HomeMy WebLinkAboutORD 6155CITY OF RENTON, WASHINGTON
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF RENTON, WASHINGTON, ADOPTING THE 2021
EDITION OF THE INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE AS ADOPTED AND AMENDED BY
THE STATE BUILDING CODE COUNCIL IN CHAPTER 51-54A WAC, REVISING THE
CITY'S AMENDMENTS THERETO IN SECTION 4-5-070 OF THE RENTON MUNICIPAL
CODE, AUTHORIZING CORRECTIONS, PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY, AND
ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RENTON, WASHINGTON, DO ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION I. All portions of the Renton Municipal Code in this ordinance not shown in
strikethrough and underline edits remain in effect and unchanged.
SECTION II. Subsections 4-5-070.13 through 4-5-070.0 of the Renton Municipal Code are
amended as follows:
B. ADOPTION OF FIRE CODE AND STANDARDS:
The International Fire Code, 2018 2021 Edition, and its Appendices B and H, all
published by the International Code Council, as adopted and amended by the
State Building Code Council in Chapter 51-54A WAC, and as amended in this
Section, but not including International Fire Code Section 5707, are adopted by
reference thereto as though fully set forth herein and shall be applicable within
the City. Not less than one copy of such code and appendices shall be filed in the
City Clerk's office and shall be available for use and examination by the public.
C. AMENDMENTS, ADDITIONS, AND DELETIONS TO THE FIRE CODE:
1. Subsection 101.1, Title, is hereby amended to read as follows:
1
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Fire Code of the
City of Renton, hereinafter referred to as "this code." Any references to
"this jurisdiction" shall be references to the City of Renton, Washington.
2. Subsection 102.7, Referenced codes and standards, is hereby amended
to read as follows:
102.7 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards
referenced in this code shall be those that are listed in Chapter 80, except
the phrase "Electrical Code adopted by the City of Renton" shall be
substituted for all references to the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70).
Such codes and standards shall be considered part of the requirements of
this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference and as further
regulated in Sections 102.7.1 and 102.7.2.
3. Subsection 103.1, oaf Creation of Agency, is hereby amended to
read as follows:
103.1 6ei;pral Creation of Agency. All references in this code to the
"department of fire prevention within the jurisdiction" shall be
synonymous with the Fire Department under the direction of the Fire Code
Official. The function of the department shall be the implementation,
administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.
4. Subsection 103.3, Deputies, is hereby amended by changing the title to
"Fire Marshal/Deputy(ies)/Assistant(s)," and to read as follows:
2
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
103.3 Fire Marshal/Deputy(ies)/Assistant(s),In accordance with
prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction, the Fire Code Official shall have
the authority to appoint a Fire Marshal, Deputy Fire Marshal(s), Fire Plans
Reviewer(s) and/or Assistant Fire Marshal(s), other related technical
officers, and other employees.
5. Section ,^� 104.7.1, Legal defense, is hereby amended to read as
follows:
1A� 104.7.1 Legal defense. Any employee performing duties in
connection with the enforcement of this code and acting in good faith and
without malice in the performance of such duties shall be relieved from
any personal liability for any damage to persons or property as a result of
any act or omission in the discharge of such duties, and in the event of
claims and/or litigation arising from such act or omission, the City Attorney
shall, at the request of and on behalf of said employee, investigate and
defend such claims and/or litigation and if the claim be deemed by the City
Attorney a proper one or if judgment be rendered against such
administrative authority or employee, said claim or judgment shall be paid
by the City. This subsection applies only to employees that are paid by and
work directly for the City of Renton. It does not apply to those working for
other entities, including the Renton Regional Fire Authority.
6. Subsection 103.4 104.7, Liability, is hereby amended by adding a new
subsection, to read as follows:
3
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
48a4.2 104.7.2 Recovery of Costs. The Fire Department may recover
costs from responsible persons, or business or property owners, for any of
the following:
1. Suppression and investigation of incendiary fires where the
responsible party has been duly convicted of causing the fire.
2. Personnel and apparatus costs associated with repeat responses
to situations involving illegal burns after the second response within a
calendar year to the same location. Apparatus costs shall be based on the
fee schedule established by the King County Fire Chiefs' Association.
7. Subsection 104.1, General, is hereby amended by adding a new
subsection, to read as follows:
104.1.1 Discretionary authority. The Fire Chief, Fire Marshal, Deputy
Fire Marshals, Fire Plans Reviewer(s) and/or Assistant Fire Marshal(s)
assigned to the Fire Department shall have the authority and discretion to
enforce this code.
8. Subsection 104 10 1 104.11.1, Assistance from other agencies, is
hereby amended to read as follows:
104 10 1 104.11.1 Assistance from other agencies. Police and other
enforcement agencies shall have authority to render necessary assistance
in the investigation of fires or the enforcement of this code as requested
by the Fire Code Official, or his/her designee.
21
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
9. Subsection 105.1.1, Permits required, is hereby amended by adding a
new subsection, to read as follows:
105.1.1.1 Operational permit fees. The fee for permits issued in
accordance with S Section 105 6 107 of the International Fire
Code and permits issued for underground tank removal shall be as
stipulated in the City of Renton Fee Schedule. Fees for tank storage shall
be assessed for each individual tank.
Exceptions:
1. Permit fees for Class 11113 liquid storage shall be assessed for each
tank up to a total of five tanks, and no additional fee shall be charged for
the sixth through the tenth tank. The eleventh tank and each subsequent
tank of Class 11113 liquids shall be assessed per tank.
2. Permit fees for carbon dioxide systems used in beverage
dispensing applications shall be waived.
The permits shall expire on December 31 of each calendar year or as
otherwise noted on the permit. The permit fee shall be payable at or
before the time of issuance or renewal of the permit. In the event of failure
to remit payment for an operational permit within thirty (30) days after
receipt of application or renewal notice, a late fee as specified for Fire Plan
Review and Inspection Fees in the City of Renton Fee Schedule shall be
assessed in addition to the permit fees.
5
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
Rn. .�rsr_��n�rra
-1410. Subsection 1A� 105.5.4, Aviation facilities, is hereby amended
to add a new subsection to read as follows:
'^�= 105.5.4.1 Aircraft Refueling Vehicle. An annual operational
permit is required to operate an aircraft refueling vehicle.
1411. Subsection '^�0105.5.18, Flammable and combustible liquids,
is hereby amended to read as follows:
'^�0 105.5.18 Flammable and combustible liquids. An
operational permit is required:
1. To use or operate a pipeline for the transportation within
facilities of flammable or combustible liquids. This requirement shall not
apply to the off -site transportation in pipelines regulated by the
Department of Transportation (DOT) nor does it apply to piping systems.
0
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
2. To store, handle or use Class I liquids in excess of five (5) gallons
(19L) in a building or in excess of ten (10) gallons (37.9L) outside of a
building, except that a permit is not required for the following:
2.1 The storage or use of Class I liquids in the fuel tank of a
motor vehicle, aircraft, motorboat, mobile power plant or mobile heating
plant unless such storage, in the opinion of the Fire Code Official, would
cause an unsafe condition.
2.2 The storage or use of paints, oils, varnishes or similar
flammable mixtures when such liquids are stored for maintenance,
painting or similar purposes for a period of not more than thirty (30) days.
3. To store, handle or use Class II or Class IIIA liquids in excess of
twenty-five (25) gallons (95L) in a building or in excess of sixty (60) gallons
(227L) outside a building, except for fuel oil used in connection with oil -
burning equipment in single-family and duplex dwellings.
4. To store, handle or use Class 11113 liquids in tanks or portable tanks
for fueling motor vehicles at motor fuel -dispensing facilities or where
connected to fuel -burning equipment.
Exception: Fuel oil and used motor oil used for space heating or water
heating in single-family or duplex dwellings.
5. To remove Class I or II liquids from an underground storage tank
used for fueling motor vehicles by any means other than the approved,
stationary on -site pumps normally used for dispensing purposes.
7
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
6. To operate tank vehicles, equipment, tanks, plants, terminals,
wells, fuel -dispensing stations, refineries, distilleries and similar facilities
where flammable and Class 11, IIIA or 11113 combustible liquids are produced,
processed, transported, stored, dispensed or used.
7. To place temporarily out of service (for more than ninety (90)
days) an underground, protected above -ground or above -ground
flammable or combustible liquid tank.
8. To change the type of contents stored in a flammable or
combustible liquid tank to a material that poses a greater hazard than that
for which the tank was designed and constructed.
9. To manufacture, process, blend or refine flammable or
combustible liquids.
10. To engage in the dispensing of liquid fuels into the fuel tanks of
motor vehicles at commercial, industrial, governmental or manufacturing
establishments in accordance with Section 5706.5.4.
11. To utilize a site for the dispensing of liquid fuels from tank
vehicles into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles, marine craft and other
special equipment at commercial, industrial, governmental or
manufacturing establishments in accordance with Section 5706.5.4.
4412. Subsection '^G2T105.5.25, Hot work operations, is hereby
amended to read as follows:
D
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
''^�2 105.5.25 Hot werks work operations. An operational permit
is required for hot work including, but not limited to:
1. Public exhibitions and demonstrations where hot work is
conducted.
2. Use of portable hot work equipment inside a structure.
[Exception deleted.]
device.
3. Fixed -site hot work equipment such as welding booths.
4. Hot work conducted within a wildfire risk area.
5. Application of roof coverings with the use of an open -flame
6. When approved, the Fire Code Official shall issue a permit to
carry out a hot work program. This program allows approved personnel to
regulate their facility's hot work operations. The approved personnel shall
be trained in the fire safety aspects denoted in this Chapter and shall be
responsible for issuing permits requiring compliance with the
requirements found in Chapter 35. These permits shall be issued only to
their employees or hot work operations under their supervision.
-1413. Subsection'' ^�0105.5.32, Mobile food preparation vehicles, is
hereby amended to read as follows:
1^�0 105.5.32 Mobile food facility. An operational permit is
required to operate a mobile food facility. The Fire Code Official has
9
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
discretion to accept a fire inspection from another King County fire agency
when that inspection has been deemed comparable.
4514. Subsection 1 Ora 6 27 105.5.39, Places of Assembly, is hereby
amended by adding a new subsection, to read as follows:
'^�7 105.5.39.1 Temporary place of assembly/special event
permit. An operational permit is required for any special event where
three hundred (300) or more people will congregate, either outdoors or
indoors, in other than a Group A Occupancy.
1615. Subsection 1A�105.5. Required operational permits, is hereby
amended to add a new subsection to read as follows:
'^�= 105.5.53 Commercial Cooking Hood Suppression System
Contractor. A permit is required for all companies performing any
inspection, service, maintenance or repair on commercial cooking hood
suppression systems. This permit shall be valid for twenty-four (24)
months.
4416. Subsection 105% 7.13 105.6.12, Hazardous materials, is hereby
amended to read as follows:
'^�3 105.6.12 Hazardous materials. A construction permit is
required to install, repair damage to, abandon, remove, place temporarily
out of service, or close or substantially modify a storage facility, tank, or
other area regulated by Chapter 50 when the hazardous materials in use
or storage exceed the amounts listed in Table OF; G 20 105.5.22.
10
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
Exceptions:
1. Routine maintenance.
2. For repair work performed on an emergency basis, application
for permit shall be made within two (2) working days of commencement
of work.
17. Subsection 106.1. Submittals, is herebv amended by adding a new
subsection, to read as follows:
106.1.1 Construction plan review. Plans shall be submitted for review
and approval prior to issuing a permit for work set forth in Subsections
105.6.1 through 105.6.25.
