this section.
For provisions on special hazards and hazardous materials, see the fire code.
Gross floor area. For purposes of this chapter, gross floor area shall be defined in Chapter 2, International Building Code.
1. All buildings hereinafter constructed or enlarged as defined by the International Fire Code, shall be equipped with a fully automatic sprinkler system designed, installed, maintained and tested per NFPA 13, 13D, 13R 24 and/or 25, the edition currently adopted by the city, where the gross floor area or occupant load exceeds those listed below, or the building is 35 feet in height or three or more stories.
2. Where buildings are protected by an automatic sprinkler system, canopies 4 feet or more in width shall be protected by the automatic sprinkler system.
903.2.1 Group A. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings and portions thereof used as Group A occupancies as provided in this section. For Group A-1, A- 2, A 3 and A-4 occupancies, the automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout the floor area where the Group A-1, A-2, A-3 or A-4 occupancy is located, and in all floors between the Group A occupancy and the level of exit discharge. For Group A-5 occupancies, the automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in the spaces indicated in Section 903.2.1.5.
903.2.1.1 Group A-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-1 occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The gross floor area exceeds 5,000 square feet;
2. The gross floor area has an occupant load of 100 or more;
3. The gross floor area is located on a floor other than the level of exit discharge; or
4. The gross floor area contains a multi-theater complex.
903.2.1.2 Group A-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-2 occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The gross floor area exceeds 5,000 square feet;
2. The gross floor area has an occupant load of 100 or more; or
3. The gross floor area is located on a floor other than the level of exit discharge.
903.2.1.3 Group A-3. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-3 occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The gross floor area exceeds 5,000 square feet;
2. The gross floor area has an occupant load of 100 or more; or
3. The gross floor area is located on a floor other than the level of exit discharge.
Exception: Areas used exclusively as participant sports areas where the main floor area is located at the same level as the level of exit discharge of the main entrance and exit.
903.2.1.4 Group A-4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-4 occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
1. The gross floor area exceeds 5,000 square feet;
2. The gross floor area has an occupant load of 100 or more; or
3. The gross floor area is located on a floor other than the level of exit discharge.
Exception: Areas used exclusively as participant sports areas where the main floor area is located at the same level as the level of exit discharge of the main entrance and exit.
903.2.1.5 Group A-5. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in concession stands, retail areas, press boxes, and other accessory use areas in excess of 1,000 square feet of gross floor area.
903.2.1.5.1 Spaces under grandstands or bleachers. Enclosed spaces under grandstands or bleachers shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with section 903.3.1.1 where either of the following exist.
1. The enclosed area is 1,000 square feet (93 m2) or less and is not constructed in accordance with Section 1029.1.1.1.
2. The enclosed area exceeds 1,000 square feet (93 m2).
903.2.1.6 Assembly occupancies on roofs. Where an occupied roof has and assembly occupancy with an occupant load exceeding 100 for Group A-2 and 300 for all other Group A occupancies, the building shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with section 903.3.1.1 or 903.1.2.
Exception: Open Parking garages of Type I or Type II construction.
903.2.1.7 Multiple Fire Areas. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided where multiple fire areas of Group A-1, A-2, A-3 or A-4 occupancies share exit or exit access components and the combined occupant load of these fire areas is 300 or more.
903.2.1.8 Nightclubs. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout Group A-2 nightclubs as defined in the International Building Code.
903.2.2 Ambulatory care facilities. This section is adopted in whole as adopted by the State of Washington.
903.2.3 Group B. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group B occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. Where the gross floor area of a Group B occupancy exceeds 5,000 square feet;
2. Where the gross floor area of a Group B occupancy is located more than three stories above grade; or
3. Where the combined gross floor area of all Group B occupancies on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 5,000 square feet.
903.2.4 Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for fire areas containing Group E occupancies where the fire area has an occupant load of 51 or more, calculated in accordance with Table 1004.5.
