Sec. 9-17. - Amendments to the 2018 International Building Code.

The 2018 International Building Code is hereby amended in the following respects: Section 101.1 is hereby amended to read as follows: 101.1 Title . These regulations shall be known as the Building Code of the City of Glendale, hereinafter referred to as "this code."

Reason: The code requires that the adopting jurisdiction be identified. Section 102.6 is hereby amended to read as follows:

102.6 Existing Structures. The legal occupancy of any structure existing on the date of the adoption of this code shall be permitted to continue, without change, except as is specifically covered in this code, the International Fire Code, or as is deemed necessary by the building official for the general safety and welfare of the occupants and the public. Existing buildings or structures that have been vacant or abandoned for a period of one year or longer are deemed to have been vacated and the certificate of occupancy expired. Existing buildings or structures that have been vacant for a period of one year or longer are required to obtain a new certificate of occupancy before renewing occupancy or use.

Reason: This adds the requirement that allows us to evaluate structures that have been vacant for a period of one year or longer.

Section 103.1 is hereby deleted and replaced by the following: 103.1 Creation of Enforcement Agency. The authority and responsibility for administration and enforcement of this code is assigned to the building safety official who shall also be known as the building official.

Reason: In Glendale, the building official position title is “Building Safety Official.”

Section 104.10.1 is hereby amended as follows: Replace the words "building official" with "city engineer."

Reason: This code section addresses the enforcement of flood zones. In Glendale, this is the responsibility of the City Engineer, not the Building Official.

Section 105.2(2) is hereby amended to read as follows: Fences not over 6 feet high except for perimeter subdivision fences.

Reason: This section exempts fences over 7 feet high from a building permit. However, the prescriptive engineering for most fence block is limited to a height of 6 feet. Also, Glendale requires building permits for all subdivision perimeter fences because of their high visibility from public streets.

Section 105.5 is hereby deleted and replaced by the following:

Section 105.5 Expiration. Every permit issued by the building official under the provisions of the technical codes shall expire by limitation and become null and void, if the building or work authorized by such permit is not commenced within 180 days from the date of such permit, or if the building or work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned at any time after the work is commenced for a period of 180 days, or any permit shall expire 180 days after the last approved inspection. The building official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time, for periods not more than 180 days each. The extension shall be requested, prior to expiration, in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated and the fee shall be one half the amount required for a new permit for such work, provided no changes have been made or will be made in the original plans and specifications for such work. In order to renew action on a permit after expiration, a new full permit fee shall be paid based on the current fee schedule adopted by the city.

Reason: This aligns the building code with the Glendale Community Development Fee Schedule.

Subsection 105.5.1 is hereby added:

Section 105.5.1 Completing Work and Final Inspection. Every permit issued by the building official shall expire 24 months after the date of permit issuance. If the building or work authorized by such permit has not received final inspection approval prior to the permit expiration date, all work shall stop until a new permit is obtained for the value of the work remaining unfinished.

Exception: The building official may approve a period exceeding 24 months for completion of work when the permit holder can demonstrate that the complexity or size of the project makes completing the project within 24 months unreasonable. Any request shall be prior to expiration of the permit.

Reason: This aligns the building code with the Glendale City Code requirement that limits the duration of building permits to 24 months maximum.

Section 105.6 is hereby amended by adding the following: It shall be unlawful to proceed with any work for which a permit was issued after notice of permit suspension or revocation is served on the permit holder, the owner, or the person having responsible charge of the work. Reinstatement of a suspended permit shall be by written notice from the building official authorizing work to resume, with or without conditions. Revoked permits shall be canceled and the permit fee shall not be refunded.

Reason: This strengthens our enforcement of a suspended building permit. This also aligns the building code with the Glendale Community Development Fee Schedule.

Section 108.3 The last sentence is hereby amended to read as follows: The part covered by the temporary certificate shall comply with the requirements specified for temporary lighting, heat or power in the adopted National Electrical Code.

Reason: This emphasizes that temporary power allowed by the building code shall also comply with our adopted electrical code to ensure electrical safety for a temporary use.

Section 109 is hereby deleted and replaced by the following:

Section 109 Fees

109.1 Fee Schedule. Fees shall be assessed in accordance with the provisions of this section and shall be as established by council resolution.

109.2 Permit Fees. Fees shall be as established by council resolution.

109.3 Plan Review Fees. When submittal documents are required by Section 106 of this code, a plan review fee shall be paid at the time of submitting the documents for plan review. The plan review fees specified in this section and as by council resolution are separate fees from, and in addition to, the permit fees specified in Section 109.2 of this code.

Reason: The above sections tie the building code’s provisions for fees specifically to the Glendale Community Development Fee Schedule.

109.4 Building Permit Valuations. The determination of valuation under any provisions of the code shall be made by the building official. The valuation to be used in computing the building permit and building plan review fees shall be the total value of all construction work including all materials, labor, overhead and profit for which the permit is issued including all finish work, painting, roofing, electrical, plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, elevators, fire-extinguishing systems, and other permanent equipment.

Reason: Building construction valuation is used to determine the amount of plan review and permit fees. This requires that materials, labor and overhead and profit be included in the valuation.

109.5 Work Commencing Before Permit Issuance. Whenever work for which a permit is required by this code has been commenced without first obtaining a permit, a special investigation shall be made before a permit may be issued for such work. An investigation fee, in addition to the permit fee, shall be collected whether or not a permit is then or subsequently issued. The investigation fee shall be as adopted by council resolution. The payment of such investigation fee shall not exempt an applicant from compliance with all other provisions of either this code or other adopted laws and ordinances of this city.

Reason: This adds our investigation fee to the building code and aligns the code with the Glendale Community Development Fee Schedule.

Section 109.8 is hereby added to read as follows:

109.8 Reinspection fees. Permit fees provide for customary inspections only. A reinspection fee may be assessed for each inspection or reinspection when such portion of the work for which inspection is called is not complete or when corrections called for are not made. Reinspection fees may be assessed when the inspection record card is not posted or otherwise readily available to the inspector, for failure to provide access on the date for which inspection is requested, or for deviating from plans requiring the approval of the building official. In instances where reinspection fees have been assessed, additional inspection of the work will not be performed until the required fees have been paid.

Reason: This clarifies our requirements for when a reinspection fee will be assessed.

Section 110.1 is hereby amended by adding the following paragraph: Property owners shall obtain and display on the residence, business, or otherwise, the correct building number or numbers as assigned to such property(ies) by the Engineering Department of the City of Glendale in accordance with established street assignment policy, prior to final inspection and /or issuance of a certificate of occupancy. The building numbers shall be of a durable material, permanently attached to the building and must be readily distinguished and readable from the nearest paved public/common roadway fronting that property. The size of the building numbers shall comply with the city’s adopted fire code and its amendments.

Reason: This clarifies that the assignment of building addresses is the responsibility of the Engineering Department. This also aligns the address numeral specifications with the Glendale Fire Code.

Section 110.3.4 is hereby amended by adding the following sentence:

The building shall be weather-tight at the time of the frame inspection.

Reason: This requires that a building be weather-tight, i.e. roofing membrane, exterior sheathing, and exterior windows be installed at the time of framing inspection before proceeding with subsequent work that could be damaged by inclement weather.

Section 110.3.10 is hereby deleted and amended to read as follows:

110.3.10 Special Inspections. In addition to the inspections required by Section 110, the engineer or architect of record acting as the owner's agent shall employ one or more special inspectors who shall provide inspections during construction for types of work outlined in Section 1705 and as outlined below:

110.3.10.1 Electrical Special Inspections.

1. Ground-fault protection performance tests for equipment are required to be provided with ground-fault protection.
2. Switchboards, panelboards, motor control centers, and other equipment rated 1,000 amps or more; or over 600 volts.
3. Emergency and standby power systems, including switchboards, panel boards, distribution boards, transfer equipment, power source, conductors, fire pumps, and exhaust and ventilation fans. 110.3.10.2 Electrical Observation. Electrical observation shall be provided for the following installations:
4. Installation or alteration of that portion of health care facility electrical systems which fall within the scope of Article 517, Chapter III of the adopted National Electric Code where critical care areas are present.
5. Installations or alterations of high-voltage electrical systems, which exceed 600 volts. Installations or alterations of electrical systems within locations classified as hazardous by the provisions of adopted the National Electric Code, or the International Fire Code, except for gasoline dispensing installations and systems located within storage garages, repair garages or lubritoriums.
6. When such observation is specifically required by the building official. The owner shall employ the engineer responsible for the electrical design, or another engineer designated by the engineer responsible for the electrical design to perform visual observation of complex electrical equipment and systems for general conformance to the interconnection of equipment. Electrical observation shall be performed at significant stages of the construction and when the installation is complete and ready to be inspected by the building official.

Reason: This adds to the code’s requirements for third-party, special inspections for high-voltage, high-hazard and critical care electrical systems. These special inspections provide for an increased level of scrutiny and safety for these electrical installations.

Section 110.3.12 is hereby added as follows:

110.3.12 Building Service Equipment Inspections. All building service equipment inspections for which a permit is required by this code shall be inspected by the building official. No portion of any building service equipment intended to be concealed by any permanent portion of the building shall be concealed until inspected and approved. When the installation of any building service equipment is complete, an additional and final inspection shall be made. Building service equipment regulated by the technical codes shall not be connected to the water, fuel or power supply or sewer system until authorized by the building official.

