HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOW 2023-04-24 Item 4B - Ordinance - Fire Code ChangesITEM INFORMATION
STAFF SPONSOR: JON NAPIER ORIGINAL AGENDA DATE: 4/24/23
AGENDA ITEM TITLE An ordinance adopting Fire Code Changes
CATEGORY Discussion Motion Resolution Ordinance Bid Award Public Hearing Other
Mtg Date 4/24/23 Mtg Date Mtg Date Mtg Date 5/1/23 Mtg Date Mtg Date Mtg Date
SPONSOR Council Mayor Admin Svcs DCD Finance Fire P&R Police PW
SPONSOR’S
SUMMARY RCW 19.27.031 requires the City to enforce the state adopted building codes including the
International Fire Code effective July 1st. RCW 19.27.040 authorizes cities to locally amend
the state building codes. This ordinance provides local amendments to support the
administration of the code, development activities, and fire department operations. These
regulations will align the City's regulations with other Puget Sound Fire agencies. The
Council is being asked to consider and approve the ordinance.
REVIEWED BY Trans&Infrastructure Svcs Community Svcs/Safety Finance & Governance Planning & Community Dev.
LTAC Arts Comm. Parks Comm. Planning Comm.
DATE: 4/17/23 COMMITTEE CHAIR: HOUGARDY
RECOMMENDATIONS:
SPONSOR/ADMIN. Fire
COMMITTEE Unanimous Approval; Forward to Committee of the Whole
COST IMPACT / FUND SOURCE
EXPENDITURE REQUIRED AMOUNT BUDGETED APPROPRIATION REQUIRED
$ $ $
Fund Source:
Comments:
MTG. DATE RECORD OF COUNCIL ACTION
4/24/23
5/1/23
MTG. DATE ATTACHMENTS
4/24/23 Informational Memorandum dated 4/11/2023
Ordinance in Draft Form
4/17 Planning and Community Development Committee minutes
5/1/23 Final ordinance
COUNCIL AGENDA SYNOPSIS
----------------------------------Initials --------------------------------- ITEM NO.
Meeting Date Prepared by Mayor’s review Council review
4/24/23 JN
5/1/23 JN 4.B.
33
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City of Tukwila
Allan Ekberg, Mayor
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
TO: Planning and Community Development Committee
FROM: Brian Carson, Fire Chief
BY: Jon Napier, Division Chief/Fire Marshal
CC: Mayor Ekberg
Nora Gierloff, AICP, Community Development Director
Jerry Hight, MCP, Building Official
DATE: April 11, 2023
SUBJECT: An Ordinance Adopting Fire Code Changes
ISSUE
Effective July 1st, 2023 the City will be required to enforce the 2021 state building codes,
including the International Fire Code. Tukwila Municipal Code Chapter 16.16 needs to be
updated to address the changes to Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Chapter 51-54A,
restructured for better readability, alignment with regional development standards, and support
Puget Sound Fire operations.
BACKGROUND
Every three years the State Building Code Council enters rule-making for the adoption of the
latest published life safety codes. The rule-making process includes the evaluation of proposed
public amendments and the published documents for use within the state. Public testimony is
received before the new code language is forwarded to the Legislature for adoption. WAC
Chapter 51-54A contains the State Building Code adoption and amendments to the 2021
Edition of the International Fire Code. The new codes go into effect on July 1 st, 2023.
Section 19.27.031 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) requires the use of the state
building codes in all counties and cities. The state also allows the cities to amend the state
building code as it applies to their jurisdiction, RCW 19.27.040. The minimum performance
standards of the codes and objectives enumerated in RCW 19.27.020 shall not be diminished.
The Fire Prevention Division has evaluated WAC 51-54A, Tukwila Municipal Code Title 16 –
Buildings and Construction, and the local amendments utilized by Puget Sound Fire in their
agencies. The staff has drafted a proposed ordinance that syntheses the state and local
amendments to the International Fire Code.
DISCUSSION
Re-structure of codes
Significant changes contained in the ordinance were needed to restructure the document for
increased readability and to align with the local amendments found in the cities of Covington,
Kent, Maple Valley, and SeaTac. The local amendments used by Puget Sound Fire follow the
chapter topic format within the International Fire Code instead of individual chapters within the
municipality’s code. This organizational philosophy consolidates all the code requirements
within TMC Chapter 16.16 which amends the International Fire Code chapters. An example
would be the movement of the fire alarm system requirements found in TMC 16.40 and the fire
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 2
sprinkler requirements found in TMC 16.42 to TMC 16.16.090 titled Amendments to the
International Fire Code – Chapter 9 “Fire Protection Systems”. This consolidation also ensures
that there are no code conflicts since all code language is contained within one chapter. This
streamlining allowed us to repeal the following chapters of the Tukwila Municipal Code:
Chapter 16.20 Emergency Service Elevators
Chapter 16.40 Fire Alarm Systems
Chapter 16.42 Fire Suppression Systems
Chapter 16.46 Fire Protection in Mid-Rise Buildings
Chapter 16.48 Fire Protection in High-Rise Buildings
Code Evaluation
After the consolidation of the local code amendments, the codes were evaluated for consistency
with other regional jurisdictions and operational considerations for fire operations. Most local fire
amendments are required to address the needs of local fire departments for code administration
and emergency operations. There were no significant changes since the fire department code
administration and operations from Tukwila and Puget Sound Fire were very similar. Any
changes were made to harmonize the differences in language to ensure consistent application
jurisdiction-wide.
In the evaluation of the code regionally, we found significant differences which were unique to
Tukwila. It was determined that while these requirements elevated the fire protection
requirements within these buildings, there was no quantitative data to support the added cost to
development, added cost of maintenance and operation, long-term impacts to fire operations,
and the confusion presented to the development community. To create consistency, we will
propose the following:
Utilize state building code requirements for mid-rise buildings.
Utilize state building code requirements for high-rise buildings.
Utilize Puget Sound Fire agencies’ local amendments for fire alarm systems.
Utilize Puget Sound Fire agencies’ local amendments for fire suppression systems.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
No financial impact.
RECOMMENDATION
The Planning and Community Development Committee is being asked to review the draft
ordinance, and forward the ordinance to the April 24th, 2023, Committee of the Whole (COW)
meeting and subsequent May 1st, 2023 Regular City Council Meeting for approval.
ATTACHMENTS
Ordinance in draft form
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AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, REPEALING ORDINANCE
NOS. 652, 2329, 2330, 2436, 2437, 2505, 2506, 2507, AND
2508, AS CODIFIED IN VARIOUS SECTIONS OF TUKWILA
MUNICIPAL CODE (TMC) TITLE 16, “BUILDINGS AND
CONSTRUCTION,” REPEALING ORDINANCE NOS. 2650
AND 2672 AS CODIFIED IN TMC CHAPTER 16.16;
REENACTING TMC CHAPTER 16.16, “INTERNATIONAL
FIRE CODE,” TO ADOPT THE 2021 EDITION OF THE
INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE AND UPDATE TUKWILA
FIRE CODE REGULATIONS; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to protect the health, welfare, and safety of Tukwila
residents by keeping current with the most recent International Fire Code regulations; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to update and clarify the fire code requirements in
Tukwila to ensure life safety codes can be implemented effectively; and
WHEREAS, these updates are intended to better align the City’s fire code requirements
with the International Fire Code, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and the Puget
Sound Regional Fire Authority; and
WHEREAS, to achieve this end, the City Council has determined it is in the public’s
best interest to update its current fire prevention and protection regulations by adopting the
2021 Edition of the International Fire Code and appendices;
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA,
WASHINGTON, HEREBY ORDAINS AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Adoption of Findings of Fact. The City Council hereby adopts the
foregoing recitals and incorporates them herein as support for these amendments.
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Section 2. Repealer. Ordinance Nos. 652, 2329, 2330, 2436, 2437, 2505, 2506, 2507,
and 2508, as codified in various sections of Tukwila Municipal Code (TMC) Title 16,
“Buildings and Construction,” are hereby repealed in their entirety, thereby eliminating the
following chapters of the TMC:
Chapter 16.20 Emergency Service Elevators
Chapter 16.40 Fire Alarm Systems
Chapter 16.42 Fire Suppression Systems
Chapter 16.46 Fire Protection in Mid-Rise Buildings
Chapter 16.48 Fire Protection in High-Rise Buildings
Section 3. Repealer. Ordinance Nos. 2650 and 2672 are hereby repealed in their
entirety, thereby eliminating TMC Chapter 16.16, “International Fire Code.”
Section 4. TMC Chapter 16.16 Reenacted. TMC Chapter 16.16 is hereby reenacted
to read as follows:
CHAPTER 16.16
INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE
Sections:
16.16.010 Adoption of the International Fire Code
16.16.020 EnforcementConflicts with Existing Codes and Ordinances
16.16.030 DefinitionsAmendments to the International Fire Code –
Chapter 1, “Scope and Administration”
16.16.040 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 2,
“Definitions”
16.16.050 FeesAmendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 3,
“General Requirements”
16.16.060 Conflicts with Existing Codes and OrdinancesAmendments to
the International Fire Code – Chapter 5, “Fire Service Features”
16.16.070 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 6,
“Building Services and Systems”
16.16.080 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 7, “Fire
and Smoke Prevention Features”
16.16.090 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 9, “Fire
Protection Systems”
16.16.100 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 11,
“Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings”
16.16.110 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 56,
“Explosives and Fireworks”
16.16.120 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 80,
“Referenced Standards”
16.16.130 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Appendix B,
“Fire-Flow Requirements for Buildings”
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Section 5. Certain Subparagraphs Recodified. As a result of updates contained
herein, various subparagraphs of “Amendments to the International Fire Code,” formerly
codified as TMC Section 16.16.040, may be recodified into the following sections,
reenacted per Section 4 of this ordinance:
16.16.030 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 1, “Scope
and Administration”
16.16.050 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 3, “General
Requirements”
16.16.060 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 5, “Fire
Service Features”
16.16.090 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 9, “Fire
Protection Systems”
16.16.110 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 56,
“Explosives and Fireworks”
Section 6. TMC Section 16.16.010 is hereby reenacted to read as follows:
16.16.010 Adoption of the International Fire Code
A. In accordance with RCW 19.27, the International Fire Code, 2018 2021 Edition,
including Appendices Appendix B, C, D, F, H, I, K and N; published by the International
Code Council, Inc., together with any additions, deletions, and exceptions currently
enacted or as may be amended from time to time by the State of Washington through its
Building Code Council pursuant to WAC 51-54A, and as further amended in this
ordinance, are hereby adopted by this reference as if fully set forth, subject to the
modifications and amendments set forth in TMC Chapter 16.16.
B. One copy of said Fire Code shall be maintained on file with the Puget Sound
Regional Fire Authority at the Fire Marshal’s Office.
Section 7. TMC Section 16.16.020, previously codified as TMC Section 16.16.060,
“Conflicts with Existing Codes and Ordinances,” is hereby reenacted to read as follows:
16.16.060 16.16.020 EnforcementConflicts with Existing Codes and
Ordinances
Whenever any provision of the International Fire Code or appendices adopted by this
ordinance conflicts with any provision of any other adopted code or ordinance of the City,
the provision providing the greater or most effective protection shall govern.
A. The International Fire Code shall be enforced by the Fire Marshal’s Office within
the Fire Department.
B. There shall be a Fire Marshal in charge of the Fire Marshal’s Office who shall be
appointed by the Chief of the Fire Department.
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Section 8. TMC Section 16.16.030 is hereby reenacted to read as follows:
16.16.030 DefinitionsAmendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 1,
“Scope and Administration”
A. Section 104 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Duties and Powers of the
Fire Code Official,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 104.1.1:
Section 104.1.1 Retained authority – Additional conditions. The Fire Code
Official retains the authority to impose additional conditions where the Official
determines it necessary to mitigate identified fire protection impacts and
problematic fire protection systems. These conditions may include, by way of
example and without limitation, increased setbacks, use of fire-retardant
materials, installation or modification of standpipes, automatic fire sprinkler and
fire alarm systems.
