HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance 977 Adopting Building Code, Fire Code, Electrical Pools Property MaintenanceOrdinance 977
Page 1 of 2
TOWN OF WESTLAKE
ORDINANCE NO. 977
AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF WESTLAKE AMENDING CHAPTER 18
TITLED “BUILDINGS AND BUILDING REGULATIONS” BY AMENDING
SECTIONS 18-31 THROUGH 18-43, BY ADOPTING THE 2021 EDITIONS OF THE
INTERNATIONAL CONSTRUCTION CODES WITH NCTCOG RECOMMENDED
AMENDMENTS, INCLUDING THE RESIDENTIAL CODE, BUILDING CODE,
PLUMBING CODE, MECHANICAL CODE, FUEL AND GAS CODE, ENERGY
CONSERVATION CODE, SWIMMING POOL AND SPA CODE, EXISTING
BUILDING CODE, AND THE PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE, ALONG WITH
THE 2020 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE; AMENDING CHAPTER 38 SECTION
38-31 THROUGH SECTION 38-34; PROVIDING A PENALTY; PROVIDING A
CUMULATIVE CLAUSE; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING
A SAVINGS CLAUSE; AUTHORIZING PUBLICATION; AND ESTABLISHING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the Town of Westlake, Texas is a general law Town; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Westlake is currently enforcing the 2018 International Codes
and the 2017 National Electrical Code; and
WHEREAS, the North Central Texas Council of Governments has recommended
amendments and encourages municipalities in the area to adopt the 2021 International Codes
and 2020 National Electrical Code; and
WHEREAS, the Town Council of the Town of Westlake finds it necessary for the
public health, safety, and welfare that to adopt the 2021 editions of the International Fire Code,
International Residential, Building, Plumbing, Fuel Gas, Mechanical, Energy Conservation,
Swimming Pool and Spa, Existing Building, and Property Maintenance Codes, and the 2020
edition of the National Electrical Code; and
WHEREAS, upon the recommendation of the Town of Westlake Planning and
Development Department, the Town Council of the Town of Westlake, Texas, is of the opinion
that it is in the best interests of the town and its citizens that the amendments to the 2021
International Construction Codes and 2020 National Electrical Code should be approved and
adopted.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN
OF WESTLAKE, TEXAS:
SECTION 1: That all matters stated in the preamble are found to be true and correct
and are incorporated herein as if copied in their entirety.
SECTION 2: That Chapter 18, “Buildings and Building Regulations” Article II
“Codes”, Sections 18-31 through 18-43 and Chapter 38, “Fire Prevention and Protection”
Article II “Codes”, Section 38-31 through Sections 38-34 of the Town of Westlake Code of
Ordinances is hereby amended per “Exhibits A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K and L” attached
in this ordinance.
Ordinance 977
Page 2 of 2
SECTION 3: That all provisions of Ordinance 885 not hereby amended shall remain
in full force and effect.
SECTION 4: That this Ordinance shall be cumulative of all other Town Ordinances
and all other provisions of other Ordinances adopted by the Town which are inconsistent with
the terms or provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed.
SECTION 5: That any person, firm or corporation violating any of the provisions or
terms of this ordinance shall be subject to the same penalty as provided for in the Code of
Ordinances of the Town of Westlake, and upon conviction shall be punishable by a fine not to
exceed the sum of Two Thousand Dollars ($2,000.00) for each offense. Each day that a
violation is permitted to exist shall constitute a separate offense.
SECTION 6: That any person violating any provision of this Chapter may be issued a
citation and upon conviction thereof, the person shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and
punished as provided in subsection 1-9 of the Code of Ordinance of the Town of Westlake.
Each 24-hour period of violation, and each separate act or condition in violation of this Chapter,
shall constitute a separate offense.
SECTION 7: It is hereby declared to be the intention of the Town Council of the
Town of Westlake, Texas, that sections, paragraphs, clauses and phrases of this Ordinance are
severable, and if any phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph or section of this Ordinance shall be
declared legally invalid or unconstitutional by the valid judgment or decree of any court of
competent jurisdiction, such legal invalidity or unconstitutionality shall not affect any of the
remaining phrases, clauses, sentences, paragraphs or sections of this Ordinance since the same
would have been enacted by the Town Council of the Town of Westlake without the
incorporation in this Ordinance of any such legally invalid or unconstitutional, phrase,
sentence, paragraph or section.
SECTION 8: This ordinance shall take effect October 1, 2023, from and after its
passage as the law in such case provides.
PASSED AND APPROVED ON THIS 11TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER 2023.
ATTEST: _____________________________
Sean Kilbride, Mayor
______________________________ APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Amy Piukana, Town Secretary
_______________________________
L. Stanton Lowry, Town Attorney
North Central Texas Council of Governments 1 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
Recommended Amendments to the
2021 International Building Code
North Central Texas Council of Governments Region
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2021 International Building Code are hereby
amended as follows: Standard type is text from the IBC. Underlined type is text inserted. Lined through type
is deleted text from IBC. A double asterisk (**) at the beginning of a section identifies an amendment carried
over from the 2018 edition of the code and a triple asterisk (***) identifies a new or revised amendment with
the 2021 code.
Explanation of Options A and B:
Please note that as there is a wide range in fire fighting philosophies / capabilities of cities across the
region, OPTION “A” and OPTION “B” are provided in the Fire and Building Code amendments.
Jurisdictions should choose one or the other based on their fire fighting philosophies / capabilities when
adopting code amendments.
**Section 101.4; change to read as follows:
101.4 Referenced codes. The other codes listed in Sections 101.4.1 through 101.4.8 and referenced
elsewhere in this code, when specifically adopted, shall be considered part of the requirements of this code
to the prescribed extent of each such reference. Whenever amendments have been adopted to the
referenced codes and standards, each reference to said code and standard shall be considered to
reference the amendments as well. Any reference to NFPA 70 or the Electrical Code shall mean the
Electrical Code as adopted.
(Reason: Legal wording to recognize locally adopted codes and amendments adopted with referenced
codes. The former ICC Electrical Code is now Appendix K Chapter 27 of this code but no longer called by
that name.)
**Section 101.4.8; add the following:
101.4.8 Electrical. The provisions of the Electrical Code shall apply to the installation of electrical systems,
including alterations, repairs, replacement, equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances
thereto.
(Reason: This was dropped when ICC quit publishing the ICC Electrical Code, but the Electrical Code still
should be referenced regardless of how it is adopted.)
**Sections 103 and 103.1; amend to insert the Department Name
CODE COMPLIANCE AGENCY [INSERT OFFICIAL BUILDING DEPARTMENT NAME OF
JURISDICTION]
103.1 Creation of enforcement agency. The [INSERT NAME OF DEPARTMENT] is hereby created and
the official in charge thereof shall be known as the building official.
[Remainder Unchanged]
(Reason: Reminder to be sure ordinance reads the same as designated by the city and amend Section
101.1. )
**Section [A] 104.2.1 Determination of substantially improved or substantially damaged existing
buildings and structures in flood hazard areas. (Jurisdictions may consider the option to amend or
delete depending on local enforcement and flood hazard ordinances.)
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 2 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
**Section 104.10.1; Flood hazard areas. (Jurisdictions may consider the option to amend or delete
depending on local enforcement and flood hazard ordinances.)
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
(Note: Sections 104.2.1, 104.10.1, 110.3.12.1, 1612, and 3114 are all inter-connected related to flood
hazard areas, and amendments or deletions should be considered as a whole.)
**Section 105.2 Work exempt from permit; under sub-title entitled “Building” delete items 1, 2, 10
and 11 and re-number as follows:
Building:
1. One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar
uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet (11 m2).
2. Fences not over 7 feet (1829 mm) high.
3. 1. (Remainder Unchanged)
4. 2. (Remainder Unchanged)
5. 3. (Remainder Unchanged)
6. 4. (Remainder Unchanged)
7. 5. (Remainder Unchanged)
8. 6. ( Remainder Unchanged)
9. 7. (Remainder Unchanged)
10. Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, not including service
systems.
11. 8. (Remainder Unchanged)
12. 9. (Remainder Unchanged)
13. 10. (Remainder Unchanged)
(Reason: Items deleted are for one- and two-family dwellings regulated by the International Residential
Code. Accessory structures, fences and shade cloth structures would require a permit for commercial
properties to ensure compliance with local ordinance, egress, accessibility, flame spread of fabric,
wind/snow design load, etc.)
**Section 109; add Section 109.7 to read as follows:
109.7 Re-inspection Fee. A fee as established by city council resolution may be charged when:
1. The inspection called for is not ready when the inspector arrives;
2. No building address or permit card is clearly posted;
3. City approved plans are not on the job site available to the inspector;
4. The building is locked or work otherwise not available for inspection when called;
5. The job site is red-tagged twice for the same item;
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 3 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
6. The original red tag has been removed from the job site.
7. Failure to maintain erosion control, trash control or tree protection.
Any re-inspection fees assessed shall be paid before any more inspections are made on that job site.
(Reason: This fee is not a fine or penalty but is designed to compensate for time and trips when inspections
are called for when not ready.)
**Section 110.3.5; Lath, gypsum board and gypsum panel product inspection; Delete exception
Exception : Gypsum board and gypsum panel products that are not part of a fire resistance rated assembly
or a shear assembly.
(Reason: Lath or gypsum board inspections are not typically performed in this area. Deleting the exception
would then require all gypsum panels to be inspected; this issue is resolved by leaving the exception intact.)
**Section 202; amend definition of Ambulatory Care Facility as follows:
AMBULATORY CARE FACILITY. Buildings or portions thereof used to provide medical, surgical,
psychiatric, nursing or similar care on a less than 24-hour basis to individuals persons who are rendered
incapable of self-preservation by the services provided or staff has accepted responsibility for care
recipients already incapable. This group may include but not be limited to the following:
- Dialysis centers
- Sedation dentistry
- Surgery centers
- Colonic centers
- Psychiatric centers
(Reason: To clarify the range of uses included in the definition. [Explanatory note related to Ambulatory
Care Facilities: This group of uses includes medical or dental offices where persons are put under for
dental surgery or other services. Section 903.2.2 will now require such uses to be sprinklered if on other
than the floor of exit discharge or if four or more persons are put under on the level of exit discharge.
Recommend (1.) jurisdictions document any pre-existing non-conforming conditions prior to issuing a new
C of O for a change of tenant and, (2.) On any medical or dental office specify on C of O the maximum
number of persons permitted to be put under general anesthesia. It is recommended that before a
Certificate of Occupancy is issued, a letter of intended use from the business owner shall be included and
a C of O documenting the maximum number of care recipients incapable of self-preservation allowed.)
**Section 202; add definition of Assisting Living Facilities to read as follows.
ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES. A building or part thereof housing persons, on a 24-hour basis, who
because of age, mental disability or other reasons, live in a supervised residential environment which
provides personal care services. The occupants are capable of responding to an emergency situation
without physical assistance from staff.
(Reason: The code references Assisted Living facilities and definition was deleted.)
**Section 202; add amend definition of “Repair Garage” as follows:
REPAIR GARAGE. A building, structure or portion thereof used for servicing or repairing motor vehicles.
This occupancy shall also include garages involved in minor repair, modification and servicing of motor
vehicles for items such as lube changes, inspections, windshield repair or replacement, shocks, minor part
replacement and other such minor repairs.
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 4 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
(Reason: The code references aligns with fire code.)
**Section 202; amend definition of SPECIAL INSPECTOR to read as follows:
SPECIAL INSPECTOR. A qualified person employed or retained by an approved agency who shall prove
to the satisfaction of the registered design professional in responsible charge and approved by the Building
Official as having the competence necessary to inspect a particular type of construction requiring special
inspection.
(Reason: The registered design professional in responsible charge should be included.)
**Section 202; amend definition of HIGH-RISE BUILDING to read as follows:
Option A
**Section 202; {No amendment necessary}
Option B
**Section 202; amend definition to read as follows:
HIGH-RISE BUILDING. A building with an occupied floor located more than 75 55 feet (22 860 mm)
(16 764 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
(Reason: To define high-rise, as it influences sprinkler requirement thresholds based on the fire fighting
capabilities of a jurisdiction.)
**Section 303.1.3; add a sentence to read as follows:
303.1.3 Associated with Group E occupancies. A room or space used for assembly purposes that is
associated with a Group E occupancy is not considered a separate occupancy, except when applying the
assembly requirements of Chapters 10 and 11.
(Reason: To clarify that egress and accessibility requirements are applicable for assembly areas, i.e.
cafeteria, auditoriums, etc.)
**Section 304.1; add the following to the list of occupancies:
Fire stations
Police stations with detention facilities for 5 or less
(Reason: Consistent with regional practice dating back to the legacy codes.)
**Section 307.1.1; add the following sentence to Exception 4:
4. Cleaning establishments… {Text unchanged} …with Section 707 or 1-hour horizontal assemblies
constructed in accordance with Section 711 or both. See also IFC Chapter 21, Dry Cleaning Plant
provisions.
(Reason: To call attention to detailed requirements in the Fire Code.)
**Section 403.1, Exception 3; change to read as follows:
3. The open-air portion of a building [remainder unchanged]
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 5 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
(Reason: To clarify enclosed portions are not exempt.)
**Section 403.3, Automatic Sprinkler System. Delete exception;
(Reason: To provide adequate fire protection to enclosed areas.)
**Section 403.3.2; change to read as follows:
[F] 403.3.2 Water supply to required fire pumps. In buildings that are more than 420 120 feet (36.5 m)
in building height, required fire pumps shall be supplied by connections to no fewer than two water mains
located in different streets. Separate supply piping shall be provided between each connection to the water
main and the pumps. Each connection and the supply piping between the connection and the pumps shall
be sized to supply the flow and pressure required for the pumps to operate.
Exception: {No change to exception.}
(Reason: The 2009 edition of the IFC added this requirement based on a need for redundancy of the water
supply similar to the redundancy of the power supply to the fire pumps required for such tall buildings,
partially due to the fact that these buildings are rarely fully evacuated in a fire event. More commonly, the
alarm activates on the floor of the event, the floor above and the floor below. Back-up power to the fire
pump becomes critical for this reason. Certainly, the power is pointless if the water supply is impaired for
any reason, so a similar requirement is provided here for redundant water supplies. The 2015 edition
changed the requirement to only apply to very tall buildings over 420 ft. This amendment modifies/lowers
the requirement to 120 ft., based on this same height requirement for fire service access elevators. Again,
the language from the 2009 and 2012 editions of the code applied to any high-rise building. This
compromise at 120 ft. is based on the above technical justification of defend-in-place scenarios in fire
incidents in such tall structures.)
***Section 403.3.2; change to read as follows:
Section 404.10 Exit Stairways in an atrium. Where an atrium contains an interior exit access stairway all
the following shall be met:
[Remainder Unchanged]
(Reason: The five provisions within Section 404.10 are applicable to exit access stairways, not interior exit
stairways. As printed, this is an error, that if left uncorrected, would change among other core code
provisions, how to measure travel distance to an enclosed exit stairway. There is use of the terms “exit
stairway in an atrium” vs. “interior exit stairway” vs. “exit access stairway” that will cause confusion as to
which provisions are applicable.)
**Section 406.3.3.1 Carport separation; add sentence to read as follows:
A fire separation is not required between a Group R-2 and U carport provided that the carport is entirely
open on all sides and that the distance between the two is at least 10 feet (3048 mm).
(Reason: Simplifies the fire separation distance and eliminates the need to obtain opening information on
existing buildings when adding carports in existing apartment complexes. Consistent with legacy codes in
effect in region for years and no record of problems with car fires spreading to apartments as a result.)
***Section 423.5.1; change to read as follows:
423.5.1 Required occupant capacity. The required occupant capacity of the storm shelter shall include
all of the buildings on the site and shall be the greater of the following:
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 6 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
1.The Total occupant load of the classrooms, vocational rooms and offices in the Group E occupancy.
2.The occupant load of the largest indoor assembly space that is associated with the Group E occupancy.
Exceptions:
1. Where a new building is being added on an existing Group E site, and where the new building is not of
sufficient size to accommodate the required occupant capacity of the storm shelter for all of the buildings
on the site, the storm shelter shall at a minimum accommodate the required occupant capacity for the
new building.
2. Where approved by the building official, the required occupant capacity of the shelter shall be permitted
to be reduced by the occupant capacity of any existing storm shelters on the site.
3. Where approved by the building official, the actual number of occupants for whom each occupied
space, floor or building is designed, although less than those determined by occupant load calculation,
shall be permitted to be used in the determination of the required design occupant capacity for the storm
shelter.
Reason: The language in the new exception is parallel to the language in Chapter 10 that gives an AHJ
similar authority for fire egress occupant load, clarifying that an AHJ has the authority to reduce the
required shelter occupant capacity based on rationale provided by a School District.)
***Section 503.1.; add sentence to read as follows:
503.1. General. [Existing Text to remain]
Where a building contains more than one distinct type of construction, the building shall comply with the
most restrictive area, height, and stories, for the lesser type of construction or be separated by fire walls,
except as allowed in Section 510.
(Reason: To create definite language that requires separation between dissimilar building types.)
**Table 506.2; delete footnote i from table
i. The maximum allowable area for a single-story non sprinklered Group U greenhouse is permitted to be
9000 square feet or the allowable area shall be permitted to comply with Table C102.1 of Appendix C.
(Reason: To eliminate the need for Appendix C adoption and remain consistent with 6000 sq. ft. sprinklering
provision.)
**Section 506.3.1; add sentence to read as follows:
506.3.1 Minimum percentage of perimeter. [Existing Text remains]
In order to be considered as accessible, if not in direct contact with a street or fire lane, a minimum 10-foot-
wide pathway meeting fire department access from the street or approved fire lane shall be provided.
(Reason: To define what is considered accessible. Consistent with regional amendment to IFC 503.1.1)
***Section 708.4.2; change sentence to read as follows:
708.4.2 Fireblocks and draftstops in combustible construction. [Body of text unchanged]
Exceptions:
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 7 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
1. Buildings equipped with an automatic sprinkler system installed throughout in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1, or in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 provided that sprinkler protection is
provided in the space between the top of the fire partition and the underside of the floor or roof
sheathing, deck or slab above as required for systems complying with Section 903.3.1.1.
Portions of buildings containing concealed spaces filled with noncombustible insulation as
permitted for sprinkler omission shall not apply to this exception for draftstopping.
[Remainder unchanged]
Reason: The most common exception used to eliminate the need for sprinklers in concealed spaces of
combustible construction is to fill the space with noncombustible insulation. This exception was changed in
2010 to permit a 2-inch air gap at the top of the filled space. A space compliant with the permitted omission
above would allow hot gas and smoke to spread unimpeded throughout a building not provided with
draftstopping. For this reason, omission of sprinklers permitted in accordance with NFPA 13 referenced
standard should not be permitted with IBC exception requiring draftstopping in combustible construction.
**Section 718.3; change sentence to read as follows:
718.3 Draftstopping in floors. [Body of text unchanged]
Exceptions: Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1. and provided that in combustible construction, sprinkler protection is provided in
the floor space.
(Reason: To remain consistent with changes in 708.4.2 IBC code.)
**Section 718.4; change sentence to read as follows:
718.4 Draftstopping in attics. [Body of text unchanged]
Exceptions: Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1 and provided that in combustible construction, sprinkler protection is provided in
the attic space.
(Reason: To remain consistent with changes in 708.4.2 IBC code.)
**Section 901.6.1; add Section 901.6.1.1 to read as follows:
901.6.1.1 Standpipe Testing. Building owners/managers must maintain and test standpipe systems as
per NFPA 25 requirements. The following additional requirements shall be applied to the testing that is
required every 5 years:
1. The piping between the Fire Department Connection (FDC) and the standpipe shall be backflushed
or inspected by approved camera when foreign material is present or when caps are missing, and
also hydrostatically tested for all FDC’s on any type of standpipe system. Hydrostatic testing shall
also be conducted in accordance with NFPA 25 requirements for the different types of standpipe
systems.
2. For any manual (dry or wet) standpipe system not having an automatic water supply capable of
flowing water through the standpipe, the tester shall connect hose from a fire hydrant or portable
pumping system (as approved by the fire code official) to each FDC, and flow water through the
standpipe system to the roof outlet to verify that each inlet connection functions properly. Confirm that
there are no open hose valves prior to introducing water into a dry standpipe. There is no required
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 8 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
pressure criteria at the outlet. Verify that check valves function properly and that there are no closed
control valves on the system.
3. Any pressure relief, reducing, or control valves shall be tested in accordance with the requirements
of NFPA 25. All hose valves shall be exercised.
4. If the FDC is not already provided with approved caps, the contractor shall install such caps for all
FDC’s as required by the fire code official.
5. Upon successful completion of standpipe test, place a blue tag (as per Texas Administrative Code,
Fire Sprinkler Rules for Inspection, Test and Maintenance Service (ITM) Tag) at the bottom of each
standpipe riser in the building. The tag shall be check-marked as “Fifth Year” for Type of ITM, and
the note on the back of the tag shall read “5 Year Standpipe Test” at a minimum.
6. The procedures required by Texas Administrative Code Fire Sprinkler Rules with regard to Yellow
Tags and Red Tags or any deficiencies noted during the testing, including the required notification
of the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (fire code official) shall be followed.
7. Additionally, records of the testing shall be maintained by the owner and contractor, if applicable,
as required by the State Rules mentioned above and NFPA 25.
8. Standpipe system tests where water will be flowed external to the building shall not be conducted
during freezing conditions or during the day prior to expected nighttime freezing conditions.
9. Contact the fire code official for requests to remove existing fire hose from Class II and III standpipe
systems where employees are not trained in the utilization of this firefighting equipment. All standpipe
hose valves must remain in place and be provided with an approved cap and chain when approval is
given to remove hose by the fire code official.
(Reason: Increases the reliability of the fire protection system and re-emphasizes the requirements of NFPA
25 relative to standpipe systems, as well as ensuring that FDC connections are similarly tested/maintained
to ensure operation in an emergency incident.)
**Section 903.1.1; change to read as follows:
903.1.1 Alternative Protection. Alternative automatic fire-extinguishing systems complying with Section
904 shall be permitted instead of in addition to automatic sprinkler protection where recognized by the
applicable standard and, or as approved by the fire code official.
(Reason: Such alternative systems do not provide the reliability of automatic sprinkler protection. Most
gaseous type systems are highly susceptible to open doors, ceiling or floor tile removal, etc. However, an
applicant could pursue an Alternate Method request to help mitigate the reliability issues with these
alternative systems with the fire code official if so desired, or there may be circumstances in which the fire
code official is acceptable to allowing an alternate system in lieu of sprinklers, such as kitchen hoods or
paint booths.)
**Section 903.2; add paragraph to read as follows and delete the exception for telecommunications
buildings:
Automatic Sprinklers shall not be installed in elevator machine rooms, elevator machine spaces, and
elevator hoistways, other than pits where such sprinklers would not necessitate shunt trip requirements
under any circumstances. Storage shall not be allowed within the elevator machine room. Signage shall be
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 9 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
provided at the entry doors to the elevator machine room indicating “ELEVATOR MACHINERY – NO
STORAGE ALLOWED.”
(Reason: Firefighter and public safety. This amendment eliminates the shunt trip requirement of the
International Building Code Section 3005.5 for the purpose of elevator passenger and firefighter safety.
This amendment is contingent on the Building Code amendment eliminating the Exceptions to Section
3005.4, such that passive fire barriers for these areas are maintained. The exception deletion is due to the
fact that such telecom areas pose an undue fire risk to the structural integrity of the building.)
***Section 903.2.4.2; change to read as follows:
903.2.4.2 Group F-1 distilled spirits. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a Group
F-1 fire area used for the manufacture of distilled spirits involving more than 120 gallons of distilled spirits
(>16% alcohol) in the fire area at any one time.
(Reason: To establish a sprinkler criteria limit based on existing maximum allowable quantities provided
for flammable liquids in a non-sprinklered space from Chapter 50 and allow very small distillery type
operations without sprinkler requirements as has been historically allowed.)
***Section 903.2.9.3; change to read as follows:
903.2.9.3 Group S-1 distilled spirits or wine. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout
a Group S-1 fire area used for the bulk storage of distilled spirits or wine involving more than 120 gallons
of distilled spirits or wine (>16% alcohol) in the fire area at any one time.
(Reason: To establish a sprinkler criteria limit based on existing maximum allowable quantities provided
for flammable liquids in a non-sprinklered space from Chapter 50 and allow very small storage operations
without sprinkler requirements as has been historically allowed.)
**Section 903.2.9.4 and 903.2.9.5; delete Exception to 903.2.9.4 and add Section 903.2.9.5 to read as
follows:
903.2.9.5 Self-Service Storage Facility. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all
self-service storage facilities.
(Reason: Fire departments are unable to regularly inspect the interior of these commercial occupancies
and are unaware of the contents being stored. Previous allowance to separate units by fire barriers is
difficult to enforce maintenance after opening.)
**Option A
Section 903.2.11; change 903.2.11.3 and add 903.2.11.7 and 903.2.11.8, as follows:
903.2.11.3 Buildings 55 Feet or more in Height. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed
throughout buildings that have one or more stories with an occupant load of 30 or more, other than
penthouses in compliance with Section 1510 of the International Building Code, located 55 feet (16 764
mm) or more above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, measured to the finished floor.
Exceptions:
2. Occupancies in Group F-2.
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 10 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
903.2.11.7 High-Piled Combustible Storage. For any building with a clear height exceeding 12 feet
(4572 mm), see Chapter 32 to determine if those provisions apply.
903.2.11.8 Spray Booths and Rooms. New and existing spray booths and spraying rooms shall be
protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system.
**Option B
Section 903.2.11; change 903.2.11.3 and add 903.2.11.7, 903.2.11.8, and 903.2.11.9 as follows:
903.2.11.3 Buildings 55 35 feet or more in height. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed
throughout buildings that have one or more stories with an occupant load of 30 or more, other than
penthouses in compliance with Section 1510 of the International Building Code, located 55 35 feet (16
764 10 668 mm) or more above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, measured to the
finished floor.
Exceptions:
2. Occupancies in Group F-2.
903.2.11.7 High-Piled Combustible Storage. For any building with a clear height exceeding 12 feet
(4572 mm), see Chapter 32 to determine if those provisions apply.
903.2.11.8 Spray Booths and Rooms. New and existing spray booths and spraying rooms shall be
protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system.
903.2.11.9 Buildings Over 6,000 sq. ft. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout
all buildings with a building area 6,000 sq. ft. or greater and in all existing buildings that are enlarged to
be 6,000 sq. ft. or greater. For the purpose of this provision, fire walls shall not define separate
buildings.
(Reason: Provides jurisdictions options as to their desired level of sprinkler protection based on multiple
factors including firefighting philosophies/capabilities.)
**Section 903.3.1.1.1; change to read as follows:
903.3.1.1.1 Exempt Locations. When approved by the fire code official, automatic sprinklers shall not be
required in the following rooms or areas where such ...{text unchanged}… because it is damp, of fire-
resistance-rated construction or contains electrical equipment.
1. Any room where the application of water, or flame and water, constitutes a serious life or fire hazard.
2. Any room or space where sprinklers are considered undesirable because of the nature of the
contents, when approved by the fire code official.
3. Generator and transformer rooms, under the direct control of a public utility, separated from the
Exception: Open parking garages in compliance with Section 406.5 of the International Building Code
where all of the following conditions apply:
a. The structure is freestanding.
b. The structure does not contain any mixed uses, accessory uses, storage rooms,
electrical rooms, elevators or spaces used or occupied for anything other than motor
vehicle parking.
c. The structure does not exceed 3 stories.
d. An approved fire apparatus access road is provided around the entire structure.
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 11 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
remainder of the building by walls and floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assemblies having a fire-
resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
4. In rooms or areas that are of noncombustible construction with wholly noncombustible contents.
5. Fire service access Elevator machine rooms, and machinery spaces, and hoistways, other than
pits where such sprinklers would not necessitate shunt trip requirements under any circumstances.
6. {Delete.}
(Reason: Gives clarification. Exception 4 deleted to provide protection where fire risks are poorly
addressed. Amendment 903.2 addresses Exception 5 above relative to the elimination of sprinkler
protection in these areas to avoid the shunt trip requirement.)
***Section 903.3.1.2; change to read as follows:
903.3.1.2 NFPA 13R sprinkler systems. Automatic sprinkler systems in Group R occupancies shall
be permitted to be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13R where the Group R occupancy
meets all of the following conditions:
1. Four stories or less above grade plane.
2. The floor level of the highest story is 30 35 feet (9144 10668 mm) or less above the lowest level of
fire department vehicle access.
3. The floor level of the lowest story is 30 35 feet (9144 10668 mm) or less below the lowest level of
fire department vehicle access.
{No change to remainder of section.}
(Reason: The change to the 2021 IFC over-reached to limit 13R systems to 30 ft. high at topmost floor
level, which basically results in limiting 13R systems to 3 story buildings in reality. This change to 35 ft.
would still allow 13R systems in 4 story apartment buildings, as has been allowed historically and as
intended by 13R’s scope.)
***Section 903.3.1.2.2; change to read as follows:
903.3.1.2.2 Corridors and balconies in the means of egress. Sprinkler protection shall be provided in
all corridors and for all balconies. in the means of egress where any of the following conditions apply:
{Delete the rest of this section.}
(Reason: Corridor protection is critical to the means of egress, and corridors are regularly utilized for
miscellaneous storage, fixtures, artwork, food kiosks and beverage dispensers, and furnishings. Balcony
protection is required due to issues with fire exposure via soffit vents and the potential for significant
combustible loading.)
**Section 903.3.1.2.3; delete section and replace as follows:
Section 903.3.1.2.3 Attached Garages and Attics. Sprinkler protection is required in attached garages,
and in the following attic spaces:
1. Attics that are used or intended for living purposes or storage shall be protected by an
automatic sprinkler system.
2. Where fuel-fired equipment is installed in an unsprinklered attic, not fewer than one quick-
response intermediate temperature sprinkler shall be installed above the equipment.
3. Attic spaces of buildings that are two or more stories in height above grade plane or above the
lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
4. Group R-4, Condition 2 occupancy attics not required by Item 1 or 3 to have sprinklers shall
comply with one of the following:
4.1. Provide automatic sprinkler system protection.
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 12 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
4.2. Provide a heat detection system throughout the attic that is arranged to activate the
building fire alarm system.