1. Electrical inspections. A rough-in inspection is required for all conduit, semi-rigid piping or wiring after installation but prior to being concealed. Final inspection is required when all conduit, wires, fixtures and equipment including covers, have been installed and connected, but prior to energizing any such circuit or equipment.
2. Mechanical inspections. All mechanical equipment and systems for which a permit is required by the code, including all associated ductwork, flues, condensate and refrigeration lines, shall be subject to inspection and shall remain accessible and exposed for inspection purposes until approved.
3. Plumbing inspections. A rough-in or underground inspection is required for all sewer, drainage and vent piping, and for all water and gas distribution systems prior to their being buried or concealed. A final inspection is required when all fixtures are set and operating or ready to operate pending final utility connection. Tests shall be performed as required by the currently adopted plumbing code.

Reason: This clarifies Glendale’s specific inspection requirements for mechanical, plumbing and electrical system.

Section 111.3 is hereby deleted and replaced by the following:

111.3 Temporary Certificate of Occupancy. If the building official finds no substantial hazard will result from occupancy of any building or portion thereof before the same is completed, a temporary certificate of occupancy may be issued for the use of a portion or portions of a building or structure prior to the completion of the entire building or structure provided the applicant agrees that:

1. When construction is complete, final inspection will be requested and a certificate of occupancy issued.
2. The temporary certificate of occupancy shall be valid for 30 days. The temporary certificate of occupancy will expire at the end of the time period stated in writing, at which time the power will be de-energized. The building official may extend the temporary certificate of occupancy in 30-day increments upon written request by the permittee or applicant, showing that circumstances beyond the control of the permittee or applicant have prevented the completion of the project. The total length of time shall not exceed 180 days. Fees shall be paid prior to the issuance of a temporary certificate of occupancy in accordance with Section 109.2 of this code.
3. It is the responsibility of the applicant to complete any required work prior to the expiration date of the temporary certificate of occupancy and call for final inspection.
4. The building official may request the utility company to de-energize power, if required work is not completed on or before the expiration date of the temporary certificate of occupancy.
5. Neither the City of Glendale nor the utility company will be held liable for any damages or delays, for de-energization of power. Applicant must be the owner or authorized agent. If the owner is not available to provide signature on the application for temporary certificate of occupancy, then the owner shall provide a letter on company letterhead or notarized letter of authorization stating the name of the person authorized to act on owner's or company's behalf.

Reason: This clarifies Glendale’s requirements for a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy before a building has passed all final inspections.

Section 113 is hereby deleted and replaced by the following:

113 APPEALS

113.1 General. Decisions of the building official shall be appealed to a hearing officer appointed by the city manager. An application for an appeal of any order, decision or interpretation made by the building official shall be filed in writing, along with the appropriate fee established by resolution or pursuant to Glendale City Code Sec. 2-3, and shall be delivered to the building official within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of the order, decisions or interpretation. The fee shall not be refundable. The decision of the building official may be reversed or modified by the hearing officer upon his/ her finding that: a.  The decision of the building official is not supported by a reasonable interpretation and application of the city code to the specific facts presented, or the city code does not apply to the facts presented. b.  The reversal or modification of the building official's decision will not create or manifest injustice or affect the intent of the city code. c.  The reversal of the building official's decision will not be detrimental to the public health, safety and welfare. 113.2 Limitations of Authority. The hearing officer shall have no authority relative to interpretation of the administrative provisions of the codes set forth in Sec. 9-16, nor shall the hearing officer be empowered to waive the requirements of the codes set forth in Sec. 9-16.

Reason: This aligns the building code with Glendale’s practice of utilizing a Hearing Officer in lieu of a Board of Appeals as prescribed by the code.

Section 116 is hereby deleted and replaced by the following:

Section 116 Unsafe Structures and Equipment

Section 116.1 General. All buildings, structures or existing equipment regulated by this code that are structurally unsafe or not provided with adequate egress, or that constitutes a fire hazard, or are otherwise dangerous to human health or life are unsafe. Any use of buildings or structures constituting a hazard to safety, health or public welfare by reason of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, obsolescence, fire hazard, disaster, damage or abandonment is an unsafe use.

The provisions of this code shall apply to all unsafe buildings, structures or equipment, as herein defined, which are now in existence or which may hereafter become unsafe in the jurisdiction.

All buildings, structures or equipment which are required to be repaired under the provisions of this code shall be subject to the provisions of the International Existing Building Code.

Section 116.2 Definitions. Unsafe conditions or defects shall be classified as imminent or incipient hazards.

Imminent hazard is defined as a high, real and immediate risk to life, health or property.

Incipient hazard is defined as a condition that can become an imminent hazard if further deterioration occurs or if reasonable additional loads are applied.

Public Nuisance is defined as an unlawful act or omission which endangers the lives, safety, health, property or comfort of the public or by which the public are obstructed in the exercise or enjoyment of any right common to all.

Section 116.3 Unsafe Buildings or Structures . Conditions or defects that render a building or structure unsafe include, but are not limited to:

116.3.1 Whenever any door, aisle, passageway, stairway or other means of egress is not sufficient width or size, or is locked, blocked or constricted so as to prevent safe and adequate means of egress in case of fire or panic.

116.3.2 Whenever the walking surface of any aisle, passageway, stairway, or other means of egress is so warped, worn, loose, torn or otherwise unsafe as to prevent safe and adequate means of egress in case of fire or panic.

116.3.3 Whenever the stress in any materials, member or portion thereof, due to all dead and live loads, is more than one and one-half times the working stress or stresses allowed in this code for new buildings of similar structure, purpose or location.

116.3.4 Whenever any portion thereof has been damaged by fire, earthquake, wind, flood or by any other cause, to such extent that the structural strength or stability thereof is materially less than it was before such catastrophe and is less than the minimum requirements of this code for new buildings of similar structure, purpose or location.

116.3.5 Whenever any portion of a building, or any member, appurtenance thereof is likely to fail, or to become detached or dislodged, or to collapse and thereby injure persons or damage property.

116.3.6 Whenever any portion of a building, or any member, appurtenance or ornamentation on the exterior thereof is not of sufficient strength or stability, or is not so anchored, attached or fastened in place so as to be capable of resisting a wind pressure of one half of that specified in this code for new buildings of similar structure, purpose or location without exceeding the working stresses permitted in this code for such buildings.

116.3.7 Whenever any portion thereof has wracked, warped, buckled or settled to such an extent that walls or other structural portions have materially less resistance to winds or earthquakes than is required in the case of similar new construction.

116.3.8 Whenever the building or structure, or any portion thereof, is likely to partially or completely collapse because of fire, dilapidation, deterioration or decay; faulty construction; the removal, movement or instability of any portion of the ground necessary for the purpose of supporting such building; the deterioration, decay or inadequacy of its foundation; or any other causes.

116.3.9 Whenever, for any reason, the building or structure, or any portion thereof, is manifestly unsafe for the purpose for which it is being used.

116.3.10 Whenever the exterior walls or other vertical structural members list, lean or buckle to such an extent that a plumb line passing through the center of gravity does not fall inside the middle one third of the base.

116.3.11 Whenever the building or structure, exclusive of the foundation, shows 33 percent or more damage or deterioration of its supporting member or members, or 50 percent damage or deterioration of its nonsupporting members, enclosing walls or outside walls or coverings.

116.3.12 Whenever the building or structure has become so damaged by fire, wind, earthquake, flood, vandalism or theft, or has become so dilapidated or deteriorated as to become an attractive nuisance to children; a harbor for vagrants, criminals or immoral persons; or as to enable persons to resort thereto for the purpose of committing unlawful or immoral acts.

116.3.13 Whenever any building or structure has been constructed, exists or is maintained in violation of any specific requirement or prohibition applicable to such building or structure provided by the building regulations of this jurisdiction, as specified in this code or of any law or ordinance of this state or jurisdiction relating to the condition, location or structure of buildings.

116.3.14 Whenever any building or structure which, whether or not erected in accordance with all applicable laws and ordinances, has in any nonsupporting part, member or portion less than 50 percent, or in any supporting part, member or portion less than 66 percent of the strength, fire-resisting qualities or characteristics, or weather-resisting qualities or characteristics required by law in the case of newly constructed building of like area, height and occupancy in the same location.

116.3.15 Whenever a building or structure, used or intended to be used for dwelling purposes, because of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, decay, damage, faulty construction or arrangement, inadequate light, air or sanitation facilities, or otherwise, is determine by the building official to be unsanitary, unfit for human habitation or in such a condition that is likely to cause sickness or disease.

116.3.16 Whenever any building or structure, because of fire, obsolescence, dilapidated condition, deterioration, damage, inadequate exits, lack of sufficient fire-resistive construction, faulty electric wiring, exposed conductors, inadequate grounding, overloaded conductors, improper overcurrent protection, faulty gas connections or heating apparatus, or other cause, is determined to be a fire hazard or health hazard by the fire marshal or the building official.

116.3.17 Whenever any building or structure is in such condition as to constitute a public nuisance known to the common law or in equity jurisprudence.

116.3.18 Whenever any portion of a building or structure remains on a site after the demolition or destruction of the building or structure.

116.3.19 Whenever any building or structure is abandoned for a period in excess of 180 days so as to constitute such building or portion thereof an attractive nuisance or hazard to the public.

116.3.20 Whenever any building service equipment is in such condition as to constitute a fire hazard, or hazard to life, health, property or the public welfare by reason of use, construction, quality of materials or inadequate maintenance or dilapidation.