B. Section 104 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Duties and Powers of the
Fire Code Official,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 104.13:
Section 104.13 Lot lines and setback lines . Notwithstanding the authority of
the Fire Code Official to administer and enforce the fire code, the Fire Code Official
shall have no duty to verify or establish lot lines or setback lines. No such duty is
created by this Code, and none shall be implied.
C. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by
substituting subsection 105.2.3 with the following:
Section 105.2.3 Expiration of applications. Expiration of applications shall be
in accordance with TMC Section 16.04.250.F.
D. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by
substituting subsection 105.3.1 with the following:
Section 105.3.1 Expiration. An operational permit shall remain in effect until
reissued, renewed or revoked, or for such a period of time as specified in the
permit. Construction permit expiration shall be in accordance with TMC Section
16.04.250.E.
E. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by
substituting subsection 105.5 with the following:
Section 105.5 Required operational permits. The Fire Code Official is
authorized to issue operational permits for the operations set forth in Sections
105.5.1 through 105.5.56.
F. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by
substituting subsection 105.5 with the following:
Section 105.5.32 Mobile food preparation vehicles. A permit is required for
mobile preparation vehicles equipped with appliances that produce smoke or
grease-laden vapors or utilize LP-gas systems or CNG systems.
Exception: Mobile food preparation vehicles which are not parked, or visiting a
location for more than three consecutive calendar days.
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G. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by
adding the following new subsection 105.5.53:
Section 105.5.53 Commercial Kitchens. An operational permit is required for
all commercial kitchens with type I hood systems.
Exception: No fee will be required if another operational fire permit in accordance
with Section 105.5 is issued for the occupancy.
EH. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by
adding the following new subsection 105.6.53105.5.54.
Section 105.6.53105.5.54 Emergency and Standby Power Systems. An
Operational Permit is required for emergency or standby power systems required
by code and identified in NFPA 110.
I. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by
adding the following new subsection 105.5.55:
Section 105.5.55 Fire Protection System Contractor. An operational permit is
required for all contractors or other entities performing any installation, inspection,
service, maintenance, or repair of any fire protection system.
J. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by
adding the following new subsection 105.5.56.
Section 105.5.56 Commercial Kitchen Hood and Duct Systems Contractor.
An operational permit is required for all contractors or other entities performing any
inspection or cleaning of commercial kitchen hood and duct systems.
K. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by
modifying subsection 105.6:
Section 105.6 Required construction permits. The Fire Code Official is
authorized to issue construction permits for work as set forth in Sections 105.6.1
through 105.6.26.
GL. Section 105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Permits,” is amended by
adding the following new subsection 105.7.28105.6.26:
Section 105.7.28105.6.26 Emergency and Standby Power Systems. A
Construction Permit is required for the installation of emergency or standby power
systems required by code and identified in NFPA 110.
M. Section 107 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fees,” is amended by
substituting subsection 107.1 with the following:
Section 107.1 Fees. The Fire Code Official shall collect fees as a condition to
issuance or renewal of any permit or certificate.
N. Section 107 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fees,” is amended by
substituting subsection 107.2 with the following:
Section 107.2 Schedule of Permit Fees. The Fire Code Official shall prepare
a resolution establishing a schedule of fees for council consideration, which fees
shall include the cost involved in the processing, issuance, and renewal of permits
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and certificates. Any fee schedule adopted by resolution shall govern the fee
amount to be assessed for any permit or certificate.
O. Section 107 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fees,” is amended by
substituting subsection 107.4 with the following:
Section 107.4 Work commencing before permit issuance. When work for
which a permit is required by this code has commenced without a permit, the fees
shall be doubled. The payment of such fees shall not relieve any persons from the
requirements of this code or from any penalties prescribed by this code.
P. Section 107 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fees,” is amended by adding
the following new subsection 107.7:
Section 107.7 Termination. Failure to pay for the required renewal within 60
days of the date notice is given shall result in the City’s termination of the permit.
KQ. Section 108 109 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Maintenance,” is
amended by substituting subsection 108.3109.3 with the following:
Section 108.3109.3 Recordkeeping. A record of periodic inspections, tests,
servicing and other operations and maintenance shall be maintained on the
premises or other approved location for not less than 3 years, or a different period
of time where specified in this code or referenced standards.
1. Records shall be made available for inspection by the Fire MarshalFire
Code Official, and a copy of the records shall be provided to the Fire MarshalFire
Code Official upon request. This applies to all life safety systems regulated by the
Fire Code that require periodic testing, inspections, and maintenance.
2. The Fire MarshalFire Code Official is authorized to prescribe the form
and format of such recordkeeping.
3. The Fire MarshalFire Code Official is authorized to require that certain
required records be filed with the Fire MarshalFire Code Official.
4. Effective February 1, 2021, all confidenceAll test reports must be filed
with the Compliance Engine (https://www.TheComplianceEngine.com/) within 14
days of the reportable activity.
LR. Section 109 111 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Board of Appeals,” is
amended by substituting Section 109 111 with the following:
Section 109 111 Appeals. Means of Appeals.
1. Whenever the Fire MarshalFire Code Official disapproves an application
or refuses to grant a permit applied for, the applicant may appeal the decision to
the City’s Hearing Examiner. A written notice of appeal shall be filed with the City
Clerk within 14 days of the date of final decision by the Fire MarshalFire Code
Official. The notice of appeal must be accompanied by an appeal fee in
accordance with the Tukwila Fire Department Permit Fee Schedule adopted by
resolution of the City Council.
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2. The Notice of Appeal shall contain the following information:
a. The name of the appealing party.
b. The address and phone number of the appealing party; and if the
appealing party is a corporation, association or other group, the address and phone
number of a contact person authorized to receive notices on the appealing party’s
behalf.
c. A statement identifying the decision being appealed and the alleged
errors in that decision.
d. The Notice of Appeal shall state specific errors of fact or errors in
application of the law in the decision being appealed, the harm suffered or
anticipated by the appellant, and the relief sought. The scope of an appeal shall
be limited to matters or issues raised in the Notice of Appeal.
3. Upon timely filing of a Notice of Appeal, the Fire MarshalFire Code
Official shall set a date for hearing the appeal before the City’s Hearing Examiner.
Notice of the hearing will be mailed to the applicant.
4. Deference shall be given to the decision being appealed. The standard
on review shall be based upon a preponderance of evidence. The Hearing
Examiner may affirm, reverse or modify the Fire MarshalFire Code Official, or
designee’s, decision.
5. The decision of the Hearing Examiner shall be final.
MS. Section 110 112 of the International Fire Code entitled “Violations” is amended
by substituting subsection 110.4112.4 with the following:
Section 110.4 112.4 Violations and Penalties.
1. Any person who shall violates any of the Fire Code provisions of TMC
Chapter 16.16 or the International Fire Code or who shall fails to comply therewith,
or who shall violates or fails to comply with any order made thereunder, or who
shall builds in violation of any detailed statement of specifications or plans
submitted and approved thereunder or any certificate or permit issued thereunder
and from which no appeal has been taken, or who shall fails to comply with such
an order as affirmed or modified by the Fire MarshalFire Code Official or by a court
of competent jurisdiction within the time fixed therein, shall , as deemed applicable
by the Fire Code Official, be subject to the enforcement proceedings provided in
TMC Chapter 8.45, or shall be guilty of a gross misdemeanor, and upon conviction
thereof, shall be punished by a fine in an amount not to exceed $5,000.00, as
outlined in IFC Section 110.4112.4, or imprisonment for a term not to exceed one
year or by both such fine and imprisonment.
2. The imposition of one penalty for any violation shall not excuse the
violation or permit it to continue. Each day or portion thereof during which any
violation of the provisions of this section is caused, permitted, or continued shall
constitute a separate offense and shall be punishable as such. Application of the
penalty specified in this section shall not be held to prevent the enforced removal
of prohibited conditions.
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3. Fire lane parking violations shall be considered a non-traffic civil
infraction subject to the fine listed in the Fire Penalty Bail Schedule, and the vehicle
may be impounded.
4. In addition to the imposition of the penalties herein described, the Fire
MarshalFire Code Official is authorized to institute appropriate action to prevent
unlawful construction or to restrain, correct or abate a violation; or to prevent illegal
occupancy of a structure or premises; or to stop an illegal act, conduct of business
or occupancy of a structure on or about any premises.
5. Fire Penalty Bail Schedule:
OFFENSE BAIL
Non-compliance with orders and notices $5,000.00
Unlawful removal of a tag $5,000.00
Unlawful continuance of a hazard $5,000.00
Non-compliance with a Stop Work Order $5,000.00
Illegal parking on fire apparatus access roads / Fire Lane $100.00
Failure to: Clean commercial kitchen hoods $500.00
Failure to: Maintain fire protection systems $500.00
Failure to: Conduct a required fire watch $500.00
Failure to: Maintain commercial cooking extinguishing systems $500.00
Failure to: Maintain means of egress continuity $250.00
Failure to: Provide required UL central station monitoring $500.00
6. Other Violations. Bail for all other violations is $250.00 plus court costs.
Fines are forfeitable on the first offense and mandatory appearance is required on
the second offense.
A. Wherever the word “jurisdiction” is used in the International Fire Code, it means
the area within the city limits of the City of Tukwila, Washington.
B. Wherever the words “Fire Code Official” are used in the International Fire Code,
they mean the Fire Marshal in charge of the Fire Marshal’s Office or designee.
C. “Special Event” refers to an event taking place within the City of Tukwila that will
not last more than 21 consecutive days, that is not customary at that location and would
otherwise be prohibited. Examples include a large event (public/corporate/private), fair,
carnival, circus, or athletic event. Prior approval is required for an event to be held on
City property.
Section 9. TMC Section 16.16.040 is hereby reenacted to read as follows:
16.16.040 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 2, “Definitions”
A. Section 202 of the International Fire Code, entitled “General Definitions,” is
amended by adding the following definitions to subsection 202:
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Fire Code Official. The fire chief or other designated authority charged with
the administration and enforcement of the code, or a duly authorized
representative.
Outdoor storage. The on-site storage of materials outdoors, including
materials stored in vehicles, which are not in transit.
Problematic fire protection system. A fire protection system that generates
repeated preventable alarms.
Refer to the following chapters of the Tukwila Municipal Code for additional Fire Code
regulations and requirements:
TMC 14.24, Fire Hydrants
TMC 16.40, Fire Alarm Systems
TMC 16.42, Sprinkler Systems
TMC 16.46, Fire Protection in Mid-Rise Buildings
TMC 16.48, Fire Protection in High-Rise Buildings
A. Section 104.10.1 of the International Fire Code entitled “Assistance from other
agencies” is amended by substituting the following:
Section 104.10.1 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 the Fire Code as requested by the Fire
Marshal.
B. Section 105 of the International Fire Code entitled “Permits” is amended by
adding the following new subsection 105.5.3:
Section 105.5.3 Limited Use Permits. Operations or events that are regulated
by the International Fire Code and will not exceed 180 days will require a Limited
Use Operational Permit.
Depending on the operation or event, a City of Tukwila Special Event Permit
may also be required.
C. Section 105 of the International Fire Code entitled “Permits” is amended by
modifying subsection 105.6 with the following:
Section 105.6 Required Operational Permits. The Fire Marshal is authorized to
issue operational permits for the operations set forth in Sections 105.6.1 through
105.6.53.
D. Section 105 of the International Fire Code entitled “Permits” is amended by
adding the following new subsection 105.6.31.3:
Section 105.6.31.3 Mobile Operations. For mobile operations or activities that
are regulated by Section 105.6 of the International Fire Code, the Fire Marshal has
the option to recognize a “vehicle specific” operational permit that has been issued
by another public fire agency within King County and is still valid. If this permit is
recognized by the Fire Marshal, a “vehicle specific” Mobile Operational Permit will
be issued for operations in Tukwila. The Fire Marshal retains the right to not
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recognize operational permits from other fire agencies and can revoke an
operational permit that has already been issued.