4.3. Construct the attic using noncombustible materials.
4.4. Construct the attic using fire-retardant-treated wood complying with Section 2303.2 of
the International Building Code.
4.5. Fill the attic with noncombustible insulation.
(Reason: Attic protection is required due to issues with fire exposure via soffit vents, as well as firefighter
safety. Several jurisdictions indicated experience with un-protected attic fires resulting in displacement of
all building occupants. NFPA 13 provides for applicable attic sprinkler protection requirements, as well as
exemptions to such, based on noncombustible construction, etc. Attached garages already require
sprinklers via NFPA 13R – this amendment just re-emphasizes the requirement.)
**Section 903.3.1.3; change to read as follows:
903.3.1.3 NFPA 13D Sprinkler Systems. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in one- and two-family
dwellings; Group R-3; Group R-4, Condition 1; and townhouses shall be permitted to be installed throughout
in accordance with NFPA 13D or in accordance with state law.
(Reason: To allow the use of the Plumbing section of the International Residential Code (IRC) and
recognize current state stipulations in this regard.)
**Section 903.3.1.4; add to read as follows:
[F] 903.3.1.4 Freeze protection. Freeze protection systems for automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be in
accordance with the requirements of the applicable referenced NFPA standard and this section.
903.3.1.4.1 Attics. Only dry pipe, preaction, or listed antifreeze automatic fire sprinkler systems
shall be allowed to protect attic spaces.
Exception: Wet-pipe fire sprinkler systems shall be allowed to protect non-ventilated attic
spaces where:
1. The attic sprinklers are supplied by a separate floor control valve assembly to allow
ease of draining the attic system without impairing sprinklers throughout the rest
of the building, and
2. Adequate heat shall be provided for freeze protection as per the applicable
referenced NFPA standard, and
3. The attic space is a part of the building’s thermal, or heat, envelope, such that
insulation is provided at the roof deck, rather than at the ceiling level.
903.3.1.4.2 Heat trace/insulation. Heat trace/insulation shall only be allowed where approved by
the fire code official for small sections of large diameter water-filled pipe.
(Reason: In the last few years, severe winters brought to light several issues with current practices for
sprinklering attics, not the least of which was wet-pipe sprinklers in ventilated attics provided with space
heaters, etc. for freeze protection of such piping. This practice is not acceptable for the protection of water-
filled piping in a ventilated attic space as it does not provide a reliable means of maintaining the minimum
40 degrees required by NFPA, wastes energy, and presents a potential ignition source to the attic space.
Listed antifreeze is specifically included because NFPA currently allows such even though there is no
currently listed antifreeze at the time of development of these amendments. The intent of this amendment
is to help reduce the large number of freeze breaks that have occurred in the past with water-filled wet-pipe
sprinkler systems in the future, most specifically in attic spaces.)
**Section 903.3.5; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 13 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
Water supply as required for such systems shall be provided in conformance with the supply requirements
of the respective standards; however, every water-based fire protection system shall be designed with a
10-psi safety factor. Reference Section 507.4 for additional design requirements.
(Reason: To define uniform safety factor for the region.)
**Section 903.4; add a second paragraph after the exceptions to read as follows:
Sprinkler and standpipe system water-flow detectors shall be provided for each floor tap to the sprinkler
system and shall cause an alarm upon detection of water flow for more than 45 seconds. All control valves
in the sprinkler and standpipe systems except for fire department hose connection valves shall be
electrically supervised to initiate a supervisory signal at the central station upon tampering.
(Reason: To avoid significant water losses. Consistent with amendment to IFC 905.9.)
**Section 903.4.2; add second paragraph to read as follows:
The alarm device required on the exterior of the building shall be a weatherproof horn/strobe notification
appliance with a minimum 75 candela strobe rating, installed as close as practicable to the fire department
connection.
(Reason: Fire department connections are not always located at the riser; this allows the fire department
faster access and ease of recognition of the FDC location, especially at night.)
**Section 905.2; change to read as follows:
905.2 Installation Standard. Standpipe systems shall be installed in accordance with this section and
NFPA 14. Manual dry standpipe systems shall be supervised with a minimum of 10 psig and a maximum
of 40 psig air pressure with a high/low alarm.
(Reason: To define manual dry standpipe supervision requirements. Helps ensure the integrity of the
standpipe system via supervision, such that open hose valves will result in a supervisory low air alarm.)
***Section 905.3; add Section 905.3.9 and exception to read as follows:
905.3.9 Buildings Exceeding 10,000 sq. ft. In buildings exceeding 10,000 square feet in area per story
and where any portion of the building’s interior area is more than 200 feet (60960 mm) of travel, vertically
and horizontally, from the nearest point of fire department vehicle access, Class I automatic wet or manual
wet standpipes shall be provided.
Exceptions:
1. Automatic dry, semi-automatic dry, and manual dry standpipes are allowed as provided for in
NFPA 14 where approved by the fire code official.
2. R-2 occupancies of four stories or less in height having no interior corridors.
(Reason: Allows for the rapid deployment of hose lines to the body of the fire in larger structures.)
**Section 905.4; change Items 1, 3, and 5, and add Item 7 to read as follows:
1. In every required interior exit stairway, a hose connection shall be provided for each story above
and below grade plane. Hose connections shall be located at an intermediate landing between
stories, unless otherwise approved by the fire code official.
Exception: {No change.}
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 14 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
2. {No change.}
3. In every exit passageway, at the entrance from the exit passageway to other areas of a building.
Exception: Where floor areas adjacent to an exit passageway are reachable from an
interior exit stairway hose connection by a {remainder of text unchanged}
4. {No change.}
5. Where the roof has a slope less than 4 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33.3-percent slope), each
standpipe shall be provided with a two-way a hose connection shall be located to serve the roof or
at the highest landing of an interior exit stairway with stair access to the roof provided in accordance
with Section 1011.12.
6. {No change.}
7. When required by this Chapter, standpipe connections shall be placed adjacent to all required exits
to the structure and at two hundred feet (200’) intervals along major corridors thereafter, or as
otherwise approved by the fire code official.
(Reason: Item 1, 3, and 5 amendments to remove ‘interior’ will help to clarify that such connections are
required for all ‘exit’ stairways, to ensure firefighter capabilities are not diminished in these tall buildings,
simply because the stair is on the exterior of the building. Item 5 reduces the amount of pressure required
to facilitate testing and provides backup protection for fire fighter safety. Item 7 allows for the rapid
deployment of hose lines to the body of the fire.)
***Section 905.8; change to read as follows:
905.8 Dry standpipes. Dry standpipes shall not be installed.
Exception: Where subject to freezing and in accordance with NFPA 14. Additionally, manual dry
standpipe systems shall be supervised with a minimum of 10 psig and a maximum of 40 psig air
pressure with a high/low Supervisory alarm.
(Reason: To define manual dry standpipe supervision requirements. Helps ensure the integrity of the
standpipe system via supervision, such that open hose valves will result in a supervisory low air alarm.
NFPA 14 requires supervisory air for such but does not provide pressure criteria for what that means. This
is a long-standing regional requirement.)
**Section 905.9; add a second paragraph after the exceptions to read as follows:
Sprinkler and standpipe system water-flow detectors shall be provided for each floor tap to the sprinkler
system and shall cause an alarm upon detection of water flow for more than 45 seconds. All control valves
in the sprinkler and standpipe systems except for fire department hose connection valves shall be
electrically supervised to initiate a supervisory signal at the central station upon tampering.
(Reason: To avoid significant water losses. Consistent with amendment to IFC 903.4.)
***Section 906.1(1); delete Exception #3 as follows:
3. In storage areas of Group S occupancies where forklift, powered industrial truck or powered
cart operators are the primary occupants,
fixed extinguishers, as specified in NFPA 10, shall not be required where in accordance with all of
the following:
3.1. Use of vehicle-mounted extinguishers shall be approved by the fire code official.
3.2. Each vehicle shall be equipped with a 10-pound, 40A:80B:C extinguisher affixed to
the vehicle using a mounting bracket approved
by the extinguisher manufacturer or the fire code official for vehicular use.
3.3. Not less than two spare extinguishers of equal or greater rating shall be available on-
site to replace a discharged extinguisher.
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 15 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
3.4. Vehicle operators shall be trained in the proper operation, use and inspection of
extinguishers.
3.5. Inspections of vehicle-mounted extinguishers shall be performed daily.
(Reason: This provision of only having vehicle-mounted fire extinguishers is not at all consistent with
historical practice of requiring extinguishers throughout based on travel distance. Often times, the vehicle
is what has caused the incident and/or may be the source of the incident, so having the extinguisher vehicle-
mounted results in greater potential injury of the user. This assumes the only occupants in the building are
on a vehicle, which again, significantly reduces access to fire extinguishers throughout the building to other
occupants. Future use of the building/tenancy may change further complicating the issue.)
**Section 907.1; add Section 907.1.4 to read as follows:
907.1.4 Design Standards. Where a new fire alarm system is installed, the devices shall be addressable.
Fire alarm systems utilizing more than 20 smoke detectors shall have analog initiating devices.
(Reason: Provides for the ability of descriptive identification of alarms and reduces need for panel
replacement in the future. Updated wording to match the language of the new requirement at 907.5.2.3.
Change of terminology allows for reference back to definitions of NFPA 72.)
**Section 907.2.1; change to read as follows:
907.2.1 Group A. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance
with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group A occupancies where the having an occupant load due to the
assembly occupancy is of 300 or more persons, or where the Group A occupant load is more than 100
persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge. Group A occupancies not separated from one
another in accordance with Section 707.3.10 of the International Building Code shall be considered as a
single occupancy for the purposes of applying this section. Portions of Group E occupancies occupied for
assembly purposes shall be provided with a fire alarm system as required for the Group E occupancy.
Exception: {No change.}
Activation of fire alarm notification appliances shall:
1. Cause illumination of the means of egress with light of not less than 1 foot-candle (11 lux) at the
walking surface level, and
2. Stop any conflicting or confusing sounds and visual distractions.
(Reason: Increases the requirement to be consistent with Group B requirement. Also addresses issue found
in Group A occupancies of reduced lighting levels and other A/V equipment that distracts from fire alarm
notification devices or reduces ability of fire alarm system to notify occupants of the emergency condition.)
**Section 907.2.3; change to read as follows:
907.2.3 Group E. A manual fire alarm system that initiates the occupant notification signal utilizing an
emergency voice/alarm communication system meeting the requirements of Section 907.5.2.2 and installed
in accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed in Group E educational occupancies. When automatic
sprinkler systems or smoke detectors are installed, such systems or detectors shall be connected to the
building fire alarm system. An approved smoke detection system shall be installed in Group E day care
occupancies. Unless separated by a minimum of 100' open space, all buildings, whether portable buildings
or the main building, will be considered one building for alarm occupant load consideration and
interconnection of alarm systems.
Exceptions:
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 16 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
1. {No change.}
1.1. Residential In-Home day care with not more than 12 children may use interconnected
single station detectors in all habitable rooms. (For care of more than five children 2 1/2 or
less years of age, see Section 907.2.6.) {No change to remainder of exceptions.}
(Reason: To distinguish educational from day care occupancy minimum protection requirements. Further,
to define threshold at which portable buildings are considered a separate building for the purposes of alarm
systems. Exceptions provide consistency with State law concerning such occupancies.)
***Section 907.2.10; change to read as follows:
907.2.10 Group S. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in
accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group S public- and self-storage occupancies three
stories or greater in height for interior corridors and interior common areas. Visible notification appliances
are not required within storage units.
Exception: {No change.}
(Reason: Because of the potential unknown fire load and hazards in self-storage type facilities, which could
include flammable liquids for instance, as well as other hazardous materials, prompt evacuation in the event
of fire alarm is needed; therefore, notification in the corridors/common areas is critical to all such
occupancies, regardless of height.
**Section 907.2.13, Exception 3; change to read as follows:
3. Open air portions of buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5 in accordance with Section 303.1 of the
International Building Code; however, this exception does not apply to accessory uses including but
not limited to sky boxes, restaurants, and similarly enclosed areas.
(Reason: To indicate that enclosed areas within open air seating type occupancies are not exempted from
automatic fire alarm system requirements.)
**Section 907.4.2; add Section 907.4.2.7 to read as follows:
907.4.2.7 Type. Manual alarm initiating devices shall be an approved double action type.
(Reason: Helps to reduce false alarms.)
**Section 907.6.1; add Section 907.6.1.1 to read as follows:
907.6.1.1 Wiring Installation. All fire alarm systems shall be installed in such a manner that a failure of
any single initiating device or single open in an initiating circuit conductor will not interfere with the normal
operation of other such devices. All signaling line circuits (SLC) shall be installed in such a way that a single
open will not interfere with the operation of any addressable devices (Class A). Outgoing and return SLC
conductors shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 72 requirements for Class A circuits and shall have
a minimum of four feet separation horizontal and one foot vertical between supply and return circuit
conductors. The initiating device circuit (IDC) from a signaling line circuit interface device may be wired
Class B, provided the distance from the interface device to the initiating device is ten feet or less.
(Reason: To provide uniformity in system specifications and guidance to design engineers. Improves
reliability of fire alarm devices and systems.)
**Section 907.6.3; delete all four Exceptions.
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 17 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
(Reason: To assist responding personnel in locating the emergency event for all fire alarm systems.)
**Section 907.6.6; add sentence at end of paragraph to read as follows:
See 907.6.3 for the required information transmitted to the supervising station.
(Reason: To assist responding personnel in locating the emergency event for all fire alarm systems. This
was moved from 907.6.5.3 in the 2012 IFC and reworded to match new code language and sections (legacy
language).
(Reason: Deleted Previous code amendment Section 909.22, For removal because it is already in the code
in Sections 909.20.5, 909.20.6, 909.20.6.1, 909.20.6.2, and 909.20.6.3.)
**Section 910.2; change read and change Exception 2 and 3 to read as follows:
910.2 Where required. Smoke and heat vents or a mechanical smoke removal system shall be installed
as required by Sections 910.2.1, 910.2.2, and 910.3.2.
2. Only manual smoke and heat removal shall not be required in areas of buildings equipped with
early suppression fast-response (ESFR) sprinklers. Automatic smoke and heat removal is
prohibited.
3. Only manual smoke and heat removal shall not be required in areas of buildings equipped with
control mode special application sprinklers with a response time index of 50(m*S)1/2 or less that are
listed to control a fire in stored commodities with 12 or fewer sprinklers. Automatic smoke and heat
removal is prohibited.
(Reason: Allows the fire department to control the smoke and heat during and after a fire event, while still
prohibiting such systems from being automatically activated, which is a potential detriment to the particular
sprinkler systems indicated.)
**Section 910.2.3; add to read as follows:
910.2.3 Group H. Buildings and portions thereof used as a Group H occupancy as follows:
1. In occupancies classified as Group H-2 or H-3, any of which are more than 15,000 square feet
(1394 m2) in single floor area.
Exception: Buildings of noncombustible construction containing only noncombustible materials.
2. In areas of buildings in Group H used for storing Class 2, 3, and 4 liquid and solid oxidizers, Class 1
and unclassified detonable organic peroxides, Class 3 and 4 unstable (reactive) materials, or Class
2 or 3 water-reactive materials as required for a high-hazard commodity classification.
Exception: Buildings of noncombustible construction containing only noncombustible materials.
(Reason: Maintains a fire protection device utilized in such occupancies where it is sometimes necessary
to allow chemicals to burn out, rather than extinguish. This is based on legacy language establishing long-
standing historical practice.)
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 18 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
**Section 910.4.3.1; change to read as follows:
910.4.3.1 Makeup Air. Makeup air openings shall be provided within 6 feet (1829 mm) of the floor level.
Operation of makeup air openings shall be manual or automatic. The minimum gross area of makeup air
inlets shall be 8 square feet per 1,000 cubic feet per minute (0.74 m2 per 0.4719 m3/s) of smoke exhaust.
(Reason: Makeup air has been required to be automatic for several years now in this region when
mechanical smoke exhaust systems are proposed. This allows such systems to be activated from the
smoke control panel by first responders without having to physically go around the exterior of the building
opening doors manually. Such requires a significant number of first responders on scene to conduct this
operation and significantly delays activation and/or capability of the smoke exhaust system.)
**Section 912.2; add Section 912.2.3 to read as follows:
912.2.3 Hydrant Distance. An approved fire hydrant shall be located within 100 feet of the fire department
connection as the fire hose lays along an unobstructed path.
(Reason: To accommodate limited hose lengths, improve response times where the FDC is needed to
achieve fire control, and improve ease of locating a fire hydrant in those situations also. Also, consistent
with NFPA 14 criteria.)
***Section 913.2.1; add Section 913.2.1.1 and exception to read as follows:
913.2.1.1 Fire Pump Room Access. When located on the ground level at an exterior wall, the fire pump
room shall be provided with an exterior fire department access door that is not less than 3 ft. in width and
6 ft. – 8 in. in height, regardless of any interior doors that are provided. A key box shall be provided at this
door, as required by IFC Section 506.1.
Exception: When it is necessary to locate the fire pump room on other levels or not at an exterior wall,
the corridor leading to the fire pump room access from the exterior of the building shall be provided with
equivalent fire resistance as that required for the pump room, or as approved by the fire code
official. Access keys shall be provided in the key box as required by IFC Section 506.1.
(Reason: This requirement allows fire fighters safer access to the fire pump room. The requirement allows
access without being required to enter the building and locate the fire pump room interior access door
during a fire event. The exception recognizes that this will not always be a feasible design scenario for
some buildings, and as such, provides an acceptable alternative to protect the pathway to the fire pump
room.)
***Section 1006.2.1 change exception 3 to read as follows;
Section 1006.2.1 Egress based on occupant load and common path of egress travel distance.
3. Unoccupied rooftop mechanical rooms and penthouses are not required to comply with the common path
of egress travel distance measurement.
(Reason: Add “rooftop” to Exception No. 3 to clarify that only such mechanical rooms located on the roof
maybe exempted.)
**Section 1009.8 Two Way Communication; add the following Exception 7:
[Text Remains]
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 19 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
Exceptions:
7. Buildings regulated under State Law and built in accordance with State registered plans, including
variances or waivers granted by the State, shall be deemed to be in compliance with the requirements of
Section 1009 and Chapter 11.
(Reason: To accommodate buildings regulated under Texas State Law and to be consistent with
amendments in Chapter 11.)
**Section 1010.2.5 Bolt Locks; amend exceptions 3 and 4 as follows:
Exceptions:
3. Where a pair of doors serves an occupant load of less than 50 persons in a Group B, F, M or S occupancy.
(remainder unchanged)
4. Where a pair of doors serves a Group A, B, F, M or S occupancy (remainder unchanged)
(Reason: It is common in our region to see the 2nd leaf locked, when that leaf is not part of the required
egress door clear width, such as in a typical Group M. Exception No. 4 was expanded to Group A due to it
being a similar situation for Group A restaurants.)
**Section 1020.2 Construction; add new exception 6 as follows:
6. In unsprinklered group B occupancies, corridor walls and ceilings need not be of fire-resistive
construction within a single tenant space when the space is equipped with approved automatic smoke-
detection within the corridor. The actuation of any detector must activate self-annunciating alarms audible
in all areas within the corridor. Smoke detectors must be connected to an approved automatic fire alarm
system where such system is provided.
(Reason: Similar concept was previously in UBC. This scenario occurs primarily in existing, non-sprinklered
buildings, which under current IBC would be required to have a fire resistance rated corridor. New exception
provides a cost-effective solution for single tenant space in lieu of the base IBC requirement to retrofit a fire
sprinkler system throughout the building.)
**Section 1030.1.1.1 Spaces under grandstands and bleachers; delete this section.
(Reason: Unenforceable.)
**Section 1101.1 Scope; add exception to Section 1101.1 as follows:
Exception: Components of projects regulated by and registered with Architectural Barriers Division of
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation shall be deemed to be in compliance with the requirements
of this chapter.
(Reason: To accommodate buildings regulated under state law. Further clarified in 2018 to mean
components that are specifically addressed by TDLR shall be exempt.)
***Section 1809.5.1 Frost Protection at required exits; delete this section
(Reason: frost protection at exit doors is not needed in our climate zone )
***Section 2702.5; added to read as follows:
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 20 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
Section 2702.5 Designated Critical Operations Areas (DCOA): In areas within a facility or site requiring
continuous operation for the purpose of public safety, emergency management, national security or
business continuity, the power systems shall comply with NFPA 70 Article 708.
(Reason: Identifying these areas of critical operations in the building code ensures designers are advised
of the requirements outlined in the National Electrical Code which defines specific Critical Operations Power
System (COPS) requirements.)
**Section 2901.1; add a sentence to read as follows:
[P] 2901.1 Scope. {existing text to remain} The provisions of this Chapter are meant to work in coordination
with the provisions of Chapter 4 of the International Plumbing Code. Should any conflicts arise between the
two chapters, the Building Official shall determine which provision applies.
(Reason: Gives building official discretion.)
**Section 2902.1; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
In other than E Occupancies, the minimum number of fixtures in Table 2902.1 may be lowered, if requested
in writing, by the applicant stating reasons for a reduced number and approved by the Building Official.
(Reason: To allow flexibility for designer to consider specific occupancy needs.)
**Table 2902.1; add footnote g to read as follows:
g. Drinking fountains are not required in M Occupancies with an occupant load of 100 or less, B
Occupancies with an occupant load of 25 or less, and for dining and/or drinking establishments.
(Reason: To allow flexibility for designer to consider specific occupancy needs.)
**Add Section 2902.1.4 to read as follows:
2902.1.4 Additional fixtures for food preparation facilities. In addition to the fixtures required in this
Chapter, all food service facilities shall be provided with additional fixtures set out in this section.
2902.1.4.1 Hand washing lavatory. At least one hand washing lavatory shall be provided for use by
employees that is accessible from food preparation, food dispensing and ware washing areas. Additional
hand washing lavatories may be required based on convenience of use by employees.
2902.1.4.2 Service sink. In new or remodeled food service establishments, at least one service sink or one
floor sink shall be provided so that it is conveniently located for the cleaning of mops or similar wet floor
cleaning tool and for the disposal of mop water and similar liquid waste. The location of the service sink(s)
and/or mop sink(s) shall be approved by the <Jurisdiction’s> health department.
(Reason: Coordinates Health law requirements with code language for consistent regional practice.)
**Section 3002.1 Hoistway Enclosure Protection required. Add exceptions as follows:
Exceptions:
1. Elevators completely located within atriums shall not require hoistway enclosure protection.
2. Elevators in open or enclosed parking garages that serve only the parking garage, shall not require
hoistway enclosure protection.
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 21 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
(Reason: Provides specific Code recognition that elevators within atriums and within parking garages do
not require hoistway enclosure protection. Amendment needed since specific Code language does not
currently exist.)
***Section 3005.4 Machine rooms, control rooms, machinery spaces and control spaces; Delete
exceptions and add two new exceptions to as follows:
Exceptions:
1. Elevator machine rooms, control rooms, machinery spaces and control spaces completely
located within atriums shall not require enclosure protection.
2. Elevator machine rooms, control rooms, machinery spaces and control spaces in open or
enclosed parking garages that serve only the parking garage, shall not require enclosure protection.
(Reason: This amendment eliminates the Exceptions to Section 3005.4 such that passive enclosures for
these areas are to be provided and maintained. The fire rating of these enclosures is permitted to be
omitted by the above added exceptions where allowed by other provisions of the code such as in atriums
and parking structures. See companion change to eliminate fire sprinklers to eliminate the need for shunt
trip system.)
***Section 3005.5: Add a new subsection to Section 3005.5.1 as follows:
3005.5.1 Fire Protection in Machine rooms, control rooms, machinery spaces and control spaces.
3005.5.1.1 Automatic sprinkler system. The building shall be equipped throughout with an automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, except as otherwise permitted by Section
903.3.1.1.1 and as prohibited by Section 3005.5.1.1.1.
3005.5.1.1.1 Prohibited locations. Automatic sprinklers shall not be installed in machine rooms, elevator
machinery spaces, control rooms, control spaces and elevator hoistways.
3005.5.1.1.2 Sprinkler system monitoring. The sprinkler system shall have a sprinkler control valve
supervisory switch and water-flow initiating device provided for each floor that is monitored by the
building’s fire alarm system.
3005.5.1.2 Water protection. An approved method to prevent water from infiltrating into the hoistway
enclosure from the operation of the automatic sprinkler system outside the elevator lobby shall be
provided.
3005.5.1.3 Omission of Shunt trip. Means for elevator shutdown in accordance with Section 3005.5
shall not be installed.
(Reason: Firefighter and public safety. This amendment eliminates the shunt trip requirement of the
International Building Code Section 3005.5 for the purpose of elevator passenger and firefighter safety.
The new section above is intended to be identical to Sections 3007.2, 3007.3, and 3007.4 for Fire Service
Access Elevators and Sections 3008.2, 3008.3 and 3008.4 for Occupant Evacuation Elevators.)
**Section 3005.8; add Section 3005.8 as follows:
3005.8 Storage. Storage shall not be allowed within the elevator machine room, control room, machinery
spaces and or control spaces. Provide approved signage at each entry to the above listed locations stating:
"No Storage Allowed.
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 22 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Building Code
(Reason: Reinforces the need to maintain space clean and free of combustibles. See companion change
to eliminate fire sprinklers therein, Section 3005.5.1.)
Option A
Section 3006.2, Hoistway opening protection required; Insert new text as follows:
5. The building is a high rise and the elevator hoistway is more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) in height. The
height of the hoistway shall be measured from the lowest floor at or above grade to the highest floors served
by the hoistway.”
Option B
Section 3006.2, Hoistway opening protection required; Revise text as follows:
5. The building is a high rise and the elevator hoistway is more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) 55 feet (16 764
mm) in height. The height of the hoistway shall be measured from the lowest floor at or above grade to the
highest floors served by the hoistway.”
(Reason: 2018 IBC text does not address hoistways that are greater than 75’-0” in height that are both
below grade and above grade but not located above the high-rise classification nor does the IBC address
hoistways wholly located above grade such as those that serve sky lobbies".)
**Section 3007.3 and Section 3008.3: Revise text by deleting “enclosed” as follows:
3007.3 Water Protection. Water from the operation of an automatic sprinkler system outside the
enclosed lobby shall be prevent from infiltrating into the hoistway enclosure in accordance with an
approved method.
3008.3 Water Protection. Water from the operation of an automatic sprinkler system outside the
enclosed lobby shall be prevent from infiltrating into the hoistway enclosure in accordance with an
approved method.
(Reason: The lobbies for FSAE and or OEE elevators may be open (i.e., at ground level), or may not
require a lobby enclosure on those upper floors with secondary cab entry doors opening into a
nonrequired FSAE or OEE lobby. Regardless of whether or not the lobby is enclosed, the objective is to
preclude fire sprinkler water from entering into the hoistway serving FSAE and OEE elevators. The
deletion of “enclosed” clarifies the original intent of this provision and is consistent with ICC
interpretations.)
End
Section 18-35. - Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code.
CHAPTER 18 BUILDINGS AND BUILDING REGULATIONS
ARTICLE II. CODES
Section 18-31. - Adoption.
The town adopts in their entirety the 2021 Edition of the International Residential Code, the 2021
Edition of the International Building Code, the 2021 Edition of the International Energy
Conservation Code, the 2021 Edition of the International Fuel Gas Code, the 2021 Edition of the
International Mechanical Code, the 2021 Edition of the International Plumbing Code, the 2021
Edition of the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, the 2021 Edition of the International
Existing Building Code, the 2021 Edition of the International Property Maintenance Code and the
2020 Edition of the National Electrical Code, including the amendments to such codes as attached
to this ordinance and as recommended by the North Central Texas Council of Governments
(NCTCOG).
Section 18-32. - Permit and Registration Required.
No person shall perform any work or supply any materials falling within the jurisdiction of one of
the respective codes adopted under Section 18-31 without first having secured a permit in
accordance with the applicable code and having registered with the Town of Westlake.
Section 18-33. - Penalty.
That any person, either by himself or agent, and any firm, corporation or other entity who
violates any of the provisions of the codes adopted in section 18-31 shall be deemed guilty of a
misdemeanor and, upon conviction of any such violation, shall be punished as provided in
Section 1- 9. In any case of a violation of any of the terms and provisions of the codes adopted by
the ordinance, by any corporation, the officers and agents actively in charge of the business of such
corporation shall be subject to the penalty provided in this section.
Section 18-34. - Local Amendments.
1. All buildings are required to be protected by an automatic fire sprinkler system. See the
Westlake Fire Code (Chapter 38) and amendments for provisions, and exceptions,
relating to the requirements for the installation of Automatic Fire Sprinkler systems.
2. The Town of Westlake is an “Option B” City.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 1 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Residential Code
Recommended Amendments to the
2021 International Residential Code
North Central Texas Council of Governments Region
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2021 International Residential Code are hereby
amended as follows: Standard type is text from the IRC. Underlined type is text inserted. Lined through
type is deleted text from IRC. A double asterisk at the beginning of a section identifies an amendment
carried over from the 2018 edition of the code and a triple asterisk identifies a new or revised amendment
with the 2021code.
In 2009, the State Legislature enacted SB 1410 prohibiting cities from enacting fire sprinkler
mandates in residential dwellings. However, jurisdictions with ordinances that required sprinklers for
residential dwellings prior to and enforced before January 1, 2009, may remain in place. Reference; Section
R313 Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems.
The energy provisions in IRC Chapter 11 is deleted in its entirety.
Reference the 2021 IECC for energy code provisions and recommended amendments.
**Section R102.4; change to read as follows:
R102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes, when specifically adopted, and standards
referenced in this code shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of
each such reference and as further regulated in Sections R102.4.1 and R102.4.2. Whenever amendments
have been adopted to the referenced codes and standards, each reference to said code and standard shall
be considered to reference the amendments as well. Any reference made to NFPA 70 or the Electrical
Code shall mean the Electrical Code as adopted.
(Reason: Legal wording to recognize locally adopted codes and amendments adopted with referenced
codes.)
** Section R103 and R103.1 amend to insert the Department Name
DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING SAFETY [INSERT OFFICIAL BUILDING DEPARTMENT NAME
OF JURISDICTION]
R103.1 Creation of enforcement agency. The Department of Building Safety [INSERT OFFICIAL
BUILDING DEPARTMENT NAME OF JURISDICTION] is hereby created and the official in charge thereof
shall be known as the building official.
(Reason: Reminder to be sure ordinance reads the same as designated by the city.)