Section 116.4 Authority for Inspection and Evaluation. The building official may inspect any property, building, structure or building service equipment to determine compliance with this section whenever there is probable cause to suspect that an unsafe condition exists. Except in cases of emergencies or readily apparent imminent hazards, the building official or designee shall make reasonable attempts to obtain permission from the property owner or the person or persons occupying or having control of the property prior to conducting the inspection. All entry onto property or into buildings of structures for purposes of this inspection shall be in accordance with legal requirements governing such entry.

When the building official has inspected or caused to be inspected any property, building, structure or building service equipment and has found and determined that an unsafe condition exists, the building official is authorized to immediately issue abatement orders in accordance with Section 116.5 of this code, and the building official may require the property owner to obtain a detailed engineering evaluation of the suspected unsafe condition before the building official determines the extent of abatement required.

116.4.1 When so ordered by the building official, the owner of any building or property suspected of containing an unsafe condition shall engage the services of a design professional registered in Arizona to conduct a detailed investigation and analysis of the suspected unsafe condition. The cost of such an investigation and report shall be paid by the property owner.

116.4.2 The registered professional retained by the owner shall conduct a detailed investigation and evaluation of the suspected unsafe condition and shall issue a written report to the property owner and to the building official on the condition of the building, structure or building service equipment, including recommendations for steps necessary to abate any unsafe condition found. The report shall be delivered to the building official on or before the date specified in the order requiring such report.

116.4.3 The content, findings and recommendations contained in the owner's engineering report may be utilized by the building official to determine whether or not an unsafe condition exists, whether the condition creates an imminent or incipient hazard and what, if any, abatement orders shall be issued. The building official reserves the right to approve, deny, make suggestions or require an additional report if deficiencies are found.

116.4.4 Failure of a property owner to produce an engineering report on or before the date specified in the building official's order shall be grounds for the building official to proceed with abatement proceedings up to and including orders to immediately vacate or demolish the subject building, structure or equipment.

116.5 Abatement of Unsafe Buildings, Structures, or Building Service Equipment. The building official shall, after inspection, determine whether a building, structure or building service equipment is determined to be unsafe, and, if so, whether it constitutes an imminent hazard or an incipient hazard, as defined in Section 116.2 of this code.

116.5.1 Incipient Hazards. If a building, structure or any building service equipment is determined to be an incipient hazard, the building official shall issue a written notice to the property owner or occupant of the premises describing the incipient hazard and ordering its repair or abatement within a certain time as necessary to prevent creation of an imminent hazard. The time allowed for repair or abatement shall not be less than 10 days and not more than 180 days from the date of the notice. Failure of the owner, or occupant, to repair or abate the incipient hazard within the time specified shall constitute grounds for the building official to declare the condition an imminent hazard and to thereafter initiate formal abatement procedures.

116.5.1.1 Incipient Hazards, extension of time. Where, in the sole judgment of the building official, there are exceptional circumstances, a single extension of up to 90 days shall be permitted. In such cases, it is the sole responsibility of the property owner to provide evidence or information to show cause. Financial feasibility or funding is not an exceptional circumstance. In no case shall the time to abate any incipient hazard exceed a total of 270 days. All extensions shall be approved in writing.

116.5.2 Imminent Hazards. If a building, structure, or any building service equipment is determined to be unsafe and an imminent hazard, the building official shall serve a written notice of violation on the person or persons occupying or having control of the building, structure, or building service equipment. The notice of violation shall declare the unsafe condition to be a nuisance and shall order its immediate abatement in accordance with the provisions of this section.

116.5.2.1 Notice of Violation. Notices of violation declaring imminent hazards shall be by personal service or by certified mail, return receipt requested. Service shall be deemed complete upon delivery.

The notice of violation shall identify the address and legal description of the property in question and shall state the nature and extent of the unsafe condition. The notice shall provide the name and phone number of a city representative to contact concerning the unsafe condition. The notice shall state the city's authority to abate the violation if the owner fails to do so and the city's ability to assess the costs of such abatement against the property. The notice shall state the procedures to follow should the owner wish to appeal the decision of the building official. The notice shall state that all costs borne by the city are due upon completion and the city's ability to assess the costs of such abatement against the property. Where the costs are not paid within 30 days of issuance of the final invoice, the city shall place a lien upon the property that shall accrue interest at the rate of 10% annually until such time as the lien is satisfied. Such assessment shall be recorded in the office of the county recorder and shall be a lien on such real property from the date of its recording until paid. Such lien shall be subject and inferior to a lien for general taxes.

Nothing herein shall preclude the building official from giving additional verbal or written information notices. Nothing herein shall require the issuance of a notice of violation prior to commencement of emergency abatement or civil or criminal violation proceedings.

116.5.2.2 Unsafe Buildings or Structures. In the case of an unsafe building or structure containing imminent hazards, the building official shall order the hazard abated by repair or by demolition of the building or structure. The unsafe building or structure and any building or structures placed in jeopardy by the unsafe buildings or structures shall be posted in accordance with this code. The buildings or structures shall not be entered, used or occupied or reoccupied until determined safe by the building official.

116.5.2.3 Unsafe Service Equipment. In the case of unsafe building service equipment installation containing imminent hazards, the building official shall attach or affix a warning red tag to the service equipment declared to be unsafe. Where equipment is declared to be unsafe, the building official shall order such equipment disconnected or its use discontinued until the nuisance created thereby is abated. In addition, the building official may order any building or structure which is placed in jeopardy by the unsafe equipment to be vacated, or the building official may order the disconnection of the affected utility service to the building, structure or equipment, and these buildings or structures shall not be occupied, reoccupied or building service equipment reconnected until determined safe by the building official.

116.5.2.4 Posting of Signs. When necessary to protect life, health or public welfare, the building official may post signs which shall prohibit entry into and occupation of an unsafe building, structure or property, provided, however, that with written permission of the building official it shall be lawful to enter the premises for the purposes of removing personal property or affecting any required repairs, rehabilitation or demolition. Every notice to vacate shall be posted at or upon each accessible exit of the building and shall be substantially state the following: DO NOT ENTER UNSAFE TO OCCUPY

IT IS A CLASS 1 MISDEMEANOR TO OCCUPY THESE PREMISES, OR TO REMOVE OR DEFACE THIS NOTICE

Whenever such notice is posted, the building official shall include a notification in the notice of violation issued reciting the emergency, and specifying the conditions which necessitate the posting.

It shall be a Class 1 misdemeanor for a person, firm or corporation to enter, use or occupy any building or structure that has been so posted. It shall be a Class 1 misdemeanor for any individual to remove any sign posted pursuant to this section.

116.5.2.4.1 Whenever a building or structure is posted as unsafe a notice thereof shall be recorded in the county recorder's office.

116.5.2.4.2 Emergency Barricades. If any building or structure is a hazard to life or limb of persons using a public street, alley or sidewalk, the public way shall be barricaded to prevent public use. The necessary barricades shall be erected on order from the building official. The costs for barricading of a public way under this section shall be assessed to and paid by the owner of the unsafe building or structure causing the need for such barricades and is due upon completion. Where the costs are not paid within 30 days of issuance of the final invoice, the city shall place a lien upon the property and charge interest at the rate of 10% annually until such time as the lien is satisfied. Such assessment shall be recorded in the office of the county recorder and shall be a lien on such real property from the date of its recording until paid. Such lien shall be subject and inferior to a lien for general taxes.

116.5.2.4.3 Emergency Abatement. In the event an emergency should occur wherein the continued existence of a building, structure or building service equipment would constitute an imminent hazard to life, health or other property, the building official may cause such building or structure to be demolished, building service equipment removed or disconnected, all without notice. Such abatement shall be limited to the minimum work necessary to remove the imminent hazard.

116.5.2.4.4 Failure to comply. If the owner of any unsafe building, structure, or building service equipment fails to abate an imminent hazard within the time specified in the notice of violation, the building official is authorized to begin formal abatement of those hazards as outlined in section 116.6.5 of this code. The city may abate any such unsafe condition by repair, removal or demolition in accordance with the provisions of this code.

116.6 Appeals. Decisions, orders and notices of violations relating to unsafe buildings, structures or building service equipment may be appealed to the building official. The appeal shall be filed within 30 days from the date of the order or action of the building official; provided however, that if the building or structure or building service equipment is in such condition as to make it immediately dangerous to the life, limb, property, or safety of the public or adjacent property and is ordered vacated and is posted in accordance with this code, such appeal shall be filed within 10 days from the date of the notice from the building official.

116.6.1 Processing, Scheduling and Noticing of Appeal. Upon receipt of any appeal filed pursuant to this section, the building official shall schedule a hearing with a hearing officer appointed by the city manager's office. As soon as practicable, the hearing officer shall fix a date, time and place for the hearing of the appeal. Such date shall not be less than 10 days nor more than 60 days from the date the appeal was filed with the building official. Written notice of the time and place of the hearing shall be given at least 10 days prior to the date of the hearing to each appellant by either causing a copy of such notice to be delivered to the appellant personally or by mailing a copy thereof, postage prepaid, addressed to the appellant at the address shown on the appeal.

116.6.2 Failure to Appeal. Failure of any person to file an appeal in accordance with the provisions of this code shall constitute a waiver of the right to an administrative hearing and adjudication of the notice of violation or any portion thereof.

116.6.3 Scope of Hearing on Appeal. Only those matters or issues specifically raised by the appellant shall be considered in the hearing of the appeal.

116.6.4 Staying of Notice of Violation. Except for vacation orders made pursuant to this section, enforcement of any notice of violation issued under this code shall be stayed during the pendency of an appeal therefrom which is properly and timely filed. 116.6.5 Failure to Abate.