E. Section 105 of the International Fire Code entitled “Permits” is amended by
adding the following new subsection 105.6.53:
Section 105.6.53. Emergency and Standby Power Systems. An Operational
Permit is required for emergency or standby power systems required by code and
identified in NFPA 110.
F. Section 105 of the International Fire Code entitled “Permits” is amended by
modifying subsection 105.7 with the following:
Section 105.7 Required Construction Permits. The Fire Marshal is authorized
to issue construction permits for work set forth in Sections 105.7.1 through
105.7.29.
G. Section 105 of the International Fire Code entitled “Permits” is amended by
adding the following new subsection 105.7.28:
Section 105.7.28 Emergency and Standby Power Systems. A Construction
Permit is required for the installation of emergency or standby power systems
required by code and identified in NFPA 110.
H. Section 105 of the International Fire Code entitled “Permits” is amended by
adding the following new subsection 105.7.29:
Section 105.7.29 Fire Access and Infrastructure. A Construction Permit is
required for the installation of Fire Access Roads, Private Fire Hydrants, and Gates
across Fire Access Roads.
I. Section 106 of the International Fire Code entitled “Fees” is amended by
substituting subsection 106.1 with the following:
Section 106.1 Fees. A fire permit shall not be issued until the fees have been paid
as required and in accordance with the Fire Department Fee Schedule adopted by
resolution of the City Council, nor shall an amendment to a permit be released until
the additional fee, if any, has been paid.
J. Section 106 of the International Fire Code entitled “Fees” is amended by
substituting subsection 106.3 with the following:
Section 106.3 Working Without An Issued Fire Permit. Any person who
commences any work, activity or operation regulated by this code before obtaining
the necessary fire permits shall be charged an investigation fee that is equal to the
permit fee, which shall be in addition to the required permit fee. This provision does
not apply to emergency work, activity, or operations when it is proved to the
satisfaction of the Fire Marshal that such work, activity, or operation was urgently
necessary and that it was not practical to obtain a permit before commencement
of the work, activity or operation. In all such cases, a fire permit must be applied
for within 5 working days, or a double fee will be charged.
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K. Section 108 of the International Fire Code entitled “Maintenance” is amended by
substituting 108.3 with the following:
Section 108.3 Recordkeeping. A record of periodic inspections, tests, servicing
and other operations and maintenance shall be maintained on the premises or
other approved location for not less than 3 years, or a different period of time where
specified in this code or referenced standards.
1. Records shall be made available for inspection by the Fire Marshal, and
a copy of the records shall be provided to the Fire Marshal upon request. This
applies to all life safety systems regulated by the Fire Code that require periodic
testing, inspections, and maintenance.
2. The Fire Marshal is authorized to prescribe the form and format of such
recordkeeping.
3. The Fire Marshal is authorized to require that certain required records
be filed with the Fire Marshal.
4. Effective February 1, 2021, all confidence test reports must be filed with
the Compliance Engine (https://www.TheComplianceEngine.com/).
L. Section 109 of the International Fire Code entitled “Board of Appeals” is amended
by substituting the following:
Section 109 Appeals.
1. Whenever the Fire Marshal disapproves an application or refuses to
grant a permit applied for, the applicant may appeal the decision to the City’s
Hearing Examiner. A written notice of appeal shall be filed with the City Clerk within
14 days of the date of final decision by the Fire Marshal. The notice of appeal must
be accompanied by an appeal fee in accordance with the Fire Department Fee
Schedule adopted by resolution of the City Council.
2. The Notice of Appeal shall contain the following information:
a. The name of the appealing party.
b. The address and phone number of the appealing party; and if the
appealing party is a corporation, association or other group, the address and phone
number of a contact person authorized to receive notices on the appealing party’s
behalf.
c. A statement identifying the decision being appealed and the alleged
errors in that decision.
d. The Notice of Appeal shall state specific errors of fact or errors in
application of the law in the decision being appealed, the harm suffered or
anticipated by the appellant, and the relief sought. The scope of an appeal shall
be limited to matters or issues raised in the Notice of Appeal.
3. Upon timely filing of a Notice of Appeal, the Fire Marshal shall set a date
for hearing the appeal before the City's Hearing Examiner. Notice of the hearing
will be mailed to the applicant.
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4. Deference shall be given to the decision being appealed. The standard
on review shall be based upon a preponderance of evidence. The Hearing
Examiner may affirm, reverse or modify the Fire Marshal, or designee's, decision.
5. The decision of the Hearing Examiner shall be final.
M. Section 110 of the International Fire Code entitled “Violations” is amended by
substituting subsection 110.4 with the following:
Section 110.4 Violations and Penalties.
1. Any person who shall violate any of the Fire Code provisions of TMC
Chapter 16 or the International Fire Code or who shall fail to comply therewith, or
who shall violate or fail to comply with any order made thereunder, or who shall
build in violation of any detailed statement of specifications or plans submitted and
approved thereunder or any certificate or permit issued thereunder and from which
no appeal has been taken, or who shall fail to comply with such an order as affirmed
or modified by the Fire Marshal or by a court of competent jurisdiction within the
time fixed therein, shall be guilty of a gross misdemeanor, and upon conviction
thereof, shall be punished by a fine in an amount not to exceed $5,000.00, as
outlined in IFC Section 110.4, or imprisonment for a term not to exceed one year
or by both such fine and imprisonment.
2. The imposition of one penalty for any violation shall not excuse the
violation or permit it to continue. Each day or portion thereof during which any
violation of the provisions of this section is caused, permitted, or continued shall
constitute a separate offense and shall be punishable as such. Application of the
penalty specified in this section shall not be held to prevent the enforced removal
of prohibited conditions.
3. Fire lane parking violations shall be considered a non-traffic civil
infraction subject to the fine listed in the Fire Penalty Bail Schedule, and the vehicle
may be impounded.
4. In addition to the imposition of the penalties herein described, the Fire
Marshal is authorized to institute appropriate action to prevent unlawful
construction or to restrain, correct or abate a violation; or to prevent illegal
occupancy of a structure or premises; or to stop an illegal act, conduct of business
or occupancy of a structure on or about any premises.
5. Fire Penalty Bail Schedule:
OFFENSE BAIL
Non-compliance with orders and notices $5,000.00
Unlawful removal of a tag $5,000.00
Unlawful continuance of a hazard $5,000.00
Non-compliance with a Stop Work Order $5,000.00
Illegal parking on fire apparatus access roads / Fire Lane $100.00
Failure to: Clean commercial kitchen hoods $500.00
Failure to: Maintain fire protection systems $500.00
Failure to: Conduct a required fire watch $500.00
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Failure to: Maintain commercial cooking extinguishing systems $500.00
Failure to: Maintain means of egress continuity $250.00
Failure to: Provide required UL central station monitoring $500.00
6. Other Violations. Bail for all other violations is $250.00 plus court costs.
Fines are forfeitable on the first offense and mandatory appearance is required on
second offense.
N. Section 308 of the International Fire Code entitled “Open Flames” is amended
by substituting subsection 308.1.6.3 with the following:
Section 308.1.6.3 Sky Lanterns. The use of sky lanterns is prohibited.
O. Local amendments to Chapter 5 of the International Fire Code entitled “Fire
Service Features,” including all amendments enacted by the State of Washington, are
adopted and incorporated into the International Fire Code as follows:
Section 503 and Appendix D of the International Fire Code entitled “Fire
Apparatus Access Roads” are hereby adopted with the exception of Sections
D103.2, D103.5 and D107.1.
P. Section 503 of the International Fire Code entitled “Buildings and Facilities” is
amended by substituting subsection 503.1.1 with the following:
Section 503.1.1 Buildings and Facilities. Approved fire apparatus access roads
shall be provided for every facility, building or portion of a building hereafter
constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction. The fire apparatus access road
shall comply with the requirements of this section and shall extend to within 150
feet (45,720 mm) of all portions of the facility and all portions of the exterior walls
of the first story of the building as measured by an approved route around the
exterior of the building or facility.
Exceptions: The Fire Marshal is authorized to increase the distance:
1. Up to 200 feet where the building is equipped throughout with an
approved automatic sprinkler system installed.
2. Where fire apparatus access roads cannot be installed because of
location on property, topography, waterways, nonnegotiable grades or other similar
conditions, and an approved alternative means of fire protection is provided.
Alternate means may include installation of stairs that extend to the roof, sprinkler
system, fire alarm system, standpipes, smoke control system, ready access to fire
service elevators and others (sometimes in combination) to mitigate the additional
access distance.
3. There are not more than two Group R-3 or Group U occupancies.
Q. Section 503 of the International Fire Code entitled “Additional Access” is
amended by substituting subsection 503.1.2 with the following:
503.1.2 Additional Access. The Fire Marshal is authorized to require more than
one fire apparatus access road based on the potential for impairment of a single
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road by vehicle congestion, condition of terrain, climatic conditions or other factors
that could limit access.
R. Section 503 of the International Fire Code entitled “High-Piled Storage” is
amended by substituting subsection 503.1.3 with the following:
503.1.3 High-Piled Storage. Fire department vehicle access to buildings used
for high-piled combustible storage shall comply with the applicable provisions of
Chapter 32.
S. Section 503 of the International Fire Code entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads” is amended by substituting subsection 503.2.1 with the following:
Section 503.2.1. Dimensions. The following minimum dimensions shall apply for
fire apparatus access roads:
1. Fire apparatus access roads and fire lanes shall have an unobstructed
width of not less than 20 feet (6,096 mm), and an unobstructed vertical clearance
of not less than 13 feet 6 inches (4,115 mm).
2. Fire apparatus access road routes shall be approved by the Fire
Marshal.
Exception: When the fire apparatus access road is serving no more than 2 single
family houses and all are equipped with approved automatic sprinkler system, the
Fire Marshal may approve a reduced width, but the reduction shall not be less than
16 feet wide.
T. Section 503 of the International Fire Code entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads” is amended by substituting subsection 503.2.3 with the following:
Section 503.2.3. Road Surface. Fire apparatus access roads shall be constructed
with a surface of asphalt or concrete or other permanent material approved by the
Fire Marshal capable of supporting the imposed load of fire apparatus weighing at
least 85,000 lbs.
U. Section 503 of the International Fire Code entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads” is amended by substituting subsection 503.2.4 with the following:
Section 503.2.4. Fire Access Road Turning Radius. All fire apparatus access
roads shall have a 28-foot minimum inside turning radius (curb radius) and a 50-
foot minimum outside turning radius, unless otherwise approved by the Fire
Marshal.
1. The radius is measured from the travel lane edge (curb).
2. When turning from the right of way (ROW) to an access road, the
minimum effective turning radius will be measured from the inside tire and no
further from the center of the lane in the direction of travel. The size of curb radii
to be as necessary to facilitate minimum effective turning radius.
V. Section 503 of the International Fire Code entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads” is amended by adding the following new subsection 503.2.4.1:
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Section 503.2.4.1. Fire Access Road Turnarounds. Where dead-end fire
apparatus access roads require an approved turnaround, it shall be in accordance
with one of the following.
1. For fire access roads serving no more than 4 single-family homes where
the vertical distance between the grade plane and the highest point of the roof eave
is no more than 30 feet for any of the structures served by the fire access road:
a. The turnaround or hammerhead shall have a 20-foot minimum inside
turning radius and a 40-foot minimum outside turning radius, and
b. The length of the turnaround / hammerhead shall be a minimum of
65 feet in length.
2. For all other fire access roads:
a. The turnaround / hammerhead shall have a 28-foot minimum inside
turning radius and a 50-foot minimum outside turning radius, and
b. The length of the turnaround / hammerhead leg shall be a minimum
of 70 feet in length.