Exceptions:
1. Portable school classrooms with an occupant load of 50 or less calculated in accordance with Table 1004.5, provided that the aggregate area of any cluster of portable classrooms does not exceed 6,000 square feet (557 m2); and clusters of portable classrooms shall be separated as required by the building code; or
2. Portable school classrooms with an occupant load of 51 through 98, calculated in accordance with Table 1004.5, and provided with two means of direct independent exterior egress from each classroom in accordance with Chapter 10, and one exit from each classroom shall be accessible, provided that the aggregate area of any cluster of portable classrooms does not exceed 6,000 square feet (557 m2); and clusters of portable school class rooms shall be separated as required by the International Building Code; or
3. Fire areas containing daycare and preschool facilities with a total occupant load of 100 or less located at the level of exit discharge where every room which care is provided has not fewer than one exit discharge door.
903.2.5 Group F-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group F-1 occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. Where the gross floor area of a Group F-1 occupancy exceeds 5,000 square feet;
2. Where the gross floor area of a Group F-1 occupancy is located more than three stories above grade; or
3. Where the combined floor area of all Group F-1 occupancies on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 5,000 square feet.
903.2.5.1 Woodworking operations. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all Group F-1 occupancy fire areas that contain woodworking operations in excess of 2,500 square feet in gross floor area which generate finely divided combustible waste or which use finely divided combustible materials.
903.2.5.2 Group F-1 distilled Spirits. An automatic sprinkler system shall be throughout a group F-1 Fire Area used for the manufacture of distilled spirits.
903.2.5.3 Group F-1 upholstered furniture of mattresses. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a Group F-1 fire area that exceeds 2500 square feet (232 m2) used for the manufacture of upholstered furniture or mattresses
903.2.6 Group H. Automatic Sprinkler systems shall be provided in high-hazard occupancies as required by section 906.2.6.1 through 903.2.6.3.
903.2.6.1 General. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in Group H occupancies.
903.2.6.2 Group H-5 occupancies. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings containing group 5 occupancies. The design of the sprinkler system shall not be less than that required by this code for the occupancy hazard classifications in accordance with Table 903.2.6.2.
Where the design area of the sprinkler system consists of a corridor protected by one row of sprinklers, the maximum number of sprinklers required to be calculated is 13.
[F] Table 903.2.6.2
|
Location |
Occupancy Hazard Classification |
|---|---|
|
Fabrication Areas |
Ordinary Hazard Group 2 |
|
Service Corridors |
Ordinary Hazard Group 2 |
|
Storage rooms Without Dispensing |
Ordinary Hazard Group 2 |
|
Storage Rooms With Dispensing |
Extra Hazard Group 2 |
|
Corridors |
Ordinary Hazard Group 2 |
903.2.6.3 Pyroxylin plastics. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in buildings, or portions thereof, where cellulose nitrate film or pyroxylin plastics are manufactured, stored or handled in quantities exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg).
903.2.7 Group I. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings with Group I fire area.
Exceptions:
1. An automatic Sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 shall be permitted in Group I-1 Condition 1 Facilities.
2. Where new construction or additions house less than 16 persons receiving care, an automatic fire sprinkler system installed in accordance with section 903.3.1.2 shall be permitted in group I-1 Condition 2, assisted living facilities licensed under chapter 388-78A WAC and residential treatment facilities licensed under 246-337 WAC.
3. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 shall be permitted in additions to existing buildings where both of the following situations are true:
3.1 The addition is made to a building previously approved as Group LC or R-2 that houses either an assisted living facility under chapter 388-78A WAC or residential treatment facility licensed under chapter 246-337 WAC.
3.2 The addition contains spaces for 16 or fewer persons receiving care.
903.2.7.1 Group I-4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for fire areas containing Group E occupancies where the fire area has an occupant load of 51 or more, calculated in accordance with Table 1004.5.
1. An automatic sprinkler system is not required where Group I-4 daycare facilities with a total occupant load of 100 or less and is located at the level of exit discharge and where every room where care is provided has not fewer than one exterior exit door.
2. In buildings where Group I-4 daycare is provided on levels on other than the level of exit discharge, an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with section 903.3.1.1 shall be installed on the entire floor where care is provided, all floors between the level of care and the level of exit discharge and all floors below the level of exit discharge other than areas classified as open parking garages.