**Section R104.10.1 Flood Hazard areas; delete this section.
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
**Section R105.3.1.1& R106.1.4; delete these sections.
(Reason: Floodplain provisions are addressed locally.)
**Section R110 (R110.1 through R110.5); delete the section.
(Reason: Issuing CO's for residences is not a common practice in the area.)
***Section R202; change definition of "Townhouse Unit" to read as follows:
Section 18-36. - Amendments to the 2021 International Residential Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 2 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Residential Code
TOWNHOUSE UNIT. A single-family dwelling unit separated by property lines in a townhouse that extends
from foundation to roof and that has a yard or public way on not less than two sides.
(Reason: To distinguish Townhouse Units within a Townhouse building on separate lots.)
***Table R301.2 (1); fill in as follows:
Delete remainder of table Manual J Design Criteria and footnote N
(Reason: To promote regional uniformity. Manual J is utilized by third party and not part of performed plan
reviews. This is reference table only, not needed.)
**Section R302.1; add exception #6 to read as follows:
Exceptions: {previous exceptions unchanged}
6. Open non-combustible carport structures may be constructed when also approved within
adopted ordinances.
(Reason: Refers to other ordinances, such as zoning ordinances.)
**Section R302.3; add Exception #3 to read as follows:
Exceptions:
1. {existing text unchanged}
2. {existing text unchanged}
3. Two-family dwelling units that are also divided by a property line through the structure shall be
separated as required for townhouses.
(Reason: Provide guidance for a common construction method in this area. Correlates with amendment
to IRC Section R202 Townhouse definition.)
***Section R302.2.6; delete exception #6:
Exceptions: {previous exceptions unchanged}
6. Townhouse units protected by a fire sprinkler system complying with Section P2904 or NFPA
13D.
( Reason: To remain consistent with separated townhouse units and property lines.)
GROUND
SNOW
LOAD
WIND DESIGN
SEISMIC
DESIGN
CATEGORYf
A
SUBJECT TO
DAMAGE FROM
WI
N
T
E
R
DE
S
I
G
N
TE
M
P
e
IC
E
BA
R
R
I
E
R
UN
D
E
R
-
LA
Y
M
E
N
T
h
FL
O
O
D
HA
Z
A
R
D
S
g
AI
R
F
R
E
E
Z
I
N
G
IN
D
E
X
i
ME
A
N
AN
N
U
A
L
TE
M
P
j
SPEEDd
(MPH)
To
p
o
g
r
a
p
h
i
c
Ef
f
e
c
t
s
k
Sp
e
c
i
a
l
W
i
n
d
Re
g
i
o
n
L
Wi
n
d
b
o
r
n
e
De
b
r
i
s
Z
o
n
e
m
Weathering
a
Frost
Line
Depthb
Termitec
5 lb/ft
220 F
No
Local
Code
150
64.90
F
115
(3 sec-
gust)/ 76
fastest
mile
No
No
No
Moderate
6”
Very
Heavy
Section 18-36. - Amendments to the 2021 International Residential Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 3 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Residential Code
**Section R302.5.1; change to read as follows:
R302.5.1 Opening protection. Openings from a private garage directly into a room used for sleeping
purposes shall not be permitted. Other openings between the garage and residence shall be equipped with
solid wood doors not less than 13/8 inches (35 mm) in thickness, solid or honeycomb core steel doors not
less than 13/8 inches (35 mm) thick, or 20-minute fire-rated doors. Equipped with a self-closing or automatic
closing device.
(Reason: Absence of data linking self-closing devices to increased safety. Self-closing devices often fail to
close the door entirely.)
**Section R303.3, Exception; amend to read as follows:
Exception: {existing text unchanged} Spaces containing only a water closet or water closet and a
lavatory may be ventilated with an approved mechanical recirculating fan or similar device designed to
remove odors from the air.
(Reason: Consistent with common local practice as recirculating fans are recognized as acceptable air
movement.)
***R307.3 Blocking. Required at one toilet at grade level. Blocking per Sec. R307.4 and Figure 307.4, shall
be installed at rear wall and one wall adjacent to toilet at the lowest living level where a toilet is provided.
***R307.4 Blocking. Blocking may be ½” plywood or equivalent or 2 x solid wood blocking flush with wall.
(Reason: Blocking at initial construction allows for ease of use for future grab bar installation if desired for
homeowners. Ties into Dallas Builders Association of Universal Design Elements concepts for CAPS
(Certified Aging in Place Specialists) professionals.)
**Section R313.2 One and Two Family Dwellings; Delete this section and subsection in their entirety.
(Reason: In 2009, the State Legislature enacted SB 1410, amending section 1301.551 subsection I of the
occupation code, prohibiting cities from enacting fire sprinkler mandates one or two family dwellings only.
However, jurisdictions with ordinances that required sprinklers for one or two family dwellings prior to and
enforced before January 1, 2009, may remain in place.)
Section 18-36. - Amendments to the 2021 International Residential Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 4 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Residential Code
***Section R315.2.2 Alterations, repairs and additions; amend to read as follows:
Exception:
1. [existing text remains]
2. Installation, alteration or repairs of all electrically powered mechanical systems or plumbing
appliances.
(Reason: Revised exception for clarity. Code intent is to protect against the products of combustion.)
**Section R322 Flood Resistant Construction; deleted section.
(Reason: Floodplain hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
***Section 327.1.1; add to read as follows:
Section 327.1.1 Adjacency to Structural Foundation. Depth of the swimming pool and spa shall maintain
a ratio of 1:1 from the nearest building foundation or footing of a retaining wall.
Exception:
A sealed engineered design drawing of the proposed new structure shall be submitted for approval.
(Reason: To clarify specific distances for pools and spas.)
**Section R401.2; amended by adding a new paragraph following the existing paragraph to read as
follows.
Section R401.2. Requirements. {existing text unchanged} …
Every foundation and/or footing, or any size addition to an existing post-tension foundation, regulated by
this code shall be designed and sealed by a Texas-registered engineer.
(Amendment to 2015 IRC carried forward to 2018 IRC.)
**Section R602.6.1; amend the following:
R602.6.1 Drilling and notching of top plate. When piping or ductwork is placed in or partly in an exterior
wall or interior load-bearing wall, necessitating cutting, drilling or notching of the top plate by more than 50
percent of its width, a galvanized metal tie not less than 0.054 inch thick (1.37 mm) (16 Ga) and 1 ½ inches
(38) mm 5 inches (127 mm) wide shall be fastened across and to the plate at each side of the opening with
not less than eight 10d (0.148 inch diameter) having a minimum length of 1 ½ inches (38 mm) at each side
or equivalent. Fasteners will be offset to prevent splitting of the top plate material. The metal tie must
extend a minimum of 6 inches past the opening. See figure R602.6.1. {remainder unchanged}
(Amendment to 2015 IRC carried forward to 2018 IRC.)
**Figure R602.6.1; delete the figure and insert the following figure:
Section 18-36. - Amendments to the 2021 International Residential Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 5 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Residential Code
(Amendment to 2015 IRC carried
forward to 2018 IRC also provides
additional assurance of maintaining the integrity of the framing by spreading the nailing pattern.)
**Add section R703.8.4.1.2 Veneer Ties for Wall Studs; to read as follows:
R703.8.4.1.2 Veneer Ties for Wall Studs. In stud framed exterior walls, all ties may be anchored to studs
as follows:
1. When studs are 16 in (407 mm) o.c., stud ties shall be spaced no further apart than 24 in (737 mm)
vertically starting approximately 12 in (381 mm) from the foundation; or
2. When studs are 24 in (610 mm) o.c., stud ties shall be spaced no further apart than 16 in (483 mm)
vertically starting approximately 8 in (254 mm) from the foundation.
(This amendment had been a carry over amendment for years to provide clear instruction for placement of
brick ties. It is now retained with changes to reflect its correct placement and use for clarity when attachment
to framing lumber (studs). It should remain for those purposes. It is in addition to the new new Table in
2018 which provides for brick ties directly to sheathing.)
**Section R902.1; amend and add exception #5 to read as follows:
R902.1 Roofing covering materials. Roofs shall be covered with materials as set forth in Sections R904
and R905. Class A, B, or C roofing shall be installed. in designated by law as requiring their use or when
the edge of the roof is less than 3 feet from a lot line. {remainder unchanged}
Exceptions:
1. {text unchanged}
2. {text unchanged}
3. {text unchanged}
4. {text unchanged}
5. Non-classified roof coverings shall be permitted on one-story detached accessory structures
used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses, provided the floor area does not
exceed (area defined by jurisdiction).
(Reason: to address accessory structures Group U exempt from permits per Section R105.2)
Section 18-36. - Amendments to the 2021 International Residential Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 6 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Residential Code
** Chapter 11 [RE] – Energy Efficiency is deleted in its entirety; Reference the 2021 IECC for energy
code provisions and recommended amendments.
(Reason: The recommended energy code changes from the Energy and Green Advisory Board update the
amendments for Chapter 11. The 2021 International Energy Conservation Code should be referenced for
residential energy provisions. This approach simply minimizes the number of amendments to the IRC.)
**Section M1305.1.2; change to read as follows:
M1305.1.2 Appliances in attics. Attics containing appliances shall be provided . . . {bulk of paragraph
unchanged} . . . side of the appliance. The clear access opening dimensions shall be a minimum of
20 inches by 30 inches (508 mm by 762 mm), and large enough to allow removal of the largest appliance.
As a minimum, for access to the attic space, provide one of the following:
1. A permanent stair.
2. A pull down stair with a minimum 300 lb (136 kg) capacity.
3. An access door from an upper floor level.
Exceptions: [remaining text unchanged]
(Reason: To provide a safe means of accessibility to appliances in attics and to allow for different types of
construction limitations. Consistent with regional amendment to IFGC and IMC 306.3.)
**Section M1411.3; change to read as follows:
M1411.3 Condensate disposal. Condensate from all cooling coils or evaporators shall be conveyed from
the drain pan outlet to an approved place of disposal a sanitary sewer through a trap, by means of a direct
or indirect drain. {remaining text unchanged}
(Reason: Reflects regional practice and to reduce excessive runoff into storm drains.)
**Section M1411.3.1, Items 3 and 4; add text to read as follows:
M1411.3.1 Auxiliary and secondary drain systems. {bulk of paragraph unchanged}
1. {text unchanged}
2. {text unchanged}
3. An auxiliary drain pan… {bulk of text unchanged}… with Item 1 of this section. A water level
detection device may be installed only with prior approval of the building official.
4. A water level detection device… {bulk of text unchanged}… overflow rim of such pan. A water level
detection device may be installed only with prior approval of the building official.
(Reason: Reflects standard practice in this area.)
**Section M1411.3.1.1; add text to read as follows:
M1411.3.1.1 Water-level monitoring devices. On down-flow units …{bulk of text unchanged}… installed
in the drain line. A water level detection device may be installed only with prior approval of the building
official.
(Reason: Reflects standard practice in this area.)
**M1503.6 Makeup Air Required; amend and add exception as follows:
Section 18-36. - Amendments to the 2021 International Residential Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 7 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Residential Code
M1503.6 Makeup air required. Where one or more gas, liquid or solid fuel-burning appliance that is neither
direct-vent nor uses a mechanical draft venting system is located within a dwelling unit’s air barrier, each
exhaust system capable of exhausting in excess of 400 cubic feet per minute (0.19 m3/s) shall be
mechanically or passively provided with makeup air at a rate approximately equal to the difference between
exhaust air rate and 400 cubic feet per minute. Such makeup air systems shall be equipped with not fewer
than one damper complying with Section M1503.6.2.
Exception: Makeup air is not required for exhaust systems installed for the exclusive purpose of space
cooling and intended to be operated only when windows or other air inlets are open. Where all appliances
in the house are of sealed combustion, power-vent, unvented, or electric, the exhaust hood system shall
be permitted to exhaust up to 600 cubic feet per minute (0.28 m3/s) without providing makeup air. Exhaust
hood systems capable of exhausting in excess of 600 cubic feet per minute (0.28 m3/s) shall be provided
with a makeup air at a rate approximately to the difference between the exhaust air rate and 600 cubic feet
per minute.
(Reason: Exception requires makeup air equaling the amount above and beyond 400 cfm for larger fan
which will address concerns related to “fresh” air from the outdoors in hot humid climates creating a burden
on HVAC equipment and negative efficiency impacts from back-drafting and wasted energy.)
**Section M2005.2; change to read as follows:
M2005.2 Prohibited locations. Fuel-fired water heaters shall not be installed in a room used as a storage
closet. Water heaters located in a bedroom or bathroom shall be installed in a sealed enclosure so that
combustion air will not be taken from the living space. Access to such enclosure may be from the bedroom
or bathroom when through a solid door, weather-stripped in accordance with the exterior door air leakage
requirements of the International Energy Conservation Code and equipped with an approved self-closing
device. Installation of direct-vent water heaters within an enclosure is not required.
(Reason: Corresponds with the provisions of IFGC Section 303.3, exception #5.)
**Section G2408.3 (305.5)Private Garages; delete this section in its entirety.
(Reason: This provision does not reflect standard practice in this area.)
**Section G2415.2 (404.2 ) CSST; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
Both ends of each section of medium pressure gas piping shall identify its operating gas pressure with an
approved tag. The tags are to be composed of aluminum or stainless steel and the following wording shall
be stamped into the tag:
"WARNING: 1/2 to 5 psi gas pressure - Do Not Remove"
(Reason: To protect homeowners and plumbers.)
**Section G2415.12 (404.12) and G2415.12.1 (404.12.1); change to read as follows:
G2415.12 (404.12) Minimum burial depth. Underground piping systems shall be installed a minimum
depth of 12 inches (305 mm) 18 inches (457 mm) below grade, except as provided for in Section
G2415.12.1.
G2415.12.1 (404.12.1) Individual Outdoor Appliances; Delete in its entirety
(Reason: To provide increased protection to piping systems.)
**Section G2417.1 (406.1); change to read as follows:
Section 18-36. - Amendments to the 2021 International Residential Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 8 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Residential Code
G2417.1 (406.1) General. Prior to acceptance and initial operation, all piping installations shall be
inspected and pressure tested to determine that the materials, design, fabrication, and installation practices
comply with the requirements of this code. The permit holder shall make the applicable tests prescribed in
Sections 2417.1.1 through 2417.1.5 to determine compliance with the provisions of this code. The permit
holder shall give reasonable advance notice to the building official when the piping system is ready for
testing. The equipment, material, power and labor necessary for the inspections and test shall be furnished
by the permit holder and the permit holder shall be responsible for determining that the work will withstand
the test pressure prescribed in the following tests.
(Reason: To utilize language used in the IPC regarding who is responsible for testing procedures.)
**Section G2417.4; change to read as follows:
G2417.4 (406.4) Test pressure measurement. Test pressure shall be measured with a monometer or
with a pressure-measuring device designed and calibrated to read, record, or indicate a pressure loss
caused by leakage during the pressure test period. The source of pressure shall be isolated before the
pressure tests are made. Mechanical gauges used to measure test pressures shall have a range such that
the highest end of the scale is not greater than five times the test pressure.
(Reason: To require the use of more accurate diaphragm gauges. Spring gauges do not provide accurate
measurement below approximately 17 psig.)
**Section G2417.4.1; change to read as follows:
G2417.4.1 (406.4.1) Test pressure. The test pressure to be used shall be no less than 3 psig (20 kPa
gauge), or at the discretion of the Code Official, the piping and valves may be tested at a pressure of at
least six (6) inches (152 mm) of mercury, measured with a manometer or slope gauge, irrespective of
design pressure. Where the test pressure exceeds 125 psig (862 kPa gauge), the test pressure shall not
exceed a value that produces a hoop stress in the piping greater than 50 percent of the specified minimum
yield strength of the pipe. For tests requiring a pressure of 3 psig, diaphragm gauges shall utilize a dial
with a minimum diameter of three and one half inches (3 ½”), a set hand, 1/10 pound incrementation and
pressure range not to exceed 6 psi for tests requiring a pressure of 3 psig. For tests requiring a pressure
of 10 psig, diaphragm gauges shall utilize a dial with a minimum diameter of three and one-half inches (3
½”), a set hand, a minimum of 2/10 pound incrementation and a pressure range not to exceed 20 psi. For
welded piping, and for piping carrying gas at pressures in excess of fourteen (14) inches water column
pressure (3.48 kPa) (1/2 psi) and less than 200 inches of water column pressure (52.2 kPa) (7.5 psi), the
test pressure shall not be less than ten (10) pounds per square inch (69.6 kPa). For piping carrying gas at
a pressure that exceeds 200 inches of water column (52.2 kPa) (7.5 psi), the test pressure shall be not less
than one and one-half times the proposed maximum working pressure.
Diaphragm gauges used for testing must display a current calibration and be in good working condition.
The appropriate test must be applied to the diaphragm gauge used for testing.
(Reason: To provide for lesser pressures to coordinate with the use of more accurate diaphragm gauges.)
**Section G2417.4.2; change to read as follows:
G2417.4.2 (406.4.2) Test duration. The test duration shall be held for a length of time satisfactory to the
Building Official, but in no case for be not less than 10 fifteen (15) minutes. For welded piping, and for
piping carrying gas at pressures in excess of fourteen (14) inches water column pressure (3.48 kPa), the
test duration shall be held for a length of time satisfactory to the Building Official, but in no case for less
than thirty (30) minutes.
(Reason: To comply with accepted regional practices.)
Section 18-36. - Amendments to the 2021 International Residential Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 9 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Residential Code
**Section G2420.1 (406.1); add Section G2420.1.4 to read as follows:
G2420.1.4 Valves in CSST installations. Shutoff valves installed with corrugated stainless steel (CSST)
piping systems shall be supported with an approved termination fitting, or equivalent support, suitable for
the size of the valves, of adequate strength and quality, and located at intervals so as to prevent or damp
out excessive vibration but in no case greater than 12-inches from the center of the valve. Supports shall
be installed so as not to interfere with the free expansion and contraction of the system's piping, fittings,
and valves between anchors. All valves and supports shall be designed and installed so they will not be
disengaged by movement of the supporting piping.
(Reason: To provide proper security to CSST valves. These standards were established in this region in
1999 when CSST was an emerging technology.)
**Section G2420.5.1 (409.5.1); add text to read as follows:
G2420.5.1 (409.5.1) Located within the same room. The shutoff valve…{bulk of paragraph unchanged}…
in accordance with the appliance manufacturer’s instructions. A secondary shutoff valve must be installed
within 3 feet (914 mm) of the firebox if appliance shutoff is located in the firebox.
(Reason: Reflects regional practice and provides an additional measure of convenience.)
**Section G2421.1 (410.1); add text and Exception to read as follows:
G2421.1 (410.1) Pressure regulators. A line pressure regulator shall be … {bulk of paragraph
unchanged}… approved for outdoor installation. Access to regulators shall comply with the requirements
for access to appliances as specified in Section M1305.
Exception: A passageway or level service space is not required when the regulator is capable of being
serviced and removed through the required attic opening.
(Reason: To require adequate access to regulators.)
**Section G2422.1.2.3 (411.1.3.3) Prohibited locations and penetrations; delete Exception 1 and
Exception 4.
(Reason: To comply with accepted regional practices.)
**Section G2445.2 (621.2); add Exception to read as follows:
G2445.2 (621.2) Prohibited use. One or more unvented room heaters shall not be used as the sole source
of comfort heating in a dwelling unit.
Exception: Existing approved unvented room heaters may continue to be used in dwelling units, in
accordance with the code provisions in effect when installed, when approved by the Building Official
unless an unsafe condition is determined to exist as described in International Fuel Gas Code Section
108.7 of the Fuel Gas Code.
(Reason: Gives code official discretion.)
**Section G2448.1.1 (624.1.1); change to read as follows:
G2448.1.1 (624.1.1) Installation requirements. The requirements for water heaters relative to access,
sizing, relief valves, drain pans and scald protection shall be in accordance with this code.
Section 18-36. - Amendments to the 2021 International Residential Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 10 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Residential Code
(Reason: To clarify installation requirements. Also corresponds with amendments regarding water heater
access.)
**Section P2603; add to read as follows:
P2603.3 Protection against corrosion. Metallic piping, except for cast iron, ductile iron and galvanized
steel, shall not be placed in direct contact with steel framing members, concrete or cinder walls and floors
or other masonry. Metallic piping shall not be placed in direct contact with corrosive soil. Where sheathing
is used to prevent direct contact, the sheathing shall have a thickness of not less than 0.008 inch (8 mil)
(0.203 mm) and the sheathing shall be made of approved material plastic. Where sheathing protects piping
that penetrates concrete or masonry walls or floors, the sheathing shall be installed in a manner that allows
movement of the piping within the sheathing.
(Reason: Allows for other materials to be accepted.)
**Section P2603.5.1 Sewer Depth; change to read as follows:
P2603.5.1 Sewer depth. Building sewers that connect to private sewage disposal systems shall be a
minimum of [number] inches (mm) below finished grade at the point of septic tank connection. Building
sewers shall be a minimum of 12 inches (304 mm) below grade.
(Reason: Provides sewer depth that is common in this region. Deleted reference to private sewage
disposal because a private sewage disposal code is not typically adopted in this region.)
***Section P2604; add to read as follows:
P2604.2.1 Plastic sewer and DWV piping installation. Plastic sewer and DWV piping installed
underground shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Trench width
shall be controlled to not exceed the outside the pipe diameter plus 16 inches or in a trench which has a
controlled width equal to the nominal diameter of the piping multiplied by 1.25 plus 12 inches. The piping
shall be bedded in 4 inches of granular fill and then backfilled compacting the side fill in 6-inch layers on
each side of the piping. The compaction shall be to minimum of 85 percent standard proctor density and
extend to a minimum of 6 inches above the top of the pipe.
(Reason: To follow manufacturer backfill requirements and to be clear to Inspectors out in the field.)
** Section P2801; change to read as follows:
P2801.6 Required pan.
Where a storage tank-type water heater or a hot water storage tank is installed in a location where water
leakage from the tank will cause damage, the tank shall be installed in a pan constructed of one of the
following:
1. Galvanized steel or aluminum of not less than 0.0236 inch (0.6010 mm) in thickness.
2. Plastic not less than 0.036 inch (0.9 mm) in thickness.
3. Other approved materials.
A plastic pan beneath a gas-fired water heater shall be constructed of material having a flame spread
index of 25 or less and a smoke-developed index of 450 or less when tested in accordance with ASTM E84
or UL 723.
(Reason: Plastic burns degrading material over time on gas fired water heaters and to maintaining
protection level.)
]
Section 18-36. - Amendments to the 2021 International Residential Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 11 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Residential Code
**Section P2801.6.1; change to read as follows:
Section P2801.6.1 Pan size and drain. The pan shall be not less than 11/2 inches (38 mm) in depth and
shall be of sufficient size and shape to receive all dripping or condensate from the tank or water heater.
The pan shall be drained by an indirect waste pipe having a diameter of not less than 3/4 inch (19 mm).
Piping for safety pan drains shall be of those materials listed in Table P2906.5.
Multiple pan drains may terminate to a single discharge piping system when approved by the administrative
authority and permitted by the manufactures installation instructions and installed with those instructions.
{existing text unchanged}
(Reason: Regionally accepted practice.)
** Section P2804.6.1; change to read as follows:
Section P2804.6.1 Requirements for discharge piping. The discharge piping serving a pressure relief
valve, temperature relief valve or combination thereof shall:
1. Not be directly connected to the drainage system.
2. Discharge through an air gap located in the same room as the water heater.
3. Not be smaller than the diameter of the outlet of the valve served and shall discharge full size to
the air gap.
4. Serve a single relief device and shall not connect to piping serving any other relief device or
equipment.
Exception: Multiple relief devices may be installed to a single T & P discharge piping system when
approved by the administrative authority and permitted by the manufactures installation instructions
and installed with those instructions.
5. Discharge to the floor, to the pan serving the water heater or storage tank, to a waste receptor an
approved location or to the outdoors.
[remainder unchanged]
(Reason: To ensure the T&P is ran to the exterior.)
**Section P2902.5.3; change to read as follows:
P2902.5.3 Lawn irrigation systems. The potable water supply to lawn irrigation systems shall be protected
against backflow by an atmospheric-type vacuum breaker, a pressure-type vacuum breaker, a double-
check assembly or a reduced pressure principle backflow preventer. A valve shall not be installed
downstream from an atmospheric vacuum breaker. Where chemicals are introduced into the system, the
potable water supply shall be protected against backflow by a reduced pressure principle backflow
preventer.
(Reason: To provide clarity.)
**Section P3003.9; change to read as follows:
P3003.9.2 Solvent cementing. Joint surfaces shall be clean and free from moisture. A purple primer that
conforms to ASTM F 656 shall be applied. Solvent cement not purple in color and conforming to ASTM D
2564, CSA B137.3, CSA B181.2 or CSA B182.1 shall be applied to all joint surfaces. The joint shall be
made while the cement is wet and shall be in accordance with ASTM D 2855. Solvent cement joints shall
be permitted above or below ground.
Section 18-36. - Amendments to the 2021 International Residential Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 12 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Residential Code
Exception: A primer is not required where both of the following conditions apply:
1. The solvent cement used is third-party certified as conforming to ASTM D 2564
2. The solvent cement is used only for joining PVC drain, waste, and vent pipe and fittings
in not pressure applications in sizes up to and including 4 inches (102mm) in diameter.
(Reason: to keep the “process of joining PVC pipe”.)
**Section P3111Combination waste and vent systems; delete this section in its entirety.
(Reason: A combination waste and vent system is not approved for use in residential construction.)
**Section P3112.2 Vent Connection; delete and replace with the following:
P3112.2 Installation. Traps for island sinks and similar equipment shall be roughed in above the floor and
may be vented by extending the vent as high as possible, but not less than the drainboard height and then
returning it downward and connecting it to the horizontal sink drain immediately downstream from the
vertical fixture drain. The return vent shall be connected to the horizontal drain through a wye-branch fitting
and shall, in addition, be provided with a foot vent taken off the vertical fixture vent by means of a wye-
branch immediately below the floor and extending to the nearest partition and then through the roof to the
open air or may be connected to other vents at a point not less than six (6) inches (152 mm) above the
flood level rim of the fixtures served. Drainage fittings shall be used on all parts of the vent below the floor
level and a minimum slope of one-quarter (1/4) inch per foot (20.9 mm/m) back to the drain shall be
maintained. The return bend used under the drain-board shall be a one (1) piece fitting or an assembly of
a forty-five (45) degree (0.79 radius), a ninety (90) degree (1.6 radius) and a forty-five (45) degree (0.79
radius) elbow in the order named. Pipe sizing shall be as elsewhere required in this Code. The island sink
drain, upstream of the return vent, shall serve no other fixtures. An accessible cleanout shall be installed
in the vertical portion of the foot vent.
(Reason: To clarify the installation of island venting and to provide a regional guideline on a standard
installation method for this region.)
END
Section 18-36. - Amendments to the 2021 International Residential Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 1 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Mechanical Code
Recommended Amendments to the
2021 International Mechanical Code
North Central Texas Council of Governments Region
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2021 International Mechanical Code (IMC) are
hereby amended as follows: Standard type is text from the IMC. Underlined type is text inserted. Lined
through type is deleted text from the IMC. A double asterisk at the beginning of a section identifies an
amendment carried over from the 2018 edition of the code and a triple asterisk identifies a new or revised
amendment of the 2021 edition of the code.
Note: Historically the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) has limited Chapter 1
amendments in order to allow each city to insert their local policies and procedures. We now have
suggested certain items to be brought to the attention of cities considering adoption of the code that may
be of concern to several jurisdictions. It is still intended to be discretionary to each city to determine
which Chapter 1 amendments to include.
***Section 102.8; change to read as follows:
102.8 Referenced Codes and Standards. The codes and standards referenced herein shall be those
that are listed in Chapter 15 and such codes, when specifically adopted, and standards shall be
considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference. Where
differences occur between provisions of this code and the referenced standards, the provisions of this
code shall apply. Whenever amendments have been adopted to the referenced codes and standards,
each reference to said code and standard shall be considered to reference the adopted amendments.
Any reference to NFPA 70 shall mean the National Electrical Code as adopted.
(Reason: Legal wording to recognize locally adopted codes and amendments adopted with referenced
codes.)
**Section 306.5; change to read as follows:
306.5 Equipment and Appliances on Roofs or Elevated Structures. Where equipment requiring
access or appliances are located on an elevated structure or the roof of a building such that personnel will
have to climb higher than 16 feet (4877 mm) above grade to access, an interior or exterior means of
access shall be provided. Exterior ladders providing roof access need not extend closer than 12 feet
(2438 mm) to the finish grade or floor level below and shall extend to the equipment and appliances' level
service space. Such access shall . . . {bulk of section to read the same} . . . on roofs having a slope
greater than four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33-percent slope). ... {remainder of text unchanged}.
(Reason: To assure access to roof appliances and provide options to not extend exterior ladders to
grade. Consistent with IFGC amendments.)
**Section 306.5.1; change to read as follows:
306.5.1 Sloped Roofs. Where appliances, equipment, fans or other components that require service are
installed on a roof having a slope of three units vertical in 12 units horizontal (25-percent slope) or greater
and having an edge more than 30 inches (762 mm) above grade at such edge, a catwalk at least 16
inches in width with substantial cleats spaced not more than 16 inches apart shall be provided from the
roof access to a level platform at the appliance. The level platform shall be provided on each side of the
appliance to which access is required for service, repair or maintenance. The platform shall be not less
Section 18-37. - Amendments to the 2021 International Mechanical Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 2 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Mechanical Code
than 30 inches (762 mm) in any dimension and shall be provided with guards. The guards shall extend
not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) above the platform, shall be constructed so as to prevent the passage
of a 21-inch-diameter (533 mm) sphere and shall comply with the loading requirements for guards
specified in the International Building Code…{remainder of text unchanged}.
(Reason: To assure safe access to roof appliances. Consistent with IFGC amendments.)
**Section 501.3; add an exception to read as follows:
501.3 Exhaust Discharge. The air removed by every mechanical exhaust system shall be discharged
outdoors at a point where it will not cause a public nuisance and not less than the distances specified in
Section 501.3.1. The air shall be discharged to a location from which it cannot again be readily drawn in
by a ventilating system. Air shall not be exhausted into an attic, crawl space, or be directed onto
walkways.
Exceptions:
1. Whole-house ventilation-type attic fans shall be permitted to discharge into the attic space of
dwelling units having private attics.