Fire access turnaround / hammerhead design examples are available online via
the Fire Marshal’s Office, Fire Development Services website.
W. Section 503 of the International Fire Code is amended by substituting subsection
503.2.5 with the following:
Section 503.2.5. Fire Access Road Dead-End. Dead-end fire apparatus access
roads in excess of 150 feet in length shall be provided with a turnaround that is
approved by the Fire Marshal and shall be in accordance with subsection
503.2.4.1.
Exception: The Fire Marshal is authorized to increase the length up to 200 feet
for dead-end access roads when all of the following apply:
1. The road is serving no more than 4 single-family homes that are
equipped throughout with an approved automatic fire sprinkler system.
2. The road shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet, and
an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches.
3. Where the vertical distance between the grade plane and the highest
point of the roof eave is no more than 30 feet for any of the structures served by
the fire access road.
X. Section 503 of the International Fire Code entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads” is amended by substituting subsection 503.2.6 with the following:
Section 503.2.6. Bridges and Elevated Surfaces. Where a bridge or an elevated
surface is part of a fire apparatus access road, the bridge or elevated surface shall
be constructed and maintained in accordance with specifications established by
the Fire Marshal and the City’s Public Works Director, or their designees; at a
minimum, however, the bridge or elevated surface shall be constructed and
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maintained in accordance with AASHTO Standard Specifications for Highway
Bridges.
1. Bridges and elevated surfaces shall be designed for a live load sufficient
to carry the imposed loads of an 85,000 lb. fire apparatus, the total imposed load
to be determined by the Fire Marshal.
2. Vehicle load limits shall be posted at both entrances to bridges when
required by the Fire Marshal.
3. Where elevated surfaces designed for emergency vehicle use are
adjacent to surfaces that are not designed for that use, approved barriers or
approved signs, or both, shall be installed and maintained, if required by the Fire
Marshal.
Y. Section 503 of the International Fire Code entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads” is amended by substituting subsection 503.2.7 with the following:
Section 503.2.7. Grade. Fire apparatus access roads shall comply with the
following:
1. The grade of the access road to not exceed 15 percent and the cross
slope shall not exceed 6 percent.
2. Driveway approach and departure angles for fire apparatus access shall
not exceed 10 percent for the first 75 feet when measured from the right of way,
unless otherwise approved by the Fire Marshal.
Z. Section 503 of the International Fire Code entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads” is amended by adding the following new subsection 503.2.1.1:
Section 503.2.1.1. Access Roads With a Fire Hydrant. Where a fire hydrant is
located on a fire apparatus access road, the minimum road width shall be 26 feet
for 20 feet on both sides of the hydrant operating nut, as shown in D103.1 and shall
be marked as a fire lane per Section 503.3.
AA. Section 503 of the International Fire Code entitled “Security Gates” is amended
by substituting subsection 503.6 with the following:
Section 503.6 Security Gates, Bollards, And Other Obstructions. The
installation of security gates, bollards or other obstructions across a fire apparatus
access road shall be reviewed and approved by the Fire Marshal. The use of
directional-limiting devices (tire spikes) is prohibited. Where security gates,
bollards or other obstructions are installed, they shall have an approved means of
emergency operation. The security gates, bollards or other obstruction and the
emergency operation shall be maintained operational at all times.
1. Electric gate operators, where provided, shall be listed in accordance
with UL 325.
2. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed,
and installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM F 2200 and must be
equipped with “Click 2 Enter” or similar equipment that is approved by the Fire
Marshal, that allows for operations of the gate by Fire and Police personnel via
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their vehicle mobile radio, on a dedicated radio frequency, with a hold-open for a
specified amount of time.
3. Gates over the fire access road that are intended for automatic operation
shall be designed to operate during a loss of power or fail in the open position.
4. Gates shall be at a minimum as wide as the required access road width.
Gates, bollards, or other obstructions on commercial properties must be set back
30 feet from roadway edge of pavement.
5. If manually operated gates are installed across a fire access road, a
Knox padlock is required if the gate is locked.
Exception: Automated gates equipped with “Click 2 Enter” or other authorized
equipment that allows for operation of the gate by Fire and Police personnel from
their vehicle are not required to be set back 30 feet.
BB. Section 504 of the International Fire Code entitled “Access to Building Openings
and Roofs” is amended by adding the following new subsection 504.5:
Section 504.5 Buildings With 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 Marshal. 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 5 feet and be large enough to carry a 35-foot-long
sectional ladder (minimum folded length 20 feet) directly from the exterior to the
courtyard without obstructions. The access door shall be marked at the street as
“Direct Fire Access to Courtyard”.
CC. Section 510 of the International Fire Code entitled “Emergency Responder Radio
Coverage” is amended by substituting Section 510 with the following language:
Section 510.1 Emergency Responder Radio Coverage (New Buildings).
Approved radio coverage for emergency responders shall be provided within
buildings that meet any one of the following conditions:
1. The building is five stories or more above grade plane (as defined by the
International Building Code, Section 202); or
2. The total building area is 50,000 square feet or more; or
3. The total basement area is 10,000 square feet or more; or
4. There are floors used for human occupancy more than 30 feet below the
finished floor of the lowest level of exit discharge; or
5. Buildings or structures where the Fire 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 Section of this
code and with the provisions of NFPA 1221 (current edition).
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Exceptions:
1. Buildings and areas of buildings that have minimum radio coverage
signal strength levels of the King County Regional 800 MHz 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 Marshal shall have the authority
to accept an automatically activated emergency responder radio coverage system.
3. One- and two-family dwellings and townhouses.
When determining if the minimum signal strength referenced in Section 510.4.1.1
exists at a subject building, the signal strength shall be measured at any point on
the exterior of the building up to the highest point on the roof.
Section 510.2 Emergency Responder Radio Coverage (Existing Buildings).
Existing buildings shall be provided with approved radio coverage for emergency
responders when:
1. Whenever an existing wired communications system cannot be repaired
or is being replaced.
2. When a building undergoing substantial alteration meets any one of the
conditions listed in Section 510.1. For purposes of this section, a substantial
alteration shall be defined as an alteration that costs 50 percent or more of the
current assessed value of the structure and impacts more than 50 percent of the
gross floor area.
3. When buildings, classes of buildings or specific occupancies do not have
the minimum radio coverage signal strength as identified in Section 510.4.1 and
the Fire or Police Chief determines that the lack of minimum signal strength poses
an undue risk to emergency responders that cannot be reasonably mitigated by
other means.
Section 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. 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
PSERN is the single operator of the county wide system (projected date Q4 2022
/ Q1 2023), such approval is required from EPSCA, King County, Seattle or
ValleyCom depending on the location of the installation. To be forward compatible,
designers and contractors should be aware of PSERN’s requirements for
Distributed Antenna Systems which can be found on their website
(https://PSERN.org).
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Section 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.
Section 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 95 percent 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.
Exception: Critical areas, such 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
Marshal, shall be provided with 99 percent floor area radio coverage.
Section 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 Marshal. The inbound signal
level shall be a minimum of -95 dBm in 95 percent of the coverage area and 99
percent 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.
Section 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 Marshal.
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 shall be received by the King
County Regional 800 MHz Radio System when transmitted from within the building.
Section 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 in Section 510.4.2.2.
Section 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 (2019).
Section 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.
Section 510.4.2.2 Technical criteria. The Public Safety Radio System Operator
shall provide the various frequencies required, the location of radio sites, the
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effective radiated power of radio sites, the maximum propagation delay in
microseconds, the applications being used and other supporting technical
information necessary for system design upon request by the building owner or
owner’s representative.
Section 510.4.2.3 Power supply sources. Emergency responder radio coverage
systems shall be provided with dedicated standby batteries or provided with 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 100 percent system
capacity for a duration of not less than 12 hours.
Section 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, IP66-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, IP65-type waterproof cabinet or
equivalent.
3. Equipment shall have FCC or other radio licensing authority certification
and be suitable for public safety use prior to installation.
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.
BDAs must also comply with PSERN’s detailed requirements, which include
channelized, minimum of 28 channels, supporting analog, P25 Phase I (FDMA),
and P25 Phase II (TDMA). Information regarding PSERN requirements can be
found via their website (https://PSERN.org).
Section 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
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system in accordance with NFPA 72. The following conditions shall be separately
annunciated by the fire alarm system, or, if the status 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 70 percent 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.
Section 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.
Section 510.4.2.7 Design documents. The Fire Marshal 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 Marshal.
Section 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.
Section 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.
Section 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.
Section 510.5.2 Minimum qualifications of personnel. The minimum
qualifications of the system designer and lead installation personnel shall include
both of the following:
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1. A valid FCC-issued general radio telephone operator’s license.
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.
Section 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 20 approximately
equal test areas, with a maximum test area size of 6,400 square feet. Where the
floor area exceeds 128,000 square feet, 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), and including signal strengths and frequencies
for each test area. Indicate all critical areas.
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 Marshal. 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 5 percent of the test areas on any floor shall result
in failure of the test.
Exception: Critical areas shall be provided with 99 percent 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 40 equal test
areas. Failure of not more than two nonadjacent test areas shall not result in failure
of the test. If the system fails the 40-area test, the system shall be altered to meet
the 95 percent coverage requirement.
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
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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 10 feet (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. With both portable radios
simultaneously keyed up on different frequencies within the same band, subjective
audio testing shall be conducted and comply with 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 the building engineer’s office. The records shall be available to the
Fire Marshal 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.
b. The grid square diagram created as part of testing in Sections
510.5.3(2) and 510.5.3(3).
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 Fire Marshal. At the conclusion of the
testing, and prior to issuance of the building Certificate of Occupancy, the building
owner or owner’s representative shall submit to the Fire Marshal an acceptance
test report that includes items (10a-10e).
Section 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.
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Section 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 Marshal. A clearly visible sign shall be placed near the
antenna stating, “movement or repositioning of this antenna is prohibited without
approval from the Fire Marshal or designee.” The antenna installation shall be in
accordance with the applicable requirements in the International Building Code for
weather protection of the building envelope.
Section 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 the 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-resistance 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 per the International Building Code.
Section 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.
Section 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.
Section 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):
1. In-building coverage test as required by the Fire Marshal 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.
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3. Backup batteries and power supplies shall be tested under load of a
period of 1 hour to verify they will properly operate during an actual power outage.
If within the 1-hour test period the battery exhibits symptoms of failure, the test shall
be extended for additional 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 certifications in Section
510.5.2 are sufficient for the personnel performing this testing.
5. Other active components shall be checked to verify operation within the
manufacturer’s specifications.
6. At the conclusion of the testing, a report that shall verify compliance with
Section 510.6.1 shall be submitted to the Fire Marshal by way of the department’s
third-party compliance vendor.
7. At the conclusion of 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.
Section 510.6.1.1 Alternative In-building coverage test. When the
comprehensive test documentation required by Section 510.5.3 is available, or the
most recent full five-year test results are available if the system is older than six
years, the in-building coverage test required by the Fire Marshal in Section
510.6.1(1), may be conducted as follows:
1. 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 Marshal. Testing
shall use Digital Audible Quality (DAQ) metrics, where a passing result is a DAQ
of 3 or higher. Communications between handsets in the following locations shall
be tested: between the fire command center or fire alarm control panel and a
location outside the building; between the fire alarm control panel and each landing
in each stairwell.