903.2.8 Group M. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing Group M occupancies where one of the following conditions exist:
1. Where the gross floor area of a Group M occupancy exceeds 5,000 square feet;
2. Where the gross floor area of a Group M occupancy is located more than three stories above grade; or
3. Where the combined gross floor area of all Group M occupancies on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 5,000 square feet.
903.2.8.1 High piled storage. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided as required in chapter 32 in all buildings of group M where storage of merchandise is in high-piled or rack storage arrays.
903.2.8.2 Group M upholstered furniture or mattresses. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout Group M fire areas where the area used for the display or sale of upholstered furniture or mattresses exceed 5,000 square feet (464 m2).
903.2.9 Group R. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with section 903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area.
Exception: Detached one-family dwellings under 5,000 square feet.
903.2.9.1 Group R-3. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with section 903.3.1.3 shall be permitted in Group R-3 Occupancies.
903.2.9.2 Group R-4 Condition 1. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 shall be permitted in Group R-4 Condition 1 occupancies.
903.2.9.3 Group R-4 Condition 2. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 shall be permitted in Group R-4 Condition 2 occupancies.
903.2.9.4 Care facilities. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 shall be permitted in care facilities with five or fewer individuals in a single-family dwelling.
903.2.10 Group S-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group S-1 occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:
1. Where the gross floor area of a Group S-1 occupancy exceeds 5,000 square feet;
2. Where the gross floor area of a Group S-1 occupancy is located more than three stories above grade; or
3. Where the combined gross floor area of all Group S-1 occupancies on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 5,000 square feet.
4. A Group S-1 occupancy where the gross floor area used for the storage of commercial trucks or buses exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m2)
5. A Group S-1 occupancy used for the storage of upholstered furniture or mattresses exceeds 2,500 square feet (232 m2).
903.2.10.1 Repair garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings used as repair garages in accordance with the International Building Code, as follows:
1. Buildings two or more stories in height, including basements, with a gross floor area containing a repair garage exceeding 5,000 square feet.
2. One-story buildings with a gross floor area containing a repair garage exceeding 5,000 square feet.
3. Buildings with a repair garage servicing vehicles parked in the basement.
4. A Group S-1 occupancy where the gross floor area used for the repair of commercial trucks or buses exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m2).
903.2.10.2 Bulk storage of tires. Buildings and structures where the area for the storage of tires exceeds 20,000 cubic feet shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
903.2.10.3 Group S-1 Distilled spirits or wine. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a Group S-1 occupancy fire area used for the bulk storage of distilled spirits or wine.
903.2.10.4 Group S-1 Upholstered furniture and mattresses. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a Group S-1 fire area where the area used for the storage of upholstered furniture or mattresses exceeds 2,500 square feet (232 m2).
Exception: Self-service storage facilities not greater than one story above grade plane where all storage spaces can be accessed directly from the exterior.
903.2.11 Group S-2 Parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings classified as parking garages where any of the following conditions exist.
Exception: Enclosed parking garages located beneath Group R-3 occupancies.
903.2.11.1 Commercial parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings used for storage of commercial trucks or buses where the gross floor area exceeds 5,000 square feet.
903.2.11.2 Mechanical-access enclosed parking garages. An approved automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings used for the storage of motor vehicles in a mechanical-access enclosed parking garage. The portion of the building that contains the mechanical-access enclosed parking garage shall be protected with a specially engineered automatic sprinkler system.
903.2.12 Specific building areas and hazards. In all occupancies other then Group U, an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed for building design or hazards in the locations set forth in sections 903.2.12.1 through 903.2.12.6
903.2.12.1 Stories without openings. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all stories, including basements, of all buildings where the floor area exceeds 1,500 square feet (139.4 m2) and where the story does not comply with the following criteria for exterior wall openings:
1. Openings below grade that lead directly to the ground level by an exit stairway complying with Section 1011 or an outside ramp complying with Section 1012. Openings shall be located in each 50 linear feet (15,240 mm), or fraction thereof, of exterior wall in the story on not fewer than one side. The required openings shall be distributed such that the linear distance between openings does not exceed 50 feet (15,240mm).