2. Commercial cooking recirculating systems.
3. Where installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and where mechanical or
natural ventilation is otherwise provided in accordance with Chapter 4, listed and labeled
domestic ductless range hoods shall not be required to discharge to the outdoors.
4. Toilet room exhaust ducts may terminate in a warehouse or shop area when infiltration of
outside air is present.
(Reason: Provide a reasonable alternative in areas where a large volume of outside air is present.)
END
Section 18-37. - Amendments to the 2021 International Mechanical Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 1 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Plumbing Code
Recommended Amendments to the
2021 International Plumbing Code
North Central Texas Council of Governments Region
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2021 International Plumbing Code are hereby
amended as follows: Standard type is text from the IPC. Underlined type is text inserted. Lined through
type is deleted text from the IPC. A double asterisk at the beginning of a section identifies an amendment
carried over from the 2018 edition of the code and a triple asterisk identifies a new or revised amendment
with the 2021 edition of the code.
Note: Historically NCTCOG has limited Chapter 1 amendments in order to allow each city to insert their
local policies and procedures. We now have suggested certain items to be brought to the attention of
cities considering adoption of the code that may be of concern to several jurisdictions. It is still intended
to be discretionary to each city to determine which Chapter 1 amendments to include.
***Table of Contents, Chapter 7, Section 713; change to read as follows:
714 713 Engineered Computerized Drainage Design . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 7-12
(Reason: Editorial change to make compatible with amendment to Section 714.1.)
***Section 102.8; change to read as follows:
102.8 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be
those that are listed in Chapter 15 and such codes, when specifically adopted, and standards shall be
considered as part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference.
Where the differences occur between provisions of this code and the referenced standards, the
provisions of this code shall be the minimum requirements. Whenever amendments have been adopted
to the referenced codes and standards, each reference to said code and standard shall be considered to
reference the adopted amendments. Any reference to NFPA 70 shall mean the National Electrical Code
as adopted.
(Reason: Legal wording to recognize locally adopted codes and amendments adopted with referenced
codes.)
***Section 305; change to read as follows:
305.1 Protection against contact. Metallic piping, except for cast iron, ductile iron and galvanized steel,
shall not be placed in direct contact with steel framing members, concrete or cinder walls and floors or
other masonry. Metallic piping shall not be placed in direct contact with corrosive soil. Where sheathing is
used to prevent direct contact, the sheathing shall have a thickness of not less than 0.008 inch (8 mil)
(0.203 mm) and the sheathing shall be made of approved material plastic. Where sheathing protects
piping that penetrates concrete or masonry walls or floors, the sheathing shall be installed in a manner
that allows movement of the piping within the sheathing.
(Reason: Allows for other materials to be accepted.)
Section 18-38. - Amendments to the 2021 International Plumbing Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 2 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Plumbing Code
**Section 305.4.1; changed to read as follows:
305.4.1 Sewer depth. Building sewers that connect to private sewage disposal systems shall be a
minimum of [number] inches (mm) below finished grade at the point of septic tank connection. Building
sewers shall be a minimum of 12 inches (304 mm) below grade.
(Reason: Provides sewer depth that is common in this region. Deleted reference to private sewage
disposal because a private sewage disposal code is not typically adopted in this region.)
***Section 306.2.4; added to read as follows:
***306.2.4 Plastic sewer and DWV piping installation. Plastic sewer and DWV piping installed
underground shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Trench
width shall be controlled to not exceed the outside the pipe diameter plus 16 inches or in a trench which
has a controlled width equal to the nominal diameter of the diameter of the piping multiplied by 1.25 plus
12 inches. The piping shall be bedded in 4 inches of granular fill and then backfilled compacting the side
fill in 6-inch layers on each side of the piping. The compaction shall be to minimum of 85 percent
standard proctor density and extend to a minimum of 6 inches above the top of the pipe.
(Reason: To follow manufacturer backfill requirements and to be clear to Inspectors out in the field.)
**Section 413.4; change to read as follows:
413.4 Required location for floor drains Public laundries and central washing facilities. Floor
drains shall be installed in the following areas:
1. In public laundries and in the central washing facilities of multiple family dwellings, the rooms
containing automatic clothes washers shall be provided with floor drains located to readily drain
the entire floor area. Such drains shall have a minimum outlet of not less than 3 inches (76 mm)
in diameter.
2. Commercial kitchens. In lieu of floor drains in commercial kitchens, the Code Official may accept
floor sinks.
3. Public restrooms.
(Reason: To make more compatible with local health code practices.)
**Section 608.17.5; change to read as follows:
608.17.5 Connections to lawn irrigation systems.
The potable water supply to lawn irrigation systems shall be protected against backflow by an
atmospheric-type vacuum breaker, a pressure-type vacuum breaker, a double-check assembly or a
reduced pressure principal backflow preventer. A valve shall not be installed downstream from an
atmospheric vacuum breaker. Where chemicals are introduced into the system, the potable water supply
shall be protected against backflow by a reduced pressure principal backflow preventer.
(Reason: To recognize regional practices.)
Section 703.6; Delete
(Reason: not a standard practice in this region)
Section 18-38. - Amendments to the 2021 International Plumbing Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 3 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Plumbing Code
**Section 704.5; added to read as follows:
704.5 Single stack fittings. Single stack fittings with internal baffle, PVC schedule 40 or cast-iron single
stack shall be designed by a registered engineer and comply to a national recognized standard.
(Reason: to allow owners, installers, inspectors, and design professionals to ready identify product
markers to determine they meet all required standards.)
***Section 712.4.3; add Section 712.4.3 to read as follows:
712.4.3 Dual Pump System. All sumps shall be automatically discharged and, when in any “public use”
occupancy where the sump serves more than 10 fixture units, shall be provided with dual pumps or
ejectors arranged to function independently in case of overload or mechanical failure. For storm drainage
sumps and pumping systems, see Section 1113.
(Reason: To address dual pump system. To provide reference for storm drainage systems.)
**Section 713, 713.1; change to read as follows:
SECTION 713
ENGINEERED COMPUTERIZED DRAINAGE DESIGN
713.1 Design of drainage system. The sizing, design and layout of the drainage system shall be
permitted to be designed by a registered engineer using approved computer design methods.
(Reason: Code was too restrictive.)
***Section 903.1.1; change to read as follows:
903.1 Roof extension 903.1.1 Roof extension unprotected. Open vent pipes that extend through a
roof shall terminate not less than six (6) inches (152 mm) above the roof. Where a roof is to be used for
assembly or as a promenade, observation deck, sunbathing deck or similar purposes, open vent pipes
shall terminate not less than 7 feet (2134 mm) above the roof.
(Reason: To provide regional guideline on standard installation method for this area and address
reference number correction.)
**Section 1109; delete this section.
***Section 1202.1; delete Exceptions 1 and 2.
(Reason: State law already specifies that Med Gas systems must comply with NFPA 99.)
END
Section 18-38. - Amendments to the 2021 International Plumbing Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 1 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fuel Gas Code
Recommended Amendments to the
2021 International Fuel Gas Code
North Central Texas Council of Governments Region
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2021 International Fuel Gas Code are hereby
amended as follows: Standard type is text from the IFGC. Underlined type is text inserted. Lined through
type is deleted text from IFGC. A double asterisk at the beginning of a section identifies an amendment
carried over from the 2018 edition of the code and a triple asterisk identifies a new or revised amendment
with the 2021 code.
**Section 101.2
{Local amendments to Section 101.2 may be necessary to correspond with the State Plumbing
Licensing Law.}
**Section 102.2; add an exception to read as follows:
Exception: Existing dwelling units shall comply with Section 621.2.
(Reason: Previous code provisions made unvented heater provisions retroactive except as provided for
in local amendment. This amendment and amendment to IFGC 621.2 better clarify what the code
already states: existing systems may stay unless considered unsafe.)
***Section 102.8; change to read as follows:
102.8 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be
those that are listed in Chapter 8 and such codes, when specifically adopted, and standards shall be
considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference. Where
differences occur between provisions of this code and the referenced standards, the provisions of this
code shall apply. Whenever amendments have been adopted to the referenced codes and standards,
each reference to said code and standard shall be considered to reference the amendments as well. Any
reference to NFPA 70 or the National Electrical Code shall mean the Electrical Code as adopted.
(Reason: Legal wording to recognize locally adopted codes and amendments adopted with referenced
codes.)
**Section 306.5; change to read as follows:
[M] 306.5 Equipment and Appliances on Roofs or Elevated Structures. Where equipment requiring
access or appliances are located on an elevated structure or the roof of a building such that personnel will
have to climb higher than 16 feet (4877 mm) above grade to access, an interior or exterior means of
access shall be provided. Exterior ladders providing roof access need not extend closer than 12 feet
(2438 mm) to the finish grade or floor level below and shall extend to the equipment and appliances' level
service space. Such access shall . . . {bulk of section to read the same} . . . on roofs having a slope
greater than four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33-percent slope). ... {remainder of text unchanged}.
(Reason: To assure safe access to roof appliances. Consistent with IMC amendments.)
**Section 306.5.1; change to read as follows:
[M] 306.5.1 Sloped roofs. Where appliances, equipment, fans or other components that require service
are installed on a roof having a slope of 3 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (25-percent slope) or greater
Section 18-39. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fuel Gas Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 2 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fuel Gas Code
and having an edge more than 30 inches (762 mm) above grade at such edge, a catwalk at least 16
inches in width with substantial cleats spaced not more than 16 inches apart shall be provided from the
roof access to a level platform at the appliance. The level platform shall be provided on each side of the
appliance to which access is required for service, repair or maintenance. The platform shall be not less
than 30 inches (762 mm) in any dimension and shall be provided with guards. The guards shall extend
not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) above the platform, shall be constructed so as to prevent the passage
of a 21-inch-diameter (533 mm) sphere and shall comply with the loading requirements for guards
specified in the International Building Code.
(Reason: To assure safe access to roof appliances. Consistent with IMC amendments.)
**Section 401.5; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
Both ends of each section of medium pressure gas piping shall identify its operating gas pressure with an
approved tag. The tags are to be composed of aluminum or stainless steel and the following wording shall
be stamped into the tag:
"WARNING
1/2 to 5 psi gas pressure
Do Not Remove"
(Reason: To protect homeowners and plumbers.)
**Section 404.12; change to read as follows:
404.12 Minimum burial depth. Underground piping systems shall be installed a minimum depth of 12 18
inches (305 458 mm) top of pipe below grade, except as provided for in Section 404.12.1.
404.12.1 Delete in its entirety.
(Reason: To provide increased protection to piping systems and address reference number change.)
***Section 406.4; change to read as follows:
406.4 Test pressure measurement. Test pressure shall be measured with a monometer or with a
pressure-measuring device designed and calibrated to read, record, or indicate a pressure loss caused
by leakage during the pressure test period. The source of pressure shall be isolated before the pressure
tests are made. Mechanical gauges used to measure test pressures shall have a range such that the
highest end of the scale is not greater than five times the test pressure. Spring type gauges do not meet
the requirement of a calibrated gauge.
(Reason: To require the use of more accurate diaphragm gauges. Spring gauges do not provide
accurate measurement below approximately 17 psig.)
***Section 406.4.1; change to read as follows:
406.4.1 Test pressure. The test pressure to be used shall be no less than 1 1/2 times the proposed
maximum working pressure, but no less than 3 3 psig (20 kPa gauge), or at the discretion of the Code
Official, the piping and valves may be tested at a pressure of at least six (6) inches (152 mm) of mercury,
measured with a manometer or slope gauge, irrespective of design pressure. Where the test pressure
exceeds 125 psig (862 kPa gauge), the test pressure shall not exceed a value that produces a hoop
stress in the piping greater than 50 percent of the specified minimum yield strength of the pipe. For tests
requiring a pressure of 3 psig, diaphragm gauges shall utilize a dial with a minimum diameter of three and
one half inches (3 ½”), a set hand, 1/10 pound incrementation and pressure range not to exceed 15 psi
for tests requiring a pressure of 3 psig. For tests requiring a pressure of 10 psig, diaphragm gauges shall
utilize a dial with a minimum diameter of three and one-half inches (3 ½”), a set hand, a minimum of 2/10
pound incrementation and a pressure range not to exceed 50 psi. For welded piping, and for piping
carrying gas at pressures in excess of fourteen (14) inches water column pressure (3.48 kPa) (1/2 psi)
and less than 200 inches of water column pressure (52.2 kPa) (7.5 psi), the test pressure shall not be
less than ten (10) pounds per square inch (69.6 kPa). For piping carrying gas at a pressure that exceeds
Section 18-39. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fuel Gas Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 3 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fuel Gas Code
200 inches of water column (52.2 kPa) (7.5 psi), the test pressure shall be not less than one and one-half
times the proposed maximum working pressure.
Diaphragm gauges used for testing must display a current calibration and be in good working condition.
The appropriate test must be applied to the diaphragm gauge used for testing.
(Reason: To provide for lesser pressures to coordinate with the use of more accurate diaphragm
gauges.)
**Section 409.1; add Section 409.1.4 to read as follows:
409.1.4 Valves in CSST installations. Shutoff valves installed with corrugated stainless steel (CSST)
piping systems shall be supported with an approved termination fitting, or equivalent support, suitable for
the size of the valves, of adequate strength and quality, and located at intervals so as to prevent or damp
out excessive vibration but in no case greater than 12-inches from the center of the valve. Supports shall
be installed so as not to interfere with the free expansion and contraction of the system's piping, fittings,
and valves between anchors. All valves and supports shall be designed and installed so they will not be
disengaged by movement of the supporting piping.
(Reason: To provide proper security to CSST valves. These standards were established in this region in
1999 when CSST was an emerging technology.)
**Section 410.1; add a second paragraph and exception to read as follows:
Access to regulators shall comply with the requirements for access to appliances as specified in Section
306.
Exception: A passageway or level service space is not required when the regulator is capable of
being serviced and removed through the required attic opening.
(Reason: To require adequate access to regulators.)
**Section 621.2; add exception as follows:
621.2 Prohibited use. One or more unvented room heaters shall not be used as the sole source of
comfort heating in a dwelling unit.
Exception: Existing approved unvented heaters may continue to be used in dwelling units, in
accordance with the code provisions in effect when installed, when approved by the Code Official
unless an unsafe condition is determined to exist as described in Section 108.7.
(Reason: Gives code official discretion.)
END
Section 18-39. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fuel Gas Code.
1
North Central Texas Council of
Governments Amendments Approved October 2021
2021 International Energy Conservation Code
Recommended Amendments to the
2021 International Energy Conservation Code
And the energy provisions of the
2021 International Residential Code
North Central Texas Council of Governments Region
(Climate Zone 2 & 3 of the IECC)
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code
(IECC) are hereby amended as follows: Standard type is text from the IECC. Underlined type is text
inserted. Lined through type is deleted text from IECC. A double (**) asterisk at the beginning of a section
identifies an amendment carried over from the 2018 edition of the code and a triple (***) asterisk identifies
a new or revised amendment with the 2021 code. Section numbers in parenthesis represent the
corresponding numbers of the energy provisions of the 2021 International Residential Code for parallel
amendments.
2021 IECC (Energy Provisions of the 2021 IRC)
***Section 105.2 Required Inspections; Changed numbering and to read as follows:
R105.2.1 Footing and foundation inspection.
Inspections associated with footings and foundations shall verify compliance with the code as to R-value,
location, thickness, depth of burial and protection of insulation as required by the code
and approved plans and specifications.
R105.2.2 Framing and Air Barrier rough-in inspection.
Inspections at framing and rough-in shall be made before application of interior finish insulation and shall
verify compliance with the code as to: types of insulation and corresponding R-values and their correct
location and proper instillation; fenestration properties such as U-factor and SHGC and proper instillation;
air leakage controls as required by the code; and approved plans and specifications.
R105.2.3 Insulation and Fenestration rough-in inspection.
Inspections at framing and rough-in shall be made before application of interior finish and shall verify
compliance with the code as to: types of insulation and corresponding R-values and their correct location
and proper installation; fenestration properties such as U-factor and SHGC and proper installation.
R105.2.34 Plumbing rough-in inspection.
Inspections at plumbing rough-in shall verify compliance as required by the code and approved plans and
specifications as to types of insulation and corresponding R-values and protection and required controls.
R105.2.45 Mechanical rough-in inspection.
Inspections at mechanical rough-in shall verify compliance as required by the code and approved plans
and specifications as to installed HVAC equipment type and size, required controls, system insulation and
corresponding R-value, system air leakage control, programmable thermostats, dampers, whole-house
ventilation, and minimum fan efficiency.
Exception: Systems serving multiple dwelling units shall be inspected in accordance with Section
C105.2.4.
R105.2.56 Final inspection.
Section 18-40. - Amendments to the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code.
2
North Central Texas Council of
Governments Amendments
Approved October 2021
2021 International Energy Conservation Code
The building shall have a final inspection and shall not be occupied until approved. The final inspection
shall include verification of the installation of all required building systems, equipment and controls and
their proper operation and the required number of high-efficacy lamps and fixtures.
**Section C102/R102 General; add Section C102.1.2 and R102.1.2 (N1101.4.1) to read as follows:
C102.1.2 Alternative compliance. A building certified by a national, state, or local accredited energy
efficiency program and determined by the Energy Systems Laboratory to be in compliance with the
energy efficiency requirements of this section may, at the option of the Code Official, be considered in
compliance. The United States Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star Program certification of
energy code equivalency shall be considered in compliance.
R102.1.2 (N1101.4.1) Alternative compliance. A building certified by a national, state, or local
accredited energy efficiency program and determined by the Energy Systems Laboratory to be in
compliance with the energy efficiency requirements of this section may, at the option of the Code Official,
be considered in compliance. The United States Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star
Program certification of energy code equivalency shall be considered in compliance. Regardless of the
program or the path to compliance, each 1- and 2-family dwelling shall be tested for air and duct leakage
as prescribed in Section R402.4.1.2 (N1102.4.1.2) and R403.3.3 (N1103.3.3) respectively.
(Reason: This amendment is added to allow alternative compliance in accordance with Texas HB 1365,
78th Legislature. Codified in Chapter 388 Texas Building Energy Performance Standards: §388.003(i).
The last sentence to Section R102.1.2 (N1101.4.1) was added to ensure that every house is tested in
accordance with the mandatory provisions of the code.)
Section R202 (N1101.6) Definitions; add the following definition:
**PROJECTION FACTOR. The ratio of the horizontal depth of the overhang, eave or permanently
attached shading device, divided by the distance measured vertically from the bottom of the fenestration
glazing to the underside of the overhang, eave or permanently attached shading device.
(Reason: The amendment to Section 402.3.2 (N1102.3.2) Glazed fenestration SHGC was proposed by
the TAB. ESL determined the proposal to be not less restrictive than the 2015 IECC. This added
definition is necessary as part of that amendment. The amendment will provide additional options for
SHGC selection.)
Section R202 (N1101.6) Definitions; add the following definition:
**DYNAMIC GLAZING. Any fenestration product that has the fully reversible ability to change it
performance properties, including U-factor, solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), or visible transmittance
(VT).
(Reason: This term is referenced in Section R402.3.2. This definition of DYMANIC GLAZING is also
found in the Commercial provisions of the code.)
***Table 402.1.2 Maximum Assembly/Climate Zone items: amend table as follows.
Climate Zone Fenestration
U-Factorf
Ceiling
U-Factor
2 .40 0.26 0.29
Section 18-40. - Amendments to the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code.
3
North Central Texas Council of
Governments Amendments
Approved October 2021
2021 International Energy Conservation Code
3 0.30 0.32 0.26 0.29
***Table 402.1.3 Insulation/Climate Zone items: amend table as follows.
Climate Zone Fenestration
U-Factorb,i
Ceiling
R-Value
Wood Frame
Wall R-Value
Slab R-Value
& Depth
2 .40 49 42 13 or 0 + 10 0
3 0.30 0.32 49 42 19 or 13+53ci,
0+15
10ci, 2 ft 0
(Reason: Amended table to meet current building techniques, market conditions and product availability.
Amended to avoid conflict between North Texas termite zone and slab R value in code.)
***Section C402.5.2 Dwelling and sleeping unit enclosure testing. Added the underlined to read as
follows
C402.5.2 Dwelling and sleeping unit enclosure testing. The building thermal envelope shall be tested in
accordance with ASTM E779. ANSI/RESNET/ICC 380, ASTM E1827 or an equivalent method approved
by the code official. The measured air leakage shall not exceed 0.30 cfm/ft2 (1.5 Us m2) of the testing
unit enclosure area at a pressure differential of 0.2 inch water gauge (50 Pa). Where multiple dwelling
units or sleeping units or other occupiable conditioned spaces are contained within one building thermal
envelope, each unit shall be considered an individual testing unit, and the building air leakage shall be the
weighted average of all testing unit results, weighted by each testing unit's enclosure area. Units shall be
tested separately with an unguarded blower door test as follows:
1. Where buildings have fewer than eight testing units, each testing unit shall be tested.
2. For buildings with eight or more testing units, the greater of seven units or 20 percent of the
testing units in the building shall be tested, including a top floor unit, a ground floor unit, a middle floor
unit, and a unit with the largest testing unit enclosure area. For each tested unit that exceeds the
maximum air leakage rate, an additional two three units shall be tested, including a mixture of testing unit
types and locations.
(Reason: For many multifamily (R2 classifications) projects, it is very costly and time consuming to test
each dwelling unit for projects where there may be dozens of dwelling units in each building. Considering
that the same tradesman generally constructs a building, it is reasonable to deem that construction
practices are consistent and that if a reasonable sampling of units tested pass then all units would pass.
These amendments are in line with RESNET sampling guidelines.)
***Section R402.4.1 Building thermal envelope; add section R402.4.1.4 to read as follows
R402.4.1.4 Sampling options for R2 multifamily dwelling units. For buildings with eight or more testing
units that must be tested as required by R402.4.1.2 or R402.4.1.3, the greater of seven units or 20
percent of the testing units in the building shall be tested, including a top floor unit, a ground floor unit, a
middle floor unit, and a unit with the largest testing unit enclosure area. For each tested unit that exceeds
the maximum air leakage rate, an additional three units shall be tested, including a mixture of testing unit
types and locations. Where buildings have fewer than eight testing units, each testing unit shall be
tested.
(Reason: For many multifamily (R2 classifications) projects, it is very costly and time consuming to test
each dwelling unit for projects where there may be dozens of dwelling units in each building. Considering
Section 18-40. - Amendments to the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code.
4
North Central Texas Council of
Governments Amendments
Approved October 2021
2021 International Energy Conservation Code
that the same tradesman generally constructs a building, it is reasonable to deem that construction
practices are consistent and that if a reasonable sampling of units tested pass then all units would pass.
These amendments are in line with the commercial provisions of the commercial 2021 IECC and
RESNET sampling guidelines.)
***Section R403.3 Ducts; add section R403.3.8 to read as follows
R403.3.8 Sampling options for R2 multifamily dwelling units. For buildings with eight or more testing units
that must be tested as required by R403.3.5, the greater of seven units or 20 percent of the testing units
in the building shall be tested, including a top floor unit, a ground floor unit, a middle floor unit, and a unit
with the largest testing unit floor area. For each tested unit that exceeds the maximum duct leakage rate,
an additional three units shall be tested, including a mixture of testing unit types and locations. Where
buildings have fewer than eight testing units, each testing unit shall be tested.
(Reason: For many multifamily (R2 classifications) projects, it is very costly and time consuming to test
each dwelling unit for projects where there may be dozens of dwelling units in each building. Considering
that the same tradesman generally constructs a building, it is reasonable to deem that construction
practices are consistent and that if a reasonable sampling of units tested pass then all units would pass.
These amendments are in line with the commercial provisions of the commercial 2021 IECC and
RESNET sampling guidelines.)
***Section R403.6 Mechanical Ventilation; add section R403.6.4 to read as follows
R403.6.4 Sampling options for R2 multifamily dwelling units. For buildings with eight or more testing units
that must be tested as required by R403.6.3, the greater of seven units or 20 percent of the testing units
in the building shall be tested, including a top floor unit, a ground floor unit, a middle floor unit, and a unit
with the largest testing unit floor area. For each tested unit that does not meet the minimum ventilation
rate, an additional three units shall be tested, including a mixture of testing unit types and locations.
Where buildings have fewer than eight testing units, each testing unit shall be tested.
(Reason: For many multifamily (R2 classifications) projects, it is very costly and time consuming to test
each dwelling unit for projects where there may be dozens of dwelling units in each building. Considering
that the same tradesman generally constructs a building, it is reasonable to deem that construction
practices are consistent and that if a reasonable sampling of units tested pass then all units would pass.
These amendments are in line with the commercial provisions of the commercial 2021 IECC IECC and
RESNET sampling guidelines.)
***R405.2 Performance-based compliance. Added to underlined to read as follows.
R405.2 Performance-based compliance. Compliance based on total building performance requires that a
proposed design meets all of the following:
1. The requirements of the sections indicated within Table R405.2.
2. The building thermal envelope greater than or equal to levels of efficiency and solar heat gain
coefficients in Table R402.1.1 or R402.1.3 of the 2009 International Energy Conservation
Code.
3. An annual energy cost that is less than or equal to the annual energy cost of the 2021
standard reference design or 8% less than the annual energy cost of the 2018 standard
reference design. Energy prices shall be taken from a source approved by the code official,
such as the Department of Energy, Energy Information Administration's State Energy Data
Section 18-40. - Amendments to the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code.
5
North Central Texas Council of
Governments Amendments
Approved October 2021
2021 International Energy Conservation Code
System Prices and Expenditures reports. Code officials shall be permitted to require time-of-
use pricing in energy cost calculations.
Exception: The energy use based on source energy expressed in Btu or Btu per square foot
of conditioned floor area shall be permitted to be substituted for the energy cost. The source
energy multiplier for electricity shall be 3.16. The source energy multiplier for fuels other
than electricity shall be 1.1.
(Reason: At the time of the approval of these recommended amendments, software to calculate and
show compliance with section R405 of the 2021 IECC was not available. The underlined amendment
allows an alternative option to show compliance until software is available.)
***Section R401.2.5 Additional Energy efficiency; deleted in its entirety.
(Reason: The deletion is based on the Complexity of the section and lack of tools to verify compliance
and due to conflict with HB2439, 86th Regular Session)
***Section R408 ADDITIONAL EFFICIENCY PACKAGE OPTIONS; deleted in its entirety.
(Reason: The deletion is based on the omission of R401.2.5 and R408 no longer applies and due to
conflict with HB2439, 86th Regular Session.)
*** Section R402.4.6 Electrical and Communication outlet boxes. Delete after the first sentence to
read as follows.
***R402.4.6 Electrical and communication outlet boxes (air-sealed boxes). Electrical and communication
outlet boxes installed in the building thermal envelope shall be sealed to limit air leakage between
conditioned and unconditioned spaces. Electrical and communication outlet boxes shall be tested in
accordance with NEMA OS 4 , Requirements for Air-Sealed Boxes for Electrical and Communication
Applications, and shall have an air leakage rate of not greater than 2.0 cubic feet per minute
(0.944 L/s) at a pressure differential of 1.57 psf (75 Pa). Electrical and communication outlet boxes shall
be marked “NEMA OS 4” or “OS 4” in accordance with NEMA OS 4. Electrical and communication outlet
boxes shall be installed per the manufacturer’s instructions and with any supplied components required to
achieve compliance with NEMA OS 4.
(Reason: Allow for alternatives and Avoid requiring proprietaries products.)
***Section R404.2 Interior Lighting Controls; deleted in its entirety.
(Reason: The deletion is to eliminate confusion as the intent does not reflect what is written.)
**TABLE R406.4 (N1106.4) MAXIMUM ENERGY RATING INDEX; amend to read as follows:
TABLE R406.4 (N1106.4) 1
MAXIMUM ENERGY RATING INDEX
CLIMATE ZONE ENERGY RATING INDEX
2 52 63
3 52 63
1 This table is effective until August 31, 2022.
TABLE R406.4 (N1106.4) 2
MAXIMUM ENERGY RATING INDEX
Section 18-40. - Amendments to the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code.
6
North Central Texas Council of
Governments Amendments
Approved October 2021
2021 International Energy Conservation Code
CLIMATE ZONE ENERGY RATING INDEX
2 52 59
3 52 59
2 The table is effective from September 1, 2022 to August 31, 2025.
TABLE R406.4 (N1106.4) 3
MAXIMUM ENERGY RATING INDEX
CLIMATE ZONE ENERGY RATING INDEX
2 52 57
3 52 57
3 The table is effective from September 1, 2025 to August 31, 2028.
TABLE R406.4 (N1106.4) 3
MAXIMUM ENERGY RATING INDEX
CLIMATE ZONE ENERGY RATING INDEX
2 52 55
3 52 55
4 This table is effective on or after September 1, 2028.
(Reason: The tables reflect the values and timetable set forth in HB 3215, 87th Regular Session Codified
in Chapter 388 Texas Building Energy Performance Standards: §388.003.)
NOTE : HB 3215 was signed into law by the Governor on June 14, 2021 as part of the 87th Regular
Session Codified in Chapter 388 Texas Building Energy Performance Standards: §388.003 (i), (j), and
(k). HB 3215 now allows a Home Energy Rating System Index (ex. HERS Index) utilizing
ANSI/RESNET/ICC Standard 301 (as it existed on January 1, 2021) shall be considered in compliance with
State law provided that:
o The home includes compliance with the Mandatory requirements of 2018 IECC Section
R406.2.
o The home includes compliance with Building thermal envelope provisions of Table
R402.1.2 or Table R402.1.4 of the 2018 IECC
END
Section 18-40. - Amendments to the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments
Amendments
1 Approved July 2021
2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code
Recommended Regional Amendments to the
2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code
North Central Texas Council of Governments Region
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code
are hereby amended as follows: Standard type is text from the ISPSC. Underlined type is text inserted.
Lined through type is deleted text from ISPSC. A double asterisk at the beginning of a section identifies an
amendment carried over from the 2018 edition of the code. A triple asterisk (***) identifies a new or revised
amendment with the 2021 ISPSC code.
**Section 102.9; Change to read as follows:
Section 102.9 Other laws. The provisions of this code shall not be deemed to nullify any provisions of
local, state or federal law, to include but not limited to:
1.Texas Department of State Health Services (TDSHS); Standards for Public Pools and Spas;
§285.181 through §285.208, (TDSHS rules do not apply to pools serving one- and
two-family dwellings or townhouses).