18. Subsection 107.2, Schedule of permit fees, is hereby amended to read
107.2, Plan review and construction fees. Construction plans required
to be reviewed by this Chanter and the international Fire Code shall be
charged in accordance with the City of Renton Fee Schedule.
4819. Subsection 108 1 109.1, Maintenance of safeguards, is hereby
amended by adding a new subsection, to read as follows:
9^� 109.1.11 nnalf..-„+;, Aron preventable alarm fee. Whenever an
alarm system is activated due to a malfunction or preventable cause and
the Fire Department is dispatched, a report of the false alarm will be
recorded for the building and/or area affected. For the first, second and
third false alarm within a calendar year, no fee will be assessed. For every
11
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
preventable false alarm or false alarm caused by a malfunction of the alarm
beyond the third false alarm a fee will be assessed as per the City of Renton
Fee Schedule.
on 1: False alarms in residential, non-commercial units shall not
result in a fee.
on 2: Multiple false alarms that occur on the same date and/or
within a 6-hour time period at the same location shall be treated as a single
ninrm
1920. Subsection 109.1 111.1. Board of appeals established, is hereby
amended by changing the title to "Hearing Examiner," and amended to read as
follows:
191 111.1, Hearing Examiner. In order to hear and decide appeals of
orders, decisions or determinations made by the Fire Code Official relative
to the application and interpretation of this code, the Hearing Examiner
process established by the City of Renton as set forth in RMC 4-8-110, shall
have authority.
2-A21. Subsection 1-09.3 111.3, Qualifications, is hereby deleted.
.2422. Subsection 1-1-0.3 112.3, Notice of violation, is hereby amended to
read as follows:
110 3 112.3 Notice of violation. When the Fire Code Official finds a
building, premises, vehicle, storage facility or outdoor area that is in
violation of this code, the Fire Code Official is authorized to prepare a
12
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
written notice of violation describing the conditions deemed unsafe and,
when compliance is not immediate, specifying a time for reinspection.
2423. Subsection '17� 112.3.1, Service, is hereby amended by adding
new subsections, to read as follows:
'I'Iz10 2 1 1 112.3.1.1 Reinspection. Whenever the Fire Department has
given notification of a violation that required a reinspection and thirty (30)
days have expired with such condition or violation still in existence, a
"Subsequent Reinspection" will be required.
110 3 1 2 112.3.1.2 Reinspection Fee. Any Subsequent Reinspection,
after the original thirty (30) days period of time, shall require the payment
of a reinspection fee as specified in the City of Renton Fee Schedule, to be
assessed against the person owning, operating or occupying the building
or premises wherein the violation exists. However, any building owner,
operator or occupant, upon a reasonable request to the Fire Code Official,
may obtain an extension of said thirty (30) day period for a reasonable
period to be established by the Fire Code Official to allow such time for
compliance. The request for an extension must be received by the Fire
Department prior to the expiration of the original reinspection date.
2424. Subsection I IQ a 2112.3.2, Compliance with orders and notices, is
hereby amended by adding a new subsection, to read as follows:
'"�= 112.3.2.1 Notice and Responsibility. Whenever the
infraction, condition or violation involves the structural integrity of the
13
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
building, then the notice of the infraction, condition or violation shall be
sent to both the building owner and its occupant or occupants. Should
compliance with the fire code — so as to remedy the infraction, condition
or violation — require additions or changes to the building or premises,
which would be part of the structure or the fixtures to the realty, then the
responsibility to remedy the infraction, condition, or violation shall be
upon the owner of the building unless the owner and occupant shall
otherwise agree between themselves and so notify the City. If, then, the
occupant does not remedy the infraction, condition, or violation, then the
City shall have the right to demand such remedy from the owner of the
premises.
2-425. Subsection 110 4 112.4, Violation Penalties, is hereby amended to
read as follows:
110 4 112.4 Violation Penalties. Persons 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, repair or do work in violation of the approved
construction documents or directive of the Fire Code Official, or of a permit
or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a
misdemeanor and subject to the penalties in RMC 1-3-1, except as
provided in RMC 4-5-070.C.44 and 100. Each day that a violation continues
after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.
14
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
2-526. Subsection 112 4 113.4, Failure to comply, is hereby amended to
read as follows:
112 4 113.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any
work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work
as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe
condition, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, subject to RMC 1-3-1.
2-627. Section 202, General Definitions, is hereby amended by changing
the definitions of "Fire Chief" and "Fire Code Official" to read as follows:
FIRE CHIEF. All references in this code to the fire chief shall mean the
Fire Chief of the Renton Regional Fire Authority, or a duly authorized
representative.
FIRE CODE OFFICIAL. The Fire Chief, or his or her designee, shall be the
chief enforcement officer with respect to this code.
2-728. Section 202, General Definitions, is hereby amended by adding the
following definitions:
AIRCRAFT REFUELING VEHICLE. A fuel servicing hydrant vehicle,
hydrant cart, or an aircraft servicing tank vehicle as defined in NFPA 407.
AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR (AED). An automated
external defibrillator (AED) is a portable automatic device used to restore normal
heart rhythm to patients in cardiac arrest.
IMU or UNDERGROUND OVEN. A box or other set up used to cook
food undereround. When located at a 1 or 2 family residential property. is
15
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
considered a Dortable outdoor fireplace for location and aDDroval in accordance
with the fire code. When located at other property types, placement shall require
prior approval of the fire marshal and an open flame permit.in accordance with
section 105.5.34.
MOBILE FOOD FACILITY. Permanent and nonpermanent food
operation vehicles that store, prepare, package, serve, vend, or otherwise provide
food for human consumption, on or off the premises
PRIVATE SMOKING CLUB. A place where smoking (as that term is
defined by Chapter 70.160 RCW) occurs, that is privately operated, employs no
employees and is not open to the public, or which otherwise holds itself out as
meeting the criteria for such a place as established by the King County Department
of Public Health.
SPECIAL EVENT. For the purposes of this code, events that have large
occupant loads or create a potential hazard to the participants or the community
shall be defined as a "special event" including:
a. Any event that occurs in a permitted place of assembly that
introduces a hazard regulated by this code and not approved at the time of the
issuance of the Place of Assembly Permit.
b. Any event with an occupant load that exceeds three hundred
(300) in a location that does not have a Place of Assembly Permit.
c. All temporary places of assembly.
16
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
TEMPORARY PLACE OF ASSEMBLY. An occupancy not classified as
"Assembly Group A" that is used for activities normally restricted to assembly
occupancies and limited to a period of less than thirty (30) calendar days of
assembly use.
2-929. Subsection 307.1, General, is hereby amended to read as follows:
307.1 General. Open burning is hereby prohibited in conformance with
the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency and the Department of Ecology
regulations.
2430. Subsection 307.2, Permit required, is hereby deleted.
3031. Section 308, Open Flames, is hereby amended to add a new
subsection 308.5, Sky Lanterns, to read as follows:
308.5 Sky Lanterns. The lighting and/or release of sky lanterns or like
materials shall be prohibited in the City of Renton.
3-132. Subsection 319.1, General, is hereby amended to read as follows:
319.1 General. Mobile food preparation vehicle and mobile food
facilities shall comply with this section.
-3233. Section 319, Mobile Food Preparation Vehicles, is amended to add
a new subsection to read as follows:
319.11 Location. Mobile food facilities shall not be located within ten
feet (10') of buildings, tents, canopies or membrane structures, or within
ten feet (10') of any other mobile food facility.
Exceptions:
17
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
1. When mobile food facilities are positioned on public streets, the
distance from buildings may be reduced to five feet (5'). This exception is
designated for events lasting a maximum of no more than three (3)
consecutive calendar days in a row.
2. When located on private property, the distance from buildings
may be reduced to five feet (5') if exposed by a fire wall constructed of
materials of clay or concrete only and having no openings such as windows
or doors.
-334. Subsection 401.5, Making a false report, is hereby amended to read
as follows:
401.5 Making false report. It shall be a misdemeanor for a person to
give, signal, or transmit a false fire alarm.
35. Subsection 403.2, Group A occupancies, is hereby amended by adding
new subsections to read as follows:
403.2.5 Automated External Defibrillators (AED). Group A-1 through
A-5 occupancies with an occupancy load of three hundred (300) or more
persons, shall have available and maintain an AED on the premises.
In
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
403.2.5.1 Placement. The location of the AEDs shall be as determined
by the Fire Code Official with a one way travel distance not to exceed six
hundred (600) feet.
403.2.5.2 AED Maintenance. AEDs shall be maintained as per the
manufacturer's requirements.
403.2.5.3 Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Training. Where
AEDs are required by this code, employees shall be trained in the use of
and be familiar with the locations of the AEDs.
36. Section 403, Emergency Preparedness Requirements, is hereby
amended by adding a new subsection to read as follows:
401 13 403.12 Boarding homes and residential care facilities (1-1, 1-2,
1-3, R-2 and R-4 occupancies). Boarding homes and/or Assisted Living
Facilities as defined by the State Building Code shall comply with
Subsections ^^�i403.12.1 through ^^�5403.12.5 regardless of the
capabilities of their residents.
^^�= 403.12.1 Receiving facilities. The fire safety, emergency and
evacuation plans must include memoranda of understanding (MOU) with
appropriate facilities that can receive residents with special needs if the
host facility must be evacuated.
^^�= 403.12.2 Transportation agreements. The fire safety,
emergency and evacuation plans must include memoranda of
understanding (MOU) with transportation companies or services to
19
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
provide sufficient transportation resources for residents with special
needs and their attending staff in the event of an evacuation.
"^�2403.12.3 Residential tracking. The fire safety, emergency and
evacuation plans must include provisions for tracking residents with
special needs in the event of an evacuation. The facility must be able to
account for each resident's method of transportation and destination
including residents who are picked up by non -staff members, even if a
transfer of care occurs after the resident's arrival at a secondary facility.
AA�4 403.12.4 Emergency communications. The facility must
maintain the ability to receive emergency warnings and public information
messages even during a power outage. A NOAA weather radio along with
a battery operated AM/FM radio provides sufficient warning and
information capability to meet this requirement. The facility must have an
emergency communications plan to communicate with off -site staff to
inform them of the facility's status, evacuations, or a need for increased
staffing levels if normal modes of communication are not operational. The
emergency communications plan will also address communication with
the families of residents regarding residents' status, location and safety
when the resident is unable to carry out communications on their own, in
accordance with state law.
^^�ra 403.12.5 Environment. The facility must have a plan and
readily accessible provisions to maintain a safe temperature environment
20
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
and adequate ventilation for residents in the event of a utility or
equipment outage. The facility must also provide non -flame sources of
lighting sufficient to keep residents safe when moving around the facility.
Candles or other flame sources of heat and light are not approved due to
the increased risk of fire.
37. Subsection 503.1, Where required, is hereby amended to read as
follows:
503.1 Where required. Fire apparatus access roads shall be provided
and maintained in accordance with Subsections 503.1.1 through 503.2.
38. Subsection 503.1.1, Buildings and facilities, of the International Fire
Code, 2018 2021 Edition, is hereby adopted.
39. Subsection 503.1.2, Additional access, of the International Fire Code,
2018 2021 Edition, is hereby adopted and amended to read as follows:
503.1.2 Two means of access. Two (2) means of approved access shall
be required when a complex of three (3) or more buildings is located more
than two hundred feet (200') from a public road. (RMC 4-6-060.H.5)
40. Subsection 503.2, Specifications, of the International Fire Code, 2019
2021 Edition, is hereby amended to read as follows:
503.2 Specifications. Fire apparatus access roads shall be installed and
arranged in accordance with RMC 4-4-080 and 4-6-060.