(a)  If the unsafe building, structure or building service equipment is not repaired or demolished as required by the notice provided for in section 116, the building official shall give written notice to the owner of the unsafe building, structure or service equipment and other parties in interest, by certified mail or personal service, to appear before a hearing officer at a designated time and place to show cause why the unsafe conditions have not been repaired or demolished in accordance with the statement of particulars set forth in the notice provided for in section 116. The city manager shall appoint a hearing officer who shall conduct the hearing in accordance with this section.

(b)  The hearing officer shall hear such testimony as the building official, owner and other parties in interest may offer relevant to the condition of the unsafe building, structure or building service equipment and the failure to repair or demolish the same.

(c)  The hearing officer shall make written findings of fact from the testimony offered as to whether or not the building, structure or building service equipment in question is an unsafe condition as defined in this section and whether good cause exists for the failure to repair or demolish the unsafe condition.

(d)  If the hearing officer finds the building, structure, or building service equipment to be unsafe and if the owner of the unsafe building, structure or building service equipment or other parties in interest fail to show good cause why the unsafe building, structure or building service equipment should not be demolished forthwith, the hearing officer shall authorize the building official to cause the damaged building to be demolished. The costs of such demolition shall be charged against the real property on which the unsafe building, structure or building service equipment existed as an assessment. Such assessment shall be recorded in the office of the county recorder and shall be a lien on such real property from the date of its recording until paid. Such lien shall be subject and inferior to a lien for general taxes and to all prior encumbrances of record.

(e)  If the hearing officer finds the building, structure or building service equipment to be unsafe and that good cause exists to grant the owner or other parties in interest additional time to complete the repair or demolition of the damaged building, structure, or building service equipment, the hearing officer shall order that such repairs or demolition be completed with diligence and before a date certain, provided that no extension of time longer than 180 days shall be granted to complete the repairs or demolition. If an extension of time to complete repairs or demolition of the unsafe building, structure or building service equipment is granted but the owner and other parties in interest do not complete the repair or demolition of the unsafe conditions within the extension of time granted, the building official, upon the expiration of the extension granted, shall cause the unsafe building, structure or service equipment to be demolished forthwith, no further extensions shall be allowed or granted. The costs of such demolition are the responsibility of the property owner and are due 30 days after the final invoice is submitted. Where costs are not paid within 30 days of issuance of the final invoice, the city shall place a lien upon the property and charge interest at the annual rate of 10% until such time as the lien is satisfied. Such assessment shall be recorded in the office of the county recorder and shall be a lien on such real property from the date of its recording until paid. Such lien shall be subject and inferior to a lien for general taxes.

(f)  Any determination by the hearing officer, including any additional extension in time beyond that initially granted by the hearing officer may only be appealed to the superior court.

116.6.6 Notice by Publication. If the whereabouts of any person entitled to notice under this section cannot be ascertained by the city in the exercise of reasonable diligence, service of such notice may be made by publishing the notice in a newspaper printed and published in the city for two (2) consecutive weeks.

116.7 Transfer of ownership. It shall be unlawful for the owner of any dwelling unit or structure who has received a compliance order or upon whom a notice of violation has been served to sell. Transfer, mortgage, lease or otherwise dispose of such dwelling unit or structure to another until the provisions of the compliance order or notice of violation have been complied with, or until such owner shall first furnish the grantee, transferee, mortgagee or lessee a true copy of any compliance order or notice of violation issued by the code official, and shall furnish to the code official a signed and notorized statement from the grantee, transferee, mortgagee or lessee, acknowledging the receipt of such compliance order or notice of violation and fully accepting the responsibility without condition for making the corrections or repairs required by such compliance order or notice of violation.

116.8 Failure to Comply

Failure of the property owner or occupant to comply with any part of this article or any lawful order given under the scope of this article is a Class 1 misdemeanor.

Reason: This entire amended code section IBC 116 addresses the abatement of unsafe structures and equipment with much greater detail and stronger legal language than what is written in the code. Abatements of unsafe buildings are the most difficult cases that we deal with.

Section 201.4 is hereby amended by adding to the end of this subsection:

Mirriam-Webster's Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language shall be considered as providing ordinarily accepted meanings.

Reason: This provides a specific source for terms that are not defined in the building codes.

Section 202 Definitions is hereby amended as follows:

[A] EXISTING BUILDING is amended by adding: “… and all required inspections have been approved.”

[BS] EXISTING STRUCTURE is amended by adding: “… and all required inspections have been approved.”

Reason: In order for a building or a structure to be considered as existing, a legal permit must have been issued and all required inspections approved, too.

Section 310.3 is hereby amended by adding the following item to the list of R-2 residential occupancies:

Residential condominiums

Reason: Residential condominiums are not specifically classified in the code. As multiple-dwelling structures, they need to be governed by the IBC.

Section 406.3 is hereby amended by adding the following subsection:

406.3.4 Open Carports. Carports for other than single family residential use which are open on all sides and constructed entirely of noncombustible materials, except for an approved fascia, shall not exceed 5,000 square feet and shall be located no closer than 3 feet to an adjacent lot line, nor closer than 6 feet to any projecting element of an adjacent building or structure. The edge of the carport roof shall be used to measure the separation distance to adjacent lot lines, buildings or structures.

Reason: The code limits the area of carports not associated with a single-family residence to 3,000 square feet (without fire wall separation). This increase to 5,000 square feet is consistent with the Glendale Fire Code. These structures do not represent a great fire hazard as they are completely open and non-combustible.

Section 707.3.11 Electrical Rooms with Service Entrance Equipment is hereby added and shall read as follows:

Fire-resistance rated walls and/ or horizontal assemblies with a fire-resistance rating of one hour shall be provided to separate an electrical room containing service entrance equipment from adjacent rooms and spaces.

Reason: This fire-rating is required by the local electrical utility companies.

Section 903.2 is hereby amended by replacing the first sentence with the following: Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new buildings and structures, and in existing buildings and structures, that are modified, expanded, remodeled, renovated or change occupancy classifications, shall be provided in accordance with the Glendale City Code, Chapter 16, Article III.

Reason: This requires that the Glendale Fire Code requirements are followed for when fire sprinklers are required instead of the thresholds established in the IBC. Glendale’s requirements are typically more stringent. Fire sprinklers are the most effective life safety system for protecting a building’s occupants in the case of a fire.

Section 903.3.1.1.1 is hereby amended by deleting item number 4.

Reason: The code, as written, exempts areas of non-combustible construction with non-combustible contents from the requirement for fire sprinklers. We do not believe that this is safe because we cannot control the contents of a building after it is occupied on a full-time basis.

Section 1010.1.10: The second paragraph is hereby amended deleting the words "and over 6 feet (1,829mm) wide."

Reason: The code, as written, only requires panic door hardware when electrical rooms containing electrical equipment rated at 1,200 amps or greater have a width greater than 6 feet. The provision of panic hardware is an important safety feature regardless of the dimensions of the room.

Section 1013.5 is hereby amended by deleting the words "and photoluminescent."

Reason: As an alternative to internally illuminated exit signs, the code allows photoluminescent (glow-in-the-dark) exit signs. Based on our experience, these signs do not provide an adequate level of visibility to provide safe egress in the case of an emergency.

Section 1102.1 is hereby amended by adding the following sentence:

Where there is a conflict between the requirements of this chapter and the 2010 Americans with Disabilities Act and the Fair Housing Act, the federal requirements shall govern.

The handicapped accessibility requirements of IBC Chapter 11 occasionally conflict with the federal requirements. Because the enforcement of accessibility requirements is assigned to the U.S. Department of Justice, it is prudent that the federal standards are the governing regulations.

Section 1206 is hereby deleted in its entirety.

For requirements on sound transmission refer to City of Glendale Revised Sound Attenuation Standards effective December 31, 2001.

Reason: Glendale has a sound transmission ordinance which supercedes the requirements of the building code.

Table 1607.1, #25 Residential is hereby amended to read as follows:

Habitable Attics and Sleeping Areas: 40 psf

Reason: The code allows these areas to be designed to a lesser live load. However, these areas often occur on a floor level where other habitable spaces are designed at a minimum of 40 p.s.f. It makes sense to maintain a consistent live load factor of 40 p.s.f., and this is common engineering practice.

Section 1609.4.3 Exposure Categories is hereby amended to read as follows:

The City of Glendale is predominantly categorized as exposure category C. Deviating from this shall require additional proof and verification from the registered design professional in responsible charge. The engineer shall provide a surface roughness analysis, provide aerials, etc. proving that the proposed site meets exposure category B as defined in ASCE 7-10, Section 26.7.3.

Exception: Single story one- and two-family dwellings are permitted to use exposure category B for wind design.

Reason: This assigns wind exposure zones specific to Glendale.

Section 1704.3 Statement of Special Inspections is hereby amended by deleting the Exception.

Reason: This exception would allow a statement of special inspections on the construction documents to be prepared by a non-registrant. This cannot be allowed because we require that all construction documents for projects governed by the IBC be prepared by an Arizona registrant.

Section 1705.4 Masonry Construction is hereby amended by deleting Exception 2.

Section 1806.1 Load Combinations is hereby amended by adding the following: In lieu of the presumptive load-bearing values of Table 1806.2, a soils report is required for all new construction.

Reason: Due to expansive soils conditions typically found in Glendale, we do not allow the code’s prescriptive soils bearing values to be utilized in the design of a building foundation. Instead, we require that a soils investigation report be provided for all new construction.

Section 1806.2 Presumptive Load- Bearing Values is hereby amended by adding the following:

In lieu of the presumptive load-bearing values of Table 1806.2, a soils report is required for all new construction.