2. Coverage testing of signal strength shall be conducted using a calibrated
spectrum analyzer for:
(a) Three grid areas per floor. The three grid areas to be tested on each
floor are the three grid areas with poorest performance in the acceptance test or
the most recent annual test, whichever is more recent; and
(b) Each of the critical areas identified in acceptance test documentation
required by Section 510.5.3, or as modified by the Fire Marshal, and
(c) One 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 Marshal. The building
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shall be considered to have acceptable emergency responder radio coverage when
the required signal strength requirements in Sections 510.4.1.1 and 510.4.1.2 are
located in 95 percent of all areas on each floor of the building and 99 percent in
Critical Areas, and any non-functional serving antenna are repaired to function
within normal ranges. If the documentation of the acceptance test or most recent
previous annual test results are not available or acceptable to the Fire Marshal, the
radio coverage verification testing described in 510.5.3 shall be conducted.
The alternative in-building coverage test provides an 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 must be
performed at the time of each annual test.
Section 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 or other radio
licensing authority 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.
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 coverage system, the
nonpublic safety amplification system shall be corrected or removed.
Section 510.6.4 Field testing. The Fire Marshal or designee 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.
DD. Section 901 of the International Fire Code entitled “General” is amended by
adding the following new subsection 901.7.9:
Section 901.7.9 Fire Watch for Impaired Fire Protection Systems. In the event
of failure of the emergency responder radio system, fire alarm system, fire sprinkler
system or any other required fire protection system; or an excessive number of
accidental alarm activations, the Fire Marshal is authorized to require the building
owner or occupant to provide standby personnel as set forth in the International
Fire Code until the system is restored, repaired or replaced.
EE. Section 5601 of the International Fire Code entitled “General” is amended by
adding the following new subsection 5601.3.1:
Section 5601.3.1 Storage. The limits referred to in Chapter 56, Sections 5601.2.1,
5601.2.3 and 5601.3 of the International Fire Code, in which storage of explosives
and blasting agents is prohibited, shall apply throughout the City.
FF. Section 5608 of the International Fire Code entitled “Fireworks Display” is
amended by substituting the following subsection 5608.2:
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Section 5608.2 Fireworks Regulations. No person, firm or corporation shall
manufacture, sell, or store fireworks in the City of Tukwila, except for a person
granted a permit for a temporary fireworks stand or public display of fireworks shall
be allowed to buy, possess, and store fireworks according to the permit granted.
1. Fireworks Discharge Prohibited. No person shall ignite or discharge any
fireworks at any time.
Exceptions:
a. Displays authorized by permit issued by the City pursuant to RCW
70.77.260(2) now enacted or as hereafter amended.
b. Use by a group or individual for religious or other specific purposes on
an approved date at an approved location pursuant to a permit issued pursuant to
RCW 70.77.311(2)(c) now enacted or as hereafter amended and as required by
Tukwila Municipal Code.
c. Use of trick and novelty devices as defined in WAC 212-17-030, as
amended, and as hereafter amended and use of agricultural and wildlife fireworks
as defined in WAC 212-17-045 now enacted or as hereafter amended.
d. Legal consumer fireworks, as defined by RCW 70.77.136 now enacted
or as hereafter amended, are small devices designed to produce: (1) visible effects
by combustion and which must comply with the construction, chemical
composition, and labeling regulations of the United States Consumer Product
Safety Commission; and (2) audible effects such as a whistling device, ground
device containing 50 milligrams or less of explosive materials—provided that
devices that are aerial, airborne, discharged, launched, or explode are prohibited.
2. Limitation on Use of Legal Consumer Fireworks.
a. It is unlawful for any person under the age of 16 years to possess, use,
discharge, or transport any fireworks unless under immediate supervision of an
adult (18 years old or older). It is unlawful for any person or entity to sell or give
fireworks to anyone under the age of 16 years unless that person is under the
immediate supervision of an adult (18 years old or older).
b. It is unlawful for any person to smoke within 25 feet of any building or
stand in which fireworks are sold at retail or stored after hours.
c. It is unlawful for any person to discharge any fireworks, or to permit the
discharge of fireworks, within 300 feet of any structure, combustible material, or
person, or any building or stand in which fireworks are sold at retail or stored after
hours.
d. It is unlawful at any time to throw or toss any fireworks at any person,
animal, vehicle, thing or object.
e. It is unlawful to have in possession or to use, fire, or discharge any
fireworks in any public park within the City, including vehicle parking areas within
or adjacent to a park.
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f. During periods of extreme fire danger, the local fire official may prohibit
the discharge of all fireworks including those described in subparagraph FF.1.d
above.
g. Legal consumer fireworks may only be used or discharged within the City
on the following days and times as provided in RCW 70.77.395:
From 12:00 noon to 11:00 p.m. on June 28th of each year;
From 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on each day from June 29th through July 3rd
of each year;
From 900 a.m. to 12:00 midnight on July 4th of each year;
From 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on July 5th of each year; and
From 6:00 p.m. on December 31 until 1:00 a.m. on January 1 of the
subsequent year.
3. Temporary Fireworks Stands. Retail sales of fireworks shall be permitted
only from within a temporary fireworks stand, and the sale from any other building
or structure is prohibited. Temporary stands shall be subject to the following
conditions:
a. It is unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to engage in the retail
sale of any fireworks within the city limits of Tukwila without first obtaining a City
business license.
b. Applications for temporary fireworks stand permits shall be made to the
local fire official, and must be accompanied by the appropriate application fee in
accordance with the fee schedule adopted by resolution of the City Council.
Pursuant to this chapter, applications may be filed only during the period between
April 15 and June 1st of the year for which the permit is sought.
c. Any issued permit shall be used only by the designated permittee and
shall be nontransferable.
d. The maximum number of permits issued by the City in any year shall not
exceed four. Applications shall be reviewed on a first-come, first served basis.
e. A temporary fireworks stand permit shall be issued only upon compliance
with the following terms and conditions:
(1) The applicant shall have a valid and subsisting Washington State
fireworks license issued by the Washington State Patrol authorizing the holder
thereof to engage in the fireworks business.
(2) The applicant shall provide proof of a liability insurance policy with
coverage of not less than $50,000; and $500,000 for bodily injury liability for each
person and occurrence, respectively; and not less than $50,000 for property
damage liability for each occurrence, or such policy as may comply with, or exceed,
the requirements of RCW 70.77.270.
f. Temporary fireworks stands shall be erected under the supervision of
the Fire Department and shall conform to the following minimum standards:
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(1) Temporary fireworks stands shall not be located:
Within 100 feet of any gasoline stations, oil storage tanks, or
premises where flammable liquids are kept or stored;
Closer than 20 feet to buildings, combustibles, parking, storage,
public roads, motor vehicle traffic, or generators;
Within 25 feet of any property line;
Within 100 feet of tents, other fireworks stands, fuel dispensing
devices, retail propane dispensing stations, flammable liquid storage, and
combustible storage; and
Within 300 feet of bulk fuel storage.
(2) Each temporary fireworks stand shall have at least two exits that shall
be unobstructed at all times and located as far from each other as possible.
Parking for customers shall be located at least 20 feet away from the stand.
(3) Each temporary fireworks stand shall have fire extinguishers in a
readily accessible place and approved by the Fire Department as to location within
the stand, number and type. No smoking shall be permitted in or near a fireworks
stand, and signs reading "NO SMOKING WITHIN 25 FEET" shall be prominently
displayed on the fireworks stand.
(4) Each stand shall be operated by adults (18 years old or older) only.
No fireworks shall be left unattended in a stand.
(5) All weeds and combustible materials shall be cleared from the
location of the stand to at least a distance of 20 feet.
(6) All unsold fireworks, cartons and other rubbish shall be removed from
the location and from the City by 12:00 noon on July 6 each year. The fireworks
stand shall be dismantled and removed from the location by 12:00 noon on July 10
each year.
(7) Fireworks shall not be discharged within 300 feet of a fireworks stand.
Signs reading "NO FIREWORKS DISCHARGE WITHIN 300 FEET" shall be in
letters at least two inches high, with a principal stroke of not less than one-half inch
on contrasting background, and such signs shall be conspicuously posted on all
four sides of the stand.
(8) Fireworks retailers shall not knowingly sell fireworks to persons under
the age of 16 and shall require proof of age by means of display of a driver’s license
or photo identification card issued by a public or private school, state, federal or
foreign government showing a photograph and date of birth.
(9) Retail sales of legal consumer fireworks shall only be allowed within
the City on the following days and times as provided in RCW 70.77.395 as now
enacted or hereafter amended:
From 12:00 noon to 11:00 p.m. on June 28th of each year;
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From 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on each day from June 29th through July
4th of each year;
From 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on July 5th of each year,
From 12:00 noon to 11:00 p.m. on each day from December 27th
through December 31st of each year.
(10) If the fireworks stand is proposed for placement on leased
property, the applicant shall provide an affidavit from the property owner that the
use is acceptable.
4. Any person who violates any portion of this ordinance shall have their
fireworks subject to seizure by the Tukwila Police Chief, or designee, as provided
for in RCW 70.77.435 and shall be guilty of a civil violation and penalty as provided
in TMC Chapter 8.45.
5. Any person who uses or discharges fireworks in a reckless manner that
creates a substantial risk of death or serious physical injury to another person or
damage to the property of another is guilty of a gross misdemeanor and shall be
punishable by a maximum penalty of 364 days in jail and/or a $5,000 fine. Upon
conviction, the sentencing court may order restitution for any property damage or
loss caused by the offense.
GG. Section 5608 of the International Fire Code entitled “Fireworks Display” is
amended by adding the following new subsection 5608.2.3:
Section 5608.2.3 Pyrotechnic Display Requirements. All fireworks displays
shall conform to the following minimum standards and conditions:
1. All fireworks displays must be planned, organized, and discharged by a
state-licensed pyrotechnician.
2. All pyrotechnic displays must comply with applicable requirements set
forth in the WAC and RCW’s, the International Fire Code, applicable NFPA codes,
and as required by the Tukwila Municipal Code.
3. A Pyrotechnic Display Permit must be submitted at least 45 days prior to
the desired display date. Approval by the Fire Marshal is required prior to any
display of pyrotechnics or the setup of the pyrotechnic display.
4. The fee for a Pyrotechnic Display Permit shall be in accordance with the
Fire Department Fee Schedule adopted by resolution of the City Council.
5. At the discretion of the Fire Chief that such requirement is necessary to
preserve the public health, safety and welfare, the Pyrotechnic Display Permit may
require that Fire Department apparatus and fire personnel be on site from 30
minutes prior to the start until 30 minutes after the conclusion of the display. All
compensation/costs for fire personnel and apparatus will be paid by the applicant
in accordance with the fee schedule adopted by resolution of the City Council and
amended from time to time.
6. Permits granted shall be in effect for the specified event, date and time.
Permit applications shall specify if a pyrotechnic display is needed for a multi-day
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event (example: pyrotechnics for professional sports season, concert, or other
multi-day event).
7. An approved Pyrotechnic Display Permit shall not be transferable.
8. The Chief of Police and the Fire Marshal are both directed to administer
and enforce the provisions of this chapter. Upon request by the Chief of Police or
the Fire Marshal, all other City departments and divisions are authorized to assist
them in enforcing this chapter.
9. An approved Pyrotechnic Display Permit may be immediately revoked at
any time deemed necessary by the Fire Marshal due to any noncompliance or
weather conditions such as extremely low humidity or wind factor. The display may
also be canceled by accidental ignition of combustible or flammable material in the
vicinity due to fall debris from the display.
10. For displays other than the 4th of July, the permit application must also
include a public notification plan for affected residents or businesses. This may
include newspaper, radio, and/or television announcements; door to door
distribution of written announcements; reader boards and/or other methods or
media. The public notification plan is subject to approval by the Fire Chief or
designee. Costs associated with public notification to affected residents shall be
borne by the permit applicant.
HH. Section 5704 of the International Fire Code entitled “Storage” is amended by
adding the following subsection 5704.1.2:
Section 5704.1.2 Tank Installation Restrictions. The installation of flammable
and combustible liquid tanks shall comply with all applicable City standards,
regulations, and zoning restrictions.