2.Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR); 2012 Texas Accessibility
Standards (TAS), TAS provide the scoping and technical requirements for accessibility for
Swimming Pool, wading pools and spas and shall comply with 2012 TAS, Section 242.
(TAS rules do not apply to pools serving one- and two-family dwellings or townhouses).
Exception: Elements regulated under Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
(TDLR) and built in accordance with TDLR approved plans, including any variances or
waivers granted by the TDLR, shall be deemed to be in compliance with the requirements
of this Chapter.
(Reason: To clarify specific Texas statutes which regulate public pools and spas.)
***Section 113.4 Violation penalties; Changed to read as follows:
113.4 Violation penalties. Any person who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to comply with
any of the requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter or repair a pool or spa in violation of the
approved construction documents or directive of the code official, or of a permit or certificate issued under
the provisions of this code may be punishable for each day of the violation set forth by the authority having
jurisdiction. , shall be guilty of a [SPECIFY OFFENSE], punishable by a fine of not more than [AMOUNT]
dollars or by imprisonment not exceeding [NUMBER OF DAYS], or both such a fine and imprisonment.
Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.
(Reason: Covered by general provisions of the Code of Ordinances.)
***Section 305; Change to read as follows:
305.1 General.
The provisions of this section shall apply to the design of barriers for restricting entry into areas having
pools and spas. In only one-and two-family dwellings and townhouses, where spas or hot tubs are equipped
with a lockable safety cover complying with ASTM F1346 and swimming pools are equipped with a powered
safety cover that complies with ASTM F1346, the areas where those spas, hot tubs or pools are located
shall not be required to comply with Sections 305.2 through 305.7.
Section 18-41. - Amendments to the 2021 International Swimming Pool & Spa Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments
Amendments
2 Approved July 2021
2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code
(Reason: To clarify requirements for dwellings and commercial properties and specific Texas statutes which
regulate public pools and spas.)
** Add subsection 305.2.7.1; to read as follows:
305.2.7.1 Chain link fencing prohibited. Chain link fencing is not permitted as a barrier in public pools
built after January 1, 1994.
(Reason: To clarify specific Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 757.003 (f).)
***Section 305.4 structure wall as a barrier; Changes as follows:
305.4 Structure wall as a barrier. Where a wall of a dwelling or structure of a one- and two-family dwelling
or townhouse or its accessory structure serves as part of a barrier and where doors or windows provide
direct access to the pool or spa through that wall, one of the following shall be required:
1. Remainder Unchanged
2. Remainder Unchanged
3. Remainder Unchanged
4. Remainder unchanged
5. Remainder unchanged
6. Remainder unchanged
(Reason: To clarify specific Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 757.007.
**Section 305.6; Change to read as follows:
305.6 Natural barriers used in a one- and two-family dwelling or townhouse. In the case where the
pool or spa area abuts the edge of a lake or other natural body of water, public access is not permitted or
allowed along the shoreline, and required barriers extend to and beyond the water’s edge a minimum of
eighteen (18) inches, a barrier is not required between the natural body of water shoreline and the pool or
spa.
(Reason: Specific Texas statutes do not allow the use of natural barriers in lieu of fencing for public pools
per Chapter 757.003).
**Section 307.1.4 Accessibility; Add exception to Section to 307.1.4 as follows:
Exception: Components of projects regulated by and registered with Architectural Barriers Division of
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation shall be deemed to be in compliance with the requirements
of this chapter.
(Reason: To accommodate buildings regulated under state law. Further clarified to mean Components that
are specifically addressed by TDLR shall be exempt.)
***Section 307.2.2.2; add to read as follows:
Section 307.2.2.2. Adjacency to Structural Foundation. Depth of the swimming pool and spa
shall maintain a ratio of 1:1 from the nearest building foundation or footing of a retaining wall.
Section 18-41. - Amendments to the 2021 International Swimming Pool & Spa Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments
Amendments
3 Approved July 2021
2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code
Exception:
A sealed engineered design drawing of the proposed new structure shall be submitted for
approval.
(Reason: To clarify specific distances for pools and spas, correlates with IRC 327.1.)
**Section 310; Change to read as follows:
310.1 General. Suction entrapment avoidance for pools and spas shall be provided in accordance with
APSP 7 (ANSI/PHTA/ICC 7) or for public swimming pools in accordance with State of Texas Rules for
Public Swimming Pools and Spas, Title 25 TAC Chapter 265 Subchapter L, Rule §265.190.
[Remainder unchanged]
(Reason: To clarify specific Texas statutes which regulate public pools and spas.)
** Section 402.12; Change to read as follows:
402.12 Water envelopes. The minimum diving water envelopes shall be in accordance with Table
402.12 Texas department of State Health services, Administrative Code Title 25, Chapter 265,
Section 186 (e) and Figure: 25 TAC 256.186 (e) (6). (Delete Table 402.12 and Figure 402.12)
ADD: Figure: 25 TAC §265.186 (e) (6)
Maximum Diving Board Height Over Water ¾ Meter 1 Meter 3 Meters
Max. Diving Board Length 12 ft. 16 ft. 16 ft.
Minimum Diving Board Overhang 2 ft. 6 in. 5 ft. 5 ft.
D1 Minimum 8 ft. 6 in. 11 ft. 2 in. 12 ft. 2 in.
D2 Minimum 9 ft. 10 ft. 10 in. 11 ft. 10 in.
D3 Minimum 4 ft. 6 ft. 6 ft.
L1 Minimum 4 ft. 5 ft. 5 ft.
L2 Minimum 12 ft. 16 ft. 5 in. 19 ft. 9 in.
L3 Minimum 14 ft. 10 in. 13 ft. 2 in. 13 ft. 11 in.
L4 Minimum 30 ft. 10 in. 34 ft. 7 in. 38 ft. 8 in.
L5 Minimum 8 ft. 10 ft. 13 ft.
H Minimum 16 ft. 16 ft. 16 ft.
From Plummet to Pool Wall at Side 9 ft. 10 ft. 11 ft. 6 in.
From Plummet to Adjacent Plummet 10 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft.
D
D2 D1
Pt A
11° Max
1
10 Max Slope 30º Max.
2’6” Min.
R 6’6”Typical
4’6”
H (Overhead
Obstruction or Ceiling)
4’Min
Pt. B Pt. C
Section 18-41. - Amendments to the 2021 International Swimming Pool & Spa Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments
Amendments
4 Approved July 2021
2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code
(Reason: To avoid conflict with 25 TAC Chapter 265.)
**Section 411.2.1 & 411.2.2; Change to read as follows:
411.2.1 Tread dimensions and area. Treads shall have a minimum unobstructed horizontal depth (i.e.,
horizontal run) of 12 inches and a minimum width of 20 inches. not be less than 24 inches (607mm) at the
leading edge. Treads shall have an unobstructed surface area of not less than 240 square inches
(154838mm2) and an unobstructed horizontal depth of not less than10 inches (254 mm) at the center line.
411.2.2 Risers. Risers for steps shall have a maximum uniform height of 10 inches, with the bottom riser
height allowed to taper to zero except for the bottom riser, shall have a uniform height of not greater than
12 inches (305 mm) measured at the center line. The bottom riser height is allowed to vary to the floor.
(Reason: To avoid conflict with 25 TAC Chapter 265.186 (c)(7)(A)& (B).)
**Section 411.5.1 & 411.5.2; Change to read as follows:
411.5.1 Swimouts. Swimouts, located in either the deep or shallow area of a pool, shall comply with all
of the following:
1. Unchanged
2. Unchanged
3. Unchanged
4. The leading edge shall be visibly set apart and provided with a horizontal solid or broken stripe at least
1 inch wide on the top surface along the front leading edge of each step. This stripe shall be plainly
visible to persons on the pool deck. The stripe shall be a contrasting color to the background on which
it is applied, and the color shall be permanent in nature and shall be a slip-resistant surface.
411.5.2 Underwater seats and benches. Underwater seats and benches, whether used alone or in
conjunction with pool stairs, shall comply with all of the following:
1. Unchanged
2. Unchanged
3. Unchanged
4. Unchanged
5. The leading edge shall be visually set apart and provided with a horizontal solid or broken stripe at least
1 inch wide on the top surface along the front leading edge of each step. This stripe shall be.
L1 L2 L3 Typical L4
10’
(1 Meter)
L5
4’Min
4’Min
Section 18-41. - Amendments to the 2021 International Swimming Pool & Spa Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments
Amendments
5 Approved July 2021
2021 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code
plainly visible to persons on the pool deck. The stripe shall be a contrasting color to the background on
which it is applied, and the color shall be permanent in nature and shall be a slip-resistant surface.
6. Unchanged
7. Unchanged
(Reason: To avoid conflict with 25 TAC Chapter 265.184 (u) & 265.186 (c)(10).)
**Section 610.5.1; Change to read:
610.5.1 Uniform height of 9 10 inches. Except for the bottom riser, risers at the centerline shall have a
maximum uniform height of 9 10 inches (229 254 mm). The bottom riser height shall be permitted to vary
from the other risers.
(Reason: To avoid conflict with 25 TAC Chapter 265.186 (c)(7)(B).)
**Section 804 Diving Water Envelopes; Change to read as follows:
Section 804.1 General. The minimum diving water envelopes shall be in accordance with Table 804.1 and
Figure 804.1, or the manufacturer’s specifications, whichever is greater. Negative construction tolerances
shall not be applied to the dimensions of the minimum diving water envelopes given in Table 804.1.
(Reason: To provide minimum standards and to clarify specific manufactures specifications of the diving
equipment.)
END
Section 18-41. - Amendments to the 2021 International Swimming Pool & Spa Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments
Amendments
1 Approved July 2021
2021 International Existing Building Code
Recommended Amendments to the 2021
International Existing Building Code
North Central Texas Council of Governments Region
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2021 International Existing Building Code are
hereby amended as follows: Standard type is text from the IEBC. Underlined type is text inserted. Lined
through type is deleted text from IEBC. A double asterisk (**) at the beginning of a section identifies an
amendment carried over from the 2018 edition of the code and a triple asterisk (***) identifies a new or
revised amendment with the 2021 code.
**Section 102.4; change to read as follows:
[A] 102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes, when specifically adopted, and standards
referenced in this code shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent
of each such reference and as further regulated in Sections 102.4.1 and 102.4.2. {No change to rest of
section.}
(Reason: To not inadvertently adopt other codes (i.e., Wildland Urban Interface Code etc.…) by
reference.)
***Section 110.2; delete number 11 as follows:
11. Where an automatic sprinkler system is provided, and whether an automatic sprinkler system is
required.
(Reason: This has not been historically required on C.O.’s creating inconsistency and is not easily
implemented to modify C.O.’s, and is short sided in only identifying one fire protection system. Further, the
system must be maintained whether voluntarily installed or not.)
***Section 202; amend definition of Existing Building as follows:
Existing Building - A building, structure, or space with an approved final inspection issued under a code
edition which is at least 2 published code editions preceding the currently adopted building code; a
building, structure or space that is undergoing a change of occupancy or use. erected prior to the date of
adoption of the appropriate code, or one for which a legal building permit has been issued.
***Section 202; amend definition of Existing Structure as follows:
Existing Structure- A building, structure, or space, with an approved final inspection issued under a code
edition which is at least 2 published code editions preceding the currently adopted building code; a
building, structure or space that is undergoing a change of occupancy or use. erected prior to the date of
adoption of the appropriate code, or one for which a legal building permit has been issued.
(Reason: To prevent potential abuses in new construction and shell buildings.)
***Section 306.1; add exceptions to read as follows:
Exceptions:
1. Components of projects regulated by and registered with Architectural Barriers Division of
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation shall be deemed to be in compliance with the
requirements of this chapter.
2. If the cost of the project is less than $50K, it must comply with ICC A117.1, or it shall be
reviewed and inspected to the Texas Accessibility Standards by a Registered Accessibility
Specialist.
(Reason: To coordinate with the IBC and State Law for accessibility.)
Section 18-42. - Amendments to the 2021
International Existing Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments
Amendments
2 Approved July 2021
2021 International Existing Building Code
***Section 306.2; add exception to read as follows:
Exception: Projects subject to the Texas Accessibility Standards as adopted by the Texas
Department of Licensing and Regulation are exempt from this section. Projects with a valuation of
less than $50,000.00 (which are subject to the Texas Accessibility Standards) may be accepted as
equivalent to this section where reviewed and inspected to the Texas Accessibility Standards by a
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation Registered Accessibility Specialist when a plan review
report and a compliant inspection report are provided to the building code official.
(Reason: To coordinate with the IBC and State Law for accessibility.)
***Section 306.5.1; add to read as follows:
306.5.1 Complete change of occupancy. Where an entire building undergoes a change of
occupancy, it shall comply with Section 305.4.1 and shall have all of the following accessible
features:
1. Not fewer than one accessible building entrance.
2. Not fewer than one accessible route from an accessible building entrance to primary
function areas.
3. Signage complying with Section 1111 of the International Building Code.
4. Accessible parking, where parking is being provided.
5. Not fewer than one accessible passenger loading zone, where loading zones are provided.
6. Not fewer than one accessible route connecting accessible parking and accessible
passenger loading
zones to an accessible entrance.
7. At least one accessible family or assisted use toilet room shall be provided in accordance
with Chapter 11 of the International Building Code.
Where it is technically infeasible to comply with the new construction standards for any of these
requirements for a change of group or occupancy, Items 1 through 6 shall conform to the
requirements to the maximum extent technically feasible.
Exception: The accessible features listed in Items 1 through 6 are not required for an
accessible route to Type B units.
(Reason: Maintains legacy language from the 2018 IEBC to identify accessibility criteria for changes of
occupancy, and adds the required accessible toilet for disabled occupants, as per previous 2018 IEBC
amendments.)
**Section 401.3 Flood Hazard Areas; delete this section.
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
**Section 405.2.6 Flood Hazard Areas; delete this section.
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
**Section 406.1; add a code reference to read as follows:
406.1 Material. Existing electrical wiring and equipment undergoing repair shall be allowed to be repaired
or replaced with like material, in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 70.
(Reason: To ensure compliance with the NEC relative to any electrical repairs/replacement.)
**Section 502.3 Flood Hazard Areas; delete this section.
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city)
Section 18-42. - Amendments to the 2021
International Existing Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments
Amendments
3 Approved July 2021
2021 International Existing Building Code
***Section 503.2 Flood hazard areas; delete this section.
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city)
***Section 503.16; add exception to read as follows:
Exception: Compliance with the Texas Accessibility Standards is not considered equivalent
compliance for the purpose of enforcement of this code section.
(Reason: TAS does not address this criteria in their evaluation, and it is justifiably required for alterations in existing
buildings.)
**Section 504.1.2; change to read as follows:
504.1.2 Existing fire escapes. Existing fire escapes shall continue to be accepted as a component in the
means of egress in existing buildings only. Existing fire escapes shall be permitted to be repaired or
replaced.
(Reason: To add clarity and help reduce confusion associated with the amendment preventing new fire
escapes.)
**Section 504.1.3; delete this section:
504.1.3 New fire escapes. New fire escapes for existing buildings shall be permitted only where exterior
stairways cannot be utilized due to lot lines limiting stairway size or due to the sidewalks, alleys, or roads
at grade level. New fire escapes shall not incorporate ladders or access by windows.
(Reason: To generally require a higher level of egress protection and consistent with regional practice.)
**Section 507.3 Flood Hazard Areas; delete this section.
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
**Section 701.3 Flood Hazard Areas; delete this section.
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
***Section 702.4; add exception 2 to read as follows:
2. Operable windows with openings that are provided with window fall prevention devices that
comply with ASTM F2090.
(Reason: Maintains legacy language of the 2018 IFC to identify fall prevention devices as acceptable
alternate/exception.)
**Section 702.7; add a code reference to read as follows:
702.7 Materials and methods. All new work shall comply with the materials and methods requirements
in the International Building Code, International Energy Conservation Code, International Mechanical
Code, National Electrical Code, and International Plumbing Code, as applicable, that specify material
standards, detail of installation and connection, joints, penetrations, and continuity of any element,
component, or system in the building.
(Reason: To provide a more complete list of potentially adopted codes.)
Section 18-42. - Amendments to the 2021
International Existing Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments
Amendments
4 Approved July 2021
2021 International Existing Building Code
**Section 802.5.1; change to read as follows:
802.5.1 Minimum requirement. Every portion of a floor, such as a balcony or a loading dock, open-
sided walking surfaces, including mezzanines, equipment platforms, aisles, stairs, ramps, and landings
that is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below and is not provided with guards, or
those in which the existing guards are judged to be in danger of collapsing, shall be provided with
guards.
(Reason: To be consistent with Building Code requirements for guards and unsafe conditions.)
**Section 803.1; add sentence to read as follows:
For the purpose of fire sprinkler protection and fire alarm requirements included in this section, the work
area shall be extended to include at least the entire tenant space or spaces bounded by walls capable of
resisting the passage of smoke containing the subject work area, and if the work area includes a corridor,
hallway, or other exit access, then such corridor, hallway, or other exit access shall be protected in its
entirety on that particular floor level.
(Reason: The intent is to avoid work area protection that would result in partial sprinkler or fire alarm
protection. Partial sprinkler protection not delineated by walls would be a clear violation of NFPA 13 and
would not allow the sprinkler to perform or function as intended. Also, partial fire alarm coverage is a
clear violation of the Fire Code, NFPA 72, and ADA.)
**Section 803.2.6; change exception to read as follows:
Exception: Supervision is not required where the Fire Code does not require such for new
construction. for the following:
1. Underground gate valve with roadway boxes.
2. Halogenated extinguishing systems.
3. Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems.
4. Dry- and wet-chemical extinguishing systems.
5. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13R where a common
supply main is used to supply both domestic and automatic sprinkler systems and a
separate shutoff valve for the automatic sprinkler system is not provided.
(Reason: The published exceptions are over-reaching and will result in inconsistencies among
supervised protection systems and cause confusion for first responders as well.)
**Section 803.3; change section to read as follows:
803.3 Standpipes. Refer to Section 1103.6 of the Fire Code for retroactive standpipe requirements.
{Delete rest of Section 803.3.}
(Reason: The Fire Code already requires standpipes in these buildings (greater than 50 ft.) retroactively
in Section 1103.6. This new section would negate/lessen those retroactive provisions already contained
in the Fire Code.)
**Section 804.2; delete Exception #1 as follows:
Exceptions: 1. W here the work area and the means of egress serving it complies with NFPA101.
2. [Remain unchanged]
(Reason: NFPA 101 is not a commonly adopted code in the region and enforcement would be
problematic, especially due to contradictions with the requirements of the IBC.)
Section 18-42. - Amendments to the 2021
International Existing Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments
Amendments
5 Approved July 2021
2021 International Existing Building Code
**Section 804.4.1.2; change to read as follows:
804.4.1.2 Fire Escapes required. For other than Group I-2, where more than one exit is required, an
existing or newly constructed fire escape complying with section 805.3.1.2.1 shall be accepted as
providing one of the required means of egress.
(Reason: Higher level of safety by not allowing new fire escapes and consistent with regional practice.)
**Section 804.4.1.2.1; change to read as follows:
804.4.1.2.1 Fire Escape access and details - …
1. [Remain unchanged]
2. Access to a new fire escape shall be through a door...
3. Newly constructed fire escapes shall be permitted only where exterior stairways cannot be utilized
because of lot lines limiting the stairway size or because of the sidewalks, alleys, or roads at
grade level.
4. [Remain unchanged]
5. In all buildings of Group E occupancy up to and including the 12th grade, buildings of Group I
occupancy, rooming boarding houses, and childcare centers, ladders of any type are
prohibited on fire escapes used as a required means of egress.
(Reason: Higher level of safety by not allowing new fire escapes. Consistency with language and defined
term in IBC.)
**Section 804.6.2 Transoms; add language to read as follows:
804.6.2 Transoms. In all buildings of Group B, E, I-1, I-2, R-1 and R-2 occupancies, ….[Remainder
unchanged]
(Reason: Transom windows were historically a common practice in school buildings and each jurisdiction
should evaluate the impact on their stakeholders and their community with regards to this section.)
**Section 904.1; add sentence to read as follows:
For the purpose of fire sprinkler protection and fire alarm requirements included in this section, the work
area shall be extended to include at least the entire tenant space or spaces bounded by walls containing
the subject work area, and if the work area includes a corridor, hallway, or other exit access, then such
corridor, hallway, or other exit access shall be protected in its entirety on that particular floor level.
(Reason: The intent is to avoid work area protection that would result in partial sprinkler or fire alarm
protection. Partial sprinkler protection not delineated by walls would be a clear violation of NFPA 13 and
the Fire Code and would not allow the sprinkler system to perform or function as intended. Also, partial
fire alarm coverage is a clear violation of the Fire Code, NFPA 72, and ADA.)
**Section 904.1.1; change to read as follows:
904.1.1 High-rise buildings. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in work areas of where the
high-rise buildings. has a sufficient municipal water supply for the design and installation of an automatic
sprinkler system at the site.
(Reason: Level 3 alterations are affecting more than 50% of the existing high-rise building, and as such,
sprinkler protection is more than justifiable, even when fire pumps, etc., are necessary. It is noted that
the work area method is one of three different methods available to the designer/owner in the IEBC.)
Section 18-42. - Amendments to the 2021
International Existing Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments
Amendments
6 Approved July 2021
2021 International Existing Building Code
***Section 1011.2.1: change to read as follows:
1011.2.1 Fire sprinkler system. Where a change in occupancy classification occurs or where there is a
change of occupancy within a space where there is a different fire protection system threshold requirement
in Chapter 9 of the International Building Code that requires an automatic fire sprinkler system to be
provided based on the new occupancy in accordance with Chapter 9 of the International Building Code. The
installation of the automatic sprinkler system shall be required within the area of the change of occupancy
and areas of the building not separated horizontally and vertically from the change of occupancy by one of
the following:
1. Nonrated permanent partition and horizontal assemblies.
2. Fire partition.
3. Smoke partition.
4. Smoke barrier.
5. Fire barrier, as required by Section 707 of the IBC.
6. Fire wall, as required by Section 706 of the IBC.
Exceptions: [Remain unchanged.]
(Reason: Maintains legacy language requiring at least fire barrier separation between a newly sprinklered
more hazardous ‘change of occupancy’ from non-sprinklered existing occupancies, as is required for fire
area separation by the IBC.)
***Section 1102.2.1; add to read as follows:
1102.2.1 Fire Separations. Where fire separations are utilized to allow additions without exceeding the
allowable area provisions of Chapter 5 of the IBC for either the existing building or the new addition, the
decreased clear space where the two buildings adjoin shall be accounted for in such calculation relative to
the allowable frontage increase.
(Reason: This issue of evaluating allowable area for additions is commonly miscalculated due to the above
issue. This amendment provides clarification but is not more stringent than what is currently required by the
Building Code as to allowable area calculations.)
**Section 1103.3 Flood Hazard Areas; delete this section.
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
**Section 1201.4 Flood Hazard Areas; delete this section.
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
**Section 1301.3.2; change to read as follows:
1301.3.2 Compliance with other codes. Buildings that are evaluated in accordance with this section
shall comply with the International Fire Code. and International Property Maintenance Code.
(Reason: NCTCOG does not currently recommend, nor review the IPMC for recommended amendments at
this time.)
**Section 1301.3.3 Compliance with Flood Hazard Provisions; delete this section.
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
Section 18-42. - Amendments to the 2021
International Existing Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments
Amendments
7 Approved July 2021
2021 International Existing Building Code
**Section 1402.6 Flood Hazard Areas; delete this section.
(Reason: Flood hazard ordinances may be administered by other departments within the city.)
***Section 1509; delete Section 1509.1 through 1509.5 and add Section 1509.1 to read as follows:
1509.1 When required. An approved water supply for fire protection, either temporary or permanent, shall
be made available as soon as combustible material arrives on the site. The water supply design and the
timing of the water supply installation relative to building construction shall comply with the adopted Fire
Code.
(Reason: Maintains legacy language for the water supply and ensures adequate water supply as required
by the Fire Code for construction that is already well-established. The changes in the published 2021 IEBC
drastically reduce the required water supply of the Fire Code without adequate or reasonable justification.)
END
Section 18-42. - Amendments to the 2021
International Existing Building Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 1
2020 NEC Regional Amendments
NCTCOG Executive Board approval: November 19, 2020
Recommended Amendments to the
2020 National Electrical Code
North Central Texas Council of Governments
The following articles, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC)
are hereby amended as follows: Standard type is text from the NEC. Highlighted with gray
shading is text inserted. Lined through type is deleted text from NEC. A double asterisk (**) at
the beginning of an article identifies an amendment carried over from the 2017 edition of the
code and a triple asterisk (***) identifies a new or revised amendment with the 2020 code.
**Article 100; add the following to definitions:
Engineering Supervision. Supervision by a Qualified State of Texas Licensed Professional
Engineer engaged primarily in the design or maintenance of electrical installations.
(REASON FOR CHANGE: To better define the qualifications for engineering supervision. This
term is used twenty-four times in the 2017 National Electrical Code.)
**Article 110.2; change the following to read as follows:
110.2 Approval. The conductors and equipment required or permitted by this Code shall be
acceptable only if approved. Approval of equipment may be evident by listing and labeling of
equipment by a Nationally Recognized Testing Lab (NRTL) with a certification mark of that
laboratory or a qualified third party inspection agency or a field evaluation by a Field Evaluation
Body accredited by either the International Code Council International Accreditation Service
AC354 or ANSI National Accreditation Board programs and approved by the AHJ.
Exception: Unlisted equipment that is relocated to another location within a jurisdiction or is field
modified is subject to the approval by the AHJ. This approval may be by a field evaluation by a
NRTL or qualified third-party inspection agency or a field evaluation by a Field Evaluation Body
accredited by either the ICC IAS AC354 or ANAB programs and approved by the AHJ
Manufacturer’s self-certification of any equipment shall not be used as a basis for approval by
the AHJ.
Section 18-43. - Amendments to the 2020 National Electric Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 2
2020 NEC Regional Amendments
NCTCOG Executive Board approval: November 19, 2020
Informational Note No. 1: See 90.7, Examination of Equipment for Safety, and 110.3,
Examination, Identification, Installation, and Use of Equipment. See definitions of Approved,
Identified, Labeled, and Listed.
Informational Note No. 2: Manufacturer’s self-certification of equipment may not necessarily
comply with U.S. product safety standards as certified by an NRTL.
Informational Note No. 3: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 790 and 791 provide an
example of an approved method for qualifying a third-party inspection agency.
(REASON FOR CHANGE: To add clarity and provide more positive options for enforcement and
approval of unlisted equipment.)
***Article 400.8 Field Identification Required: Change the following to read as follows
408.4 Field Identification Required.
(A) Circuit Directory or Circuit Identification.
Every circuit and circuit modification shall be legibly identified as to its clear, evident, and
specific purpose or use. The identification shall include an approved degree of detail that allows
each circuit to be distinguished from all others. Spare positions that contain unused overcurrent
devices or switches shall be described accordingly. The identification shall be included in a
circuit directory that is located on the face or inside of, or in an approved location adjacent and
permanently affixed the panel door in the case of a panelboard and at each switch or circuit
breaker in a switchboard or switchgear. No circuit shall be described in a manner that depends
on transient conditions of occupancy.
(REASON FOR CHANGE: To add clarity and provide more positive options for enforcement and
approval)
***Article 410.118: Change the following to read as follows
410.118 Access to other boxes.
Luminaires recessed in the ceilings, floors, or walls shall not be used to access outlet, pull, or
junction boxes or conduit bodies, unless the box or conduit body is an integral part of the listed
luminaire.
Exception: removable luminaires with a minimum measurement of 22 in. X 22 in. shall be
permitted to be used as access to outlet, pull, junction boxes or conduit bodies.
REASON FOR CHANGE: To add clarity and provide more positive options for enforcement and
approval. This will allow access to boxes not integral with the luminaire. This measurement
aligns with the limited access above a lay-in ceiling measurement in 110.26(A)(4).
)
***Article 422.31 B: Change the following to read as follows
Section 18-43. - Amendments to the 2020 National Electric Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 3
2020 NEC Regional Amendments
NCTCOG Executive Board approval: November 19, 2020
422.31 B Appliances Rated over 300 Volt-Amperes
(B) Appliances Rated over 300 Volt-Amperes. For permanently connected appliances rated over
300 volt-amperes, the branch-circuit switch or circuit breaker shall be permitted to serve as the
disconnecting means where the switch or circuit breaker is within sight from and is readily
accessible to the appliance it serves or is capable of being locked in the open position in
accordance with 110.25 and is readily accessible to the appliance it serves.
Informational Note No. 1: For appliances employing unit switches, see 422.34.
Informational Note No 2: The following means of access are considered to constitute readily
accessible for this code change when conforming to the additional access requirements of the I
Codes:
(1) A permanent stair.
(2) A pull-down stair with a minimum 300 lb. (136 kg) capacity.
(3) An access door from an upper floor level.
REASON FOR CHANGE: To add clarity and provide more positive options for enforcement and
approval)
**Article 500.8 (A) (3); change to read as follows:
500.8 Equipment.
Articles 500 through 504 require equipment construction and installation that ensure safe
performance under conditions of proper use and maintenance.
Informational Note No. 1: It is important that inspection authorities and users exercise more than
ordinary care with regard to installation and maintenance.
Informational Note No. 2: Since there is no consistent relationship between explosion properties
and ignition temperature, the two are independent requirements.
Informational Note No. 3: Low ambient conditions require special consideration. Explosion proof
or dust-ignition proof equipment may not be suitable for use at temperatures lower than -25°C
(-13°F) unless they are identified for low-temperature service. However, at low ambient
temperatures, flammable concentrations of vapors may not exist in a location classified as Class
I, Division 1 at normal ambient temperature.
(A) Suitability. Suitability of identified equipment shall be determined by one of the following:
(1) Equipment listing or labeling;
(2) Evidence of equipment evaluation from a qualified testing laboratory or inspection
agency concerned with product evaluation; or,
(3) Evidence acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction such as a manufacturer's self-
evaluation or an owner's engineering judgment. an engineering judgment signed and
sealed by a qualified Registered licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Texas.
Informational Note: Additional documentation for equipment may include certificates
demonstrating compliance with applicable equipment standards, indicating special conditions of
use, and other pertinent information.
Section 18-43. - Amendments to the 2020 National Electric Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 4
2020 NEC Regional Amendments
NCTCOG Executive Board approval: November 19, 2020
(REASON FOR CHANGE: Carry over from previous amendment with change to better define
the qualifications for an engineering judgment.)