Reason: Due to expansive soils conditions typically found in Glendale, we do not allow the code’s prescriptive soils bearing values to be utilized in the design of a building foundation. Instead, we require that a soils investigation report be provided for all new construction.

Section 1809.4 Depth and width of footings is hereby amended by revising the first sentence to read as follows:

The minimum depth of footings below the undisturbed ground surface shall be 18 inches (458 mm).

Reason: The soils in the City of Glendale incorporate native desert as well as previously farmed land that exhibit inconsistent bearing values. Based on the professional opinion by the soils/ geotechnical engineers practicing in the valley area, the adjustment in the bearing depth is highly recommended.

Table 2902.1 Minimum Number of Required Plumbing Fixtures is hereby amended as follows: Revise footnote “e” to “25 or fewer.”

Reason: This increases the threshold for a service sink from 15 occupants to 25. Requiring a service sink for a small occupancy is unnecessary and is a cost burden. Delete footnote “f” as written in the code.

Reason: This footnote references the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code to determine the number of plumbing fixtures for a swimming pool area. The City of Glendale does not adopt this code. The city references City Code Chapter 32.

Add new footnote “f” to read as follows:

f. 24 inches (610 mm) of a linear wash sink or 18 inches (457 mm) of a circular wash basin shall be considered equivalent to one lavatory..

Reason: The 2018 IPC does not address these types of continuous wash sinks.

Section 2902.6 is hereby amended by revising “15” to “25.”

Reason: This increases the occupancy threshold for requiring a drinking fountain to 25.
Requiring a drinking fountain for a small occupancy is unnecessary and is a cost burden.

Chapter 31 is hereby amended by deleting Section 3109, Swimming Pool Enclosures. See Chapter 32 of the Glendale City Code for requirements.

Reason: Swimming pool enclosure requirements are governed by Chapter 32 of the City Code.

Sec. 9-18. - Amendments to the 2018 International Residential Code.

The International Residential Code, 2018 Edition is hereby amended in the following respects:

Chapter 1. Administration is hereby amended by the deletion of Sections R101 through R114. For the administration of this code, see the 2018 International Building Code and related amendments.

Reason: Instead of duplicating amendments to the administrative chapters (Chapter 1) of both the IBC and the IRC, we utilize Chapter 1 of the IBC for our code administration requirements. IBC Chapter 1 also provides additional needed requirements for subjects such as Special Inspection which the IRC does not include.

Section R201.4 is hereby amended by adding to the end of this subsection: Mirriam-Webster's Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language shall be considered as providing ordinarily accepted meanings.

Reason: This provides a specific source for terms that are not defined in the building codes. Section R202 Definitions is hereby amended by adding the following definitions:

EXISTING BUILDING. A building erected prior to the date of adoption of the appropriate code, or one for which a legal building permit has been issued and all required inspections have been approved.

EXISTING STRUCTURE. A structure erected prior to the date of adoption of the appropriate code, or one for which a legal building permit has been issued and all required inspections have been approved.

Reason: In order for a building or a structure to be considered as existing, a legal permit must have been issued and all required inspections approved, too.

Table R301.2(1) is amended to read as follows: GROUND SNOW LOAD WIND DESIGN SEISMIC IC DESIGN CATEGORY f SUBJECT TO DAMAGE FROM WINTER ER DESIGN TEMP e ICE BARRIER UNDERLAYMENT REQUIRED h FLOOD
HAZARDS g AIR R FREEZING INDEX i MEAN ANNUAL TEMP i SPEED d
(mph) Topographic effects k Weathering a Frost line line depth b Termite c N/A 115mphh (ultimate) 89 mph (ASD) None B Negligible N/A Moderate to Heavy 32° F No FEMA N/A 72.6° F A 72.6° F F Reason: This is a blank data table in the code that the jurisdiction is required to complete with the appropriate values for their location.

Table R301.5 minimum uniformly distributed live loads is hereby amended as follows: Habitable Attics and Attics Served

with fixed stairs 40 psf
Sleeping Rooms 40 psf

Reason: The code allows these areas to be designed to a lesser live load. However, these areas often occur on a floor level where other habitable spaces are designed at a minimum of 40 p.s.f. It makes sense to maintain a consistent live load factor of 40 p.s.f., and this is common engineering practice.

Section R302.5.1 is hereby amended by adding the following to the end of this subsection:

Doors providing opening protection shall be maintained self-closing, self-latching and tight-fitting.

Reason: In order to provide a proper fire separation between a dwelling and an attached garage, the door shall not only be self-closing, but also needs to be self-latching and tight-fitting, with a gasketed smoke seal. These are standards requirements for a fire-rated door in the IBC.

Section R310.2.3 is hereby amended by adding the following to the first paragraph:

A window well shall not be located beneath an emergency escape and rescue opening. A protective grate shall be provided over all window wells. The grate shall comply with Section R310.4 and shall be designed for a minimum uniformly distributed live load of 40 pounds per square foot.

Reason: This amendment covers the circumstance where a window well serving a basement window occurs directly beneath an escape and rescue opening on the first floor. This also requires that open window wells be provided with a grate as a method of fall protection.

Section R311.3.2 is hereby amended by adding the following text:

A door shall not swing over a lower floor or landing.

Reason: The code only prohibits this condition at exterior exit doors. This amendment extends this requirement to all doors because studies have shown that this is a tripping hazard.

Section R313.2 Automatic Fire Sprinklers: In accordance with A.R.S. § 9-807, delete this section in its entirety.

Reason: State law prohibits jurisdictions from adopting any ordinance that mandates fire sprinklers in one- and two-family dwellings. The code requirement for fire sprinklers in newly constructed townhouse dwellings will remain in force.

Section R319.1 is hereby deleted it its entirety and replaced with the following:

R319.1 Address Numbers. Property owners shall obtain and display on the residence, the correct building number or numbers as assigned to such property(ies) by the Engineering Department of the City of Glendale in accordance with established street assignment policy, prior to final inspection and /or issuance of a certificate of occupancy. The building numbers shall be of a durable material, permanently attached to the building and must be readily distinguished and readable from the nearest paved public/common roadway fronting that property. The size of the building numbers shall comply with the city’s adopted fire code and its amendments.

Reason: This clarifies that the assignment of building addresses is the responsibility of the Engineering Department. This also aligns the address numeral specifications with the Glendale Fire Code.

Section R401.4 is hereby amended by adding the following sentence:

A soils test and geotechnical evaluation report shall be required for all new buildings governed by this code.

Reason: Due to expansive soils conditions typically found in Glendale, we do not allow the code’s prescriptive soils bearing values to be utilized in the design of a building foundation. Instead, we require that a soils investigation report be provided for all new construction.

Section R403.1.1 the third sentence is hereby revised to read as follows: Spread footings shall be at least 10 inches in thickness.

Reason: Glendale requires that concrete foundation footings shall be provided with steel reinforcing bars. In order to provide the clearances required for reinforcing bars per ACI 308, the minimum concrete fooring thickness shall be 10”.

Section R403.1.3 is hereby amended by adding Seismic Design Categories B and C to all seismic design requirements listed in this section. In addition, this section is amended by deleting the exception for one- and two-family dwellings.

Reason: This requires that the steel reinforcing required by the code for other seismic design zones also be provided in residential foundations in Glendale. This reinforcing is necessary due to our poor soils conditions, and helps to minimize cracking. This reinforcing is typically provided as industry standard.

Section R403.1.3.1 is hereby amended by adding the following:

No. 4 vertical reinforcing bars shall be installed at 48 inches maximum spacing. The vertical bars shall tie the foundation stem wall to the footing and a 90 degree bend shall be provided at the no. 4 bar located in the footing.

Reason: For our zone, the code does not require steel reinforcing bars in foundations. However, because of our expansive soils, it is important to provide such reinforcement. This reinforcing prescription is also considered industry standard.

Section R403.1.3 is hereby amended by adding the following subsection:

Section R403.1.3.3 Foundation Ties. When an addition is constructed, the new foundation shall be tied to the existing foundation by installing two (2) No. 4 dowel bars, minimum 12 inches long. These shall be embedded a minimum of 6 inches into the existing footing.

Reason: This requirement guards against differential settlement between an existing foundation and a new addition’s foundation due to our poor soils conditions.

Section R403.1.4 Minimum Depth is hereby amended by revising 12 inches to 18 inches.

Reason: The soils in the City of Glendale incorporate native desert as well as previously farmed land that exhibit inconsistent bearing values. Based on the professional opinion by the soils/ geotechnical engineers practicing in the valley area, the adjustment in the bearing depth is highly recommended.

Section R403.1.6 Foundation anchorage is hereby amended by revising the first sentence of the second paragraph to read:

The wood sole plates at all exterior walls shall be anchored to the foundation with anchor bolts spaced a maximum of 4 feet on center.

Reason: This closer spacing provides better load transfer from the walls to the foundation and is considered industry standard.

Section R403.4.1 Crushed Stone Footings is hereby deleted in its entirety.

Reason: Crushed stone footings are not utilized and not recommended in our area due to our poor soils conditions.

Table R404.1.1(1), Plain Masonry Foundation Walls is hereby deleted in its entirety. Table R404.1.1(2), Masonry Foundation Walls is hereby deleted in its entirety. Table R404.1.1(3), Masonry Foundation Walls is hereby deleted in its entirety. Table R404.1.1(4), Masonry Foundation Walls is hereby deleted in its entirety.

Reason: These prescriptive masonry foundation wall design tables are deleted because Glendale requires that such walls be designed by an engineer because of our poor soils conditions.