II. Appendix B of the International Fire Code entitled “Fire-Flow Requirements For
Buildings” is amended Appendix B Table B105.2, “Required Fire Flow,” per the following:
Table B105.2 Required Fire Flow. The percentage used in Table B105.2 shall
be 50% of the required fire flow.
Section 10. TMC Section 16.16.050 is hereby reenacted to read as follows:
16.16.050 FeesAmendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 3, “General
Requirements”
NA. Section 308 of the International Fire Code entitled “Open Flames” is amended
by substituting subsection 308.1.6.3 with the following:
Section 308.1.6.3 Sky Lanterns. The use of sky lanterns is prohibited.
A. Fire Marshal’s Office Fees, and Fees for Fire Development Services, Fire
Code Enforcement Services, and Fire Penalties. Fees shall be in accordance with the
Fire Department Fee Schedule adopted by resolution of the City Council.
B. Re-Inspection Fees:
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1. Re-Inspection Fees for Fire Development Permits. When a construction
inspection is scheduled for a Fire Development Permit and when the Fire Inspector
arrives and finds that the work is not complete, or not ready for the inspection, or the
permit construction documents are not on site, or the work does not comply with fire code
requirements, another inspection will be required, and a re-inspection fee in accordance
with the Fire Department Fee Schedule adopted by resolution of the City Council will be
assessed and required to be paid before a follow-up inspection may be scheduled.
2. Re-inspection Fees for Operational Permit Inspections, Life Safety
Inspections, New Business Inspections, and Fire Code Enforcement Inspections.
A re-inspection fee will be assessed if, at a re-inspection, the Fire Inspector finds that the
violations have not been corrected. The re-inspection fee(s) shall be in accordance with
the Fire Department Fee Schedule adopted by resolution of the City Council and will be
assessed and required to be paid before the inspection will be completed.
C. False Alarms. False alarms shall not be given, signaled or transmitted or
caused or permitted to be given, signaled or transmitted in any manner. After the first
false alarm, any further false alarms shall be fined under the fee referenced in TMC
Section 8.08.040.
Section 11. TMC Section 16.16.060 is hereby reenacted to read as follows:
16.16.060 Conflicts with Existing Codes and Ordinances Amendments to the
International Fire Code – Chapter 5, “Fire Service Features”
A. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads,” is hereby adopted.
PB. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Buildings and FacilitiesFire
Apparatus Access Roads,” is amended by substituting subsection 503.1.1 with the
following:
Section 503.1.1 Buildings and Facilities. Approved fire apparatus access roads
shall be provided for every facility, building or portion of a building hereafter
constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction. The fire apparatus access road
shall comply with the requirements of this section and shall extend to within 150
feet (45,720 mm) of all portions of the facility and all portions of the exterior walls
of the first story of the building as measured by an approved route around the
exterior of the building or facility.
Exceptions: The Fire MarshalFire Code Official is authorized to increase the
distance:
1. Up to 200 300 feet where the building is equipped throughout with an
approved automatic sprinkler system installed.
2. Where fire apparatus access roads cannot be installed because of
location on property, topography, waterways, nonnegotiable grades or other similar
conditions, and an approved alternative means of fire protection is provided.
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Alternate means may include installation of stairs that extend to the roof, sprinkler
system, fire alarm system, standpipes, smoke control system, ready access to fire
service elevators and others (sometimes in combination) to mitigate the additional
access distance.
3. There are not more than two Group R-3 or Group U occupancies.
QC. Section 503 of the International Fire Code entitled “Additional Access” is
amended by substituting subsection 503.1.2 with the following:
Section 503.1.2 Additional Access. The Fire MarshalFire Code Official is
authorized to require more than one fire apparatus access road based on the
potential for impairment of a single road by vehicle congestion, condition of terrain,
climatic conditions or other factors that could limit access.
SD. Section 503 of the International Fire Code entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads” is amended by substituting subsection 503.2.1 with the following:
Section 503.2.1. Dimensions. The following minimum dimensions shall apply
for fire apparatus access roads:
1. Fire apparatus access roads and fire lanes shall have an unobstructed
width of not less than 20 feet (6,096 mm), and an unobstructed vertical clearance
of not less than 13 feet 6 inches (4,115 mm).
2. Fire apparatus access road routes shall be approved by the Fire
MarshalFire Code Official.
3. Where a fire hydrant is located on a fire apparatus access road, the
minimum road width shall be 26 feet for 20 feet on both sides of the hydrant
operating nut, as shown in D103.1 and shall be marked as a fire lane per Section
503.3.
Exception: When the fire apparatus access road is serving no more than 2 single
family houses and all are equipped with approved automatic sprinkler system, the
Fire MarshalFire Code Official may approve a reduced width, but the reduction
shall not be less than 16 feet wide.
TE. Section 503 of the International Fire Code entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads” is amended by substituting subsection 503.2.3 with the following:
Section 503.2.3. Road Surface. Fire apparatus access roads shall be
constructed with a surface of asphalt or concrete or other permanent material
approved by the Fire Marshal Fire Code Official, capable of supporting the imposed
load of fire apparatus weighing at least 85,000 lbs (38,555 kg).
UF. Section 503 of the International Fire Code entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads” is amended by substituting subsection 503.2.4 with the following:
Section 503.2.4. Fire Access Road Turning Radius. All fire apparatus access
roads shall have a 2830-foot minimum inside turning radius (curb radius) and a 50-
foot minimum outside turning radius, unless otherwise approved by the Fire
MarshalFire Code Official.
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1. The radius is measured from the travel lane edge (curb).
2. When turning from the right of way (ROW) to an access road, the
minimum effective turning radius will be measured from the inside tire and no
further from the center of the lane in the direction of travel. The size of curb radii
to be as necessary to facilitate minimum effective turning radius.
WG. Section 503 of the International Fire Code is amended by substituting
subsection 503.2.5 with the following:
Section 503.2.5. Fire Access Road Dead-Ends. Dead-end fire apparatus
access roads in excess of 150 feet in length shall be provided with a turnaround
that is approved by the Fire MarshalFire Code Official. and shall be in accordance
with subsection 503.2.4.1.
Exception: The Fire Marshal Fire Code Official is authorized to increase the
length up to 200 300 feet for dead-end access roads when all of the following apply:
1. The road is serving no more than 4 single-family homes that are
equipped throughout with an approved automatic fire sprinkler system.
2. The road shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet, and
an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches.
3. Where the vertical distance between the grade plane and the highest
point of the roof eave is no more than 30 feet for any of the structures served by
the fire access road.
XH. Section 503 of the International Fire Code entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads” is amended by substituting subsection 503.2.6 with the following:
Section 503.2.6. Bridges and Elevated Surfaces. Where a bridge or an
elevated surface is part of a fire apparatus access road, the bridge or elevated
surface shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with specifications
established by the Fire MarshalFire Code Official and the City’s Public Works
Director, or their designees; at a minimum, however, the bridge or elevated surface
shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with AASHTO Standard
Specifications for Highway Bridges.
1. Bridges and elevated surfaces shall be designed for a live load sufficient
to carry the imposed loads of an 85,000 lb. fire apparatus, the total imposed load
to be determined by the Fire MarshalFire Code Official.
2. Vehicle load limits shall be posted at both entrances to bridges when
required by the Fire MarshalFire Code Official.
3. Where elevated surfaces designed for emergency vehicle use are
adjacent to surfaces that are not designed for that use, approved barriers or
approved signs, or both, shall be installed and maintained, if required by the Fire
MarshalFire Code Official.
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YI. Section 503 of the International Fire Code entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads” is amended by substituting subsection 503.2.7 with the following:
Section 503.2.7. Grade. Fire apparatus access roads shall comply with the
following:
1. The grade of the access road toFire apparatus access roads shall not
exceed 15 percent longitudinal and/or the cross slope shall not exceed 6 percent
laterally in grade.
2. Driveway approach and departure angles for fire apparatus access shall
not exceed 10 percent for the first 75 feet when measured from the right of way,
unless otherwise approved by the Fire Marshal Fire Code Official.
J. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads,” is amended by substituting subsection 503.3 with the following:
Section 503.3 Marking. Fire apparatus access roads shall be marked whenever
necessary to maintain the unobstructed minimum required width of roadways.
Subject to the Fire Code Official’s prior written approval, marked fire apparatus
access roads, or “fire lanes,” may be established or relocated at the time of plan
review, pre-construction site inspection, and/or post construction site inspection as
well as any time during the life of the occupancy. Only those fire apparatus access
roads established by the fire code official can utilize red marking paint and the term
“fire lane.” Fire lanes shall be marked as directed by the Fire Code Official.
Section 503.3.1 Type 1. Type 1 marking shall be installed to identify fire
lanes on hammerhead turnarounds, commercial and multi-family developments or
as directed by the Fire Code Official.
Section 503.3.2 Type 2. Type 2 marking shall be installed to identify fire
lanes in one- and two-family dwelling developments, or as directed by the Fire
Code Official.
Section 503.3.3 Type 3. Type 3 marking shall be installed to address
situations where neither Type 1 or 2 marking is effective as determined by the Fire
Code Official.
Specific areas designated by the Fire Code Official shall be marked with
diagonal striping across the width of the fire lane. Diagonal marking shall be used
in conjunction with painted curbs and/or edge striping and shall run at an angle of
30 to 60 degrees from one side to the other. These diagonal lines shall be in red
traffic paint, parallel with each other, at least 6 inches in width, and 24 inches apart.
Lettering shall occur as with Type 1 marking.
K. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads,” is amended by substituting subsection 503.5 with the following:
Section 503.2 Required gates or barricades. The Fire Code Official is
authorized to require the installation and maintenance of gates or other approved
barricades across fire apparatus access roads, trails, or other accessways, not
including public streets, alleys, or highways. Installations shall meet the following:
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1. Electric gate operators, where provided, shall be listed in accordance
with UL 325.
2. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed,
and installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM F 2200 and must be
equipped with “Click 2 Enter” or similar equipment that is approved by the Fire
MarshalFire Code Official, that allows for operations of the gate by Fire and Police
personnel via their vehicle mobile radio, on a dedicated radio frequency, with a
hold-open for a specified amount of time.
3. Gates over the fire access road that are intended for automatic operation
shall be designed to operate during a loss of power or fail in the open position.
4. Gates shall be at a minimum as wide as the required access road width.
Gates, bollards, or other obstructions on commercial properties must be set back
30 feet from roadway edge of pavement.
5. If manually operated, gates are installed across a fire access road, a
Knox padlock is required if the gate is locked.
6. Installations must be set back 40 feet from roadway edge of pavement.
Exception: Automated gates meeting the requirements of item 2 of this
subsection.equipped with “Click 2 Enter” or other authorized equipment that allows
for operation of the gate by Fire and Police personnel from their vehicle are not
required to be set back 30 feet.
AAL. Section 503 of the International Fire Code entitled “Security GatesFire
Apparatus Access Roads” is amended by substituting subsection 503.6 with the following:
Section 503.6 Security Gates, Bollards, And Other Obstructions. The
installation of security gates, bollards or other obstructions across a fire apparatus
access road shall be reviewed and approved by the Fire MarshalFire Code Official.
The use of directional-limiting devices (tire spikes) is prohibited. Where security
gates, bollards or other obstructions areWhere installed, they shall have an
approved means of emergency operation. The installation of security gates,
bollards, and other obstructions shall be in accordance with 503.5. The security
gates, bollards or other obstruction and the emergency operation shall be
maintained operational at all times. The use of directional-limiting devices (tire
spikes) is prohibited.
M. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 503.7:
Section 503.7 Establishment of fire lanes. Fire lanes in conformance with this
code shall be established by the Fire Code Official and shall be in accordance with
503.7.1 through 503.7.8.
Section 503.7.1 Obstruction of fire lanes prohibited. The obstruction of a
designated fire lane by a parked vehicle or any other object is prohibited and shall
constitute a traffic hazard as defined in State law and an immediate hazard to life
and property.