2. Openings entirely above the adjoining ground level totaling not less than 20 square feet (1.86 m2) in each 50 linear feet (15,240mm), or fraction thereof, of exterior wall in the story on not fewer than one side. The required openings shall be distributed such that the linear distance between openings does not exceed 50 feet (15,240mm). The height of the bottom of the clear opening shall not exceed 44 inches (1118 mm) measured from the floor.
903.2.12.1.1 Opening dimensions and access. Openings shall have a minimum dimension of not less than 30 inches (762mm). Access to such openings shall be provided for the fire department from the exterior and shall not be obstructed in a manner such that firefighting or rescue cannot be accomplished from the exterior.
903.2.12.1.2 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 then 75 feet (22,860 mm) from such openings, the story shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system, or openings shall be provided on not fewer than two sides of the story.
903.2.12.3 Basements. Where any portion of a basement is located more than 75 feet (22,860 mm) from openings required by section 903.1.12.1, or where new walls, partitions or other similar obstructions are installed that increase the exit access travel distance to more than 75 feet (22,860 mm), the basement shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
903.2.12.2 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 shall have additional sprinkler heads installed at alternate floors and at the lowest intake. Where a rubbish chute extends through a building more than one floor below the lowest intake, the extension shall have sprinklers installed that are recessed from the drop area of the chute and protected from freezing in accordance with section 903.3.1.1. Such sprinklers shall be installed at alternate floors, beginning with the second level below the last intake and ending with the floor above discharge. Access to sprinklers in chutes shall be provided.
903.2.12.3 Building height. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings 35 feet in height or three or more stories.
Exceptions:
1. Airport control towers complying with the Washington State Building Code.
2. Open parking structures complying with the Washington State Building Code.
3. Occupancies in Group F-2 complying with the Washington State Building Code.
903.2.12.4 Ducts conveying hazardous exhausts. Where required by the International Mechanical Code, automatic sprinklers shall be provided in ducts conveying hazardous exhaust of flammable or combustible materials.
Exception: Ducts where the largest cross-sectional diameter of the duct is less than 10 inches (254 mm).
903.2.12.5 Commercial cooking operations. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in commercial kitchen exhaust hood and duct systems where an sprinkler system in used to comply with Section 904.
903.2.12.6 Other required fire protection systems. In addition to the requirements of section 903.2, the provisions indicated in Table 902.12.6 require the installation of a fire protection system for certain buildings and areas.
|
Section |
Subject |
|---|---|
|
321.2 |
Lithium-Ion and Lithium metal battery storage |
|
402.5, 402.6.2 |
Covered and open mall buildings |
|
403.3 |
High-rise buildings |
|
404.3 |
Atriums |
|
405.3 |
Underground structures |
|
407.7 |
Group I-2 |
|
410.6 |
Stages |
|
411.3 |
Special amusements buildings |
|
412.2.4 |
Airport traffic control towers |
|
412.3.6, 412.3.6.1, 412.5.6 |
Aircraft hangers |
|
415.11.11 |
Group H-5 HPM exhaust ducts |
|
416.5 |
Flammable finishes |
|
417.4 |
Drying rooms |
|
424.3 |
Play structures |
|
428 |
Buildings containing laboratory suites |
|
507 |
Unlimited area buildings |
|
508.5.7 |
Live/work units |
|
509.4 |
Incidental uses |
|
1030.6.2.3 |
Smoke protected assembly seating |
[BG] 903.12.7 Relocatable Buildings. Relocatable buildings or structures within a building with an approved automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided with fire sprinkler protection within occupiable space of the building and the space underneath the relocated building.
Exceptions:
1. Sprinkler protection is not required underneath the building when the space is separated from the adjacent space by construction resisting the passage of smoke and heat and combustible storage will not be located there.