Section R502.9 is hereby amended by adding the following subsection:

R502.9.1 Framing Connections. Framing details for bearing walls and posts shall be such that all components are tied together with positive connections to transmit wind uplift forces from the roof to the foundation. Nails loaded in withdrawal by such forces shall not be considered as positive connections.

Approved metal framing anchors shall be provided at the top and bottom of every other stud of a wood-frame bearing wall, except where structural panel sheathing is nailed directly to the studs, top plate and bottom plate in accordance with Table R602.3(1).

Floor-to-floor connections shall have approved metal strap ties at a maximum of 48 inches on center, except where justified by an engineered analysis that bears the seal of a registered design professional.

Each truss, joist and rafter shall be connected to the top plate of the supporting wall with an approved metal framing anchor. The framing anchor shall be of the type which connects to both members of the double top plate. Beams shall be anchored to supporting walls and posts with approved metal framing connectors.

Reason: These requirements expand upon the prescriptive framing connection requirements of the code to ensure that adequate structural resistance is provided to lateral and uplift forces.

Section R505.1 is hereby amended by replacing it in its entirety as follows:

Section R505.1 Engineered design required. The project drawings, details, calculations and specifications are required to bear the seal of a registered design professional.

Reason: Due to its complexity and infrequent use in residential construction, we require that steel floor framing shall be designed by an Arizona registrant.

Section R602.10 and R602.12 are hereby amended by adding the following:

For buildings that are two (2) or more stories in height, the empirical design provisions for wall bracing in this section shall not be used. An engineered design shall be provided to include both gravity and lateral load calculations. The project drawings and engineering calculations shall bear the seal of a registered design professional.

Reason: Because of the complexity of lateral bracing for residential structures over one story in height, we require that an engineered design be provided by a structural engineer.

Section R603.1.1 is hereby amended by replacing it in its entirety as follows:

R603.1.1 Engineered design required. For steel wall framing, the project drawings, details, calculations and specifications are required to bear the seal of a registered design professional.

Reason: Due to its complexity and infrequent use in residential construction, we require that steel wall framing shall be designed by an Arizona registrant.

Section R606.1 Professional Registration Not Required is hereby amended to read as follows:

Masonry walls and columns designed in accordance with the requirements of Figure R606.11(3) shall not require an engineered design by an architect or engineer. Such walls and columns shall support only a roof and shall be limited to 10 feet in height. Masonry construction not meeting these empirical requirements shall require drawings and engineering calculations bearing the seal of a registrant.

Reason: We allow the masonry empirical design provisions of the code to be utilized, but only for one-story structures with a wall height limit of 10 feet.

Section R606.11 shall be amended as follows:

Masonry walls shall be anchored to floor and roof systems in accordance with the details shown in figures R606.11(1) and R606.11(3). Footings may be considered as points of lateral support.

The anchor bolt size and spacing shall be as required to support all imposed loads, but shall not be less than ½ inch diameter anchor bolts spaced at 4 feet on center, embedded a minimum of 4 inches.

Reason: These specific references ensure that steel reinforcing is provided in masonry wall construction, thus disallowing unreinforced masonry walls.

Section R608.1 General is hereby amended by revising the last sentence to read: Project drawings, details, calculations and specifications are required to bear the seal of a registered design professional.

Reason: Because of the complexity of concrete wall design, we require that concrete walls shall be designed by an Arizona registrant.

Section R610.1 General is hereby amended by revising the last sentence to read:

Project drawings, details, calculations and specifications are required to bear the seal of a registered design professional.

Reason: Because of the complexity of structural insulated panel (SIP) wall construction, we require that SIP walls shall be designed by an Arizona registrant.

Section R802.8 Lateral Support is hereby amended to read as follows:

Rafters and ceiling joists shall be provided with lateral support at points of bearing to prevent rotation. Where lateral support is provided by wood blocking, the blocking shall be minimum nominal 2-inch thickness.

Reason: The code only dictates lateral blocking when the depth-to-thickness ration exceeds 5 to 1. Lateral rotation of these members can occur even with smaller sized members, therefore, lateral blocking should be provided. Also, we have found that blocking members that are less than 2X lumber in size tend to split when edge nailing is applied.

Section R804.1.1 shall be amended by replacing it in its entirety as follows:

R804.1.1 Engineered design required. For steel roof framing, the project drawings, details, calculations and specifications are required to bear the seal of a registered design professional.

Reason: Due to its complexity and infrequent use in residential construction, we require that steel roof framing shall be designed by an Arizona registrant.

Chapters 34 through 43 are hereby deleted. The requirements for electrical systems shall be governed by the 2017 National Electrical Code.

Reason: Based on our staff’s experience, the 2017 National Electrical Code (NEC) is a more comprehensive electrical code than the abridged electrical requirements of the International Residential Code electrical chapters. Electrical contractors are very familiar with the NEC.

Sec. 9-19. - Amendments to the 2018 International Existing Building Code.

The 2018 International Existing Building Code is amended in the following respects:

Section 101.1 is amended to read as follows:

Section 101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Building Code of the City of Glendale, hereinafter referred to as "this code."

Reason: The code requires that the jurisdiction be identified.

Section 305.4.2 is amended by adding item 7 as follows:

7. A minimum of one accessible toilet room.

Reason: This is to clarify that with a remodel of an existing building, a handicapped-accessible restroom shall be provided. This is consistent with the 2010 Americans with Disabilities Act Standards for Accessible Design.

Section 305.8.10 is amended by adding the following:

As an alternative, in existing toilet rooms and bathing rooms, one fixture (water closet or urinal) may be removed (where two or more fixtures exist) to create the required space for an accessible water closet.

Reason: In an existing building, this provides the option of reconfiguring an existing restroom to comply with handicapped-accessibility requirements, even if this reduces the fixture count. This can be a less costly alternative than adding a new ADA-compliant restroom.

Section 1203.3 is hereby amended by revising the title and the first sentence to read as follows:

1203.3 Means of Egress and Emergency Escape and Rescue. Existing window openings, door openings and corridor and stairway widths less than ...(remaining text unchanged).

Reason: This adds the provision for existing window openings (that serve as escape and rescue openings from bedrooms) to remain unchanged, thus preserving the character of a historic building.

Section 1204.6 is hereby amended by revising the title and the first sentence to read as follows: 1204.6 Means of Egress and Emergency Escape and Rescue. Existing window openings, door openings and corridor and stairway widths less than ...(remaining text unchanged).

Reason: This adds the provision for existing window openings (that serve as escape and rescue openings from bedrooms) to remain unchanged, thus preserving the character of a historic building.

Sec. 9-20. Amendments to the International Plumbing Code

Section 301.6 Prohibited Locations is hereby amended to reference Section 1003 in its entirety and any requirements in that section shall be deferred to the City of Glendale’s Pre-Treatment Department.

Reason: The City of Glendale has a Pre-Treatment Program/Department and the items referenced in Section 301.6 and in Section 1003 fall within that department’s authority.

Section 305.4.1 Sewer Depth is hereby amended as follows:

This section allows the Authority Having Jurisdiction to determine the minimum depth below grade of the sewer for private sewage disposal systems and building sewers. The City of Glendale requires that the minimum depth below grade shall be 12 inches for private sewer systems and building sewers.

Reason: To remain consistent with Section 305.4, which provides for protection of water, soil, and waste pipes from freezing, the City of Glendale requires that water, soil, and waste pipes be installed a minimum of 12 inches below grade.

Table 308.5 Hanger Spacing is hereby amended as follows:

This Table shall be amended by adding the following to footnote “a”:

• A hanger shall be located within eighteen inches of each coupling or hub for lengths up to ten feet.t. • For multiple joints within a four-foot length, a hanger shall be located at alternate couplings or hubs.. • Support shall be provided at each floor for vertical stacks.. • Information on hanging, seismic and sway bracing can be found in General Installation Instruction in Chapter Four of the Cast Iron Soil Pipe and Fittings Handbook..

Reason: The Cast Iron Soil Pipe and Fittings Handbook is a more complete document.

Table 403.1 Minimum Number of Required Plumbing Fixtures is hereby amended by deleting this table entirely. The 2018 International Building Code Table 2902.1 and its amendments shall be used to determine the minimum number of plumbing fixtures required.

Reason: This table also appears in the 2018 IBC. Instead of amending the table in two codes, we simply reference the 2018 IBC table and our amendments to it.

Section 410.4 Substitution is hereby amended by revising the last sentence to read:

In other occupancies where drinking fountains are required, water dispensers shall be permitted to be substituted for drinking fountains.

Reason: The code only allows water dispensers to be substituted for 50% of the required drinking fountains. However, water dispensers are a more cost effective and a more sanitary solution, typically providing better tasting water.

Section 424 Urinals is hereby amended as follows:

The City of Glendale does not allow non-water urinals.

Reason: These types of urinals require different and more frequent maintenance. Because of field observations of these urinals and the lack of maintenance that has been observed, many of them have become insanitary.

Section 608.17.1.1 Carbonated beverage dispensers is hereby amended as follows:

This section is amended to require a Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Assembly to be installed at each water supply to Carbonated Beverage dispensers.

Reason: The University of Southern California Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research has written several articles explaining that when CO2 is mixed with water the resultant carbonic acid that is formed will now create a high health hazard if allowed to come in contact with copper water supply piping. Therefore, they require a Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Assembly to be installed at the water supply to each carbonation source.

Chapter Seven is hereby amended as follows:

Any reference in this chapter that refers to the International Private Sewage Disposal Code shall be deferred to the Maricopa County Health Department.	