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Section 503.7.2 Existing fire lane signs and markings. The following signs
and markings shall be provided:
1. Signs (minimum nine-inch by 16-inch) may be allowed to remain until
there is a need for replacement and at that time the sign shall meet the
requirements of subsection 503.3.2.
2. Markings may be allowed to remain until there is a need for repainting
and at that time the provisions outlined in 503.3 shall be complied with.
Section 503.7.3 Maintenance. Fire lane markings shall be maintained at the
expense of the property owner(s) as often as needed to clearly identify the
designated area as being a fire lane.
Section 503.7.4 Towing notification. At each entrance to any property where
fire lanes have been designated, signs shall be posted in a clearly conspicuous
location and shall clearly state that vehicles parked in fire lanes may be
impounded, and the name, telephone number, and address of the towing firm
where the vehicle may be redeemed.
Section 503.7.5 Responsible property owner. The owner, manager, or person
in charge of any property upon which designated fire lanes have been established
shall prevent the parking of vehicles or placement of other obstructions in such fire
lanes.
Section 503.7.6 Violation – Penalty. Penalties of this section shall be in
accordance with Section 112.4.
Section 503.7.7 Impoundment. Any vehicle or object obstructing a designated
fire lane is declared a traffic hazard and may be abated without prior notification to
its owner by impoundment pursuant to the applicable State law in accordance with
Section 112.4. The owner or operator shall be responsible for all towing and
impound charges.
N. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 503.8:
Section 503.8 Commercial and Industrial Developments. Fire apparatus
access roads serving commercial and industrial developments shall be in
accordance with Sections 503.8.1 through 503.8.3.
Section 503.8.1 Buildings or facilities exceeding three stories or 30 feet in
height. Buildings or facilities exceeding 30 feet or three stories in height shall
have at least two means of fire apparatus access for each structure.
Section 503.8.2 Buildings or facilities exceeding 62,000 square feet in area.
Buildings or facilities having a gross building area of more than 62,000 square feet
shall be provided with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads.
Exception: Buildings or facilities having a gross building area of up to 124,000
square feet that have a single approved fire apparatus access road when all
buildings or facilities are equipped throughout with approved automatic sprinkler
systems.
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Section 503.8.3 Remoteness. Where two access roads are required, they shall
be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one half of the length of the
maximum overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served,
measured in a straight line between accesses or as approved by the Fire Code
Official and the fire chief.
O. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 503.9:
Section 503.9 Aerial fire apparatus roads. The fire apparatus access roads
that accommodate aerial fire apparatus shall be in accordance with Sections
503.9.1 through 503.9.4.
Section 503.9.1 Where required. Buildings, or facilities, or portions of buildings
thereof exceeding 30 feet in height above the lowest level of fire department
vehicle access shall be provided with approved fire apparatus access roads that
are capable of accommodating fire department aerial apparatus. Overhead utility
and power lines shall not be located within the aerial fire apparatus access
roadway.
Section 503.9.2 Width. Aerial fire apparatus access roads shall have a minimum
unobstructed width of 26 feet, exclusive of shoulders, in the immediate vicinity of
any building or portion of building more than 30 feet in height.
Section 503.9.3 Proximity to building or facility. At least one of the required
access routes meeting this condition shall be positioned parallel to one entire side
of the building or facility. The location of the parallel access route shall be
approved.
Section 503.9.4 Obstructions. Overhead utility and power lines shall not be
located over the aerial fire apparatus access road or between the aerial apparatus
access road and the building or facility. Other obstructions shall be permitted to be
placed with the approval of the Fire Code Official.
P. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 503.10:
Section 503.10 Multi-family residential developments. The fire apparatus
access roads serving multi-family residential developments shall be in accordance
with Sections 503.10.1 through 503.10.3.
Section 503.10.1 Projects having from 100 through 200 dwelling units.
Projects having from 100 through 200 dwelling units shall be provided with two
separate and approved fire apparatus access roads.
Exception: Projects having up to 200 dwelling units may have a single approved
fire apparatus access road when all buildings, including nonresidential
occupancies, are equipped throughout with approved automatic sprinkler systems
installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
Section 503.10.2 Projects having more than 200 dwelling units. Projects
having more than 200 dwelling units shall be provided with two separate and
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approved fire apparatus access roads regardless of whether they are equipped
with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
Section 503.10.3 Remoteness. Where two access roads are required, they
shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one half of the length of the
maximum overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served,
measured in a straight line between accesses or as approved by the Fire Code
Official and the fire chief.
Q. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 503.11:
Section 503.11 One- and Two-family residential developments. The fire
apparatus access roads serving one- and two-family residential developments
shall be in accordance with Section 503.11.1 and 503.11.2.
Section 503.11.1 Projects having more than 30 dwelling units. Developments
of one- or two-family dwellings where the number of dwelling units exceeds 30
shall be provided with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads.
Exceptions:
1. Where there are more than 30 dwelling units on a single public or private
fire apparatus access road and all dwelling units are equipped throughout with
approved automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2, or 903.3.1.3 of the International Fire Code, access from two
directions shall not be required.
2. The number of dwelling units on a single fire apparatus access road shall
not be increased unless fire apparatus access roads will, within a reasonable time,
connect with future development, as determined by the Fire Code Official.
Section 503.11.2 Remoteness. Where two access roads are required, they
shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one half of the length of the
maximum overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served,
measured in a straight line between accesses or as approved by the Fire Code
Official and the fire chief.
R. Section 503 of the International Fire Code, entitled, “Fire Apparatus Access
Roads,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 503.12:
Section 503.12 Underground structures. Installation of underground
structures under or within 10 feet of fire apparatus access roads shall be designed
using approved load criteria that shall accommodate the loading of fire department
aerial apparatus unless otherwise approved.
BBS. Section 504 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Access to Building
Openings and Roofs,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 504.5504.4:
Section 504.5504.4 Buildings With 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
MarshalFire Code Official. If a stairway is used it shall comply with International
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Fire Code Section 1011 and a corridor shall comply with International Fire Code
Section 1020. The access shall have a minimum width of 5 feet and be large
enough to carry a 35-foot-long sectional ladder (minimum folded length 20 feet)
directly from the exterior to the courtyard without obstructions. The access door
shall be marked at the street as “Direct Fire Access to Courtyard”.
T. Section 506 of the International Fire Code , entitled “Key Boxes,” is amended by
substituting subsection 506.1 with the following:
Section 506.1 Where required. Where access to or within a structure or an
area is restricted because of secured openings or where immediate access is
necessary for life-saving or firefighting purposes, the fire code official is authorized
to require a key box/vault to be installed. The key box shall be a Knox KLS product
listed in accordance with UL 1037 and shall contain keys to gain necessary access.
The location, key box and key requirements shall be in accordance with the Rapid
Entry System Policy of the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority.
U. Section 506 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Key Boxes,” is amended by
adding new subsection 506.3 with the following:
Section 506.3 Compliance. Compliance with this chapter shall be in
accordance with the following:
1. Newly constructed buildings not yet occupied or buildings currently under
construction and all buildings applying for a certificate of occupancy shall comply
prior to occupancy, permit final, or approval of any certificate.
2. Existing buildings without existing key boxes shall comply within 180
days of notification.
3. Existing buildings, gates, or barriers with non-compliant key boxes or
locks installed shall comply within 1 year of notification.
V. Section 507 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Protection Water
Supplies,” is amended by substituting subsection 507.5. with the following:
Section 507.5 Fire Hydrant systems. Fire hydrant systems shall comply with
Section 507.5.1 through 5.6.8 and Tukwila Municipal Code Chapter 14.24.
W. Section 507 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Protection Water
Supplies,” is amended by substituting subsection 507.5.6 with the following:
Section 507.5.6 Physical protection. Where fire hydrants are subject to impact
by a motor vehicle, guard posts shall be designed and installed in accordance with
TMC Section 14.20.030.
X. Section 507 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Protection Water
Supplies,” is amended by adding a new subsection 507.5.7 as follows:
Section 507.5.7 Fire hydrant. Fire hydrants shall be designed and installed in
accordance with the local water purveyor’s design and construction standards.
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Y. Section 507 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Protection Water
Supplies,” is amended by adding a new subsection 507.5.8 as follows:
Section 507.5.8 Backflow prevention. All private fire systems shall be isolated
by an approved method in accordance with the local water purveyor.
Z. Section 507 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Protection Water
Supplies,” is amended by adding a new subsection 507.6 as follows:
Section 507.6 Capacity for residential areas. All hydrants installed in single
family residential areas shall be capable of delivering 1,500 gpm fire-flow over and
above average maximum demands at the farthest point of the installation.
AA. Section 507 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Protection Water
Supplies,” is amended by adding a new subsection 507.7 as follows:
Section 507.7 Spacing. The spacing of hydrants shall be in accordance with
Sections 507.7.1 through 507.7.5.
Section 507.7.1 Single family. The maximum fire hydrant spacing serving
single family residential areas shall be 600 feet as measured along the fire
apparatus access road.
Section 507.7.2 Commercial, industrial and multi-family. The maximum fire
hydrant spacing serving commercial, industrial, multi-family or other areas shall be
300 feet as measured along the fire apparatus access road.
Section 507.7.3 Medians. Where streets are provided with median dividers
which cannot be crossed by firefighters pulling hose lines, hydrants shall be
provided on each side of the street and be arranged on an alternating basis,
providing, on each side of the street, no more than the maximum spacing.
Section 507.7.4 Arterials. Where arterial streets are provided with four or more
traffic lanes hydrants shall be provided on each side of the street and be arranged
on an alternating basis, providing, on each side of the street, no more than the
maximum spacing.
Section 507.7.5 Transportation. Where new water mains are extended along
streets where hydrants are not needed for protection of structures or similar fire
problems, fire hydrants shall be provided at a spacing not to exceed 1,000 feet to
provide for transportation hazards.
BB. Section 507 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Protection Water
Supplies,” is amended by adding a new subsection 507.8 as follows:
Section 507.8 Required hydrants. The number of hydrants required for a
building shall be based on the calculated fire-flow. The first hydrant will be
calculated for up to 1,500 gpm. An additional hydrant will be required for every
additional 1,000 gpm, or fraction thereof. The required hydrants shall be within 600
feet of the building as measured along the fire apparatus access roads serving the
building.
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CC. Section 507 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Protection Water
Supplies,” is amended by adding a new subsection 507.9 as follows:
Section 507.9 Notification. The owner of property on which private hydrants
are located and the public agencies that own or control public hydrants must
provide the fire code official with the following written service notifications in
accordance with 507.9.1 and 507.9.2:
Section 507.9.1 In-service notification. The Fire Code Official shall be notified
when any newly installed hydrant or main is placed into service.
Section 507.9.2 Out-of-service notification. Where any hydrant is out of service
or has not yet been placed in service, the hydrant shall be identified as being out
of service and shall be appropriately marked as out of service, by a method
approved by the Fire Code Official.
DD. Section 507 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Protection Water
Supplies,” is amended by adding a new subsection 507.10 as follows:
Section 507.10 Building permit requirements. No building permit shall be
issued until all plans required by this section have been submitted and approved
in accordance with the provisions of this section.
No construction beyond the foundation shall be allowed until all hydrants and
mains required by this section are in place and approved.
CCEE. Section 510 of the International Fire Code entitled “Emergency Responder
Radio Coverage” is amended by substituting Section 510 with the following language:
Section 510.1 Emergency Responder Radio Coverage (New Buildings).
Approved radio coverage for emergency responders shall be provided within
buildings that meet any one of the following conditions:
1. The building is five stories or more above grade plane (as defined by the
International Building Code, Section 202); or
2. The total building area is 50,000 square feet or more; or
3. The total basement area is 10,000 square feet or more; or
4. There are floors used for human occupancy more than 30 feet below the
finished floor of the lowest level of exit discharge; or
5. Buildings or structures where the Fire 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 Section 510 of this
code and with the provisions of NFPA 1221 (current edition).