**Article 505.7 (A) changed to read as follows:
505.7 Special Precaution.
Article 505 requires equipment construction and installation that ensures safe performance
under conditions of proper use and maintenance.
Informational Note No. 1: It is important that inspection authorities and users exercise more than
ordinary care with regard to the installation and maintenance of electrical equipment in
hazardous (classified) locations.
Informational Note No. 2: Low ambient conditions require special consideration. Electrical
equipment depending on the protection techniques described by 505.8(A) may not be suitable
for use at temperatures lower than -20°C (-4°F) unless they are identified for use at lower
temperatures. However, at low ambient temperatures, flammable concentrations of vapors may
not exist in a location classified Class I, Zones 0, 1, or 2 at normal ambient temperature.
(A) Implementation of Zone Classification System. Classification of areas, engineering
and design, selection of equipment and wiring methods, installation, and inspection shall
be performed by a qualified persons Registered licensed Professional Engineer in the
State of Texas.
(REASON FOR CHANGE: Carry over from previous amendment with change to better define
the qualifications for an engineering judgment.)
***Article 695.6 A 1: Change the following to read as follows
695.6 (A) Supply Conductors.
(1) Services and On-Site Power Production Facilities.
Service conductors and conductors supplied by on-site power production facilities shall be
physically routed outside a building(s) and shall be installed as service-entrance conductors in
accordance with 230.6, 230.9, and Parts III and IV of Article 230. Where supply conductors
cannot be physically routed outside of buildings, the conductors shall be permitted to be routed
through the building(s) where installed in accordance with
230.6(1) or (2).
Exception: The supply conductors within the fire pump room shall not be required to meet 230.6
(1) or (2)
(REASON FOR CHANGE: To add clarity and provide more positive options for
enforcement and approval. All Fire Pump rooms are not Fire Rated as on all 4 sides.
There are Fault Currents that could exceed 150,000-190,000 amps and protection of
these Service Conductors is essential and conflict with other codes specifically
230.70(A)(1).)
Section 18-43. - Amendments to the 2020 National Electric Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 5
2020 NEC Regional Amendments
NCTCOG Executive Board approval: November 19, 2020
***Article 71.15 A: Change the following to read as follows
710.15 General
710.15(A) Supply Output.
Power supply to premises wiring systems fed by stand-alone or isolated microgrid power
sources shall be permitted to have less capacity than the calculated load. The capacity of the
sum of all sources of the stand-alone supply shall be equal to or greater than the load posed by
the largest single utilization equipment connected to the system. Calculated general lighting
loads shall not be considered as a single load have adequate capacity to meet the calculated
load in accordance with Article 220.
Informational Note: For general-use loads the system capacity can be calculated using the sum
of the capacity of the firm sources, such as generators and ESS inverters. For specialty loads
intended to be powered directly from a variable source, the capacity can be calculated using the
sum of the variable sources, such as PV or wind inverters, or the combined capacity of both firm
and variable sources.
(REASON FOR CHANGE: To add clarity and provide more positive options for enforcement and
approval. Unless amended, standby systems would not be required to meet any load demanded
by their standby definitions.)
END
Section 18-43. - Amendments to the 2020 National Electric Code.
CHAPTER 38 FIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION
ARTICLE II. CODES
Section 38-31. - Adoption of Fire Code.
The town adopts the entirety of the 2021 Edition of the International Fire Code, including
Appendix Chapters A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, K, L, and M published by the International Code
Council, Inc., save and except such portions as are deleted or amended by this article, and the same
are hereby adopted and incorporated as fully as if set out at length herein.
Sec. 38-32. - Permit required.
No person shall perform any work or supply any materials falling within the jurisdiction of one of
the respective codes adopted under [this article] without first having secured a permit in accordance
with applicable code.
Sec. 38-33. - Penalty.
That any person, either by himself or agent, and any firm, corporation or other entity who violates
any of the provisions of the codes adopted in section 38-31 shall be deemed guilty of a
misdemeanor and, upon conviction of any such violation, shall be punished as provided in section
1-9. In any case of a violation of any of the terms and provisions of the codes adopted by the
ordinance, by any corporation, the officers and agents actively in charge of the business of such
corporation shall be subject to the penalty provided in this section.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 1 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
Recommended Amendments to the
2021 International Fire Code
That the 2021 International Fire Code, as adopted herein, is hereby amended and incorporated herein
and attached hereto for all purposes of this article. The Town of Westlake, Texas may from time to time
determine that additional local modifications to the Fire Code are necessary and appropriate to meet the
unique needs of the Town of Westlake, Texas. To effectuate these local modifications, the town council
shall enact individual ordinances amending this section, fully setting forth the change to be made in the
Fire Code. These amendments shall be consolidated in chapter 38.
The following sections, paragraphs, and sentences of the 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) are hereby
amended as follows: Standard type is text from the IFC. Underlined type is text inserted. Lined through
type is deleted text from IFC. A double asterisk (**) at the beginning of a section identifies an amendment
carried over from the 2018 edition of the code and a triple asterisk (***) identifies a new or revised
amendment with the 2021 code.
All buildings are required to be protected by an automatic fire sprinkler s ystem. See the Westlake Fire
Code (chapter 38) and amendments for provisions, and exceptions, relating to the requirements for the
installation of automatic fire sprinkler systems.
**Section 102.1; change #3 to read as follows:
3.Existing structures, facilities, and conditions when required in Chapter 11 or in specific sections of
this code.
(Reason: To clarify that there are other provisions in the fire code applicable to existing buildings that are
not located in Chapter 11, including but not limited to Section 505 Premises Identification.)
**Section 105.3.3; change to read as follows:
105.3.3 Occupancy Prohibited before Approval. The building or structure shall not be occupied prior to
the fire code official issuing a permit when required and conducting associated inspections indicating the
applicable provisions of this code have been met.
(Reason: For clarity to allow for better understanding in areas not requiring such permits, such as
unincorporated areas of counties. This amendment may be struck by a city.)
**Section 105.6.25; add to read as follows:
105.6.25 Electronic access control systems. Construction permits are required to install or modify an
electronic access control system, as specified in Chapter 10. A separate construction permit is required
for to install or modify a fire alarm system that may be connected to the access control system.
Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered to be a modification and does not
require a permit.
(Reason: Adds construction permit requirements for electronic access control systems affecting access
and/or egress to ensure proper design and installation of such s ystems. These changes reflect local
practices of municipalities in this region.)
***Section 107.3; delete this section in its entirety:
107.3 Permit valuations. The applicant for a permit shall provide an estimated permit value at the time
of application. Permit valuations shall include the total value of work, including materials and labor, for
which the permit is being issued, such as electrical, gas , mechanical, plumbing equipment and permanent
systems. If, in the opinion of the fire code official, the valuation is underestimated on the application, the
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 2 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
permit shall be denied unless the applicant can show detailed estimates to meet the approval of the fire
code official. Final permit valuation shall be set by the fire code official.
(Different jurisdictions establish permit fee requirements in differ ent ways, and the majority in this region
do not utilize this methodology for establishing Fire Code-required permit fees, as well as have already
established and adopted applicable permit fee requirements.)
**Section 202; amend and add definitions to read as follows:
** [B] AMBULATORY CARE FACILITY. Buildings or portions thereof used to provide medical, surgical,
psychiatric, nursing, or similar care on a less than 24-hour basis to persons who are rendered incapable
of self-preservation by the services provided or staff has accepted responsibility for care recipients
already incapable. This group may include but not be limited to the following:
- Dialysis centers
- Procedures involving sedation
- Sedation dentistry
- Surgery centers
- Colonic centers
- Psychiatric centers
(Reason: to clarify the range of uses included in the definition)
** [B] ATRIUM. An opening connecting two three or more stories… {remaining text unchanged}
(Reason: Accepted practice in the region based on legacy codes. IBC Section 1009 permits unenclosed
two story stairways under certain circumstances.)
** [B] DEFEND IN PLACE. A method of emergency response that engages building components and
trained staff to provide occupant safety during an emergency. Emergency response involves remaining in
place, relocating within the building, or both, without evacuating the building.
(Reason: Added from International Building Code (IBC) definitions for consistency in interpretation of the
subject requirements pertaining to such occupancies.)
**FIRE WATCH. A temporary measure intended to ensure continuous and systematic surveillance of a
building or portion thereof by one or more qualified individuals or standby personnel when required by the
fire code official, for the purposes of identifying and controlling fire hazards, detecting early signs of
unwanted fire, raising an alarm of fire and notifying the fire department.
(Reason: Clearly defines options to the fire department for providing a fire watch.)
**FIREWORKS. Any composition or device for the purpose of producing a visible or an audible effect for
entertainment purposes by combustion, deflagration, or detonation, and/or activated by ignition with a
match or other heat producing device that meets the definition of 1.3G fireworks or 1.4G fireworks. …
{Remainder of text unchanged}…
(Reason: Increased safety from fireworks related injuries.)
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 3 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
**Option B
HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE: add a second paragraph to read as follows:
Any building classified as a group S Occupancy or Speculative Building exceeding 6,000 sq. ft. that
has a clear height in excess of 14 feet, making it possible to be used for storage in excess of 12 feet,
shall be considered to be high-piled storage. When a specific product cannot be identified
(speculative warehouse), a fire protection system and life safety features shall be installed as for
Class IV commodities, to the maximum pile height.
(Reason: To provide protection for worst-case scenario in flexible or unknown situations.)
**Option B
HIGH-RISE BUILDING. A building with an occupied floor located more than 75 55 feet (22 860 16
764 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
(Reason: Allows for additional construction safety features to be provided, based on firefighting response
capabilities.)
**REPAIR GARAGE. A building, structure or portion thereof used for servicing or repairing motor
vehicles. This occupancy shall also include garages involved in minor repair, modification and servicing of
motor vehicles for items such as lube changes, inspections, windshield rep air or replacement, shocks,
minor part replacement, and other such minor repairs.
(Reason: To further clarify types of service work allowed in a repair garage, as well as to correspond with
definition in the IBC.)
**SELF-SERVICE STORAGE FACILITY. Real property designed and used for the purpose of renting or
leasing individual storage spaces to customers for the purpose of storing and removing personal property
on a self-service basis.
(Reason: To provide a definition that does not exist in the code.)
**STANDBY PERSONNEL. Qualified fire service personnel, approved by the Fire Chief. When utilized,
the number required shall be as directed by the Fire Chief. Charges for utilization shall be as normally
calculated by the jurisdiction.
(Reason: To provide a definition that does not exist in the code for fire watch accommodations as
required by the jurisdiction.)
**UPGRADED OR REPLACED FIRE ALARM SYSTEM. A fire alarm system that is upgraded or
replaced includes, but is not limited to the following:
• Replacing one single board or fire alarm control unit component with a newer model
• Installing a new fire alarm control unit in addition to or in place of an existing one
• Conversion from a horn system to an emergency voice/alarm communication system
• Conversion from a conventional system to one that utilizes addressable or analog devices
The following are not considered an upgrade or replacement:
• Firmware updates
• Software updates
• Replacing boards of the same model with chips utilizing the same or newer firmware
(Reason: This is referenced in several places, but the wording of “upgraded or replaced” is s omewhat
ambiguous and open to interpretation. Defining it here allows for consistent application across the
region.)
**Section 307.1.1; change to read as follows:
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 4 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
**Section 307.1.1; change to read as follows:
307.1.1 Prohibited Open Burning. Open burning shall be prohibited that is offensive or objectionable
because of smoke emissions or when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make such fires
hazardous shall be prohibited.
Exception: {No change.}
(Reason: To further protect adjacent property owners/occupants from open burning and/or smoke
emissions from open burning.)
**Section 307.2; change to read as follows:
307.2 Permit Required. A permit shall be obtained from the fire code official in accordance with Section
105.6 prior to kindling a fire for recognized silvicultural or range or wildlife management practices,
prevention or control of disease or pests, or open burning a bonfire. Application for such approval shall
only be presented by and permits issued to the owner of the land upon which the fire is to be kindled.
Examples of state or local law, or regulations referenced elsewhere i n this section may include but not be
limited to the following:
1. Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) guidelines and/or restrictions.
2. State, County, or Local temporary or permanent bans on open burning.
3. Local written policies as established by the fire code official.
(Reason: Amendments to 307.2, 307.4, 307.4.3, and 307.5 better explain current requirements and
recognize that jurisdictions have local established policies that best fit their environments.)
**Section 307.3; change to read as follows:
307.3 Extinguishment Authority. When open burning creates or adds to a hazardous situation, or a
required permit for open burning has not been obtained, the fire code official is authorized to order the
extinguishment of the open burning operation. The fire code official is authorized to order the
extinguishment by the permit holder, another person responsible or the fire department of open burning
that creates or adds to a hazardous or objectionable situation.
(Reason: Provides direction as to responsible parties relative to extinguishment of the subject open
burning.)
***Section 307.4 and 307.4.1; change to read as follows:
307.4 Location. The location for open burning shall not be less than 50 300 feet (15 240 91 440 mm)
from any structure, and provisions shall be made to prevent the fire from spreading to within 50 300 feet
(15 240 91 440 mm) of any structure.
Exceptions: {No change.}
307.4.1 Bonfires. A bonfire shall not be conducted within 50 feet (15 240 mm), or greater
distance as determined by the fire code official, of a structure or combustible material, unless the
fire is contained in a barbecue pit. Conditions that could cause a fire to spread within the required
setback 50 feet (15 240 mm) of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition.
(Reason: To increase the separation distance thereby increasing the s afety to adjacent properties, as per
applicable TCEQ rules and regulations regarding outdoor burning. Bonfires were added to this
requirement to allow the AHJ the ability to match the increased setback utilized for open burning as
necessary. Size of bonfire will help to determine needed setback, fire equipment and apparatus as per
permit requirements.)
**Section 307.4.3, Exceptions; add Exception #2 to read as follows:
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 5 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
Exceptions:
1. Portable outdoor fireplaces used at one- and two-family dwellings.
2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an approved automatic sprinkler
system.
(Reason: To reflect similar allowances for open-flame cooking in these same locations.)
**Section 307.4.4 and 5; add section 307.4.4
**Section 307.4.4 and 307.4.5; change to read as follows:
307.4.4 Permanent Outdoor Firepit. Permanently installed outdoor firepits for recreational fire purposes
shall not be installed within 10 feet of a structure or combustible material.
Exception: Permanently installed outdoor fireplaces constructed in accordance with the
International Residential Code or International Building Code.
307.4.5 Trench Burns. Trench burns shall be conducted in air curtain trenches and in accordance with
Section 307.2.
(Reason: To provide a greater level of safety for this potentially hazardous fire exposure condition.
Decrease in separation distance allowed for outdoor firepits due to permanent nature of construction
having substantial securement.)
**Section 307.5; change to read as follows:
307.5 Attendance. Open burning, trench burns, bonfires, recreational fires, and use of portable outdoor
fireplaces shall be constantly attended until the… {Remainder of section unchanged}
(Reason: Adds attendance for trench burns based on previous amendment provision for such.)
**Section 308.1.4; change to read as follows:
308.1.4 Open-flame Cooking Devices. Charcoal burners and other oOpen-flame cooking devices,
charcoal grills and other similar devices used for cooking shall not be operated located or used on
combustible balconies, decks, or within 10 feet (3048 mm) of combustible construction.
Exceptions:
1. One- and two-family dwellings where LP-gas containers are limited to a water capacity not
greater than 50 pounds (22.68 kg) [nominal 20 pound (9.08 kg) LP-gas capacity] with an
aggregate LP-gas capacity not to exceed 100 pounds (5 containers). All LP-gas containers shall
be stored outside, as per Chapter 61.
2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system,
and LP-gas containers are limited to a water capacity not greater than 50 pounds (22.68 kg)
[nominal 20 pound (9.08 kg) LP-gas capacity], with an aggregate LP-gas capacity not to exceed
40 lbs. (2 containers). All LP-gas containers shall be stored outside, as per Chapter 61.
3. LP-gas cooking devices having LP-gas container with a water capacity not greater than 2-1/2
pounds [nominal 1 pound (0.454 kg) LP-gas capacity].
(Reason: Decrease fire risk in multi-family dwellings and minimizes ignition sources and clarify allowable
limits for 1 & 2 family dwellings, and allow an expansion for sprinklered multi-family uses. This
amendment adds clarification and defines the container size allowed for residences.)
**Section 308.1.6.2, Exception #3; change to read as follows:
3. Torches or flame-producing devices in accordance with Section 308.4 308.1.3.
(Reason: Section identified in published code is inappropriate.)
**Section 308.1.6.3; change to read as follows:
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 6 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
308.1.6.3 Sky Lanterns. A person shall not release or cause to be released an untethered unmanned
free-floating device containing an open flame or other heat source, such as but not limited to a sky
lantern.
(Reason: Eliminates the potential fire hazard presented by utilization of such devices and the potential
accidental release of such devices.)
**Section 311.5; change to read as follows:
311.5 Placards. Any The fire code official is authorized to require marking of any vacant or abandoned
buildings or structures determined to be unsafe pursuant to Section 114 of this code relating to structural
or interior hazards, shall be marked as required by Section 311.5.1 through 311.5.5.
(Reason: There may be situations where placarding is not desired or necessary; also clarifies intent that
it is not the fire code official’s responsibility to provide the placard.)
**Section 403.4; change to read as follows:
403.4 Group E Occupancies. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section
404 shall be prepared and maintained for Group E occupancies and for buildings containing both a Group
E occupancy and an atrium. A diagram depicting two evacuation routes shall be posted in a conspicuous
location in each classroom. Group E occupancies shall also comply with Sections 403.4.1 through
403.4.3.
(Reason: The diagrams are intended to assist with egress in s uch occupancies – specifically, the primary
teacher is not always present to assist children with egress. Also, such will help reinforce evacuation drill
requirements.)
**Section 404.2.2; add Number 4.10. to read as follows:
4.10. Fire extinguishing system controls.
(Reason: The committee believed this information could be of great help to such plans to facilitate
locating sprinkler valves to minimize water damage, for instance.)
***Section 405.5; change to read as follows:
405.5 Time. The fire code official may require an evacuation drill at any time. Drills shall be held at
unexpected times and under varying conditions to simulate the unusual conditions that occur in case of
fire.
Exceptions:
1. {No change.}
2. {No change.}
3. Notification of teachers/staff having supervision of light- or sound-sensitive
students/occupants, such as those on the autism spectrum, for the protection of
those students/occupants, shall be allowed prior to conducting a drill.
(Reason: This change clarifies who may require a fire or evacuation drill, and also allows for
consideration/protection of students/occupants who may be severely negatively impacted by the nature of
a fire alarm notification during a practice drill.)
**Section 501.4; change to read as follows:
501.4 Timing of Installation. When fire apparatus access roads or a water supply for fire protection is
required to be installed for any structure or development, they shall be installed, tested, a nd approved
prior to the time of which construction has progressed beyond completion of the foundation of any
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 7 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
structure. , such protection shall be installed and made serviceable prior to and during the time of
construction except when approved alternative methods of protection are provided. Temporary street
signs shall be installed at each street intersection when construction of new roadways allows passage by
vehicles in accordance with Section 505.2.
(Reason: Reflects current practice in the region relative to ensuring fire department and EMS access
during construction, which can be a time of increased frequency for emergency incidents.)
**Section 503.1.1; add sentence to read as follows:
Except for one- or two-family dwellings, the path of measurement shall be along a minimum of a 10 feet
(3048 mm) wide unobstructed pathway around the external walls of the structure.
(Reason: Recognizes that the hose lay provision can only be measured along a pathway that is wide
enough for fire fighter access.)
**Section 503.2.1; change to read as follows:
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 20
24 feet (6096 mm 7315 mm), exclusive of shoulders, except for approved security gates in accordance
with Section 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm)
14 feet (4267 mm).
Exception: Vertical clearance may be reduced; provided such reduction does not impair access by
fire apparatus and approved signs are installed and maintained indicating the established vertical
clearance when approved.
(Reason: Amendments to 503.2.1 and 503.2.2 recognize that the equipment now used in firefighting is
increasing in size. The code already recognizes that larger dimensions may be required u nder Section
503.2.2. The amendments are to standardize the dimensions for this area. With the increase in fire
apparatus size, this will allow for the passage of two fire apparatus during a fire or EMS emergency.)
**Section 503.2.2; change to read as follows:
503.2.2 Authority. The fire code official shall have the authority to require or permit modifications to the
required an increase in the minimum access widths and vertical clearances where they are inadequate for
fire or rescue operations or where necessary to meet the public safety objectives of the jurisdiction.
(Reason: Amendments to 503.2.1 and 503.2.2 recognize that the equipment now used in firefighting is
increasing in size. The code already recognizes that larger dimensions may be required under Section
503.2.2. The amendments are to standardize the dimensions for this area. With the increase in fire
apparatus size, this will allow for the passage of two fire apparatus during a fire or EMS emergency.)
***Section 503.2.3; change Section 503.2.3 to read as follows:
503.2.3 Surface. Fire apparatus access roads shall be designed and maintained to support imposed
loads of 85,000 Lbs. for fire apparatus and shall be surfaced so as to provide all-weather driving
capabilities.
(Reason: To address the current size of fire trucks in use – figure derived from DOT requirements for
waiver of vehicle exceeding such weight and from current maximum weights of fire trucks being
purchased by jurisdictions in North Texas.)
**Section 503.3; change to read as follows:
503.3 Marking. Where required by the fire code official, approved signs or other approved notices or
markings that include the words NO PARKING – FIRE LANE Striping, signs, or other markings, when
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 8 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
approved by the fire code official, shall be provided for fire apparatus access roads to identify such roads
or prohibit the obstruction thereof. The means by which fire lanes are designated Striping, signs and
other markings shall be maintained in a clean and legible condition at all times and be replaced or
repaired when necessary to provide adequate visibility.
(1) Striping – Fire apparatus access roads shall be continuously marked by painted lines of red traffic
paint six inches (6”) in width to show the boundaries of the lane. The words “NO PARKING FIRE
LANE” or "FIRE LANE NO PARKING” shall appear in four inch (4”) white letters at 25 feet intervals on
the red border markings along both sides of the fire lanes. Where a curb is available, the striping
shall be on the vertical face of the curb.
(2) Signs – Signs shall read “NO PARKING FIRE LANE” or "FIRE LANE NO PARKING” and shall be
12” wide and 18” high. Signs shall be painted on a white background with l etters and borders in red,
using not less than 2” lettering. Signs shall be permanently affixed to a stationary post and the
bottom of the sign shall be six feet, six inches (6’6”) above finished grade. Signs shall be spaced not
more than fifty feet (50’) apart along both sides of the fire lane. Signs may be installed on permanent
buildings or walls or as approved by the Fire Chief.
***(3) In-laid Pavers - In-laid fire lane identification systems may be approved by the fire code official.
Approved in-laid fire lane identification systems will be enforced under this code as with other
provisions of this code.
***(4) Etched Stone Markings – Approved etched stone fire lane identification systems will be
enforced under this code as with other provisions of this code.
***(5) Alternative Fire Lane Markings – Means of identifying fire lanes shall be approved by fire
code official. The use of curbs, poles, or other approved devices may be considered.
(Reason: Establishes a standard method of marking and reflects regional long-standing practices.)
**Section 503.4; change to read as follows:
503.4 Obstruction of Fire Apparatus Access Roads. Fire apparatus access roads shall not be
obstructed in any manner, including the parking of vehicles. The minimum widths and clearances
established in Section 503.2.1 and 503.2.2 and any area marked as a fire lane as described in Section
503.3 shall be maintained at all times.
(Reason: As originally worded, the section implied that vehicles could be parked in the marked fire lane
and not be in violation if the minimum width is still maintained. Current accepted enforcement practice is
to require the entire marked fire lane to be maintained clear and unobstructed.)
**Section 505.1; change to read as follows:
**Section 505.1; change to read as follows:
505.1 Address Identification. New and existing buildings shall be provided with approved address
identification. The address identification shall be legible and placed in a position that is visible from the
street or road fronting the property. Address identification characters shall contrast with their background.
Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Numbers shall not be spelled out.
Each character shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm) 6 inches (152.4 mm) high with a minimum stroke
width of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm). Where required by the fire code official, address numbers shall be provided
in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response. Where access is by means of a private
road, buildings do not immediately front a street, and/or the building cannot be viewed from the public
way, a monument, pole or other sign with approved 6 inch (152.4 mm) height building numerals or
addresses and 4 inch (101.6 mm) height suite/apartment numerals of a color contrasting with the
background of the building or other approved means shall be used to identify the structure. Numerals or
addresses shall be posted on a min imum 20 inch (508 mm) by 30 inch (762 mm) background on border.
Address identification shall be maintained.
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 9 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
Exception: R-3 Single Family occupancies shall have approved numerals of a minimum 3 ½
inches (88.9 mm) in height and a color contrasting with the background clearly visible and legible
from the street fronting the property and rear alleyway where such alleyway exists.
(Reason: To increase the minimum addressing requirements for commercial properties and establish a
minimum for single-family residential properties Such improves legibility of these signs which are critical
to emergency response in a more timely manner.)
**Section 507.4; change to read as follows:
507.4 Water Supply Test Date and Information. The water supply test used for hydraulic calculation of
fire protection systems shall be conducted in accordance with NFPA 291 “Recommended Practice for Fire
Flow Testing and Marking of Hydrants” and with in one year of sprinkler plan submittal. The fire code
official shall be notified prior to the water supply test. Water supply tests shall be witnessed by the fire
code official, as required or approved documentation of the test shall be provided to the fire code official
prior to final approval of the water supply system. The exact location of the static/residual hydrant and the
flow hydrant shall be indicated on the design drawings. All fire protection plan submittals shall be
accompanied by a hard copy of the waterflow test report, or as approved by the fire code official. The
report must indicate the dominant water tank level at the time of the test and the maximum and minimum
operating levels of the tank, as well, or identify applicable water supply fluctuation. The licensed
contractor must then design the fire protection system based on this fluctuation information, as per the
applicable referenced NFPA standard. Reference Section 903.3.5 for additional design requirements.
(Reason: Clarifies intent of the test to ensure contractor accounts for water supply fluctuations.)
**Section 507.5.4; change to read as follows:
507.5.4 Obstruction. Unobstructed access to fire hydrants shall be maintained at all times. Posts,
fences, vehicles, growth, trash, storage and other materials or objects shall not be placed or kept near fire
hydrants, fire department inlet connections or fire pro tection system control valves in a manner that would
prevent such equipment or fire hydrants from being immediately discernible. The fire department shall not
be deterred or hindered from gaining immediate access to fire protection equipment or fire hydrants.
(Reason: Additional guidance based on legacy language to ensure these critical devices are available in
an emergency incident.)
**Section 509.1.2; add to read as follows:
509.1.2 Sign Requirements. Unless more stringent requirements apply, lettering for signs required by
this section shall have a minimum height of 2 inches (50.8 mm) when located inside a building and
4 inches (101.6 mm) when located outside, or as approved by the fire code official. The letters shall be of
a color that contrasts with the background.
(Reason: Provides direction as to appropriate sign criteria to develop local and regional
consistency in this regard.)
***Section 605.4 through 605.4.2.2 ; change to read as follows:
605.4 Fuel oil storage systems. Fuel oil storage systems for building heating systems shall be installed
and maintained in accordance with this code. Tanks and fuel-oil piping systems shall be installed in
accordance with Chapter 13 of the International Mechanical Code and Chapter 57.
605.4.1 Fuel oil storage in outside, above-ground tanks. Where connected to a fuel-oil piping
system, the maximum amount of fuel oil storage allowed outside above ground without additional
protection shall be 660 gallons (2498 L). The storage of fuel oil above ground in quantities
exceeding 660 gallons (2498 L) shall comply with NFPA 31 and Chapter 57.
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 10 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
605.4.1.1 Approval. Outdoor fuel oil storage tanks shall be in accordance with UL 142 or UL
2085, and also listed as double-wall/secondary containment tanks.
605.4.2 Fuel oil storage inside buildings. Fuel oil storage inside buildings shall comply with
Sections 605.4.2.2 through 605.4.2.8 or and Chapter 57.
605.4.2.1 Approval. Indoor fuel oil storage tanks shall be in accordance with UL 80, UL
142 or UL 2085.
605.4.2.2 Quantity limits. One or more fuel oil storage tanks containing Class II or III
combustible liquid shall be permitted in a building. The aggregate capacity of all tanks
shall not exceed the following:
1. 660 gallons (2498 L) in unsprinklered buildings, where stored in a tank complying
with UL 80, UL 142 or UL 2085, and also listed as a double-wall/secondary
containment tank for Class II liquids.
2. 1,320 gallons (4996 L) in buildings equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, where stored in a tank complying with UL 142 or
UL 2085. The tank shall be listed as a secondary containment tank, and the
secondary containment shall be monitored visually or automatically.
3. 3,000 gallons (11 356 L) in buildings equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, where stored in protected above-ground tanks
complying with UL 2085 and Section 5704.2.9.7. The tank shall be listed as a
secondary containment tank, as required by UL 2085, and the secondary
containment shall be monitored visually or automatically.
(Reason: Issues addressed by Chapter 57, such as venting to outside of buildings, remote fill to outside
of building, overfill protection, physical protection, etc., are not included in Sec tion 605.4, so compliance
with Chapter 57 is also required. The Board removed the applicability to heating systems only from the
charging statement based on this more prudent method of diesel storage for generators, boilers, fire
pumps and other fuel-fired equipment inside buildings without requiring Group H occupancy classification
– this is now established practice in the region as well.)
**Section 807.5.2.2 and 807.5.2.3 applicable to Group E occupancies; change to read as follows:
807.5.2.2 Artwork in Corridors. Artwork and teaching materials shall be limited on the walls of corridors
to not more than 20 percent of the wall area. Such materials shall not be continuous from floor to ceiling
or wall to wall. Curtains, draperies, wall hangings, and other decorative material suspended from the
walls or ceilings shall meet the flame propagation performance criteria of NFPA 701 in accordance with
Section 807 or be noncombustible.
Exception: Corridors protected by an approved aut omatic sprinkler system installed in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.1 shall be limited to 50 percent of the wall area.
807.5.2.3 Artwork in Classrooms. Artwork and teaching materials shall be limited on walls of
classrooms to not more than 50 percent of the specific wall area to which they are attached.