2. If the building or structure does not have a roof or ceiling obstructing the overhead sprinklers.
3. Construction trailers and temporary offices used during construction prior to occupancy.
4. Movable shopping kiosks with a roof or canopy dimension less than 4 feet (1219 mm) on the smallest side.
903.2.13 During construction. Automatic sprinkler system required during construction, alteration and demolition operations shall be provided in accordance with Chapter 33 of the International Fire Code
903.3.1.1.1 Exempt locations. Subject to the approval of the Fire Code Official, automatic sprinklers may be omitted in the following rooms or areas where such rooms or areas are protected with an approved automatic fire detection system in accordance with Section 907.2 that will respond to visible or invisible particles of combustion. Sprinklers shall not be omitted from any room merely because it is damp, of fire-resistance rated construction or contains electrical equipment.
1. Any room where the application of water, or flame and water, constitutes a serious life or fire hazard.
2. Any room or space where sprinklers are considered undesirable because of the nature of the contents.
3. Generator and transformer rooms separated from the remainder of the building by walls and floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assemblies having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
4. Rooms or areas that are of non-combustible construction with wholly non-combustible contents.
5. Fire service access elevator machine rooms and machinery spaces.
6. Machine rooms, machinery spaces, control rooms and control spaces associated with occupant evacuation elevators designed in accordance with Section 3008.
7. In rooms or areas where other approved fire extinguishing systems are installed to protect special hazards or occupancies in lieu of automatic fire sprinklers.
903.3.7 Fire department connections. The location of fire department connections shall be approved by the Fire Code Official. Where possible, fire department connections shall be located not less than 50 feet from the protected building and not more than 50 feet from a fire hydrant.
903.4.4 Indicating valves. All automatic sprinkler systems shall be provided with a listed and approved indicating valve. Such valves shall be provided on the exterior of the building in a location to be determined by the Fire Code Official. When possible, such valve shall be located not less than 50 feet from the protected structure.
903.5 Testing and maintenance. Sprinkler systems shall be tested and maintained in accordance with the International Fire Code. A copy of inspection reports shall be signed by the individual conducting the inspection, and a copy of the report shall be forwarded to the fire department.
903.6 Existing buildings. Unless otherwise required by the International Existing Building Code an Approved automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed in existing buildings and structures at a minimum as described below:
1) Where the gross floor area exceeds 8,000 square feet and one or more of the following conditions exist:
a) There is a change of occupancy classification within the building that would require an occupancy separation per Table 508.4 of the International Building Code.
b) Any changes to the building which in their aggregate would increase the gross floor area of the building by 15 percent or more based upon the square footage of the building at the time of the adoption of the ordinance codified in this section.
c) There is a change to the building, such as changes to the exiting system, that would increase the hazard to the occupants and/or fire suppression personnel.
Exception: The installation of an approved automatic sprinkler system is not required in existing buildings or structures where the gross floor area exceeds 8,000 square feet if a permit is requested for (unless otherwise required by the International Existing Building Code):
1) Tenant improvements where there is no change in occupancy classification within the building that would require an occupancy separation per Table 508.4 of the International Building Code and the change to the building would not increase the hazard to the occupants and/or fire suppression personnel; or
2) Routine maintenance which includes but is not limited to (1) utility upgrades (replacement of electrical panel, replacement of wiring, new water or sewer service); (2) aesthetic upgrades (replacement of windows or doors, replacement of facades); (3) routine repairs (roof replacement or repair, siding replacement); or (4) site upgrades (landscaping replacement, parking area repairs).
3) Where the gross floor area is 8,000 square feet and a change to the building that would increase the gross floor area of the building such that the gross floor area exceeds 9,200 square feet.
Section 907
FIRE ALARMS & DETECTION SYSTEMS
In addition to those requirements found in Section 907.2 of the International Building Code and International Fire Code as adopted per SMC 15.08 and SMC 15.24, the following shall apply.
907.1.4.1 New Buildings and Structures. An approved manual and automatic fire alarm system shall be provided in accordance with this section, and in all structures exceeding 5,000 square feet gross floor area.
Where required, the automatic/manual fire alarm system shall consist of a minimum of the following:
• Addressable fire alarm.