41. Section 504, Access to Building Openings and Roofs, is hereby
amended by adding a new subsection, to read as follows:
21
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
504.4 Buildings with enclosed interior courtyards. New buildings with
enclosed interior courtyards shall have a straight/direct access corridor
and/or stairway from the exterior to the courtyard at a location acceptable
to the Fire Code Official. If a stairway is used it shall comply with
International Fire Code Section 1011 and a corridor shall comply with
International Fire Code Section 1020. The access shall have a minimum
width of four feet (4') and be large enough to carry a thirty -five-foot (35')
long sectional ladder (minimum folded length twenty feet (20')} directly
from the exterior to the courtyard without obstructions. The access door
shall be marked at the street as "Direct access to courtyard."
42. Subsection 505.1, Address identification, is hereby amended by
adding new subsections, to read as follows:
505.1.1 Identification size. In order that the address identification is
plainly visible, the following minimum sizes, figures or numbers, in block
style in contrasting color shall be used in accordance with the following:
1. Single-family residential houses — four inches (4")
2. Multi -family residential, commercial, or small business: fifty feet
(50') or less setback — six inches (6"); more than fifty feet (50') setback —
ten inches (10").
3. Large commercial or industrial areas: one hundred feet (100') or
less setback — eighteen inches (18"); more than one hundred feet (100')
setback — twenty-four inches (24").
22
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
505.1.2 Rear Door Marking. When vehicle access is provided to the
rear of commercial, industrial and warehouse buildings, the rear doors
servicing individual businesses shall be marked to indicate address and/or
unit identification with letters or numbers at least four inches (4") high.
505.1.3 Suite numbers. Buildings consisting of separate suites with the
same building address shall have their suite number marked so that the
suite is readily identifiable and the numbers or letters sized as per
Subsection 505.1.1.
Exception: Suites located on an interior hall or corridor shall have
lettering at least one inch (1") high.
43. Subsection 507.5.1, Where required, is hereby amended to read as
follows:
507.5.1 Where required. Where a portion of the facility or building
hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction is more than
one hundred fifty feet (150') from a hydrant on a fire apparatus access
road, as measured by an approved route around the exterior of the facility
or building, on -site fire hydrants and mains shall be provided where
required by the Fire Code Official.
Exceptions:
1. For Group R-3 and Group U occupancies, the distance
requirement shall be three hundred feet (300').
2. Deleted.
23
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
44. Section 510, Emergency Responder Radie Communication
Coverage, is hereby amended to read as follows:
510.1 Emergency responder radio coverage in new
buildings. Approved radio coverage for emergency responders shall be
provided within buildings meeting any of the following conditions:
more;
1. High rise buildings;
2. The total building area is fifty thousand square feet (50,000') or
3. The total basement area is ten thousand square feet (10,000') or
more; or
4. There are floors used for human occupancy more than thirty feet
(30') below the finished floor of the lowest level of exit discharge.
5. Buildings or structures where the Fire Code Official or police
chief determines that in -building radio coverage is critical because of its
unique design, location, use or occupancy.
The radio coverage system shall be installed in accordance with
Sections 510.4 through 510.5.5 of this code and with the provisions of
NFPA 1221. This section shall not require improvement of the existing
public safety communication systems.
When determining if the minimum signal strength referenced in
510.4.1.1 exists at a subject building, the signal strength shall be measured
24
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
at any point on the exterior of the building up to the highest point on the
roof.
Exceptions:
1. Buildings and areas of buildings that have minimum radio
coverage signal strength levels of the King County Regional 800 MHz
Emergency Radio System within the building in accordance with Section
510.4.1 without the use of a radio coverage system.
2.In facilities where emergency responder radio coverage is
required and such systems, components or equipment required could
have a negative impact on the normal operations of that facility, the Fire
Code Official shall have the authority to accept an automatically activated
emergency responder radio coverage system.
3. One (1)- and two (2)- family dwellings and townhouses.
4. Subject to the approval of the Fire Code Official, buildings other
than high-rise buildings, colleges, universities, and buildings primarily
occupied by Group E or I occupancies that have completed a Mobile
Emergency Responder Radio Coverage application and submitted payment
as outline in the application.
510.2 Emergency responder radio coverage in existing
buildings. Existing buildings shall be provided with approved radio
coverage for emergency responders as required in Chapter 11.
25
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
510.3 Permit required. A construction permit for the installation of or
modification to emergency responder radio coverage systems and related
equipment is required as specified in Section 105.7.6 105.6.4.
Maintenance performed in accordance with this code is not considered a
modification and does not require a permit.
Prior coordination and approval from the Public Safety Radio System
Operator is required before installation of an emergency responder radio
system. Until 2022, such approval is required from King County or Valley
Communications Center. In 2022 Puget Sound Emergency Radio Network
(PSERN) will be the single operator of a county -wide system.
In order to be forward compatible, designers and contractors should
be aware of PSERN's requirements for Distributed Antenna Systems.
510.4 Technical requirements. Systems, components, and equipment
required to provide the emergency responder radio coverage system shall
comply with Sections 510.4.1 through 510.4.2.8.
510.4.1 Emergency responder communication enhancement system
signal strength. The building shall be considered to have acceptable
emergency responder communications enhancement system coverage
when signal strength measurements in ninety-five percent (95%) of all
areas on each floor of the building meet the signal strength requirements
in Sections 510.4.1.1 through 510.4.1.3.
26
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
Exception: Critical areas, defined for purposes of this Section 4-5-
070 by PSERN of King County, as the fire command center(s), the fire pump
room(s), interior exit stairways, exit passageways, elevator lobbies,
standpipe cabinets, sprinkler sectional valve locations, and other areas
required by the Fire Code Official, shall be provided with ninety-nine
percent (99%) floor area radio coverage.
510.4.1.1 Minimum signal strength into the building. The minimum
inbound signal strength shall be sufficient to provide usable voice
communications throughout the coverage area as specified by the Fire
Code Official. The inbound signal level shall be a minimum of -95dBm in
ninety-five percent (95%) of the coverage area and ninety-nine percent
(99%) in critical areas and sufficient to provide not less than a Delivered
Audio Quality (DAQ) of 3.0 or an equivalent Signal -to -Interference -Plus -
Noise Ratio (SINR) applicable to the technology for either analog or digital
signals.
510.4.1.2 Minimum signal strength out of the building. The minimum
outbound signal strength shall be sufficient to provide usable voice
communications throughout the coverage area as specified by the Fire
Code Official. The outbound signal level shall be sufficient to provide not
less than a DAQ of 3.0 or an equivalent SINR applicable to the technology
for either analog or digital signals. A minimum signal strength of -95 dBm
27
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
shall be received by the King County Regional 800 MHz Emergency Radio
System when transmitted from within the building.
510.4.1.3 System performance. Signal strength shall be sufficient to
meet the requirements of the applications being utilized by public safety
for emergency operations through the coverage area as specified by the
radio system manager (Public Radio System Operator) in section 510.4.2.2.
510.4.2 System design. The emergency responder radio coverage
system shall be designed in accordance with Sections 510.4.2.1 through
510.4.2.8 and NFPA 1221.
510.4.2.1 Amplification systems and components. Buildings and
structures that cannot support the required level of radio coverage shall
be equipped with systems and components to enhance the public safety
radio signals and achieve the required level of radio coverage specified in
Sections 510.4.1 through 510.4.1.3. Public safety communications
enhancement systems utilizing radio -frequency -emitting devices and
cabling shall be allowed by the Public Safety Radio System Operator. Prior
to installation, all RF-emitting devices shall have the certification of the
radio licensing authority and be suitable for public safety use.
510.4.2.2 Technical criteria. The Public Safety Radio System Operator
shall provide the various frequencies required, the location of radio sites,
the effective radiated power of radio sites, the maximum propagation
delay in microseconds, the applications being used and other supporting
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
technical information necessary for system design upon request by the
building owner or owner's representative.
510.4.2.3 Power supply sources. Emergency responder radio coverage
systems shall be provided with dedicated standby batteries or provided
with two (2)-hour standby batteries and connected to the facility
generator power system in accordance with Section 1203. The standby
power supply shall be capable of operating the emergency responder radio
coverage system at one hundred percent (100%) system capacity for a
duration of not less than twelve (12) hours.
510.4.2.4 Signal booster requirements. If used, signal boosters shall
meet the following requirements:
1. All signal booster components shall be contained in a National
Electrical Manufacturer's Association (NEMA) 4, I1366-type waterproof
cabinet or equivalent.
Exception: Listed battery systems that are contained in
integrated battery cabinets.
2. Battery systems used for the emergency power source shall be
contained in a NEMA 3R or higher -rated cabinet, I1365-type waterproof
cabinet, or equivalent.
3. Equipment shall have Federal Communications Commission
(FCC) or other radio licensing authority certification and be suitable for
public safety use prior to installation.
29
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
4. Where a donor antenna exists, isolation shall be maintained
between the donor antenna and all inside antennas to not less than 20dB
greater than the system gain under all operating conditions.
5. Bi-Directional Amplifiers (BDAs) used in emergency responder
radio coverage systems shall be fitted with anti -oscillation circuitry and
per -channel AGC.
6. The installation of amplification systems or systems that operate
on or provide the means to cause interference on any emergency
responder radio coverage networks shall be coordinated and approved by
the Public Safety Radio System Operator.
7. Unless otherwise approved by the Public Safety Radio System
Operator, only channelized signal boosters shall be permitted.
Exception: Broadband BDAs may be utilized when specifically
authorized in writing by the Public Safety Radio System Operator
8. BDAs must also comply with PSERN's detailed requirements,
which include channelized, minimum, of twenty-eight (28) channels,
supporting analog, P25 Phase I (FDMA), and P25 Phase II (TDMA).
510.4.2.5 System monitoring. The emergency responder radio
enhancement system shall include automatic supervisory and trouble
signals that are monitored by a supervisory service and are annunciated by
the fire alarm system in accordance with NFPA 72. The following conditions
shall be separately annunciated by the fire alarm system, or, if the status
30
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
of each of the following conditions is individually displayed on a dedicated
panel on the radio enhancement system, a single automatic supervisory
signal may be annunciated on the fire alarm system indicating deficiencies
of the radio enhancement system:
1. Loss of normal AC power supply.
2. System battery charger(s) failure.
3. Malfunction of the donor antenna(s).
4. Failure of active RF-emitting device(s).
5. Low -battery capacity at seventy percent (70%) reduction of
operating capacity.
6. Active system component malfunction.
7. Malfunction of the communications link between the fire alarm
system and the emergency responder radio enhancement system.
510.4.2.6 Additional frequencies and change of frequencies. The
emergency responder radio coverage system shall be capable of
modification or expansion in the event frequency changes are required by
the FCC or other radio licensing authority, or additional frequencies are
made available by the FCC or other radio licensing authority.
510.4.2.7 Design documents. The fire code official shall have the
authority to require "as -built" design documents and specifications for
emergency responder communications coverage systems.
The documents shall be in a format acceptable to the Fire Code Official.
31
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
510.4.2.8 Radio communication antenna density. Systems shall be
engineered to minimize the near -far effect. Radio enhancement system
designs shall include sufficient antenna density to address reduced gain
conditions.
Exceptions:
1. Class A narrow band signal booster devices with independent
AGC/ALC circuits per channel.
2. Systems where all portable devices within the same band use
active power control.
510.5 Installation requirements. The installation of the public safety
radio coverage system shall be in accordance with NFPA 1221 and Sections
510.5.1 through 510.5.7.
510.5.1 Approval prior to installation. Amplification systems capable
of operating on frequencies licensed to any public safety agency by the FCC
or other radio licensing authority shall not be installed without prior
coordination and approval of the Public Safety Radio System Operator.