Reason: The Maricopa County Health Department typically and historically has had authority in matters concerning private sewage disposal.

Section 701.5 Damage to drainage system or public sewer is hereby amended to reference Section 1003 in its entirety and any requirements in that section shall be deferred to the City of Glendale’s Pre-Treatment Department.

Reason: The City of Glendale has a Pre-Treatment Program/Department and the items referenced in Section 301.6 and in Section 1003 fall within that department’s authority.

Section 803 Special Wastes is hereby amended to defer to the City of Glendale’s Pre-Treatment Department.

Reason: The City of Glendale has a Pre-Treatment Program/Department and the items referenced in Section 803 fall within that department’s authority.

Section 903.1 Roof Extension is hereby amended as follows:

This section allows the Authority Having Jurisdiction to determine the minimum height above a roof that a vent must terminate. The City of Glendale shall require that all vents terminate a minimum of 6 inches above the roof and not less than 12 inches from any vertical surface.	

Reason: These distances are typically and historically the ones used for vent terminations. The 6 inches above the roof is to try to eliminate the build-up of debris and thus closing off the vent. The 12 inches from any vertical surface is to facilitate the installation of the flashing . Section 1003 Interceptors and Separators is hereby amended by deferring to the requirements of the City of Glendale Pre-Treatment Department.

Reason: The City of Glendale has a Pre-Treatment Program/Department and the items referenced in Section 1003 fall within that department’s authority.

Chapter 13 Non-potable Water Systems is hereby amended by deleting this chapter in its entirety and authority is deferred to the Maricopa County Health Department.

Reason: The Maricopa County Health Department is the Authority Having Jurisdiction in these matters.

Sec. 19-21. Amendments to the 2011 National Electrical Code.

Article 90- Introduction

Section 90.1 (A) is hereby amended to read as follows:

90.1 (a) Practical safeguarding. The purpose of this code is the practical safeguarding of persons and property from hazards arising from the use of electricity. Any and all electrical work for light, heat, power, or any other purposes shall be installed in conformity with the rules and regulations as set forth in this code and that document titled, National Electrical Code, 2017 edition, also known as NFPA 70, and in conformity with the rules, policies, regulations and amendments as set forth by the building official. This Code is not intended as a design specification or an instruction manual for untrained persons.

Reason: This section, as amended, lists more broadly what is covered by the NEC and gives the Building Official and Building Safety Department the ability to issue policy and guidelines for enforcement of the Code for aspects of work not directly covered under the Code or those situations that may require our interpretations.

Section 90.2(A)(5) is added to read as follows:

Special Inspection. The City of Glendale requires Special Electrical Inspections for the types of work specified below as amended by adding sections [90.2(a)(5)] and 90.2(a)(6). Special Electrical Inspections include, but are not limited to, testing or observation of the work assigned for conformance with the approved design drawings and specifications, and submission of appropriate inspection reports or certificates to the City of Glendale Electrical Inspector.

The Special Electrical Inspector shall be a qualified person who demonstrates competence to the satisfaction of the Building Official for the type of work requiring Special Inspection. These individual(s) or firm(s) shall be responsible for performing the Special Inspection tasks and reports required by the City of Glendale. The Special Electrical Inspector(s) shall be an independent, third-party individual, firm or testing agency and shall not be the installing contractor or any other person responsible for the work.

Electrical Special Inspection:

1. Ground-fault protection performance tests for equipment provided or required to have ground-fault protection.
2. Switchboard, panelboards, motor control center, and all other equipment rated 1,000 amps or more; or over 600 volts. (over-potential test, also known as a dielectric withstand test, and commonly referred to as a hi-pot test.)
3. Emergency and standby power systems including: switchboards, panelboards, distribution boards, transfer equipment, power source, conductors, fire pumps, exhaust and ventilation fans.
4. Other special inspections as required by the building official.

Reason: The above mentioned Electrical equipment is required to be tested to make sure there are no issues before turning power on. There have been occasional factory, installation, or shipping defects that have been detected by this testing that prevented damage to equipment or possible injury to workers. Also, Ground fault protection needs to be tested to make sure it works properly and all settings are per specifications.

Section 90.2A(6) is added to read as follows:

Electrical observation. Electrical observation by the ‘Registrant of Record’ shall be provided for the following installations:

1. Installation or alteration of that portion of a health care facility electrical system which fall within the scope of article 517, Part 3- “Essential Electrical System” of the 2017 National Electrical Code.
2. Installations or alterations of high voltage electrical systems, which exceed 600 volts.
3. Installations or alterations of electrical systems within locations classified as hazardous by the provisions of the 2017 National Electrical Code, or the currently adopted International Fire Code, except for gasoline dispensing installations and systems located within storage garages, repair garages or lubritoriums.
4. When electrical observation is specifically required by the building official.

The owner shall employ the Engineer responsible for the electrical design, or another Engineer designated by the Engineer responsible for the electrical design to perform visual observation of complex electrical equipment and systems for general conformance to the approved plans and specifications, including but not limited to, placement and interconnection of equipment. Electrical observation shall be performed at intermediate significant stages of the construction progression and when installation is complete and ready to be inspected by the Building Official. Certificates of Electrical Observation shall be completed and sealed by the Engineer of Record for all life safety items as one of the requirements prior to release of a temporary certificate of occupancy. All certificates of Electrical Observation shall be completed and sealed prior to the project’s final approval and the electrical portion of the certificate of occupancy is completed.

Reason: Observation by the Registrant assures that his requirements and design have been followed in sensitive, critical, and/or dangerous areas where life/safety is critical.

Section 90.4 is hereby amended by adding the following paragraph at the end of the section:

Periodically, technical bulletins may be issued by the Building Official to clarify policy of certain sections found within this code. These technical bulletins shall have the same enforceable content as if it was included and part of this Code.

Reason: This gives the Building Official and the Building Safety Department the ability to make clarifications and better enforcement ability for repeated violations or special circumstances.

Article 90 is hereby amended by adding Section 90.10 to read as follows:

90.10 Wiring in public right-of-way. No person, firm, or corporation shall place any wire for conduction of electricity for any purpose across or within the boundaries of any public street, alley, park or sidewalk, unless such a person, firm, or corporation is operating under a franchise or a permit from the proper authorities to do so.

Reason: By adding this section, the City is assured that they will be aware of what is going into our public right-of-ways.

Article 100 Definitions

Article 100 is hereby amended by revising the definition of the following items to read as follows:

Kitchens. Commercial and Institutional Kitchens and Bars. For the purposes of this section, a kitchen or bar is defined as any area where food or beverage is prepared, served or dispensed.

Reason: Better defines what is regarded as being in a kitchen or bar.

Section 110.22(B) Engineered Series Combination Systems and all sections in this code referring to this section are deleted in their entirety.

Reason: Circuit breaker manufacturers Engineers cannot come up with any good way of deciding how to series rate between different manufacturers breakers. They have spent a lot of money trying, but ultimately the only way they could justify it would be to have a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory run tests which would make it cost prohibitive.

Article 210- Branch Circuits

Section 210.5 is hereby amended by adding a subsection (D) to read as follows: (D) Color code. Where branch circuits requiring a neutral, are installed in raceways, the conductors of branch circuits connected to the same system shall conform to the following color code: VOLTS PHASE SYSTEM PHASE A PHASE B PHASE C NEUTRALEUTRAL 120/208 3 WYE BLACK RED BLUE WHITEWHITE 277/480 3 WYE BROWN ORANGE YELLOW GRAY GRAYY 120/240 3 DELTA BLACK ORANGE BLUE OR RED WHITE RED WHITE

Reason: The NEC does not specify any color coding for different voltage systems. Valley wide, most Jurisdictions have adopted color coding so it is apparent what voltage and phase arrangements there are.

Section 210.8(B)2 is hereby amended to read as follows:

(2) Kitchens: Commercial and Institutional Kitchens and bars. For the purposes of this section, a kitchen or bar is defined as any area where food or beverage is prepared, served or dispensed.

Reason: Better defines what is regarded as being in a kitchen or bar.

Section 210.50(D) is added as follows:

210.50 (d) Prohibited receptacle locations. Receptacles shall not be installed in areas readily accessible directly behind and above a sink, range, counter-mounted cooking unit, grill, deep fryer or any such appliances where cords or receptacles could be subject to physical damage or water.

Exception: Receptacles behind a range or stove made inaccessible unless the range or stove is moved and the receptacle is used to power lighting, timers, or igniters on the appliance.

Reason: We have found dangerous situations where receptacles were installed either behind a sink or above a stove or range where wiring could be damaged very easily or electrocution hazards could exist.

Article 230 Services

Section 230.2 is revised by adding the following sentence and Exception to the end of the first paragraph:

No electrical service on one property shall supply power to another separate and distinct property unless these properties are legally combined and under the same ownership.

Exception: Dwellings shall be allowed to supply other accessory structures on the same property.

Reason: We have had situations develop where abatement properties (with their power turned off) were being fed by a neighbors’ house power electrical service.

Section 230.43 is hereby amended to read as follows:

Section 230.43. Wiring methods for 600 volts, nominal, or less. Service-entrance conductors shall be installed in accordance with the applicable requirements of this code covering the type of wiring method used and shall be limited to the following methods:

1. Rigid metal conduit
2. Intermediate metal conduit
3. Wire ways
4. Bus ways
5. Auxiliary gutters
6. Rigid non-metallic conduit may be used underground
7. Schedule 80 rigid non- metallic conduit may extend above ground to the service equipment.

(Informational note): Refer to the serving utility company’s requirements for additional information on installing service-entrance conductors on or within buildings and underground laterals serving the premises.