• Interior audible/visual alarm devices for the notification of the building occupants throughout. WAC 51.50.1101 and IBC Chapter 11.
• Visible devices in restrooms.
• Exterior horn/strobe shall be located on the address side of the building.
• Manual pull stations at each exit.
• Smoke detection in corridors.
• Monitoring of the automatic fire sprinkler systems/fire alarm systems.
• Buildings containing multiple tenants shall have an addressable fire alarm system capable of monitoring and sending notification of all protection systems and the individual suite address within the building to an approved central station.
• Multiple story buildings shall have an addressable system capable of monitoring and sending notification of all protection systems within the building to an approved central station.
907.1.4.2 Existing Buildings and Structures. An approved manual and automatic fire alarm system shall be provided in accordance with this section, and in all structures exceeding 5,000 square feet gross floor area, which are altered as defined by the International Building Code and International Fire Code.
Section 912
Fire Department Connection
912.4.3 Physical Protection. Where fire department connections are subject to impact by a motor vehicle as determined by the Fire Official, Vehicle impact protection in compliance with section 312 shall be required to be provided.
(Ord. 2892 § 1 (Exh. D), 2024; Ord. 2452 § 1 (part), 2013: Ord. 2328 § 1 (part), 2010)
15.24.090 Appeals.
Whenever the fire code official disapproves an application or refuses to grant a permit applied for, or when it is claimed that the provisions of the code do not apply or that the true intent and meaning of the code have been misconstrued or wrongly interpreted, the applicant may appeal the decision of the fire code official to the board of appeals within 20 days from the date of the decision as provided by chapter 15.04* SMC. (Ord. 2892 § 1 (Exh. D), 2024; Ord. 2778 § 1 (Exh. A), 2021; Ord. 2452 § 1 (part), 2013: Ord. 2328 § 1 (part), 2010)
*Code reviser’s note: Ordinance 2568 repeals chapter 15.04. The board of appeals provisions previously codified in the chapter have been replaced by the appeals process in the 2015 International Building Code adopted by Ordinance 2568.
15.24.100 New materials, processes or occupancies which may require permits.
The mayor, the fire chief and the chief of the bureau of fire prevention shall act as a committee to determine and specify, after giving affected persons an opportunity to be heard, any new materials, processes or occupancies for which permits are required in addition to those now enumerated in the Washington State Fire Code. The chief of the bureau of fire prevention shall post such list in a conspicuous place at the bureau of fire prevention and distribute copies thereof to interested persons. (Ord. 2892 § 1 (Exh. D), 2024; Ord. 2452 § 1 (part), 2013: Ord. 2328 § 1 (part), 2010)
15.24.110 Application of chapter 15.06 SMC, Enforcement.
Any person, firm or corporation violating any of the provisions of this chapter or the Washington State Fire Code shall be subject to the penalty provisions of SMC 15.06.070 and 15.06.110. (Ord. 2892 § 1 (Exh. D), 2024; Ord. 2452 § 1 (part), 2013: Ord. 2328 § 1 (part), 2010)
15.24.120 Plans – Professional approval.
Only plans approved by the Washington State Survey and Rating Bureau or certified and stamped by a fire protection engineer shall be accepted. Four sets of approved automatic sprinkler system plans shall be submitted to the building official or fire chief. (Ord. 2892 § 1 (Exh. D), 2024; Ord. 2452 § 1 (part), 2013: Ord. 2328 § 1 (part), 2010)
15.24.130 Plans – City approval.
No building shall be occupied prior to installation and approval of required automatic sprinkler and fire alarm systems as set forth in this chapter. (Ord. 2892 § 1 (Exh. D), 2024; Ord. 2452 § 1 (part), 2013: Ord. 2328 § 1 (part), 2010)
15.24.140 Severability.
If any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this chapter or the Washington State Fire Code, or its application to any person or circumstance, is declared unconstitutional or invalid for any reason, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this chapter. (Ord. 2892 § 1 (Exh. D), 2024; Ord. 2452 § 1 (part), 2013: Ord. 2328 § 1 (part), 2010)