Curtains, draperies, wall hangings and other decorative materia l suspended from the walls or ceilings
shall meet the flame propagation performance criteria of NFPA 701 in accordance with Section 807 or be
noncombustible.
(Reason: This change allows an increase in wall coverage due to the presence of sprinklers. Also
provides additional guidance relative to fire resistance requirements in these areas.)
**Section 807.5.5.2 and 807.5.5.3 applicable to Group I-4 occupancies; change to read as follows:
807.5.5.2 Artwork in Corridors. Artwork and teaching materials shall be limit ed on the walls of corridors
to not more than 20 percent of the wall area. Such materials shall not be continuous from floor to ceiling
or wall to wall. Curtains, draperies, wall hangings and other decorative material suspended from the walls
or ceilings shall meet the flame propagation performance criteria of NFPA 701 in accordance with Section
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 11 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
807 or be noncombustible.
Exception: Corridors protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance
with Section 903.3.1.1 shall be limited to 50 percent of the wall area.
807.5.5.3 Artwork in Classrooms. Artwork and teaching materials shall be limited on walls of
classrooms to not more than 50 percent of the specific wall area to which they are attached. Curtains,
draperies, wall hangings and other decorative material suspended from the walls or ceilings shall meet
the flame propagation performance criteria of NFPA 701 in accordance with Sectio n 807 or be
noncombustible.
(Reason: This change allows an increase in wall coverage due to the presence of sprinklers. Also
provides additional guidance relative to fire resistance requirements in these areas.)
**Section 901.6.1.1; add to read as follows:
901.6.1.1 Standpipe Testing. Building owners/managers must maintain and test standpipe systems as
per NFPA 25 requirements. The following additional requirements shall be applied to the testing that is
required every 5 years:
1. The piping between the Fire Department Connection (FDC) and the standpipe shall be backflushed
or inspected by approved camera when foreign material is present or when caps are missing, and
also hydrostatically tested for all FDC’s on any type of standpipe system. Hydrostatic testing shall
also be conducted in accordance with NFPA 25 requirements for the different types of standpipe
systems.
2. For any manual (dry or wet) standpipe system not having an automatic water supply capable of
flowing water through the standpipe, the tester shall connect hose from a fire hydrant or portable
pumping system (as approved by the fire code official) to each FDC, and flow water through the
standpipe system to the roof outlet to verify that each inlet connection functions properly. Confirm
that there are no open hose valves prior to introducing water into a dry standpipe. There is no
required pressure criteria at the outlet. Verify that check valves function properly and that there are
no closed control valves on the system.
3. Any pressure relief, reducing, or control valves shall be tested in accordance with the requirements
of NFPA 25. All hose valves shall be exercised.
4. If the FDC is not already provided with approved caps, the contractor shall install such caps for all
FDC’s as required by the fire code official.
5. Upon successful completion of standpipe test, place a blue tag (as per Texas Administrative Code,
Fire Sprinkler Rules for Inspection, Test and Maintenance Service (ITM) Tag) at the bottom of
each standpipe riser in the building. The tag shall be check-marked as “Fifth Year” for Type of ITM,
and the note on the back of the tag shall read “5 Year Standpipe Test” at a minimum.
6. The procedures required by Texas Administrative Code Fire Sprinkler Rules with regard to Yellow
Tags and Red Tags or any deficiencies noted during the testing, in cluding the required
notification of the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (fire code official) shall be followed.
7. Additionally, records of the testing shall be maintained by the owner and contractor, if applicable,
as required by the State Rules mentioned above and NFPA 25.
8. Standpipe system tests where water will be flowed external to the building shall not be conducted
during freezing conditions or during the day prior to expected night time freezing conditions.
9. Contact the fire code official for requests to remove existing fire hose from Class II and III standpipe
systems where employees are not trained in the utilization of this firefighting equipment. All
standpipe hose valves must remain in place and be provided with an approved cap and chain when
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 12 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
approval is given to remove hose by the fire code official.
(Reason: Increases the reliability of the fire protecti on system and re-emphasizes the requirements of
NFPA 25 relative to standpipe systems, as well as ensuring that FDC connections are si milarly
tested/maintained to ensure operation in an emergency incident.)
**Section 901.6.4; add to read as follows:
901.6.4 False Alarms and Nuisance Alarms. False alarms and nuisance alarms shall not be given,
signaled or transmitted or caused or permitted to be given, signaled or transmitted in any manner.
(Reason: Places the responsibility on the business or property owner to maintain their fire alarm systems
in approved condition. Allows the enforcement of “prohibition of false alarms”. Replaces text lost from the
legacy codes that helps to ensure the maintenance of life safety systems.)
**Section 901.7; change to read as follows:
901.7 Systems Out of Service. Where a required fire protection system is out of service or in the event
of an excessive number of activations, the fire department and the fire code official shall be notified
immediately and, where required by the fire code official, the building shall either be evacuated or an
approved fire watch shall be provided for all occupants left unprotected by the shut down until the fire
protection system has been returned to service. … {Remaining text unchanged}
(Reason: Gives fire code official more discretion with regards to enforcement of facilities experiencing
nuisance alarm or fire protection system activations necessitating correction/repair/replacement. The
intent of the amendment is to allow local jurisdictions to enforce fire watches, etc., where needed to
ensure safety of occupants where fire protection systems are experiencing multiple nuisance activations.)
**Section 903.1.1; change to read as follows:
903.1.1 Alternative Protection. Alternative automatic fire-extinguishing systems complying with Section
904 shall be permitted instead of in addition to automatic sprinkler protection where recognized by the
applicable standard and, or as approved by the fire code official.
(Reason: Such alternative systems do not provide the reliabi lity of automatic sprinkler protection. Most
gaseous type systems are highly susceptible to open doors, ceiling or floor tile removal, etc. However, an
applicant could pursue an Alternate Method request to help mitigate the reliability issues with these
alternative systems with the fire code official if so desired, or there may be circumstances in which the fire
code official is acceptable to allowing an alternate system in lieu of sprinklers, such as kitchen hoods or
paint booths.)
**Section 903.2; add paragraph to read as follows and delete the Exception for
telecommunications buildings:
Automatic Sprinklers shall not be installed in elevator machine rooms, elevator machine spaces, and
elevator hoistways, other than pits where such sprinklers would not necessitate shunt trip requirements
under any circumstances. Storage shall not be allowed within the elevator machine room. Signage shall
be provided at the entry doors to the elevator machine room indicating “ELEVATOR MACHINER Y – NO
STORAGE ALLOWED.”
(Reason: Firefighter and public safety. This amendment eliminates the shunt trip requirement of the
International Building Code Section 3005.5 for the purpose of elevator passenger and firefighter safety.
This amendment is contingent on the Building Code amendment eliminating the Exceptions to Section
3005.4, such that passive fire barriers for these areas are maintained. The exception deletion is due to
the fact that such telecom areas pose an undue fire risk to the structural integrity of the building.)
***Section 903.2.4.2; change to read as follows:
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 13 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
903.2.4.2 Group F-1 distilled spirits. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a
Group F-1 fire area used for the manufacture of distilled sp irits involving more than 120 gallons of distilled
spirits (>16% alcohol) in the fire area at any one time.
(Reason: To establish a sprinkler criteria limit based on existing maximum allowable quantities provided
for flammable liquids in a non-sprinklered space from Chapter 50 and allow very small distillery type
operations without sprinkler requirements as has been historically allowed.)
***Section 903.2.9.3; change to read as follows:
903.2.9.3 Group S-1 distilled spirits or wine. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided
throughout a Group S-1 fire area used for the bulk storage of distilled spirits or wine involving more than
120 gallons of distilled spirits or wine (>16% alcohol) in the fire area at any one time.
(Reason: To establish a sprinkler criteria limit based on existing maximum allowable quantities provided
for flammable liquids in a non-sprinklered space from Chapter 50 and allow very small storage operations
without sprinkler requirements as has been historically allowed.)
**Section 903.2.9.4 and 903.2.9.5; delete Exception to 903.2.9.4 and add Section 903.2.9.5 to read
as follows:
903.2.9.5 Self-Service Storage Facility. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all
self-service storage facilities.
(Reason: Fire departments are unable to regularly inspect the interior of these commercial occupancies
and are unaware of the contents being stored. Previous allowance to separate units by fire barriers is
difficult to enforce maintenance after opening.)
***Option B
Section 903.2.11; change 903.2.11.3 and add 903.2.11.7, 903.2.11.8, and 903.2.11.9 as follows:
903.2.11.3 Buildings 55 35 feet or more in height. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
installed throughout buildings that have one or more stories with an occupant load of 30 or more,
other than penthouses in compliance with Section 1511 of the International Building Code, located
55 35 feet (16 764 10 668 mm) or more above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access,
measured to the finished floor.
Exception:
1. Occupancies in Group F-2.
903.2.11.7 High-Piled Combustible Storage. For any building with a clear height exceeding 12
feet (4572 mm), see Chapter 32 to determine if those provisions apply.
903.2.11.8 Spray Booths and Rooms. New and existing spray booths and spraying rooms shall
be protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system.
903.2.11.9 Buildings Over 6,000 sq. ft. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed
throughout all buildings with a building area 6,000 sq. ft. or greater and in all existing buildings that
are enlarged to be 6,000 sq. ft. or greater. For the purpose of this provision, fire walls shall not
define separate buildings.
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 14 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
Exception: Open parking garages in compliance with Section 406.5 of the International Building Code
where all of the following conditions apply:
a. The structure is freestanding.
b. The structure does not contain any mixed uses, accessory uses, storage rooms,
electrical rooms, elevators or spaces used or occupied for anything other than motor
vehicle parking.
c. The structure does not exceed 3 stories.
d. An approved fire apparatus access road is provided around the entire structure.
(Reason: Provides jurisdictions options as to their desired level of sprinkler protection based on multip le
factors including firefighting philosophies/capabilities.)
**Section 903.3.1.1.1; change to read as follows:
903.3.1.1.1 Exempt Locations. When approved by the fire code official, automatic sprinklers shall not
be required in the following rooms or areas where such ... {text unchanged}… because it is damp, of fire-
resistance-rated construction or contains electrical eq uipment.
1. Any room where the application of water, or flame and water, constitutes a serious life or fire
hazard.
2. Any room or space where sprinklers are considered undesirable because of the n ature of the
contents, where approved by the fire code official.
3. Generator and transformer rooms, under the direct control of a public utility, separated from the
remainder of the building by walls and floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assemblies having a fire-
resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
4. Rooms or areas that are of noncombustible construction with wholly noncombustible contents.
5. Fire service access Elevator machine rooms, and machinery spaces, and hoistways, other than
pits where such sprinklers would not necessitate shunt trip requirements under any
circumstances.
6. {Delete.}
(Reason: Gives more direction to code official. Exception 4 deleted to provide pr otection where fire risks
are poorly addressed. Amendment 903.2 addresses Exception 5 above relative to the elimination of
sprinkler protection in these areas to avoid the shunt trip requirement.)
***Section 903.3.1.2; change to read as follows:
903.3.1.2 NFPA 13R sprinkler systems. Automatic sprinkler systems in Group R occupancies shall
be permitted to be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13R where the Group R occupancy
meets all of the following conditions:
1. Four stories or less above grade plane.
2. The floor level of the highest story is 30 35 feet (9144 10668 mm) or less above the lowest level of
fire department vehicle access.
3. The floor level of the lowest story is 30 35 feet (9144 10668 mm) or less below the lowest level of
fire department vehicle access.
{No change to remainder of section.}
(Reason: The change to the 2021 IFC over-reached to limit 13R systems to 30 ft. high at topmost floor
level, which basically results in limiting 13R systems to 3 story buildings in reality . This change to 35 ft.
would still allow 13R systems in 4 story apartment buildings, as has been allowed historically and as
intended by 13R’s scope.)
***Section 903.3.1.2.2; change to read as follows:
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 15 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
903.3.1.2.2 Corridors and balconies in the means of egress. Sprinkler protection shall be provided in
all corridors and for all balconies. in the means of egress where any of the following conditions apply:
{Delete the rest of this section.}
(Reason: Corridor protection is critical to the means of egress, and corridors are regularly utilized for
miscellaneous storage, fixtures, artwork, food kiosks and beverage dispensers, and furnishings. Balcony
protection is required due to issues with fire exposure via soffit vents and the potential for significant
combustible loading.)
**Section 903.3.1.2.3; delete section and replace as follows:
Section 903.3.1.2.3 Attached Garages and Attics. Sprinkler protection is required in attached garages,
and in the following attic spaces:
1. Attics that are used or intended for living purposes or storage shall be protected by an
automatic sprinkler system.
2. Where fuel-fired equipment is installed in an unsprinklered attic, not fewer than on e quick-
response intermediate temperature sprinkler shall be installed above the equipment.
3. Attic spaces of buildings that are two or more stories in height above grade plane or above
the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
4. Group R-4, Condition 2 occupancy attics not required by Item 1 or 3 to have sprinklers shall
comply with one of the following:
4.1. Provide automatic sprinkler system protection.
4.2. Provide a heat detection system throughout the attic that is arranged to activate the
building fire alarm system.
4.3. Construct the attic using noncombustible materials.
4.4. Construct the attic using fire-retardant-treated wood complying with Section 2303.2
of the International Building Code.
4.5. Fill the attic with noncombustible insulation.
(Reason: Attic protection is required due to issues with fire exposure via soffit vents, as well as firefighter
safety. Several jurisdictions indicated experience with un-protected attic fires resulting in displacement of
all building occupants. NFPA 13 provides for applicable attic sprinkler protection requirements, as well as
exemptions to such, based on noncombustible construction, etc. Attached garages already require
sprinklers via NFPA 13R – this amendment just re-emphasizes the requirement.)
**Section 903.3.1.3; change to read as follows:
903.3.1.3 NFPA 13D Sprinkler Systems. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in one- and two-family
dwellings; Group R-3; Group R-4, Condition 1; and townhouses shall be permitted to be installed
throughout in accordance with NFPA 13D or in accordance with state law.
(Reason: To allow the use of the Plumbing section of the International Residential Code (IRC) and
recognize current state stipulations in this regard.)
**Section 903.3.1.4; add to read as follows:
903.3.1.4 Freeze protection. Freeze protection systems for automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be in
accordance with the requirements of the applicable referenced NFPA standard and this s ection.
903.3.1.4.1 Attics. Only dry-pipe, preaction, or listed antifreeze automatic fire sprinkler systems
shall be allowed to protect attic spaces.
Exception: Wet-pipe fire sprinkler systems shall be allowed to protect non-ventilated attic
spaces where:
1. The attic sprinklers are supplied by a separate floor control valve assembly to
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 16 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
allow ease of draining the attic system without impairing sprinklers throughout the
rest of the building, and
2. Adequate heat shall be provided for freeze protection as per the applicable
referenced NFPA standard, and
3. The attic space is a part of the building’s thermal, or heat, envelope, such that
insulation is provided at the roof deck, rather than at the ceiling level.
903.3.1.4.2 Heat trace/insulation. Heat trace/insulation shall only be allowed where approved by
the fire code official for small sections of large diameter water-filled pipe.
(Reason: In the last few years, severe winters brought to light several issues with current practices for
sprinklering attics, not the least of which was wet-pipe sprinklers in ventilated attics provided with space
heaters, etc. for freeze protection of such piping. This practice is not acceptable for the protection of
water-filled piping in a ventilated attic space as it does not provide a reliable means of maintaining the
minimum 40 degrees required by NFPA, wastes energy, and presents a potential ignition source to the
attic space. Listed antifreeze is specifically included because NFPA currently allows such even though
there is no currently listed antifreeze at the time of development of these amendments. The intent o f this
amendment is to help reduce the large number of freeze breaks that have occurred in the past with water-
filled wet-pipe sprinkler systems in the future, most specifically in attic spaces.)
**Section 903.3.5; add a second paragraph to read as follows:
Water supply as required for such systems shall be provided in conformance with the supply
requirements of the respective NFPA standards; however, every water-based fire protection system shall
be designed with a 10 psi safety factor. Reference Section 507.4 for additional design requirements.
(Reason: To define uniform safety factor for the region.)
**Section 903.4; add a second paragraph after the Exceptions to read as follows:
Sprinkler and standpipe system water-flow detectors shall be provided for each floor tap to the sprinkler
system and shall cause an alarm upon detection of water flow for more than 45 secon ds. All control
valves in the sprinkler and standpipe systems except for fire depart ment hose connection valves shall be
electrically supervised to initiate a supervisory signal at the central station upon tampering.
(Reason: To avoid significant water losses. Consistent with amendment to IFC 905.9.)
**Section 903.4.2; add second paragraph to read as follows:
The alarm device required on the exterior of the building shall be a weatherproof horn/strobe notification
appliance with a minimum 75 candela strobe rating, installed as close as practicable to the fir e
department connection.
(Reason: Fire department connections are not always located at the riser; this allows the fire department
faster access and ease of recognition of the FDC location, especially at night.)
**Section 905.3.9; add to read as follows:
905.3.9 Buildings Exceeding 10,000 sq. ft. In buildings exceeding 10,000 square feet in area per story
and where any portion of the building’s interior area is more than 200 feet (60960 mm) of travel, vertically
and horizontally, from the nearest point of fire department vehicle access, Class I automatic wet or
manual wet standpipes shall be provided.
Exceptions:
1. Automatic dry, semi-automatic dry, and manual dry standpipes are allowed as provided for in
NFPA 14 where approved by the fire code official.
2. R-2 occupancies of four stories or less in height having no interior corridors.
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 17 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
(Reason: Allows for the rapid deployment of hose lines to the body of the fire in larger structures.)
**Section 905.4; change Items 1, 3, and 5, and add Item 7 to read as follows:
1. In every required interior exit stairway, a hose connection shall be provided for each story above
and below grade plane. Hose connections shall b e located at an intermediate landing between
stories, unless otherwise approved by the fire code official.
Exception: {No change.}
2. {No change.}
3. In every exit passageway, at the entrance from the exit passageway to other areas of a building.
Exception: Where floor areas adjacent to an exit passageway are reachable from an
interior exit stairway hose connection by a {remainder of text unchanged}
4. {No change.}
5. Where the roof has a slope less than 4 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33.3-percent slope),
each standpipe shall be provided with a two-way a hose connection shall be located to serve the
roof or at the highest landing of an interior exit stairway with stair access to the roof provided in
accordance with Section 1011.12.
6. {No change.}
7. When required by this Chapter, standpipe connections shall be placed adjacent to all required
exits to the structure and at two hundred feet (200’) intervals along major corridors thereafter, or as
otherwise approved by the fire code official.
(Reason: Item 1, 3, and 5 amendments to remove ‘interior’ will help to clarify that such connections are
required for all ‘exit’ stairways, to ensure firefighter capabilities are not diminished in these tall buildings,
simply because the stair is on the exterior of the building. Item 5 reduces the amount of pressure required
to facilitate testing, and provides backup protection for fire fighter safety. Item 7 allows for the rapid
deployment of hose lines to the body of the fire.)
***Section 905.8; change to read as follows:
905.8 Dry standpipes. Dry standpipes shall not be installed.
Exception: Where subject to freezing and in accordance with NFPA 14. Additionally, manual dry
standpipe systems shall be supervised with a minimum of 10 psig and a maximum of 40 psig air
pressure with a high/low Supervisory alarm.
(Reason: To define manual dry standpipe supervision requirements. Helps ensure the integrity of the
standpipe system via supervision, such that open hose valves will result in a supervisory low air alarm.
NFPA 14 requires supervisory air for such, but does not provide pressure criteria for what that means.
This is a long-standing regional requirement.)
**Section 905.9; add a second paragraph after the exceptions to read as follows:
Sprinkler and standpipe system water-flow detectors shall be provided for each floor tap to the sprinkler
system and shall cause an alarm upon detection of water flow for more than 45 seconds. All control
valves in the sprinkler and standpipe systems except for fire department hose connection valves shall be
electrically supervised to initiate a supervisory signal at the central station upon tampering.
(Reason: To avoid significant water losses. Consistent with amendment to IFC 903.4.)
***Section 906.1(1); delete Exception 3 as follows:
3. In storage areas of Group S occupancies where forklift, powered industrial truck or powered
cart operators are the primary occupants,
fixed extinguishers, as specified in NFPA 10, shall not be required where in accordance with all of
the following:
3.1. Use of vehicle-mounted extinguishers shall be approved by the fire code official.
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 18 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
3.2. Each vehicle shall be equipped with a 10-pound, 40A:80B:C extinguisher affixed to
the vehicle using a mounting bracket approved
by the extinguisher manufacturer or the fire code official for vehicular use.
3.3. Not less than two spare extinguishers of equal or greater rating shall be available on-
site to replace a discharged extinguisher.
3.4. Vehicle operators shall be trained in the proper operation, use and inspection of
extinguishers.
3.5. Inspections of vehicle-mounted extinguishers shall be performed daily.
(Reason: This provision of only having vehicle-mounted fire extinguishers is not at all consistent with
historical practice of requiring extinguishers throughout based on travel distance. Often times, the vehicle
is what has caused the incident and/or may be the source of the incident, so having the extinguisher
vehicle-mounted results in greater potential injury of the user. This assumes the only occupants in the
building are on a vehicle, which again, significantly reduces access to fire extinguishers throughout the
building to other occupants. Future use of the building/tenancy may change further complicating the
issue.)
**Section 907.1.4; add to read as follows:
907.1.4 Design Standards. Where a new fire alarm system is installed, the devices shall be
addressable. Fire alarm systems utilizing more than 20 smoke detectors shall have analog initiating
devices.
(Reason: Provides for the ability of descriptive identification of alarms, and reduces need for panel
replacement in the future. Change of terminology allows for reference back to definitions of NFPA 72.)
**Section 907.2.1; change to read as follows:
907.2.1 Group A. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in
accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group A occupancies where the having an occupant
load due to the assembly occupancy is of 300 or more persons, or where the Group A occupant load is
more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge. Group A occupancies not
separated from one another in accordance with Section 707.3.10 of the International Building Code shall
be considered as a single occupancy for the purposes of applying this section. Portions of Group E
occupancies occupied for assembly purposes shall be provided with a fire a larm system as required for
the Group E occupancy.
Exception: {No change.}
Activation of fire alarm notification appliances shall:
1. Cause illumination of the means of egress with light of not less than 1 foot-candle (11 lux) at the
walking surface level, and
2. Stop any conflicting or confusing sounds and visual distractions.
(Reason: Increases the requirement to be consistent with Group B requirement. Also addresses issue
found in Group A occupancies of reduced lighting levels and other A/V equipm ent that distracts from fire
alarm notification devices or reduces ability of fire alarm system to notify occupants of the emergency
condition.)
**Section 907.2.3; change to read as follows:
907.2.3 Group E. A manual fire alarm system that initiates the occupant notification signal utilizing an
emergency voice/alarm communication system meeting the requirements of Section 907.5.2.2 and
installed in accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed in Group E educational occupancies. When
automatic sprinkler systems or smoke detectors are installed, such systems or detectors shall be
connected to the building fire alarm system. An approved smoke detection system shall be installed in
Group E day care occupancies. Unless separated by a minimum of 100' open space, all buildings,
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 19 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
whether portable buildings or the main building, will be considered one building for alarm occupant load
consideration and interconnection of alarm systems.
Exceptions:
1. {No change.}
1.1. Residential In-Home day care with not more than 12 children may use interconnected
single station detectors in all habitable rooms. (For care of more than five children 2 1/2
or less years of age, see Section 907.2.6.)
{No change to remainder of exceptions.}
(Reason: To distinguish educational from day care occupancy minimum protection requirements. Further,
to define threshold at which portable buildings are considered a separate building for the purposes of
alarm systems. Exceptions provide consistency with State law concerning such occupancies.)
***Section 907.2.10; change to read as follows:
907.2.10 Group S. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in
accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group S public- and self-storage occupancies three
stories or greater in height for interior corridors and interior common areas. Visible notification appliances
are not required within storage units.
Exception: {No change.}
(Reason: Because of the potential unknown fire load and hazards in self-storage type facilities, which
could include flammable liquids for instance, as well as other hazardous materials, prompt evacuation in
the event of fire alarm is needed; therefore, notification in the corridors/common areas is critical to all
such occupancies, regardless of height.)
**Section 907.2.13, Exception #3; change to read as follows:
3. Open air portions of buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5 in accordance with Section 303.1 of
the International Building Code; however, this exception does not apply to accessory uses including
but not limited to sky boxes, restaurants, and similarly enclosed areas.
(Reason: To indicate that enclosed areas within open air seating type occupancies are not exem pted
from automatic fire alarm system requirements.)
**Section 907.4.2.7; add to read as follows:
907.4.2.7 Type. Manual alarm initiating devices shall be an approved double action type.
(Reason: Helps to reduce false alarms.)
**Section 907.6.1.1; add to read as follows:
907.6.1.1 Wiring Installation. All fire alarm systems shall be installed in such a manner that a failure of
any single initiating device or single open in an initiating circuit conductor will not inter fere with the normal
operation of other such devices. All signaling line circuits (SLC) shall be installed in such a way that a
single open will not interfere with the operation of any addressable devices (Class A). Outgoing and
return SLC conductors shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 72 requirements for Class A circuits
and shall have a minimum of four feet separation horizontal and one foot vertical between supply and
return circuit conductors. The initiating device circuit (IDC) from a signaling line circuit interface device
may be wired Class B, provided the distance from the interface device to the initiating device is ten feet or
less.
(Reason: To provide uniformity in system specifications and guidance to design engineers. Improves
reliability of fire alarm devices and systems.)
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 20 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
**Section 907.6.3; delete all four Exceptions.
(Reason: To assist responding personnel in locating the emergency event for all fire alarm systems. This
is moved from 907.6.5.3 in the 2012 IFC and reworded to match new code language and sections.)
**Section 907.6.6; add sentence at end of paragraph to read as follows:
See 907.6.3 for the required information transmitted to the supervising station.
(Reason: To assist responding personnel in locating the emerg ency event for all fire alarm systems. This
was moved from 907.6.5.3 in the 2012 IFC and reworded to match new code language and sections
(legacy language).)
**Section 910.2; change Exceptions #2 and 3 to read as follows:
2. Only manual smoke and heat removal shall not be required in areas of buildings equipped with
early suppression fast-response (ESFR) sprinklers. Automatic smoke and heat removal is
prohibited.
3. Only manual smoke and heat removal shall not be required in areas of buildings equipped with
control mode special application sprinklers with a response time index of 50(m*S)1/2 or less that
are listed to control a fire in stored commodities with 12 or fewer sprinklers. Automatic smoke
and heat removal is prohibited.
(Reason: Allows the fire department to control the smoke and heat during and after a fire event, while still
prohibiting such systems from being automatically activated, which is a potential detriment to the
particular sprinkler systems indicated.)
**Section 910.2.3; add to read as follows:
910.2.3 Group H. Buildings and portions thereof used as a Group H occupancy as follows:
1. In occupancies classified as Group H-2 or H-3, any of which are more than 15,000 square feet
(1394 m2) in single floor area.
Exception: Buildings of noncombustible construction containing o nly noncombustible materials.
2. In areas of buildings in Group H used for storing Class 2, 3, and 4 liquid and solid oxidizers,
Class 1 and unclassified detonable organic peroxides, Class 3 and 4 unstable (reactive)
materials, or Class 2 or 3 water-reactive materials as required for a high-hazard commodity
classification.
Exception: Buildings of noncombustible construction containing only noncombustible materials.
(Reason: Maintains a fire protection device utilized in such occupancies where it is sometimes necessary
to allow chemicals to burn out, rather than extinguish. This is based on legacy language establishing
long-standing historical practice.)
**Section 910.4.3.1; change to read as follows:
910.4.3.1 Makeup Air. Makeup air openings shall be provided within 6 feet (1829 mm) of the floor level.
Operation of makeup air openings shall be manual or automatic. The minimum gross area of makeup air
inlets shall be 8 square feet per 1,000 cubic feet per minute (0.74 m2 per 0.4719 m3/s) of smoke exhaust.
(Reason: Makeup air has been required to be automatic for several years now in this region when
mechanical smoke exhaust systems are proposed. This allows such systems to be activated from the
smoke control panel by first responders without having to physically go around the exterior of the building
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 21 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
opening doors manually. Such requires a significant number of first responders on scene to c onduct this
operation and significantly delays activation and/or capability of the smoke exhaust system.)
**Section 912.2.3; add to read as follows:
912.2.3 Hydrant Distance. An approved fire hydrant shall be located within 100 feet of the fire
department connection as the fire hose lays along an unobstructed path.
(Reason: To accommodate limited hose lengths, improve response times where the FDC is needed to
achieve fire control, and improve ease of locating a fire hydrant in those situations also. Also, consistent
with NFPA 14 criteria.)
912.2.4 Fire Department Connection Distance from Fire Lane. All fire department connections shall
be located within 50 feet of an approved fire lane access roadway.
**Section 913.2.1; add second paragraph and exception to read as follows:
When located on the ground level at an exterior wall, the fire pump room shall be provided with an
exterior fire department access door that is not less than 3 ft. in width and 6 ft. – 8 in. in height, regardless
of any interior doors that are provided. A key box shall be provided at this door, as required by Section
506.1.
Exception: When it is necessary to locate the fire pump room on other levels or not at an exterior
wall, the corridor leading to the fire pump room access from the exterior of the building shall be
provided with equivalent fire resistance as that requir ed for the pump room, or as approved by the fire
code official. Access keys shall be provided in the key box as required by Section 506.1.
(Reason: This requirement allows fire fighters s afer access to the fire pump room. The requirement
allows access without being required to enter the building and locate the fire pump room interior access
door during a fire event. The exception recognizes that this will not always be a feasible design s cenario
for some buildings, and as such, provides an acceptable alternative to protect the pathway to the fire
pump room.)
**Section 914.3.1.2; change to read as follows:
914.3.1.2 Water Supply to required Fire Pumps. In all buildings that are more than 420 120 feet (128
36.6 m) in building height, and buildings of Type IVA and IVB construction that are more than 120 feet
(36.6 m) in building height, required fire pumps shall be supplied by connections to no fewer than two
water mains located in different streets. Separate supply piping shall be provided between each
connection to the water main and the pumps. Each connection and the supply piping between the
connection and the pumps shall be sized to supply the flow and pressure required for the pumps to
operate.