510.5.2 Minimum qualifications of personnel. The minimum
qualifications of the system designer and lead installation personnel shall
include both of the following:
1. A valid FCC -issued general radio telephone operator's license.
32
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
2. Certification of in -building system training issued by an approved
organization or approved school, or a certificate issued by the
manufacturer of the equipment being installed.
510.5.3 Acceptance test procedure. Where an emergency responder
radio coverage system is required, and upon completion of installation, the
building owner shall have the radio system tested to verify that two-way
coverage on each floor of the building is in accordance with Section
510.4.1. The test procedure shall be conducted as follows:
1. Each floor of the building shall be divided into a grid of twenty
(20) approximately equal test areas, with a maximum test area size of six
thousand four hundred square feet (6,400'). Where the floor area exceeds
one hundred twenty-eight thousand square feet (128,000'), the floor shall
be divided into as many approximately equal test areas as needed, such
that no test area exceeds the maximum square footage allowed for a test
area.
2. Coverage testing of signal strength shall be conducted using a
calibrated spectrum analyzer for each of the test grids. A diagram of this
testing shall be created for each floor where coverage is provided,
indicating the testing grid used for the test in Section 510.5.3(1), shall
include signal strengths and frequencies for each test area, and shall
indicate all critical areas.
33
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
3. Functional talk -back testing shall be conducted using two
calibrated portable radios of the latest brand and model used by the
agency's radio communications system or other equipment approved by
the Fire Code Official. Testing shall use Digital Audible Quality (DAQ)
metrics, where a passing result is a DAQ of 3 or higher. Communications
between handsets shall be tested and recorded in the grid square diagram
required by section 510.5.3(2): each grid square on each floor; between
each critical area and a radio outside the building; between each critical
area and the fire command center or fire alarm control panel; between
each landing in each stairwell; and the fire command center or fire alarm
control panel.
4. Failure of more than five percent (5%) of the test area on any
floor shall result in failure of the test.
Exception: Critical areas shall be provided with ninety-nine
percent (99%) floor area coverage.
5. In the event that two of the test areas fail the test, in order to be
more statistically accurate, the floor shall be permitted to be divided into
forty (40) equal test areas. Failure of not more than two (2) nonadjacent
test areas shall not result in failure of the test. If the system fails the forty
(40)-area test, the system shall be altered to meet the ninety-five percent
(95%) coverage requirement.
34
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
6. A test location approximately in the center of each test area shall
be selected for the test, with the radio enabled to verify two-way
communications to and from the outside of the building through the public
agency's radio communications system. Once the test location has been
selected, that location shall represent the entire test area. Failure in the
selected test location shall be considered to be a failure of that test area.
Additional test locations shall not be permitted.
7. The gain values of all amplifiers shall be measured and the test
measurement results shall be kept on file with the building owner so that
the measurements can be verified during annual tests. In the event that
the measurement results become lost, the building owner shall be
required to rerun the acceptance test to reestablish the gain values.
8. As part of the installation, a spectrum analyzer or other suitable
test equipment shall be utilized to ensure spurious oscillations are not
being generated by the subject signal booster. This test shall be conducted
at the time of installation and at subsequent annual inspections.
9. Systems incorporating Class B signal booster devices or Class B
broadband fiber remote devices shall be tested using two portable radios
simultaneously conducting subjective voice quality checks. One portable
radio shall be positioned not greater than ten feet (10') (3048 mm) from
the indoor antenna. The second portable radio shall be positioned at a
distance that represents the farthest distance from any indoor antenna.
35
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
With both portable radios simultaneously keyed up on different
frequencies within the same band, subjective audio testing shall be
conducted and comply with the DAQ levels as specified in Sections
510.4.1.1 and 510.4.1.2.
10. Documentation maintained on premises. At the conclusion of
the testing, and prior to issuance of the building Certificate of Occupancy,
the building owner or owner's representative shall place a copy of the
following records in the DAS enclosure or onsite at the building engineer's
office. The records shall be available to the Fire Code Official and
maintained by the building owner for the life of the system:
a. A certification letter stating that the emergency responder
radio coverage system has been installed and tested in accordance with
this code, and that the system is complete and fully functional.
510.5.3(2)
b. The grid square diagram created as part of testing in
c. Data sheets and/or manufacturer specifications for the
emergency responder radio coverage system equipment, back up battery,
and charging system (if utilized).
d. A diagram showing device locations and wiring schematic.
e. A copy of the electrical permit.
11. Acceptance test reporting to the Fire Code Official. At the
conclusion of the testing, and prior to the issuance of the building
36
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
Certificate of Occupancy, the building owner or owner's representative
shall submit to the Fire Code Official a report of the acceptance test.
510.5.4 FCC compliance. The emergency responder radio coverage
system installation and components shall comply with all applicable
federal regulations including, but not limited to, FCC 47 CFR Part 90.219.
510.5.5 Mounting of the donor antenna(s). To maintain proper
alignment with the system designed donor site, donor antennas shall be
permanently affixed on the highest possible position on the building or
where approved by the Fire Code Official. A clearly visible sign shall be
placed near the antenna stating "movement or repositioning of this
antenna is prohibited without approval from the Fire Code Official." The
antenna installation shall be in accordance with the applicable
requirements in the International Building Code for weather protection of
the building envelope.
510.5.6 Wiring. The backbone, antenna distribution, radiating, or any
fiber-optic cables shall be rated as plenum cables. The backbone cables
shall be connected to the antenna distribution, radiating, or copper cables
using hybrid coupler devices of a value determined by the overall design.
Backbone cables shall be routed through an enclosure that matches a
building's required fire -resistance rating for shafts or interior exit
stairways. The connection between the backbone cable and the antenna
cables shall be made within an enclosure that matches the building's fire
37
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
rating for shafts or interior exit stairways, and passage of the antenna
distribution cable in and out of the enclosure shall be protected as a
penetration pursuant to the International Building Code.
510.5.7 Identification signs. Emergency responder radio coverage
systems shall be identified by an approved sign located on or near the Fire
Alarm Control Panel or other approved location stating "This building is
equipped with an Emergency Responder Radio Coverage System" "Control
Equipment located in room "
A sign stating "Emergency Responder Radio Coverage System
Equipment" shall be placed on or adjacent to the door of the room
containing the main system components.
510.6 Maintenance. The emergency responder radio coverage system
shall be maintained operational at all times in accordance with Sections
510.6.1 through 510.6.7.
510.6.1 Testing and proof of compliance. The owner of the building or
owner's authorized agent shall have the emergency responder radio
coverage system inspected and tested annually or where structural
changes occur including additions or remodels that could materially
change the original field performance tests. Testing shall consist of the
following items (1) through (7):
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
1. In -building coverage test as required by the Fire Code Official as
described in Section 510.5.3 "Acceptance test procedure" or 510.6.1.1
"Alternative in -building coverage test."
Exception: Group R Occupancy annual testing is not required
within dwelling units.
2. Signal boosters shall be tested to verify that the gain/output
level is the same as it was upon initial installation and acceptance or set to
optimize the performance of the system.
3. Backup batteries and power supplies shall be tested under load
of a period of two (2) hours to verify that they will properly operate during
an actual power outage. If within the two(2)-hour test period the battery
exhibits symptoms of failure, the test shall be extended for additional one
(1)-hour periods until the integrity of the battery can be determined.
4. If a fire alarm system is present in the building, a test shall be
conducted to verify that the fire alarm system is properly supervising the
emergency responder communication system as required in Section
510.4.2.5. The test is performed by simulating alarms to the fire alarm
control panel. The certification in Section 510.5.2 is sufficient for the
personnel performing this testing.
5. Other active components shall be checked to verify operation
within the manufacturer's specifications.
39
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
6. At the conclusion of the testing, a report, which shall verify
compliance with Section 510.6.1, shall be submitted to the Fire Code
Official.
7. At the conclusion of the testing, a record of the inspection and
maintenance along with an updated grid diagram of each floor showing
tested strengths in each grid square and each critical area shall be added
to the documentation maintained on the premises in accordance with
Section 510.5.3.
510.6.1.1 Alternative in -building coverage test. When the
comprehensive acceptance test documentation required by Section
510.5.3(10) and most recent previous five (5)-year test results are
available, the in -building coverage test required by the Fire Code Official in
Section 510.1 and 510.2, may be conducted as follows:
1. Functional talk -back testing shall be conducted using a calibrated
portable radio of the latest brand and model used by the agency's radio
communications system or other equipment approved by the Fire Code
Official. Testing shall use Digital Audible Quality (DAQ) metrics, where a
passing result in a DAQ of 3 or higher. Communications between handsets
in the following locations shall be tested: between the fire command
center and a location outside the building, and between the fire alarm
control panel and each landing in each stairwell.
M
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
2. Coverage testing of signal strength shall be conducted using a
calibrated spectrum analyzer for:
(a) Three (3) grid areas per floor. The three (3) grid areas to be
tested on each floor are the three (3) grid areas with poorest performance
in the acceptance test or the most recent annual test, whichever is most
recent; and
(b) Each of the critical areas identified in acceptance test
documentation required by Section 510.5.3(10), or as modified by the Fire
Code Official; and
(c) One (1) grid square per serving antenna.
3. The test area boundaries shall not deviate from the areas
established at the time of the acceptance test, or as modified by the Fire
Code Official. The building shall be considered to have acceptable
emergency responder radio coverage when the required signal strength
requirements in 510.4.1.1 and 510.4.1.2 are located in ninety-five percent
(95%) of all areas on each floor of the building and ninety-nine percent
(99%) in critical areas, and any non-functional serving antenna are repaired
to function within normal ranges. If the documentation of the acceptance
test and most recent previous annual test results are not available or
acceptable to the Fire Code Official, the annual talk -back testing described
in 510.5.3 shall be conducted.
41
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
The alternative in -building coverage test provides and alternative
testing protocol for the in -building coverage test in subsection (1) of
section 510.6.1. There is no change or alternative to annual testing
requirements enumerated in subsections (2)-(7) of Section 510.6.1, which
shall be performed at the time of each annual test.
510.6.2 Additional frequencies. The building owner shall modify or
expand the emergency responder radio coverage system at his or her
expense in the event frequency changes are required by the FCC or other
radio licensing authority, or additional frequencies are made available by
the FCC Public Safety Radio System Operator or FCC license holder. Prior
approval of a public safety radio coverage system on previous frequencies
does not exempt this section.
510.6.3 Nonpublic safety system. Where other nonpublic safety
amplification systems installed in buildings reduce the performance or
cause interference with the emergency responder communications
Icoverage system, the nonpublic safety amplification systems shall be
corrected or removed.
510.6.4 Field testing. Fire Department personnel shall have the right
to enter onto the property at any reasonable time to conduct field testing
to verify the required level of radio coverage or to disable a system that
due to malfunction or poor maintenance has the potential to impact the
emergency responder radio system in the region.
42
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
510.7 Penalties. Any person violating any of the provisions of the
section shall be subject to penalties in accordance with the general penalty
provisions of RMC 1-3. In addition, any building or structure which does
not meet the requirements set forth in this code is hereby declared to be
a public nuisance, and the City may, in addition to seeking any other
appropriate legal remedy, pursue equitable remedies to abate said
nuisance in accordance with RMC 1-3.
510.8 Severability.If any subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or
portion of this section is for any reason held invalid or unconstitutional by
any court of competent jurisdiction, such portion shall be deemed a
separate, distinct, and independent provision and such holding shall not
affect the validity of the remaining portions hereof.
4645. Subsection 694 10 603.9, Portable, electric space heaters, is hereby
amended by adding a new subsection, to read as follows:
660410 G 603.9.6 Tip -Over Switch. All portable electric space heaters shall be
equipped with an automatic tip -over shut-off switch.
Exception: Approved listed liquid -filled portable heaters.