Reason: Based upon common valley wide rules and Utility company requirements.

Section 230.70(A)(1) is hereby amended to read as follows:

(A) Location. The service disconnecting means shall be installed in accordance with 230.70(a)(1), (a)(2) and (a)(3).

(1) The service disconnecting means shall be installed at a readily accessible location either outside of a building or structure, or inside nearest the point of entrance of the service-entrance conductors. The service disconnecting means shall be installed adjacent to, and accessible from, the same working area as the utility meter. All service disconnecting means located inside a building shall be enclosed within a room or space separated from the rest of the building by not less than a one-hour fire-resistive occupancy separation.

Exception: the ceiling of this service entrance room may be constructed as required for a one-hour wall assembly with protected opening.

Reason: Utility company requirements and the fact that this makes for a much safer installation in that most persons including 1st responders know that disconnects are usually adjacent to the meters in event of emergency.

Section 240.86(A) and all sections in this code referring to this section are deleted in their entirety.

Reason: Circuit breaker manufacturers Engineers cannot come up with any good way of deciding how to series rate between different manufacturers breakers. They have spent a lot of money trying, but ultimately the only way they could justify it would be to have a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory run tests which would make it cost prohibitive.

Article 250- Grounding

Section 250.4(A)(6) is added to read as follows:

250.4(a)(6) Protection. All copper bonding, grounding, and grounding electrode conductors shall be routed inside buildings unless impractical to do so if determined by the Authority having Jurisdiction. Where it is absolutely necessary to route external to the building, conductors shall be installed in minimum schedule 40 non-metallic rigid conduits or other approved means and secured per NEC requirements. If metallic conduits are used, both ends of the conduits shall be bonded as required in 250.64(e).

Reason: This is amended due to theft of copper conductors.

Section 250.52(A)(3) is hereby amended by adding the following Exception:

Exception: A concrete encased electrode shall not be permitted in post-tensioned or mat slabs unless the concrete encased electrode terminates at an electrode as specified in 250.52(a)(5) or 250.52(a)(7) and complies with 250.53.

Reason: Post tension slabs do not meet the intent of the code. It is to be placed at the bottom of footings due to moisture. PT slabs do not allow that moisture to collect, therefore an alternate method allowed by the code such as ground rods or plates shall be used.

Section 250.118(4,5,6, & 7) is hereby amended to read as follows:

(4) Electrical metallic tubing with an individual equipment grounding conductor. (5) Change 1st sentence to read as follows: Listed flexible metal conduit with an individual equipment grounding conductor and meeting all of the following conditions: s: (6) Change 1st sentence to read as follows: Listed liquidtight flexible metal conduit with an individual equipment grounding conductor and meeting all of the following conditions:ns: (7) Change 1st sentence to read as follows: Flexible metallic tubing with an individual equipment grounding conductor and meeting the following conditions.

Reason: This amendment requires that specific wiring methods include an individual equipment-grounding conductor. This amendment is more restrictive than the NEC, but provides for a higher degree of equipment grounding safety. The intent of the amendment is to supplement the low impedance path to ground and to attain reasonable compliance with requirements for the performance of the fault current path.

Article 300 Wiring Methods

Section 300.4(D) Exception 1 is hereby amended to read as follows:

Exception 1: Steel plates, sleeves, or the equivalent shall not be required to protect rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit, or electrical metallic tubing. Rigid nonmetallic conduit (PVC conduit) is required to be protected.

Reason: The NEC does not mention protection of PVC conduits; however, we have found nails and screws easily penetrate it and can and have caused short circuits and problems.

Article 334 Nonmetallic Sheathed Cable

Section 334.10(1), (2), (3), (4), and (5) is hereby amended to read as follows:

334.10 Uses permitted. Type NM, type NMC, and type NMS cables shall be permitted to be used only in branch circuits in the following:

1. One-and two- family dwellings and their attached or detached garages, and their storage buildings.
2. Multi-family dwellings (R-2, apartments), except as prohibited in section 334.12(10).

For all occupancies other than one and two-family dwellings or a multi-family dwelling (R-2 apartment) or if an occupancy changes from a one-and two-family dwelling, or a multi-family dwelling (R-2, apartment) to any other occupancy, type NM, type NMC, type NMS and type SE cables shall not be allowed. The wiring must then be brought up to other approved methods. Type NM, NMC, NMS and SE cables shall not extend beyond each individual dwelling unit and shall not pass from one dwelling unit through another and shall not be used for wiring originating from a house panel in any two family or multi-family dwelling unit(s) (R-2 apartments). Where installed in a cable tray, cables shall be identified for this use.

Section 334.10(a)(1) To read as follows:

334.10(a)(1). For exposed and concealed work in normally dry locations except as prohibited as amended in 334.10.

Section 334.10(b)(1) To read as follows:

334.10(b)(1). For both exposed and concealed work in dry, moist, damp, or corrosive locations, except as prohibited as amended in 334.10.

Section 334.10(c)(1) To read as follows:

334.10(c)(1). For both exposed and concealed work in normally dry locations except as prohibited as amended in 334.10.

Note: 334.10(A), 334.10(B) and 334.10(C) remain as written in the code.

Reason: The use of Nonmetallic-Sheathed cable in commercial buildings has not typically been permitted in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Nonmetallic-Sheathed cable (NM) is traditionally used in dwelling units, whereas a more durable and robust wiring method enclosed within raceways is traditionally used in commercial buildings. Apartment buildings are considered commercial by the IBC. The code restrictions of the NEC, with respect to allowing type NM cable in a commercial building, would tend to make the installation impractical in most cases, (i.e. NM cable would not be allowed underground or in drop ceilings), and at best the resulting installation would likely be a mixture of several different wiring methods, (each with their own requirements). This type of mixture would actually make the installation more complex, creating a larger hurdle to providing a code compliant installation. Concerns also exist that Nonmetallic-Sheathed Cable would be more subject to damage, such as nicks in the insulation, etc. The integrity of the insulation is critical to safety of the electrical installation. In apartment settings, it has been found that it is easy for someone to steal somebody else’s power from another unit and this has happened. It is therefore the consensus of the electrical safety department that the use of Nonmetallic-Sheathed Cable should be restricted to 1 and 2 family dwelling units and within each R-2 apartment, as described within this document, to provide a higher degree of electrical safety. This has been enforced in Glendale for at least 18 years now.

Subsection 334.12(A)(1) is hereby amended to read as follows:

In any dwelling or structure not specifically permitted in 334.10 as amended. Reason: See previous reason.

Subsection 334.12(A)(11) is added to read as follows:

(11) In all non-residential occupancies. Non-residential occupancies include all occupancies other than one-and two-family dwellings and within each individual apartment of a multi-family dwelling (R-2 apartments).

Reason: See previous reason.

Article 358 Electrical Metallic Tubing: Type EMT

Section 358.10(B)1 & 2 is deleted and replaced with the following:

358.10(B) Corrosive Environments.  Ferrous or nonferrous EMT, elbows, coupling, and fittings shall not be in concrete that is in direct contact with the earth, or in areas subject to severe corrosive influences and judged unsuitable for the condition by the Authority having Jurisdiction.

Reason: Our soils corrode and destroy EMT in very short order which would leave exposed wiring.

Section 358.12 is hereby amended by adding a new item number (3). (3). Where in direct contact with the soil.e soil.

Reason: Our soils corrode and destroy EMT in very short order which would leave exposed wiring

Article 406 Receptacles, Cord Connectors, and Attachment Plugs (Caps)

Section 406.4(G) is added to read as follows:

(G). Receptacles shall not be installed in areas readily accessible directly behind or above a sink, range, counter-mounted cooking unit, grill, deep fryer or any such appliances where cords or receptacles could be subject to physical damage.

Reason: Receptacles in these locations are dangerous and could cause electrocution hazards or fires.

Article 410 Luminaires, Lampholders, and Lamps

Section 410.36(B) is hereby amended by adding a second paragraph to read as follows: Intermediate or heavy-duty ceiling systems shall be used for the support of luminaires (lighting fixtures). All light fixtures shall be positively attached to the suspended ceiling system. The attachment device shall have a capacity of 100 percent of the lighting fixture weight acting in any direction. Luminaires (fixtures) weighing less than 56 pounds and track lighting shall have two 12 gauge wires attached at opposing corners of the luminaire(s) (fixture) or track lighting strip to the structure above. These wires may be slack, and shall contain, at a minimum, at least 3 tight twists within a 3-inch length of the wire at each end. Recessed luminaire housings, exit signage, all single bulb fixtures and emergency unit equipment that are installed within or on a suspended ceiling shall have a minimum of at least one 12-gauge wire attached to the structure above and this wire may be slack and shall contain, at a minimum, at least 3 tight twists of the wire within a 3-inch length at each end. Luminaires weighing more than 50 pounds shall comply with NEC 314.27 (a)(2).

Reason: This is taken out of the Standard for installation of lighting fixtures and is put here so customers don’t need to buy the Standard. This includes slack wire installation requirements.

Article 725 Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 Remote-Control, Signaling, and Power-Limited Circuits

Section 725.4 is added and shall read as follows:

725.4 Bell and signal transformers. In residential occupancies, bell or signal transformers shall not be installed in attics, closets, or in any inaccessible concealed spaces.

Reason: This is added to eliminate the potential of fire by placing items such as boxes up against the transformer and overheating it. Also, attics are concealed areas where insulation is frequently added and could result in overheating of the small transformers and it is unlikely that someone would spot a potential problem caused by short circuiting and overheating.