Exception: {No change to exception.}
(Reason: The 2009 edition of the IFC added this requirement based on a need for redundancy of the
water supply similar to the redundancy of the power supply to the fire pumps require d for such tall
buildings, partially due to the fact that these buildings are rarely fully evacuated in a fire event. More
commonly, the alarm activates on the floor of the event, the floor above and the floor below. Back-up
power to the fire pump becomes critical for this reason. Certainly, the power is pointless if the water
supply is impaired for any reason, so a similar requirement is provided here for redundant water supplies.
The 2015 edition changes the requirement to only apply to very tall buil dings over 420 ft. This
amendment modifies/lowers the requirement to 120 ft., based on this same height requirement for fire
service access elevators. Again, the language from the 2009 and 2012 editions of the code applied to
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 22 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
any high-rise building. This compromise at 120 ft. is based on the above technical justification of defend-
in-place scenarios in fire incidents in such tall structures.)
***Section 1006.2.1; change Exception #3 to read as follows:
1006.2.1 Egress based on occupant load and common path of egress travel distance. Two exits or
exit doorways from any space shall be provided wher e the design occupant load or the common path of
egress travel distance exceeds the values listed in Table 1006.2.1. The cumulative occupant load from
adjacent rooms, areas or space shall be determined in accordance with Section 1004.2.
Exceptions:
1. {No change.}
2. {No change.}
3. Unoccupied rooftop mechanical rooms and penthouses are not required to comply with
the common path of egress travel distance measurement.
(Reason: Add “rooftop” to Exception No. 3 to clarify that only such mechanical rooms located on the roof
may be exempted.)
**Section 1009.8; add Exception #7 to read as follows:
Exceptions:
1. through 6. {No change.}
7. Buildings regulated under State Law and built in accordance with State registered
plans, including variances or waivers granted by the State, shall be deemed to be in
compliance with the requirements of Section 1009 and Chapter 11.
(Reason: To accommodate buildings regulated under Texas State Law and to be consistent with
amendments in Chapter 11.)
**Section 1010.2.5; change Exceptions #3 and 4 to read as follows:
Exceptions:
1. {No change.}
2. {No change.}
3. Where a pair of doors serves an occupant load of less than 50 persons in a Group B,
F, M or S occupancy. (remainder unchanged)
4. Where a pair of doors serves a Group A, B, F, M or S occupancy (remainder
unchanged)
5. {No change.}
(Reason: It is common in our region to see the 2nd leaf locked, when that leaf is not part o f the required
egress door clear width, such as in a typical Group M occupancy. Exception No. 4 was expanded to
Group A due to it being a similar situation for Group A restaurants.)
**Section 1020.2; add Exception #6 to read as follows:
Exceptions:
1. through 5. {No change.}
6. In unsprinklered group B occupancies, corridor walls and ceilings need not be of fire-
resistive construction within a single tenant space when the space is equipped with
approved automatic smoke-detection within the corridor. The actuation of any detector
must activate self-annunciating alarms audible in all areas within the corridor. Smoke
detectors must be connected to an approved automatic fire alarm system where such
system is provided.
(Reason: Similar concept was previously in UBC – legacy language. This scenario occurs primarily in
existing, non-sprinklered buildings, which under current IBC would be required to have a fire res istance
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 23 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
rated corridor. This exception provides a cost-effective solution for single tenant space in lieu of the base
IBC requirement to retrofit a fire sprinkler system throughout the buildin g.)
***Section 1030.1.1.1; add Exception#4 to read as follows:
Exceptions:
1. through 3. {No change.}
4. Where alternate means or methods are submitted to and approved by the Building and
Fire Officials.
(Reason: This base IBC provision applies to all grandstands and bleachers and does n ot differentiate
between open air grandstands & bleachers, smaller, less complex grandstands and bleachers and or
movable/non-fixed grandstands and bleachers. The new exception permits the AHJ to be presented with
alternate means or methods that take into consideration these differentiators that are unique to the
specific grandstand and/or bleacher.)
**Section 1032.2; change to read as follows:
1032.2 Reliability. Required exit accesses, exits and exit discharges shall be continuously maintained
free from obstructions or impediments to full instant use in the case of fir e or other emergency where the
building area served by the means of egress is occupied. An exit or exit passageway shall not be used for
any purpose that interferes with a means of egress.
(Reason: Maintain legacy levels of protection and long-standing regional practice, and provide firefighter
safety.)
**Section 1103.3; add sentence to end of paragraph as follows:
Provide emergency signage as required by Section 604.4.
(Reason: This signage to avoid elevators in a fire emergency is critical to life safety justifying the
retroactive requirement.)
**Section 1103.5.1; add sentence to read as follows:
Fire sprinkler system installation shall be completed within 24 months from date of notification by t he fire
code official.
(Reason: Regional consistency of this retroactive requirement to allow business owners adequate time to
budget to accommodate the cost of the fire sprinkler system.)
**Section 1103.5.6; add to read as follows:
1103.5.6 Spray Booths and Rooms. Existing spray booths and spray rooms shall be protected by an
approved automatic fire-extinguishing system in accordance with Section 2404.
(Reason: Consistent with amendment to IFC 2404, and long-standing regional requirement to protect this
hazardous operation.)
**Section 1103.7.7; add to read as follows:
1103.7.7 Fire Alarm System Design Standards. Where an existing fire alarm system is upgraded or
replaced, the devices shall be addressable. Fire alarm systems utilizing more than 20 smoke and/or heat
detectors shall have analog initiating devices.
Exception: Existing systems need not comply unless the total building, or fire alarm system, remodel
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 24 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
or expansion exceeds 30% of the building. When cumulative building, or fire alarm system, remodel
or expansion initiated after the date of original fire alarm panel installation exceeds 50% of the
building, or fire alarm system, the fire alarm system must comply within 18 months of permit
application.
1103.7.7.1 Communication requirements. Refer to Section 907.6.6 for applicable requirements.
(Reason: To assist responding personnel in locating the emergency event and provide clarity as to
percentages of work that results in a requirement to upgrade the entire fire alarm system.)
***Section 1203; change and add to read as follows:
1203.1.1 {No change.}
1203.1.2 {No change.}
1203.1.3 Installation. Emergency power systems and standby power systems shall be installed in
accordance with the International Building Code, NFPA 70, NFPA 110 and NFPA 111. Existing
installations shall be maintained in accordance with the original approval, except as specified in
Chapter 11.
1203.1.4 {No change.}
1203.1.5 Load Duration. Emergency power systems and standby power systems shall be designed to
provide the required power for a minimum duration of 2 hours without being refueled or recharged, unless
specified otherwise in this code.
Exception: Where the system is supplied with natural gas from a utility provider and is
approved.
1203.1.6 through 1203.1.9 {No changes to these sections.}
1203.1.10 Critical Operations Power Systems (COPS). For Critical Operations Power Systems
necessary to maintain continuous power supply to facilities or parts of facilities that require continuous
operation for the reasons of public safety, emergency management, national security, or business
continuity, see NFPA 70.
1203.2 Where Required. Emergency and standby power systems shall be provided where required by
Sections 1203.2.1 through 1203.2.1826 or elsewhere identified in this code or any other referenced code.
1203.2.1 through 1203.2.3 {No change.}
1203.2.4 Emergency Voice/alarm Communications Systems. Emergency power shall be provided for
emergency voice/alarm communications systems in the following occupancies, or as specified elsewhere
in this code, as required in Section 907.5.2.2.5. The system shall be capable of powering the required
load for a duration of not less than 24 hours, as required in NFPA 72.
Covered and Open Malls, Section 907.2.20 and 914.2
Group A Occupancies, Sections 907.2.1 and 907.5.2.2
Special Amusement Areas, Section 907.2.12 and 914.7
High-rise Buildings, Section 907.2.13 and 914.3
Atriums, Section 907.2.14 and 914.4
Deep Underground Buildings, Section 907.2.19 and 914.5
1203.2.5 through 1203.2.14 {No change.}
1203.2.15 Means of Egress Illumination. Emergency power shall be provided for means of egress
illumination in accordance with Sections 1008.3 and 1104.5.1. (90 minutes)
1203.2.16 Membrane Structures. Emergency power shall be provided for exit signs in temporary tents
and membrane structures in accordance with Section 3103.12.6. (90 minutes) Standby power shall be
provided for auxiliary inflation systems in permanent membrane structures in accordance with Section
2702 of the International Building Code. (4 hours) Auxiliary inflation systems shall be provided in
temporary air-supported and air-inflated membrane structures in accordance with section 3103.10.4.
1203.2.17 {No change.}
1203.2.18 Smoke Control Systems. Standby power shall be provided for smoke control systems in the
following occupancies, or as specified elsewhere in this code, as required in Section 909.11:
Covered Mall Building, International Building Code, Section 402.7
Atriums, International Building Code, Section 404.7
Underground Buildings, International Building Code, Section 405.8
Group I-3, International Building Code, Section 408.4.2
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 25 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
Stages, International Building Code, Section 410
Special Amusement Areas (as applicable to Group A’s), International Building Code, Section 411
Smoke Protected Seating, Section 1030.6.2
1203.2.19 {No change.}
1203.2.20 Covered and Open Mall Buildings. Emergency power shall be provided in accordance with
Section 907.2.20 and 914.2.
1203.2.21 Airport Traffic Control Towers. A standby power system shall be provided in airport traffic
control towers more than 65 ft. in height. Power shall be provided to the following equipment:
1. Pressurization equipment, mechanical equipment and lighting.
2. Elevator operating equipment.
3. Fire alarm and smoke detection systems.
1203.2.22 Smokeproof Enclosures and Stair Pressurization Alternative. Standby power shall be
provided for smokeproof enclosures, stair pressurization alternative and associated automatic fire
detection systems as required by the International Building Code, Section 909.20.7.2.
1203.2.23 Elevator Pressurization. Standby power shall be provided for elevator pressurization system
as required by the International Building Code, Section 909.21.5.
1203.2.24 Elimination of Smoke Dampers in Shaft Penetrations. Standby power shall be provided
when eliminating the smoke dampers in ducts penetrating shafts in accordance with the International
Building Code, Section 717.5.3, exception 2.3.
1203.2.25 Common Exhaust Systems for Clothes Dryers. Standby power shall be provided for
common exhaust systems for clothes dryers located in multistory structures in accordance with the
International Mechanical Code, Section 504.11, Item 7.
1203.2.26 Means of Egress Illumination in Existing Buildings. Emergency power shall be provided
for means of egress illumination in accordance with Section 1104.5 when required by the fire code official.
(90 minutes in I-2, 60 minutes elsewhere.)
1203.3 through 1203.6 {No change.}
(Reason: These amendments were moved from Chapter 6, due to relocation of the published sections to
this new Chapter 12 in the past edition of the code and have now been updated for this edition. These
provisions provide a list to complete and match that throughout the codes. The only additional
requirements are the reference to COPS in NFPA 70, and the specified Energy time duration. Other
changes are a reference to a code provision that already exists.)
**Section 2304.1; change to read as follows:
2304.1 Supervision of Dispensing. The dispensing of fuel at motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall be
conducted by a qualified attendant or shall be under the supervision of a qualified attendant at all times or
shall be in accordance with Section 2204.3. the following:
1. Conducted by a qualified attendant; and/or,
2. Shall be under the supervision of a qualified attendant; and/or
3. Shall be an unattended self-service facility in accordance with Section 2304.3.
At any time the qualified attendant of item Number 1 or 2 above is not present, such operations shall be
considered as an unattended self-service facility and shall also comply with Section 2304.3.
(Reason: Allows a facility to apply the attended and unattended requirements of the code when both are
potentially applicable.)
**Section 2401.2; delete this section in its entirety.
(Reason: This section eliminates such booths from all compliance with Chapter 24 including, but not
limited to: size, ventilation, fire protection, construction, etc. If the product utilized is changed to a more
flammable substance, the lack of compliance with Chapter 15 could result in significant fire or deflagratio n
and subsequent life safety hazard.)
**Section 3103.3.1; delete this section in its entirety
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 26 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
(Reason: This section requires a fire sprinkler system to be installed in temporary tents and membrane
structures, which is not a reasonable or enforceable requirement for a temporary use. A fire watch or fire
alarm system is a more advisable approach for such occupancies that are only temporary in nature.)
**Table 3206.2, footnote h; change text to read as follows:
h. Not required Where storage areas are protected by either early suppression fast response (ESFR)
sprinkler systems or control mode special application sprinklers with a response time index of 50 (m •
s) 1/2 or less that are listed to control a fire in the stored commodities with 12 or fewer sprinklers,
installed in accordance with NFPA 13, manual smoke and heat vents or manually activated
engineered mechanical smoke exhaust systems shall be required within these areas.
(Reason: Allows the fire department to control the smoke and heat during and after a fire event, while
ensuring proper operation of the sprinkler protection provided. Also, gives an alternative to smoke and
heat vents.)
**Table 3206.2; add footnote j to row titled ‘High Hazard’ and ‘Greater than 300,000’ to read as
follows:
j. High hazard high-piled storage areas shall not exceed 500,000 square feet. A 2-hour fire wall
constructed in accordance with Section 706 of the International Building Code shall be used to divide
high-piled storage exceeding 500,000 square feet in area.
(Reason: This is a long-standing legacy requirement and provides passive protection for extremely large
buildings where it would be otherwise impossible to control the spread of fire without the fire wall in place
in an uncontrolled fire event, which is much more like ly in high hazard commodities, such as tires,
flammable liquids, expanded plastics, etc.)
***Section 3311.1; change to read as follows:
Section 3311.1 Required access. Approved vehicle access for firefighting and emergency response
shall be provided to all construction or demolition sites. Vehicle access shall be provided to within 100 50
feet (30 480 15 240 mm) of temporary or permanent fire department connections. Vehicle access shall be
provided by either temporary or permanent roads, capable of supporting vehicle loading under all wea ther
conditions. Vehicle access shall be maintained until permanent fire apparatus access roads are available.
When fire apparatus access roads are required to be installed for any structure or development, access
shall be approved prior to the time which construction has progressed beyond completion of the
foundation of any structure. Whenever the connection is not visible to approaching fire apparatus, the fire
department connection shall be indicated by an approved sign.
(Reason: Improves access to the FDC where required, as well as coordinates with the timing of
installation amendment from Section 501.4.)
**Section 5601.1.3; change to read as follows:
5601.1.3 Fireworks. The possession, manufacture, storage, sale, handling, and use of fireworks are
prohibited.
Exceptions:
1. Only when approved for fireworks displays, the storage and handling of fireworks as allowed
in Section 5604 and 5608.
2. Manufacture, assembly and testing of fireworks as allowed in Section 5605.
3.2. The use of fireworks for approved fireworks displays as allowed in Section 5608.
4. The possession, storage, sale… {Delete remainder of text.}
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 27 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
(Reason: Restricts fireworks to approved displays only, which is consistent with regional practice. Such is
intended to help protect property owners and individuals from unintentional fireworks fires within t he
jurisdiction, as well as to help protect individuals from fireworks injuries. It is noted that there has been a
change in the State Law to allow pos session of unopened fireworks in certain areas of the vehicle, and it
is highly recommended that AHJ’s familiarize themselves with the applicable State Laws in this regard.)
**Section 5703.6; add sentence to end of paragraph to read as follows:
An approved method of secondary containment shall be provided for underground tank and piping
systems.
(Reason: Increased protection in response to underground leak problems and remediation difficulty in
underground applications. Coordinates with TCEQ requirements.)
**Section 5704.2.11.4; change to read as follows:
5704.2.11.4 Leak Prevention. Leak prevention for underground tanks shall comply with Sections
5704.2.11.4.1 and 5704.2.11.4.2 through 5704.2.11.4.3. An approved method of secondary containment
shall be provided for underground tank and piping systems.
(Reason: Increased protection in response to underground leak problems and remediation difficulty in
underground applications. Coordinates with TCEQ requirements.)
**Section 5704.2.11.4.2; change to read as follows:
5704.2.11.4.2 Leak Detection. Underground storage tank systems shall be provided with an approved
method of leak detection from any component of the system that is designed and installed in accordance
with NFPA 30 and as specified in Section 5704.2.11.4.3.
(Reason: Reference to IFC Section 5704.2.11.4.3 amendment.)
**Section 5704.2.11.4.3; add to read as follows:
5704.2.11.4.3 Observation Wells. Approved sampling tubes of a minimum 4 inches in diameter shall be
installed in the backfill material of each underground flammable or combustible liquid storage tank. The
tubes shall extend from a point 12 inches below the average grade of the excavation to ground level and
shall be provided with suitable surface access caps. Each tank site shall provide a sampling tube at the
corners of the excavation with a minimum of 4 tubes. Sampling tubes shall be placed in the product line
excavation within 10 feet of the tank excavation and one every 50 feet routed along product lines towards
the dispensers, a minimum of two are required.
(Reason: Provides an economical means of checking potential leaks at each tank site. This is long-
standing regional practice.)
**Section 5707.4; add paragraph to read as follows:
Mobile fueling sites shall be restricted to commercial, industrial, governmental, or manufacturing, where
the parking area having such operations is primarily intended for employee vehicles. Mobile fueling shall
be conducted for fleet fueling or employee vehicles only, not the general public. Commercial sites shall
be restricted to office-type or similar occupancies that are not primarily intended for use by the public.
(Reason: The general public does not expect a hazardous operation to be occurring in a typical parking
lot or for a fuel truck to be traversing such parking lot, temporarily fueling a vehicle, and moving on to the
next area in the parking lot to fuel the next vehicle. Vehicular accidents occur in parking lots on a regular
basis, but the presence of a fuel truck, especially one in the process of fueling a vehicle with gasoline,
greatly adds to the potential risk involved in such accidents. By restricting such operations to the
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 28 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
occupancies in question, the employees of the business may be adequately notified to expect such
operations to occur in the parking lot.)
**Section 6103.2.1.8; add to read as follows:
6103.2.1.8 Jewelry Repair, Dental Labs and Similar Occupancies. Where natural gas service is not
available, portable LP-Gas containers are allowed to be used to supply approved torch assemblies or
similar appliances. Such containers shall not exceed 20-pound (9.0 kg) water capacity. Aggregate
capacity shall not exceed 60-pound (27.2 kg) water capacity. Each device shall be separated from other
containers by a distance of not less than 20 feet.
(Reason: To provide a consistent and reasonable means of regulating the use of portable LP-Gas
containers in these situations. Reduces the hazard presented by portable containers when natural gas is
already available. Please note that current State Law does not allow for the enforcement of any rules
more stringent than that adopted by the State, so this amendment is only applicable as to the extent
allowed by that State Law.)
**Section 6104.2; add Exception 2. to read as follows:
Exceptions:
1. {existing text unchanged}
2. Except as permitted in Sections 308 and 6104.3.3, LP-gas containers are not permitted in
residential areas.
(Reason: To provide a consistent and reasonable means of regulating the use LP-Gas containers.
Reduces the hazard presented by such containers when natural gas is already available. References
regional amendment to IFC 6104.3.3. Please note that current State Law does not allow for the
enforcement of any rules more stringent than that adopted by the State, so this amendment is only
applicable as to the extent allowed by that State Law.)
**Section 6104.3.3; add to read as follows:
6104.3.3 Spas, Pool Heaters, and Other Listed Devices. Where natural gas service is not available, an
LP-gas container is allowed to be used to supply spa and pool heaters or other listed devices. Such
container shall not exceed 250-gallon water capacity per lot. See Table 6104.3 for location of containers.
Exception: Lots where LP-gas can be off-loaded wholly on the property where the tank is located
may install up to 500 gallon above ground or 1,000 gallon underground approved containers.
(Reason: Allows for an alternate fuel source. Dwelling density must be considered and possibly factored
into zoning restrictions. Reduces the hazard presented by over-sized LP-Gas containers. Please note
that current State Law does not allow for the enforcement of any rules more stringent than that adopted
by the State, so this amendment is only applicable as to the extent allowed by that State Law.)
**Section 6107.4 and 6109.13; change to read as follows:
6107.4 Protecting Containers from Vehicles. Where exposed to vehicular damage due to proximity to
alleys, driveways or parking areas, LP-gas containers, regulators and piping shall be protected in
accordance with NFPA 58 Section 312.
6109.13 Protection of Containers. LP-gas containers shall be stored within a suitable enclosure or
otherwise protected against tampering. Vehicle impact protection shall be provided as re quired by Section
6107.4.
Exception: Vehicle impact protection shall not be required for protection of LP-gas containers
where the containers are kept in lockable, ventilated cabinets of metal c onstruction.
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 29 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
(Reason: NFPA 58 does not provide substantial physical protection [it allows raised sidewalks, fencing,
ditches, parking bumpers as ‘vehicle barrier protection’] of the container(s) from vehicular impact as is
required and has been required historically, as per Section 312, i.e. b ollard protection. Further, the
exception to Section 6109.13 would allow for portable containers in ventilated metal cabi nets to not
require any physical protection whatsoever from vehicular impact, regardless of the location of the
containers. Please note that current State Law does not allow for the enforcement of any rules more
stringent than that adopted by the State, so this amendment is only applicable as to the extent allowed by
that State Law.)
**{Appendix B Fire-Flow Requirements For Buildings amendments}
**Table B105.2; change footnote a. to read as follows:
a. The reduced fire-flow shall be not less than 1,000 1,500 gallons per minute.
(Reason: The minimum fire-flow of 1,500 gpm for other than one- and two- family dwellings has existed
since the 2000 edition of the IFC, as well as the Uniform Fire Code before that. Little to no technical
justification was provided for the proposed code change at the code hearings. The board believes that the
already-allowed 75 percent reduction in required fire-flow for the provision of sprinkler protection is
already a significant trade-off. The minimum 1,500 gpm is not believed to be overly stringent for the vast
majority of public water works systems in this region, especially since it has existed a s the requirement for
so many years. Further, the continued progression of trading off more and more requirements in the
codes for the provision of sprinkler protection has made these systems extremely operation-critical to the
safety of the occupants and properties in question. In other words, should the sprinkler system fail for
any reason, the fire-flow requirements drastically increase from that anticipated with a sprinkler-controlled
fire scenario.)
***{Appendix D Fire Apparatus Access Roads amendments}
***Section D102.1; change to read as follows:
D102.1 Access and loading. Facilities, buildings or portions of buildings hereafter constructed shall be
accessible to fire department apparatus by way of an approved fire apparatus access road with an
asphalt, concrete or other approved driving surface capable of supporting the imposed load of fire
apparatus weighing up to 75,000 85,000 pounds (34 050 38 556 kg).
(Reason: To address the current size of fire trucks in use – figure derived from DOT requirements for
waiver of vehicle exceeding such weight and from current maximum weights of fire trucks being
purchased by jurisdictions in North Texas.)
***Section D103.4; change to read as follows:
D103.4 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet (45 720 mm) shall be
provided with width and turnaround provisions in accordance with Table D103.4.
TABLE D103.4
REQUIREMENTS FOR DEAD-END FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS
LENGTH
(feet)
WIDTH
(feet)
TURNAROUNDS REQUIRED
0–150 20 24 None required
151–500 20 24 120-foot Hammerhead, 60-foot “Y” or 96-foot diameter cul-de-sac in accordance
with Figure D103.1
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 30 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
501–750 26 120-foot Hammerhead, 60-foot “Y” or 96-foot diameter cul-de-sac in accordance
with Figure D103.1
Over 750 Special approval required
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
(Reason: Reflects current increased apparatus access roadway widths as indicated in the recommended
amendment to 503.2.1.)
***Section D103.5; change Item 1 to read as follow s:
D103.5 Fire apparatus access road gates. Gates securing the fire apparatus access roads shall
comply with all of the following criteria:
1. Where a single gate is provided, the gate width shall be not less than 20 24 feet (6096 7315.2
mm). Where a fire apparatus road consists of a divided roadway, the gate width shall be not
less than 12 feet (3658 mm).
(Reason: Reflects current increased apparatus access roadway widths as indicated in the r ecommended
amendment to 503.2.1.)
***Section D103.6; change to read as follows:
D103.6 Signs. Marking. Striping, signs, or other markings, when approved by the fire code official, shall
be provided for fire apparatus access roads to identify such roads or prohibit the obstruction thereof.
Striping, signs and other markings shall be maintained in a clean and legible condition at all times and be
replaced or repaired when necessary to provide adequate visibility.
(1) Striping – Fire apparatus access roads shall be continuously marked by painted lines of red traffic
paint six inches (6”) in width to show the boundaries of the lane. The words “NO PARKING FIRE
LANE” or "FIRE LANE NO PARKING” shall appear in four inch (4”) white letters at 25 feet intervals o n
the red border markings along both sides of the fire lanes. Where a curb is available, the striping
shall be on the vertical face of the curb.
(2) Signs – Signs shall read “NO PARKING FIRE LANE” or "FIRE LANE NO PARKING” and shall be
12” wide and 18” high (See Figure D103.6). Signs shall have red letters on a whit e reflective
background, using not less than 2” lettering. Signs shall be permanently affixed to a stationary post
and the bottom of the sign shall be six feet, six inches (6’6”) above finished grade. Signs shall be
spaced not more than fifty feet (50’) apart along both sides of the fire lane. Signs may be installed on
permanent buildings or walls or as approved by the Fire Chief.
Where required by the fire code official, fire apparatus access roads shall be marked with permanent “NO
PARKING—FIRE LANE” signs complying with Figure D103.6, or other approved method. Signs shall
have a minimum dimension of 12 inches (305 mm) wide by 18 inches (457 mm) high and have red letters
on a white reflective background. Signs shall be posted on one or both sides of the fire app aratus road as
required by Section D103.6.1 or D103.6.2.
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 31 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
FIGURE D103.6
FIRE LANE SIGNS
(Reason: Reflects current markings for apparatus access roadways as indicated in the recommende d
amendment to Section 503.3)
***Section D103.6.1 and D103.6.2; delete sections as follows:
D103.6.1Roads 20 to 26 feet in width. Fire lane signs as specified in Section D103.6 shall be posted on
both sides of fire apparatus access roads that are 20 to 26 feet wide (6096 to 7925 mm).
D103.6.2 Roads more than 26 feet in width. Fire lane signs as specified in Section D103.6 shall be
posted on one side of fire apparatus access roads more than 26 feet wide (7925 mm) and less than 32
feet wide (9754 mm).
(Reason: Reflects current markings for apparatus access roadways as indicated in the recommended
amendment to 503.3 and D103.6, which requires the signage on both sides of the fire apparatus access
roads, regardless of width)
***Section D104.3; change to read as follows:
D104.3 Remoteness. Where two fire apparatus access roads are required, they shall be placed a
distance apart equal to not less than one half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of
the lot or area to be served, measured in a straight line between accesses, or as approved by the fire
code official.
(Reason: To provide some additional flexibility to the fire code official on the location of the two fire
apparatus access roads.)
***Section D105.3; change to read as follows:
D105.3 Proximity to building. Unless otherwise approved by the fire code official, one or more of the
required access routes meeting this condition shall be located not less than 15 feet (4572 mm) and not
greater than 30 feet (9144 mm) from the building, and shall be positioned parallel to one entire side of the
building. The side of the building on which the aerial fire apparatus access road is positioned shall
be approved by the fire code official.
(Reason: To provide some additional flexibility to t he fire code official on the location of the aerial fire
apparatus access roads.)
***Section D106.3; change to read as follows:
D106.3 Remoteness. Where two fire apparatus access roads are required, they shall be placed a
distance apart equal to not less than one-half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of
the property or area to be served, measured in a straight line between accesses, or as approved by the
fire code official.
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 32 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
(Reason: To provide some additional flexibility to the fire code official on the location of the two fire
apparatus access roads.)
***Section D107.2; change to read as follows:
D107.2 Remoteness. Where two fire apparatus access roads are required, they shall be placed a
distance apart equal to not less than one-half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of
the property or area to be served, measured in a straight line between accesses, or as approved by the
fire code official.
(Reason: To provide some additional flexibility to the fire code official on the location of the two fire
apparatus access roads.)
***{Appendix L Requirements For Fire Fighter Air Replenishment Systems amendments}
***Section L101.1; change to read as follows:
Section L101.1 Scope. Fire fighter air replenishment systems (FARS) shall be provided in accordance
with this appendix in new buildings when any of the following conditions occur:
1. Any new building 5 or more stories in height.
2. Any new building with 2 or more floors below grade.
3. Any new building 500,000 square feet or more in size.
Each stairwell shall have a supply riser. SCBA fill panels shall be located on odd numbered floors
commencing at the first level in the primary stairwell and on even numbered floors commencing at level 2
in the remaining stairwells. Fill panels in buildings over 500,000 square feet shall be located adjacent to
each standpipe connection.
The adopting ordinance shall specify building characteristics or special hazards that establish thresholds
triggering a requirement for the installation of a FARS. The requirement shall be based on the fire
department’s capability of replenishing fire fighter breathing air during sustained emergency operations.
Considerations shall include:
1. Building characteristics, such as number of stories above or below grade plane , floor area, type of
construction and fire-resistance of the primary structural frame to allow sustained fire-fighting operations
based on a rating of not less than 2 hours.
2. Special hazards, other than buildings, that require unique accommodations to allow the fire department
to replenish fire fighter breathing air.
3. Fire department staffing level.
4. Availability of a fire department breathing air replenishment vehicle.
(Reason: Breathing air is critical for firefighting operations. Historically, fire departments have supplied air
bottles by manually transporting air bottles up stairways or across long distances in a building, which is an
extraordinarily intensive process and takes firefighters away from their primary mission of rescue and
firefighting. The FARS technology in Appendix L exists to address this issue using in-building air supply
systems. Many jurisdictions in North Texas and across the country have already adopted this Appendix
and are enforcing and installing these systems to improve the life safety of firefighters and enhance their
firefighting capabilities in an emergency incident, which is one of the reasons for recommending this
Appendix for adoption – to ensure regional consistency, as well as to improve mutual emergency aid
among jurisdictions in North Texas.)
***Section L104.13.1; delete this section in its entirety.
(Reason: The amendment to Section L101.1 above addresses the location criteria for SCBA fill panels.)
***Section L104.14; add paragraph to read as follows:
The external mobile air connection shall be located with approved separation from the Fire
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.
North Central Texas Council of Governments 33 Approved July 2021
Amendments 2021 International Fire Code
Department Connection (FDC) to allow functionality of both devices by first responders; shall be
visible from and within 50 ft. of a fire apparatus access road along an unobstructed path; and
shall be located in an approved signed, secured cabinet.
(Reason: To accommodate the needs of first responders to be able to locate and utilize the required
connection to ensure air supply availability to this system, similar to the requirements of FDC’s.)
END
Section 38-34. - Amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code.