43
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
4-746. Section 6W 606, Commercial Kitchen He Cooking Equipment and
Systems, is amended to add a new subsection, to read as follows:
6975 606.5 Type II hoods. Type II hoods shall be installed at or above any
heating appliance utilized for the processing and preparation of smoking materials
or smoking related paraphernalia for personal consumption. Hoods shall comply
with the requirements of the International Mechanical Code. Only Listed,
approved heating appliances shall be used for the processing and preparation of
smoking materials and/or smoking paraphernalia. Heating appliances shall be
installed in an approved manner.
4647. Subsection 806.1.1, Restricted Occupancies, is hereby amended to read as
follows:
806.1.1 Restricted occupancies. Natural cut trees shall be prohibited within
ambulatory care facilities and Group A, E, 1-1, 1-2, 1-3, 1-4, M, R-1, R-2 providing
licensed care to clients in one of the categories listed in International Building
Code section 310.1 licensed by Washington State and R-4 occupancies.
Exceptions:
1. Trees located in areas protected by an approved automatic sprinkler
system installed in accordance with Subsections 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 shall not
be prohibited in Groups A, E, M, R-1 and R-2.
2. Trees treated with a flame retardant and renewed to maintain flame
resistance, subject to the approval of the Fire Code Official.
3. Trees shall be allowed within dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies.
M
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
4948. Chapter 8, Interior Finish Decorative Materials and Furnishings, is hereby
amended by adding a new section, to read as follows:
ATRIUM FURNISHINGS
Atrium furnishings shall comply with Subsections 809.1 and 809.2.
809.1 Potential heat. Potential heat of combustible furnishings and decorative
materials within atria shall not exceed nine thousand (9,000) BTU per pound
(20,934 J/g) when located within an area that is more than twenty feet (20') (6096
mm) below ceiling level sprinklers.
809.2 Decorative materials. Decorative material in atria shall be
noncombustible, flame resistant or treated with a flame retardant.
-A49. Subsection 901.5.1, Occupancy, is hereby amended to read as follows:
901.5.1 Occupancy. It shall be unlawful to occupy any portion of a building or
structure until the required fire detection, alarm, and suppression systems have
been tested and approved. All acceptance tests shall be witnessed by the Fire
Department prior to occupancy being granted.
450. Subsection 901.6, Inspection, testing and maintenance, is hereby
amended by adding new subsections, to read as follows:
901.6.4 Annual Certification Required. All sprinkler systems, fire alarm
systems, portable fire extinguishers, smoke removal systems, air replenishment
systems, and other fire protective or extinguishing systems shall be certified
annually by a qualified agency, except, hood fire extinguishing systems shall be
45
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
serviced every six (6) months. Documentation of such servicing shall be provided
as indicated in Subsection 901.6.
901.6.5 Annual Hazardous Systems Certification. All electronic monitoring
systems used in connection with flammable, combustible liquids and/or
hazardous materials shall be certified annually by a qualified agency.
Documentation of the system certifications shall be forwarded to the Fire
Department indicating each system has been tested and functions as required.
Q51. Subsection 903.2, Where required, is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2 Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new
buildings and structures shall be provided in the locations described in this
section.
All newly constructed buildings with a gross square footage of five thousand
(5,000) or greater square feet, regardless of type of use as well as zero lot line
townhouses with an aggregate area of all connected townhouses equaling five
thousand (5,000) or greater square feet must be equipped with sprinklers in
accordance with this code. Additions to existing buildings which would result in a
gross floor area greater than five thousand (5,000) square feet must be retrofitted
with an automatic sprinkler system.
Exceptions:
1.One-time additions to International Building Code Group R-3
occupancies of up to five hundred (500) square feet are permitted without
compliance with this section.
M
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
2. Single-family and duplex dwellings and townhouses built in compliance
with the International Residential Code and meeting fire flow and access
requirements of the City of Renton.
3. When not required by other provisions of this chapter, a fire -
extinguishing system installed in accordance with NFPA 13 may be used for
increases and substitutions allowed in Subsections 504.3, 506.2, and Table 601 of
the International Building Code.
4. All newly established building occupancy uses defined as Private
Smoking Clubs. Fire sprinklers shall be installed throughout the entire fire area
utilized for such occupancy, regardless of size of such occupancy.
5-352. Subsection 903.2.1.1, Group A-1, is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.1.1 Group A-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for
Group A-1 occupancies where one (1) of the following conditions exists:
1. The gross floor area exceeds five thousand (5,000) square feet;
2. The fire area has an occupant load of three hundred (300) or more;
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than the level of exit discharge
serving such occupancies; or
4. The fire area contains a multi -theater complex.
-453. Subsection 903.2.1.2, Group A-2, is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.1.2 Group A-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for
group A-2 occupancies where one (1) the following conditions exists:
1. The gross floor area exceeds five thousand (5,000) square feet;
47
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
2. The fire area has an occupant load of one hundred (100) or more; or
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than the level of exit discharge
serving such occupancies.
5&54. Subsection 903.2.1.3, Group A-3, is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.1.3 Group A-3. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for
Group A-3 occupancies where one (1) of the following conditions exists:
1. The gross floor area exceeds five thousand (5,000) square feet;
2. The fire area has an occupant load of three hundred (300) or more; or
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than the level of exit discharge
serving such occupancies.
6655. Subsection 903.2.1.4, Group A-4, is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.1.4 Group A-4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for
Group A-4 occupancies where one (1) of the following conditions exists:
1. The gross floor area exceeds five thousand (5,000) square feet;
2. The fire area has an occupant load of three hundred (300) or more; of
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than the level of exit discharge
serving such occupancies.
-W56. Subsection 903.2.1.5, Group A-5, is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.1.5 Group A-5. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for
Group A-5 occupancies in the following areas: concession stands, retail areas,
press boxes and other accessory use areas in excess of one thousand (1,000)
square feet.
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
"57. Subsection 903.2.3, Group E, is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.3 Group E. An approved automatic sprinkler system shall be provided
for Group E occupancies as follows:
1. Throughout all Group E fire areas greater than five thousand (5,000)
square feet in area.
2. The Group E fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit
discharge serving such occupancies.
Exception: In buildings where every classroom has not fewer than one (1)
exterior exit door at ground level, an automatic sprinkler system is not required in
any area below the lowest level of exit discharge serving that area.
3. The Group E fire area has an occupant load of three hundred (300) or
more.
-5958. Subsection 903.2.4, Group F-1, is hereby amended by changing the title to
"Group B, F, F-1, and S Occupancies," and to read as follows:
903.2.4 Group B, F, F-1, and S Occupancies. An automatic sprinkler system
shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group B, F, F-1, or S
occupancy with over five thousand (5,000) square feet of gross floor area.
903.2.4.1 Woodworking operations. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
provided throughout all group F-1 occupancy fire areas that contain woodworking
operations in excess of two thousand five hundred (2,500) square feet in area
which generate finely divided combustible waste or which use finely divided
combustible materials.
M
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
6059. Subsection 903.2.5, Group H, is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.5 Group H. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be provided in high -hazard
occupancies as required in Subsections 903.2.5.1 through 903.2.5.3.
903.2.5.1 General. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in Group H
occupancies.
903.2.5.2 Group H-5 occupancies. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
installed throughout buildings containing Group H-5 occupancies. The design of
the sprinkler system shall not be less than that required under the International
Building Code for the occupancy hazard classifications in accordance with Table
903.2.5.2. Where the design area of the sprinkler system consists of a corridor
protected by one (1) row of sprinklers, the maximum number of sprinklers
required to be calculated is thirteen (13).
GROUP H-5 SPRINKLER DESIGN CRITERIA
LOCATION
OCCUPANCY HAZARD
CLASSIFICATION
Fabrication areas
Ordinary Hazard Group 2
Service corridors
Ordinary Hazard Group 2
Storage rooms without
dispensing
Ordinary Hazard Group 2
Storage rooms with dispensing
Extra Hazard Group 2
50
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
TABLE 903.2.5.2
GROUP H-5 SPRINKLER DESIGN CRITERIA
LOCATION
OCCUPANCY HAZARD
CLASSIFICATION
Corridors
Ordinary Hazard Group 2
903.2.5.3 Pyroxylin plastics. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided
in buildings, or portions thereof, where cellulose nitrate film or pyroxylin plastics
are manufactured, stored or handled in quantities exceeding one hundred (100)
pounds.
b460. Subsection 903.2.6, Group I, is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.6 Group I. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout
buildings with a Group I fire area.
Exceptions:
1. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Subsection
903.3.1.2 shall be permitted in Group 1-1 condition 1 facilities.
2. An automatic sprinkler system is not required where Group 1-4 day care
facilities are at the level of exit discharge and where every room where care is
provided has at least one (1) exterior exit door.
3. In buildings where Group 1-4 day care is provided on levels other than
the level of exit discharge, an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with
Subsection 903.3.1.1 shall be installed on the entire floor where care is provided
51
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
and all floors between the level of care and the level of exit discharge, and all
floors below the level of exit discharge, other than areas classified as an open
parking garage.
Q61. Subsection 903.2.7, Group M, is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.7 Group M. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout
buildings containing a Group M occupancy where one (1) of the following
conditions exists:
feet.
grade.
1. Where a Group M gross floor area exceeds five thousand (5,000) square
2. Where a Group M fire area is located more than three (3) stories above
3. Where the combined area of all Group M fire areas on all floors,
including any mezzanines, exceeds five thousand (5,000) square feet.
4. Where a Group M occupancy that is used for the display and sale of
upholstered furniture and/or mattresses exceeds five thousand (5,000) square
feet.
6462. Subsection 903.2.8, Group R, is hereby amended by adding new
subsections, and to read as follows:
903.2.8 Group R. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with
Subsection 903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire
area.
52
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
903.2.8.1 Group R-3. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance
with Subsection 903.3.1.3 shall be permitted in Group R-3 occupancies.
903.2.8.2 Group R-4 Condition 1. An automatic sprinkler system installed in
accordance with Subsection 903.3.1.3 shall be permitted in Group R-4 Condition
1 occupancies.
903.2.8.3 Group R-4 Condition 2. An automatic sprinkler system installed in
accordance with Subsection 903.3.1.2 shall be permitted in Group R-4 Condition
2 occupancies.
903.2.8.4 Care facilities. An automatic sprinkler system installed in
accordance with Subsection 903.3.1.3 shall be permitted in care facilities with five
(5) or fewer individuals in a single-family dwelling.
903.2.8.5 Group R-3 Occupancy. When the occupancy has over five thousand
(5,000) square feet of gross floor area.
903.2.8.6 Dwellings. When proposed within all residential zones, clustered or
constructed so that, when attached, the total square foot gross floor area of all
dwelling units exceeds five thousand (5,000) square feet. For the purpose of this
subsection, portions of buildings separated by one (1) or more firewalls will not
be considered a separate building.
6463. Subsection 903.2.9, Group S-1, is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.2.9 Group S-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided
throughout all buildings containing a Group S-1 occupancy where one (1) of the
following conditions exists:
53
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
plane.
1. A Group S-1 fire area exceeds five thousand (5,000) square feet.
2. A Group S-1 fire area is located more than three (3) stories above grade
3. The combined area of all Group S-1 fire areas on all floors, including any
mezzanines, exceeds five thousand (5,000) square feet.
4. A Group S-1 fire area used for the storage of commercial motor vehicles
where the fire area exceeds five thousand (5,000) square feet.
5. A Group S-1 occupancy used for the storage of upholstered furniture or
mattresses exceeds two thousand five hundred (2,500) square feet (232 m2)
903.2.9.1 Repair garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided
throughout all buildings used as repair garages in accordance with Section 406 of
the International Building Code, as shown:
1. Buildings having two (2) or more stories above grade plane, including
basements, with a fire area containing a repair garage exceeding five thousand
(5,000) square feet.
2. Buildings no more than one (1) story above grade plane, with a fire area
containing a repair garage exceeding five thousand (5,000) square feet.
3. Buildings with repair garages servicing vehicles in basements.
4. A Group S-1 fire area used for the repair of commercial motor vehicles
where the fire area exceeds five thousand (5,000) square feet.
903.2.9.2 Bulk storage of tires. Buildings and structures where the area for
storage of tires exceeds twenty thousand (20,000) cubic feet shall be equipped
54
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Subsection
903.3.1.1.
6664. Subsection 903.2.10, Group S-2 o„�a parking garages, is hereby
amended to read as follows:
903.2.10 Group S-2 enclosed parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system
shall be provided throughout buildings classified as enclosed parking garages in
accordance with Subsection 406.4 of the International Building Code as follows:
1. Where the fire area of the enclosed parking garage exceeds five
thousand (5,000) square feet; or
2. Where the enclosed parking garage is located beneath other groups.
Exception: Enclosed parking garages located beneath Group R-3 occupancies
903.2.10.1 Commercial parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall
be provided throughout buildings used for storage of commercial motor vehicles
where the fire area exceeds five thousand (5,000) square feet.
6665. Subsection 903.2.11, Specific building areas and hazards, is hereby
amended to read as follows:
903.2.11 Specific building areas and hazards. In all occupancies other than
Group U, an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed for building design or
hazards in the locations set forth in Subsections 903.2.11.1 through 903.2.11.6.
903.2.11.1 Stories without openings. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
installed throughout all stories, including basements, of all buildings where the
55
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
floor area exceeds one thousand five hundred (1,500) square feet unless there is
at least one (1) of the following types of exterior wall openings:
1. Openings below grade that lead directly to ground level by an exterior
stairway complying with Section 1011 or an outside ramp complying with Section
1012. Openings shall be located on the exterior wall of the story on at least one
(1) side. The required openings shall be distributed so that the lineal distance
between adjacent openings does not exceed fifty feet (50').
2. Openings entirely above the adjoining ground level totaling at least
twenty (20) square feet in each fifty (50) linear feet, or fraction thereof, of exterior
wall in the story on at least one (1) side. The required openings shall be distributed
so that the lineal distance between adjacent openings does not exceed fifty feet
(50'). The height of the bottom of the clear opening shall not exceed forty-four
inches (44") (1,188 mm) measured from the floor.
903.2.11.1.1 Opening dimensions and access. Openings shall have a minimum
dimension of not less than thirty inches (30"). Such openings shall be accessible to
the Fire Department from the exterior and shall not be obstructed in a manner
that firefighting or rescue cannot be accomplished from the exterior.
903.2.11.1.2 Openings on one side only. Where openings in a story are
provided on only one (1) side and the opposite wall of such story is more than
seventy-five feet (75') from such openings, the story shall be equipped throughout
with an approved automatic sprinkler system or openings as specified above shall
be provided on at least two (2) sides of the story.
56
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
903.2.11.1.3 Basements. Where any portion of a basement is located more
than seventy-five feet (75') (22,860 mm) from openings required by Subsection
903.2.11.1, or where walls, partitions or other obstructions are installed that
restrict the application of water from hose streams, the basement shall be
equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
903.2.11.2 Rubbish and linen chutes. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
installed at the top of rubbish and linen chutes and in their terminal rooms. Chutes
shall have additional sprinkler heads installed at alternate floors and at the lowest
intake. Where a rubbish chute extends through a building more than one (1) floor
below the lowest intake, the extension shall have sprinklers installed that are
recessed from the drop area of the chute and protected from freezing in
accordance with Subsection 903.3.1.1. Such sprinklers shall be installed at
alternate floors beginning with the second level below the last intake and ending
with the floor above the discharge. Chute sprin lees `hall be accessible Access to
sprinklers in chutes shall be provided for servicing.
903.2.11.3 Buildings fifty-five feet (55') or more in height. An automatic
sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings that have one (1) or more
stories with an occupant load of thirty (30) or more located fifty-five feet (55') or
more above the lowest level of Fire Department vehicle access, measured to the
finished floor.
Exceptions:
57
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
2-. Occupancies in Group F-2.
903.2.11.4 Ducts conveying hazardous exhausts. Where required by the
International Mechanical Code, automatic sprinklers shall be provided in ducts
conveying hazardous exhaust, flammable or combustible materials.
Exception: Ducts where the largest cross -sectional diameter of the duct is less
than ten inches (10")
903.2.11.5 Commercial cooking operations. An automatic sprinkler system
shall be installed in a commercial kitchen exhaust hood and duct system where an
automatic sprinkler system is used to comply with Section 904.
903.2.11.6 Other required SUPPFessien fire protection systems. In addition to
the requirements of Subsection 903.2, the provisions indicated in Table 903.2.11.6
require the installation of a fire suppFess"OR protection system for certain
buildings and areas.
6766. Subsection 903.2.12, During construction, is hereby amended to read as
follows:
903.2.12 During construction. Automatic sprinkler systems required during
construction, alteration, and demolition operations shall be provided in
accordance with Section 3313.
6967. Subsection 903.2, Where required, is hereby amended by adding new
subsections, to read as follows:
903.2.13 Automatic Sprinkler Systems in New Buildings.
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
903.2.13.1 Buildings over five thousand (5,000) square feet. A fully automatic
fire protection sprinkler system is to be installed in all new buildings in excess of
five thousand (5,000) square feet total gross floor area, regardless of vertical or
horizontal fire barriers. Such sprinkler system shall be designed, installed and
tested as per Subsection 903.3.
903.2.13.2 Buildings less than five thousand (5,000) square feet. A fully
automatic fire protection sprinkler system may be required by the Fire Chief or
the Fire Code Official for buildings less than five thousand (5,000) square feet gross
floor area when, in their judgment, supported by written documentation from a
professional organization (such as NFPA, ICC, SBCC, U.L., ISO, etc.) verifies that
hazardous operations, hazardous contents, critical exposure problems, limited
accessibility to the building or other items may contribute to a definite hazard.
903.2.14 Sprinkler Systems in Remodeled Buildings. The requirements for the
installation of fire protection sprinkler systems in remodeled buildings shall be as
indicated in Subsections 903.2.14.1 and 903.2.14.2.
903.2.14.1 Existing sprinklered buildings. When existing buildings with full
sprinkler systems are remodeled or added onto, the remodeled or added on
portion shall be fully sprinklered.
903.2.14.2 Existing non-sprinklered buildings. When an existing building is
added onto or remodeled and the resulting total square foot gross floor area
exceeds five thousand (5,000) square feet, then the entire structure shall be fully
sprinklered. All existing non-sprinklered buildings currently exceeding five
59
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
thousand (5,000) square feet where a remodel, alteration or repair exceeds fifty
percent (50%) of the building valuation within a three (3) year period shall have a
sprinkler system installed throughout. Valuation shall be determined from the
King County Assessor records at the time of the first application for a permit.
6968. Subsection 903.3.1.2, NFPA 13R sprinkler systems, is hereby amended to
read as follows:
903.3.1.2 NFPA 13R sprinkler systems. Automatic sprinkler systems in Group
R occupancies up to and including four (4) stories in height shall be permitted to
be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13R. NFPA 13R systems shall be
limited to buildings with a maximum gross floor area of twelve thousand (12,000)
square feet.
-7069. Subsection 903.4.2, Alarms, is hereby amended to read as follows:
903.4.2 Alarms. Approved audible and visible alarm notification appliances
shall be connected to every automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section
907 and throughout areas designated by the Fire Code Official. Sprinkler water -
flow alarm devices shall be activated by water flow equivalent to the flow of a
single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Alarm devices
shall be provided on the exterior of the building in an approved location. Where a
fire alarm system is installed, actuation of the automatic sprinkler system shall
actuate the building fire alarm system.
Exceptions:
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
1. With approval of the Fire Code Official, visible alarm notification
appliances may be omitted for approved residential sprinkler systems in single-
family or duplex dwelling units if not otherwise specifically required. Audible
alarm notification shall be provided and accomplished by connecting the
waterflow alarm initiating device to the multiple -station alarms, household fire
alarm system or other approved methods.
2. Alarms are not required for approved domestically supplied local
systems with ten (10) heads or less per building.
7470. Subsection 903.4.3, Floor Control Valves, is hereby amended to read as
follows:
903.4.3 Floor Control Valves. Approved supervised indicating control valves
shall be provided at the point of connection to the riser on each floor.
Exception: When approved by the Fire Code Official in NFPA 13D and NFPA
13R Systems.
7471. Section 903, Automatic Sprinkler Systems, is hereby amended by adding a
new subsection, to read as follows:
903.7 Riser Room Access. All NFPA 13, 13R, and any 13D systems serving five
(5) or more dwelling units, sprinkler system risers shall be located in a dedicated
room with an exterior door, lighting and heat.
Exception: 13D single and two (2)-family residences or townhome sprinkler
systems with four (4) units or less.
61
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
-7372. Subsection Q04 it 904.13, Commercial cooking systems, is hereby
amended to read as follows:
904 12 904.13 Commercial cooking systems. The automatic fire -
extinguishing system for commercial cooking systems shall be of a type
recognized for protection of commercial cooking equipment and exhaust
systems of the type and arrangement protected. Pre-engineered
automatic dry- and wet -chemical extinguishing systems shall be tested in
accordance with UL 300 and listed and labeled for the intended
application. Existing suppression systems not in compliance shall be
replaced with a conforming system whenever any of the following occurs:
• Any modifications are made to the structure of the kitchen hood.
• Rearrangement of appliances under the hood requires change in
nozzle placement.
• Any additional cooking appliances are added to the cook line.
• The system can no longer be serviced due to the lack of available
manufacturer's listed parts.
• Lard or animal fats are replaced with one (1) or more cooking
material used for frying that operates at higher temperatures than the
suppression system was designed and tested for in the UL listing.
If the manufacturer's original listing was conducted using animal fats,
the business owner shall provide a letter to the Fire Department certifying
that the cooking system will only be used with animal fats. A sign with
62
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
three inches (3") high letters stating "Animal Fat Oils Only" shall be
installed on the front of the hood.
Existing wet -chemical systems that are not in compliance with current
UL 300 Standards shall be updated. Wet -chemical systems that were
located within the City on August 25, 2008, were required to be updated
to UL 300 Standards by no later than August 25, 2010. All existing wet -
chemical systems that were legally installed prior to annexation into City
boundaries are required to be updated within two (2) years from the
effective date of the annexation that brought the systems within the
boundaries of the City.
Other types of automatic fire -extinguishing systems shall be listed and
labeled for specific use as protection for commercial cooking operations.
The system shall be installed in accordance with this code, its listing and
the manufacturer's installation instructions. Automatic fire -extinguishing
systems of the following types shall be installed in accordance with the
referenced standard indicated, as follows:
1. Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems, NFPA 12.
2. Automatic sprinkler systems, NFPA 13.
3. Foam -water sprinkler system or foam -water spray systems,
NFPA 16.
4. Dry -chemical extinguishing systems, NFPA 17.
5. Wet -chemical extinguishing systems, NFPA 17A.
63
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
-7473. Subsection 994 12 5% 904.13.5, Operations and maintenance, of the
International Fire Code, 2018 2021 Edition, is hereby amended to add a new subsection
to read as follows:
904 1:2 ra 4 904.13.5.4 Commercial Cooking Hood Suppression System
Contractor.
954:1�.5.4= 904.13.5.4.1 "Commercial Cooking Hood Suppression
System Contractor" Definition. A person or organization that offers to
undertake the execution of contracts or accepts payment for the
inspection, maintenance, or servicing of a commercial cooking hood
suppression system.
994.12%.=904.13.5.4.2 Penalty for Violation. It shall be unlawful for
any person or organization to perform an inspection, maintenance, or
servicing of a commercial cooking hood suppression system contractor
without a valid permit. A violation of this subsection is a misdemeanor,
punishable in accordance with RMC 1-3-1. Each separate instance where
an inspection, maintenance or service was provided constitutes a separate
violation.
-7474. Subsection 905.3.1, Height, is hereby amended to read as follows:
905.3.1 Height. Class III standpipe systems shall be installed
throughout buildings where the floor level of the highest story is located
more than twenty feet (20') above the lowest level of the Fire Department
vehicle access, or where the floor level of the lowest story is located more
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
than twenty feet (20') below the highest level of Fire Department vehicle
access.
Exceptions:
1. Class I standpipes are allowed in buildings equipped throughout
with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Subsection
903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
2. Class I manual standpipes are allowed in open parking garages
where the highest floor is located not more than one hundred fifty feet
(150') above the lowest level of Fire Department vehicle access.
3. Class I manual dry standpipes are allowed in open parking
garages that are subject to freezing temperatures, provided that the hose
connections are located as required for Class II standpipes in accordance
with Subsection 905.5.
4. Class I standpipes are allowed in basements equipped
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.
5. Group R-3 does not require standpipes.
-7675. Subsection 905.3, Required installations, is hereby amended by adding a
new subsection, to read as follows:
905.3.9 High -Rise Building Standpipes. Standpipe risers shall be
combination standpipe/sprinkler risers using a minimum pipe size of six
inches (6") diameter. Two (2) two and one-half inches (2-1/2") hose
connections shall be provided on every intermediate floor level landing in
65
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
every required stairway unless otherwise approved by the Fire Code
Official. Where pressure reduction valves (PRV) are required, each hose
connection shall be provided with its own PRV. The system shall be
designed to provide a minimum flow of three hundred (300) gpm at a
minimum pressure of one hundred fifty (150) psi (maximum two hundred
(200) psi) at each standpipe connection, in addition to the flow and
pressure requirements contained in NFPA 14.
-7476. Subsection 905.8, Dry standpipes, is hereby amended to read as follows:
905.8 Dry standpipes. Dry standpipes, when approved bythe Fire Code
Official, are acceptable in other than high-rise buildings.
-7977. Subsection 907.1.3, Equipment, is hereby amended to read as follows:
907.1.3 Equipment. Systems and their components shall be listed and
approved for the purpose for which they are installed. All new alarm
systems shall be addressable. Each device shall have its own address and
shall annunciate individual addresses at a UL Central Station.
Exception: Systems that have not more than twelve (12) zones and not
more than five (5) devices on each zone.
7478. Subsection 907.2.2, Group B, is hereby amended to read as follows:
907.2.2 Group B. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed in the
following Group B Occupancies:
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
1. Those having an occupant load of five hundred (500) or more
persons or more than one hundred (100) persons above or below the
lowest level of exit discharge.
2. Those that are two (2) or more stories in height or three
thousand (3,000) square feet or more in area.
3. The fire area contains an ambulatory care facility.
Exception: Deleted.
9079. Subsection 907.2.3, Group E, is hereby amended by deleting Exception
Number 3.
9180. Subsection 907.2.4, Group F, is hereby amended by deleting the exception.
9-281. Subsection 907.2.7, Group M, is hereby amended by deleting Exceptions
Number 1 and 2.
8382. Subsection 907.2.8.1, Manual Fire Alarm System, is hereby amended by
deleting Exceptions 1 and 2.
9483. Subsection 907.2.9, Group R-2, is hereby amended by adding a new
subsection, to read as follows:
907.2.9.4 Multi -family complexes. Multi -family complexes with three
(3) or more separate buildings within the complex, including recreation
and/or day-care buildings, shall be provided with approved fire alarm
systems regardless of size. The buildings within the complex shall have
each building monitored by an approved central station.
67
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
8584. Subsection 907.2, Where required — New buildings and structures, is
hereby amended by adding a new subsection, to read as follows:
907.2.24 Structures in excess of three thousand (3,000) Square
Feet. An approved total coverage addressable manual and automatic fire
alarm system shall be provided in accordance with NFPA Standard 72 in all
structures in excess of three thousand (3,000) square feet of total floor
area.
Exception:
For the purpose of Section 907, fire walls constructed in accordance with
Chapter 7 of the IBC, in Group R-3 and U occupancies, shall not define
separate buildings
9685. Subsection °^� 907.8.4. Inspection, Testing and Maintenance, is
hereby amended by adding a new subsection, to read as follows:
o^�= 907.8.4.1 Nonconforming alarm systems. In the event that
an alarm system does not meet these requirements, it shall be a further
requirement of this chapter that modifications necessary to meet these
minimum levels are made to the alarm system and subsequent testing is
conducted prior to any occupancy being granted.
9-786. Subsection 914.3, High-rise buildings, is hereby amended to read as
follows:
914.3 High-rise buildings. High-rise buildings shall comply with
Subsections 914.3.1 through 914.3.9.
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
9987. Subsection 914.3, High-rise buildings, is hereby amended by adding new
subsections, to read as follows:
914.3.8 Air replenishment systems. All high-rise buildings shall be
equipped with an approved rescue air replenishment system. The system
shall provide an adequate pressurized fresh air supply through a
permanent piping system for the replenishment of portable life sustaining
air equipment carried by Fire Department, rescue and other personnel in
the performance of their duties. Location of access stations, as well as
installation and maintenance of the air replenishment systems, shall meet
the requirements as determined by the Fire Code Official. A specifications
document for the construction of air replenishing systems that conforms
to the breathing equipment used by the Fire Department will be made
available by the Fire Code Official.
914.3.9 Fire equipment. A cabinet or other enclosed facility shall be
provided in every stairwell, smoke tower or such similar structure on
designated floors, commencing with the third floor, seventh floor and
every fourth floor above the seventh floor for the storage of fire hose and
related equipment. Facilities, cabinets, devices, hoses and related
equipment shall be furnished by the building owner. All such equipment
and the specific location thereof shall be subject to the approval of the Fire
Code Official. These rooms will be inspected annually by the Fire
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
Department and equipment replaced by the building owner or his/her
representative at the appropriate service life.
9988. Subsection 1103.7.6, Group R-2, is hereby amended to read as follows:
1103.7.6 Group R-2. A manual and automatic fire alarm system that
activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Subsection
907.6 907.5 shall be installed in existing Group R-2 occupancies more than
three (3) stories in height or with more than sixteen (16) dwelling or
sleeping units.
Exceptions:
1. Where each living unit is separated from other contiguous living
units by fire barriers having a fire -resistance rating of not less than twee
quarters (0.75) of aR 3 4 hour, and where each living unit has either its
own independent exit or its own independent stairway or ramp
discharging at grade.
2. A separate fire alarm system is not required in buildings that are
equipped throughout with an approved supervised automatic sprinkler
system installed in accordance with Subsection 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and
having a local alarm to notify all occupants.
3. A fire alarm system is not required in buildings that do not have
interior corridors serving dwelling units and are protected by an approved
automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Subsection
903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, provided that dwelling units either have a means of
70
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
egress door opening directly to an exterior exit access that leads directly
to the exits or are served by open-ended corridors designed in accordance
with Subsection 1027.6, Exception 3.
4. A fire alarm system is not required in buildings that do not have
interior corridors serving dwelling units, do not exceed three (3) stories in
height and comply with both of the following:
4.1 Each dwelling unit is separated from other contiguous
dwelling units by fire barriers having a fire -resistance rating of not less than
three-quarters (3/4) of an hour.
4.2 Each dwelling unit is provided with "amid,
Y.+ FGG....,,ete d smoke alarms as require- fAGIP P. A0 GE)TStF61cti9TR1R
Sin comolviniz with the reauirements of Section 907.2.11.
71
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
89. Subsection 1207.1.6, Fire remediation, is hereby amended by adding
a new subsection, to read as follows:
1207.1.6.3 Authorization to bill for fire suppression related to energy
storage. The Renton Regional Fire Authority is authorized to bill the
operator and/or their insurance for fire suppression and hazardous
materials response calls after the response has exceeded 4 hours in
duration for all associated fire suppression and/or hazardous materials
response costs, including personnel, equipment usage, and replacement
contaminated equipment of the incident. Personnel and equipment
replacement costs shall be based on actual costs: Eauipment costs shall be
based on the Washington State Fire Chiefs published wage and equipment
rates in place at the time.
4190. Section 3317 3318, Safeguarding roofing operations, is hereby
amended to read as follows:
3317 1 3318.1 General. Roofing operations utilizing heat -producing
systems or other ignition sources shall be conducted in accordance with
Subsections 3317.2 3318.2 through 3317.4 3318.4 and Chapter 35.
33172 3318.2 Asphalt and tar kettles. Asphalt and tar kettles shall be
operated in accordance with Section 303.
72
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
3R17 R 3318.3 Fire extinguishers for roofing operations. Fire
extinguishers shall comply with Section 906. There shall be not less than
one (1) multipurpose portable fire extinguisher with a minimum 3-A 40B:C
rating on the roof being covered or repaired.
3217 4 3318.4 Fire Safety. The roofing contractor shall notify the Fire
Department before leaving the site of torch -applied roofing system and
report each day's completion and the presence of any hot spots or fires
that were suppressed during the roofing process.
9-291. Subsection 5001.5, Permits, is hereby amended to read as follows:
5001.5 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Subsections
105.6 and 105.7.
When required by the Fire Code Official, permittees shall apply for
approval to permanently close a storage, use, or handling facility. Such
application shall be submitted at least thirty (30) days prior to the
termination of the storage, use, or handling of hazardous materials. The
Fire Code Official is authorized to require that the application be
accompanied by an approved facility closure plan in accordance with
Subsection 5001.6.3.
All new installations and/or modifications or additions to existing
systems shall require plan review and permit fees as stipulated in the City
of Renton Fee Schedule.
73
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
9392. Subsection 5003.2.6, Maintenance, is hereby amended to read as
follows:
5003.2.6 Maintenance. In addition to the requirements of Subsection
5003.2.3, equipment, machinery, and required detection and alarm
systems associated with hazardous materials shall be maintained in an
operable condition. Defective containers, cylinders and tanks shall be
removed from service, repaired or disposed of in an approved manner.
Defective equipment or machinery shall be removed from service and
repaired or replaced. Required detection and alarm systems shall be
replaced or repaired where defective. All monitoring systems used in
connection with hazardous materials shall be certified at least annually by
a qualified agency. Documentation of the system certification shall be
forwarded to the Fire Department indicating the system has been tested
and functions as required.
9493. Subsection 5003.9, General Safety Precautions, is hereby amended
to read as follows:
5003.9 General Safety Precautions. General precautions for the safe
storage, handling or care of hazardous materials shall be in accordance
with Subsections 5003.9.1 through 5003.9.11.
4594. Subsection 5003.9, General Safety Precautions, is hereby amended
to add a new subsection, to read as follows:
74
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
5003.9.11 Manufacturer's limitations. The storage and use of
hazardous materials shall not exceed the manufacturer's limitations on
shelf life and any other restrictions on use.
9695. Subsection 5303.5.3, Securing Compressed Gas Containers,
Cylinders and Tanks, is hereby amended to read as follows:
5303.5.3 Securing compressed gas containers, cylinders and
tanks. Compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks shall be secured to
prevent falling caused by contact, vibration or seismic activity. Securing of
compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks shall be by one (1) of the
following methods:
1. Securing containers, cylinders and tanks to a fixed object with
one (1) or more restraints. Restraints shall be constructed of approved
materials such as metal chains, metal cables or other materials as
approved by the Fire Code Official.
2. Securing containers, cylinders and tanks on a cart or other
mobile device designed for the movement of compressed gas containers,
cylinders or tanks.
3. Nesting of compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks at
container filling or servicing facilities or in seller's warehouses not
aG. G.es Is.;2 open to the public. Nesting shall be allowed provided the nested
containers, cylinders or tanks, if dislodged, do not obstruct the required
means of egress.
75
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
4. Securing of compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks to or
within a rack, framework, cabinet or similar assembly designed for such
a1-P-M
Exception: Compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks in the
process of examination, filling, transport or servicing.
0-796. Subsection 5601.1, Scope, is hereby amended to read as follows:
5601.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the
possession, manufacture, storage, handling, sale and use of explosives,
explosive materials, fireworks and small arms ammunition. The indoor use
of pyrotechnics in the performing arts in conjunction with theatrical,
musical, or similar productions before a proximate audience, performers,
or support personnel is hereby prohibited.
Exceptions:
Guard.
1. The Armed Forces of the United States, Coast Guard, or National
2. Explosives in forms prescribed by the official United States
Pharmacopeia.
3. The possession, storage and use of small arms ammunition when
packaged in accordance with DOTn packaging requirements.
4. The possession, storage, and use of not more than one (1) pound
(0.454 kg) of commercially manufactured sporting black powder, twenty
(20) pounds (9 kg) of smokeless powder and ten thousand (10,000) small
76
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
arms primers for hand loading of small arms ammunition for personal
consumption.
5. The use of explosive materials by federal, state, and local
regulatory, law enforcement and fire agencies acting in their official
capacities.
6. Special industrial explosive devices which in the aggregate
contain less than fifty (50) pounds (23 kg) of explosive materials.
7. The possession, storage and use of blank industrial -power load
cartridges when packaged in accordance with DOTn packaging regulations.
8. Transportation in accordance with DOTn 49 CFR Parts 100-185.
9. Items preempted by federal regulations.
9997. Subsection 5601.1.3, Fireworks, is hereby amended to read as
follows:
5601.1.3 Fireworks. The knowing possession, sale, and/or discharge of
all fireworks are prohibited in the City of Renton, as of May 21, 2005.
Exceptions:
Possession, storage, and discharge of fireworks may be authorized by
the Fire Code Official or City Council for special events or public displays
pursuant to an operational fire code permit or other applicable permit
issued in compliance with the Renton Municipal Code and other applicable
laws, including but not limited to Part VI and Part VII of Chapter 212-
17 WAC, as now or hereafter amended.
77
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
9098. Subsection 5601.2.4.2, Fireworks display, is hereby amended by
changing the title to "Public Display; Insurance Required," adding a new
subsection, and amending to read as follows:
5601.2.4.2 Public Display; Insurance Required. Any applicant shall, at
the time of issuance of such license, submit to the City proper evidence of
public or commercial general liability and property damage insurance and
such applicant shall maintain the insurance in a company or companies
approved by the City with amounts as follows: One million dollars
($1,000,000.00) or more for injuries to any one (1) person in one (1)
accident or occurrence; two million dollars ($2,000,000.00) or more for
injuries to two (2) or more persons in any one (1) accident or occurrence;
one million dollars ($1,000,000.00) for damage to property in any one (1)
accident or occurrence. Such insurance shall not be cancelable except by a
forty-five (45) day pre -cancellation notice in writing to the City. Further,
the insurance required herein shall be primary insurance as respects the
City. Any insurance, self-insurance, or insurance pool coverage maintained
by the City shall be in excess of the insurance required herein and shall not
contribute with it. The City of Renton will be named as an Additional
Insured on a non-contributory primary basis on the liability policy.
Renton's insurance policies shall not be a source for payment of any
liability.
W
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
5601.2.4.2.1 Pyrotechnic Operator Required. Every City -authorized
display of fireworks shall be handled and supervised by a state licensed
pyrotechnic operator.
44099. Subsection 5601.7, Seizure, is hereby amended by adding new
subsections, changing the title to "Seizure/Penalty," and to read as follows:
5601.7 Seizure/Penalty. The City of Renton may employ any of the
following procedures to effectuate the seizure and forfeiture of fireworks
declared unlawful under this Section.
5601.7.1 Seizure. The Fire Code Official is authorized to remove or
cause to be removed or disposed of in an approved manner, at the expense
of the owner, explosives, explosive materials or fireworks offered or
exposed for sale, stored, possessed, or used in violation of this Section.
5601.7.1.1 Commencement Of Proceedings. In the event that
fireworks are seized by the City or Fire Department, and the owner or
person from whom the fireworks were seized or any other person claiming
ownership or a right to possess the fireworks, then proceedings for
forfeiture shall be deemed commenced by the seizure. Within fifteen (15)
days following the seizure, the City or Fire Department shall cause notice
to be served on the owner of the fireworks seized, the person in charge
thereof, and any person having any known right or interest therein,
including any community property interest, of the seizure and intended
forfeiture of the fireworks. The notice of seizure may be served by any
79
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
method authorized by law or court rule including but not limited to service
by certified mail with return receipt requested. Service by mail shall be
deemed complete upon mailing to the last known address within the
fifteen (15) day period.
5601.7.1.2 Forfeiture. If no person notifies the City or Fire Department
in writing of the person's claim of ownership or right to possession of the
fireworks within forty-five (45) days from the date notice is served, the
item seized shall be deemed forfeited.
5601.7.1.3 Claim of Ownership.
5601.7.1.3.1If any person notifies the City or Fire Department in
writing of the person's claim of ownership or right to possession of the
fireworks within thirty (30) days, the person or persons shall be afforded a
reasonable opportunity to be heard as to the claim or right.
5601.7.1.3.2 If the person claiming ownership or right to possess the
fireworks is charged with a criminal offense arising out of the same
incident from which the fireworks were seized, the hearing shall be held
immediately following the disposition of the criminal matter. In all other
cases, the hearing shall be before the Hearing Examiner of the City. A
hearing before the Hearing Examiner and any appeal therefrom shall be
under title 34 RCW.
5601.7.1.3.3 The burden of producing evidence shall be upon the
person claiming to be the lawful owner or the person claiming to have the
:M
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
lawful right to possession of the fireworks. The City or Fire Department
shall promptly return the fireworks to the claimant upon a determination
by the Hearing Examiner that the claimant is lawfully entitled to possession
by a preponderance of the evidence, and as soon as the fireworks are no
longer needed as evidence.
5601.7.1.4 Hold as Evidence. Nothing in this Section shall affect the
City or Fire Department's authority to hold any fireworks as evidence for
any criminal investigation, prosecution, or appeal.
5601.7.2 Penalty. Any violation of this section related to fireworks
classified as "consumer" by RCW 70.77.136, as now or hereinafter
amended, shall be punishable as a class 1 civil infraction under
RCW 7.80.120. Knowing possession, sale, or discharge of fireworks not
classified as "consumer" shall be subject to such fines and penalties as set
forth in RCW 70.77.488, 70.77.540, and Chapter 212-17 WAC.
441100. Subsection 5704.2.11, Underground Tanks, is hereby amended
to read as follows:
5704.2.11 Underground Tanks. Underground storage of flammable
and combustible liquids in tanks shall comply with Subsection 5704.2 and
Subsections 5704.2.11.1 through 5704.2.11.2. Corrosion protection shall
comply with WAC 173-360A.
All new underground storage tanks shall conform to the standards as
defined in RMC 4-5-120, Underground Storage Tank Secondary
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
Containment Regulations. All provisions of RMC 4-5-120 shall apply to the
installation, use, maintenance, and abandonment of underground storage
tanks. All unauthorized releases from underground storage tanks shall be
reported in conformance with RMC 4-5-120.K, Release Reporting
Requirements. Leaking tanks shall be promptly emptied and removed from
the ground and abandoned in accordance with Subsection 5704.2.14. All
new above -ground and underground tank installations and modifications
or additions to existing systems shall be subject to plan review and
installation fees as described in the City of Renton Fee Schedule.
442101. Subsection 5704.2.11.4, Leak prevention, is hereby amended by
adding a new subsection, to read as follows:
5704.2.11.4.3 Leak Detection System Maintenance and
Certification. Leak detection devices and monitoring systems installed in
accordance with this subsection shall be inspected and tested at least
annually by a qualified third party, and the test results maintained on site
for at least one (1) year.
444102. Section 5707, On -Demand Mobile Fueling Operations, of the
International Fire Code, 2018 2021 Edition, is hereby not adopted.
4-94103. Appendix B104.2, Area separation, of the International Fire
Code, 2019 2021 Edition, is hereby adopted and amended to read as follows:
Appendix B104.2 Area separation. Portions of buildings, which are
separated by one (1) or more four (4) hour firewalls constructed in
AN
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
accordance with the International Building Code, without openings, and
provided with a thirty -inch (30") parapet, are allowed to be considered as
separate fire areas.
495104. Appendix B105, Fire -Flow Requirements For Buildings, of the
International Fire Code, 2018 2021 Edition, is hereby adopted and amended to
read as follows:
SECTION B105
FIRE -FLOW REQUIREMENTS FOR BUILDINGS
B105.1 One- and two-family dwellings. The minimum fire -flow and
flow duration requirements for one (1)- and two (2)-family dwellings
having a fire -flow calculation area that does not exceed three thousand six
hundred (3,600) square feet (344.5 m2) shall be one thousand (1,000)
gallons per minute (3785.4 L/min) for one (1) hour. Fire -flow and flow
duration for dwellings having a fire -flow calculation area in excess of three
thousand six hundred (3,600) square feet (344.5mz) shall not be less than
that specified in Table B105.1(2).
Exception: A reduction in required fire -flow of fifty percent (50%), as
approved, is allowed when the building is equipped with an approved
automatic sprinkler system.
B105.2 Buildings other than one (1)- and two (2)-family
dwellings. The minimum fire -flow and flow duration for buildings other
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
than one (1)- and two (2)-family dwellings shall be as specified in Table
B105.1(2).
Exception: A reduction in required fire -flow of up to fifty percent
(50%), as approved, is allowed when the building is provided with an
approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with
Subsections 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. The resulting fire -flow shall not be less
than one thousand five hundred (1,500) gallons per minute (5678 L/min)
for the prescribed duration as specified in Table B105.1(2).
SECTION III. Upon approval of the City Attorney, the City Clerk is authorized to direct the
codifier to make necessary corrections to this ordinance, including the corrections of scriveners
or clerical errors; references to other local, state, or federal laws, codes, rules, or regulations; or
ordinance numbering and section/subsection numbering and references. The City Clerk is further
authorized to direct the codifier to update any chapter, section, or subsection titles in the Renton
Municipal Code affected by this ordinance.
SECTION IV. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of this ordinance
should be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, such
invalidity or unconstitutionality thereof shall not affect the constitutionality of any other section,
subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of this ordinance.
SECTION V. A summary of this ordinance shall be published in the City's official newspaper.
The summary shall consist of this ordinance's title.
SECTION VI. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect on January 1, 2025.
ORDINANCE NO. 6155
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL the 2nd day of December 2024.
APPROVED BY THE MAYOR this 2nd day of December ?rna
Approved as to form:
Shane Moloney, City Attorney
Date of Publication: 12/5/2024 (Summary)
O R D-C E D:24O R D008:11/8/2024
ason A. Se , City Clerk
OF
JL
* SEAL
oP,PoRA7808tet :
85