Exceptions:
1. Buildings and areas of buildings that have minimum radio coverage
signal strength levels of the King County Regional 800 MHz Radio System within
the building in accordance with Section 510.4.1 without the use of a radio coverage
system.
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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 MarshalFire Code Official shall
have the authority to accept an automatically activated emergency responder radio
coverage system.
3. One- and two-family dwellings and townhouses.
When determining if the minimum signal strength referenced in Section 510.4.1.1
exists at a subject building, the signal strength shall be measured at any point on
the exterior of the building up to the highest point on the roof.
Section 510.2 Emergency Responder Radio Coverage (Existing Buildings).
Existing buildings shall be provided with approved radio coverage for emergency
responders when:
1. Whenever an existing wired communications system cannot be repaired
or is being replaced.
2. When a building undergoing substantial alteration meets any one of the
conditions listed in Section 510.1. For purposes of this section, a substantial
alteration shall be defined as an alteration that costs 50 percent or more of the
current assessed value of the structure and impacts more than 50 percent of the
gross floor area.
3. When buildings, classes of buildings or specific occupancies do not have
the minimum radio coverage signal strength as identified in Section 510.4.1 and
the Fire or Police Chief determines that the lack of minimum signal strength poses
an undue risk to emergency responders that cannot be reasonably mitigated by
other means.
Section 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. 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
PSERN is the single operator of the county wide system (projected date Q4 2022
/ Q1 2023), such approval is required from EPSCA, King County, Seattle or
ValleyCom depending on the location of the installation. To be forward compatible,
designers and contractors should be aware of PSERN’s requirements for
Distributed Antenna Systems which can be found on their website
(https://PSERN.org).
Section 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.
Section 510.4.1 Emergency responder communication enhancement system
signal strength. The building shall be considered to have acceptable emergency
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responder communications enhancement system coverage when signal strength
measurements in 95 percent 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.
Exception: Critical areas, such 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
MarshalFire Code Official, shall be provided with 99 percent floor area radio
coverage.
Section 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 MarshalFire Code Official.
The inbound signal level shall be a minimum of -95 dBm in 95 percent of the
coverage area and 99 percent 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.
Section 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 Marshal
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 shall be received
by the King County Regional 800 MHz Radio System when transmitted from within
the building.
Section 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 in Section 510.4.2.2.
Section 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 (2019).
Section 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.
Section 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 technical
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information necessary for system design upon request by the building owner or
owner’s representative.
Section 510.4.2.3 Power supply sources. Emergency responder radio coverage
systems shall be provided with dedicated standby batteries or provided with 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 100 percent system
capacity for a duration of not less than 12 hours.
Section 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, IP66-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, IP65-type waterproof cabinet or
equivalent.
3. Equipment shall have FCC or other radio licensing authority certification
and be suitable for public safety use prior to installation.
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.
BDAs must also comply with PSERN’s detailed requirements, which include
channelized, minimum of 28 channels, supporting analog, P25 Phase I (FDMA),
and P25 Phase II (TDMA). Information regarding PSERN requirements can be
found via their website (https://PSERN.org).
Section 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 of each of the following
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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 70 percent 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.
Section 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.
Section 510.4.2.7 Design documents. The Fire MarshalFire 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 MarshalFire Code Official.
Section 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.
Section 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.
Section 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.
Section 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.
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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.
Section 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 20 approximately
equal test areas, with a maximum test area size of 6,400 square feet. Where the
floor area exceeds 128,000 square feet, 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), and including signal strengths and frequencies
for each test area. Indicate all critical areas.
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 MarshalFire
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 5 percent of the test areas on any floor shall result
in failure of the test.
Exception: Critical areas shall be provided with 99 percent 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 40 equal test
areas. Failure of not more than two nonadjacent test areas shall not result in failure
of the test. If the system fails the 40-area test, the system shall be altered to meet
the 95 percent coverage requirement.
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
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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 10 feet (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. With both portable radios
simultaneously keyed up on different frequencies within the same band, subjective
audio testing shall be conducted and comply with 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 the building engineer’s office. The records shall be available to the
Fire MarshalFire 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.
b. The grid square diagram created as part of testing in Sections
510.5.3(2) and 510.5.3(3).
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 Fire MarshalFire Code Official. At the
conclusion of the testing, and prior to issuance of the building Certificate of
Occupancy, the building owner or owner’s representative shall submit to the Fire
MarshalFire Code Official an acceptance test report that includes items (10a-10e).
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Section 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.
Section 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 MarshalFire 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 MarshalFire Code Official or designee.”
The antenna installation shall be in accordance with the applicable requirements in
the International Building Code for weather protection of the building envelope.
Section 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 the 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-resistance 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 per the International Building Code.
Section 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.
Section 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.
Section 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):
1. In-building coverage test as required by the Fire Marshal 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.
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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 1 hour to verify they will properly operate during an actual power outage.
If within the 1-hour test period the battery exhibits symptoms of failure, the test shall
be extended for additional 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 certifications in Section
510.5.2 are sufficient for the personnel performing this testing.
5. Other active components shall be checked to verify operation within the
manufacturer’s specifications.
6. At the conclusion of the testing, a report that shall verify compliance with
Section 510.6.1 shall be submitted to the Fire MarshalFire Code Official by way of
the department’s third-party compliance vendor.
7. At the conclusion of 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.
Section 510.6.1.1 Alternative In-building coverage test. When the
comprehensive test documentation required by Section 510.5.3 is available, or the
most recent full five-year test results are available if the system is older than six
years, the in-building coverage test required by the Fire MarshalFire Code Official
in Section 510.6.1(1), may be conducted as follows:
1. 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 MarshalFire
Code Official. Testing shall use Digital Audible Quality (DAQ) metrics, where a
passing result is a DAQ of 3 or higher. Communications between handsets in the
following locations shall be tested: between the fire command center or fire alarm
control panel and a location outside the building; between the fire alarm control
panel and each landing in each stairwell.
2. Coverage testing of signal strength shall be conducted using a calibrated
spectrum analyzer for:
(a) Three grid areas per floor. The three grid areas to be tested on each
floor are the three grid areas with poorest performance in the acceptance test or
the most recent annual test, whichever is more recent; and
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(b) Each of the critical areas identified in acceptance test documentation
required by Section 510.5.3, or as modified by the Fire MarshalFire Code Official,
and
(c) One 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 MarshalFire Code
Official. The building shall be considered to have acceptable emergency responder
radio coverage when the required signal strength requirements in Sections
510.4.1.1 and 510.4.1.2 are located in 95 percent of all areas on each floor of the
building and 99 percent in Critical Areas, and any non-functional serving antenna
are repaired to function within normal ranges. If the documentation of the
acceptance test or most recent previous annual test results are not available or
acceptable to the Fire MarshalFire Code Official, the radio coverage verification
testing described in 510.5.3 shall be conducted.
The alternative in-building coverage test provides an 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 must be
performed at the time of each annual test.
Section 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 or other radio
licensing authority 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.
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 coverage system, the
nonpublic safety amplification system shall be corrected or removed.
Section 510.6.4 Field testing. The Fire MarshalFire Code Official or designee
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.
Whenever any provision of the International Fire Code or appendices adopted by this
ordinance conflicts with any provision of any other adopted code or ordinance of the City,
the provision providing the greater or most effective protection shall govern.
Section 12. TMC Section 16.16.070 is hereby established to read as follows:
16.16.070 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 6, “Building
Services and Systems”
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A. Section 607 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Commercial Cooking
Equipment and Systems,” is amended by adding the following subsections to section
606.2:
Section 606.2.2 Permit Required. Permits shall be required as set forth in
Section 105.6.
Section 606.2.3 Approved drawing. The stamped and approved cook line
drawing shall be displayed adjacent to the suppression system pull station prior to
the final inspection. The approved drawing shall be maintained and available for
inspection.
Section 13. TMC Section 16.16.080 is hereby established to read as follows:
16.16.080 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 7, “Fire and
Smoke Prevention Systems”
A. Section 705 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Door and Window
Openings,” is amended by substituting 705.2.3 with the following:
Section 705.2.3 Hold-open devices and closers. Hold-open devices and
automatic door closures, where provided, shall be maintained. During the period
that such device is out of service for repairs, the door it operates shall remain in
the closed position.
The Fire Code Official is authorized to require the installation of hold-open devices
of existing door installations where there has been documented use of door closure
impairment devices.
Section 14. TMC Section 16.16.090 is hereby established to read as follows:
16.16.090 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 9, “Fire
Protection Systems”
A. Section 901 of the International Fire Code, entitled “General,” is amended by
substituting subsection 901.1 with the following:
Section 901.1 Scope and application. The provisions of this chapter shall
apply to all occupancies and buildings, shall specify where fire protection systems
are required, and shall apply to the design, installation, inspection, operation,
testing, and maintenance of all fire protection systems; however, nothing contained
in this chapter shall diminish or reduce the requirements of any duly adopted
building codes, including state and local amendments, or other city ordinances,
resolutions, or regulations. In the event of any conflict in requirements among
these codes, ordinances, resolutions, or regulations, the more stringent provision
shall apply.
DDB. Section 901 of the International Fire Code entitled “General” is amended by
adding the following new subsection 901.7.9901.7.7:
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Section 901.7.9901.7.7 Fire Watch for Impaired Fire Protection Systems. In
the event of failure of the emergency responder radio system, fire alarm system,
fire sprinkler system or any other required fire protection system; or an excessive
number of accidental alarm activations, the Fire MarshalFire Code Official is
authorized to require the building owner or occupant to provide standby personnel
as set forth in the International Fire Code until the system is restored, repaired or
replaced.
C. Section 901 of the International Fire Code, entitled “General,” is amended by
adding the following new subsection 901.11:
Section 901.11 Emergency contacts. It shall be the responsibility of the owner
of any monitored fire protection system to provide and maintain a minimum of three
emergency contacts that are capable of responding to the system location with
their monitoring company.
D. Section 902 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Definitions,” is amended by
adding the following to the list in subsection 902.1:
PROBLEMATIC FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM
E. Section 903 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Automatic Sprinkler
Systems,” is amended by substituting subsection 903.2 with the following:
Section 903.2 Where required. Approved automatic fire sprinkler systems shall
be installed as follows:
1. In all buildings without adequate fire flow.
Exception: Miscellaneous Group U Occupancies.
2. All new buildings and structures regulated by the International Building
Code requiring 2,000 gallons per minute or more fire flow, or with a gross floor area
of 10,000 or more square feet (929 m2), or where this code provides a more
restrictive floor/fire area requirement, and shall be provided in all locations or where
described by this code.
Exception: Spaces or areas in telecommunications structures used
exclusively for telecommunications equipment, associated electrical power
distribution equipment, batteries, and standby engines, provided those spaces or
areas are equipped throughout with an automatic smoke detection system in
accordance with Section 907.2 and are separated from the remainder of the
building by not less than 1 hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section
707 of the International Building Code or not less than 2 hour horizontal assemblies
constructed in accordance with Section 712 of the International Building Code, or
both.
3. Where this code requires the installation of an automatic sprinkler
system to protect an occupancy within an otherwise non-sprinklered building, then
automatic sprinkler protection will be required throughout the entire building.
4. When the required fire apparatus access roadway grade is 12 percent or
greater.
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F. Section 903 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Automatic Sprinkler
Systems,” is amended by adding the following new subsection 903.2.9.5:
Section 903.2.9.5 Speculative use warehouses. Where the occupant, tenant,
or use of the building or storage commodity has not been determined or it is
otherwise a speculative use warehouse or building, the automatic sprinkler system
shall be designed and installed to protect not less than Class IV non-encapsulated
commodities on wood pallets, with no solid, slatted, or wire mesh shelving, and
with aisles that are 8 feet or more in width and up to 20 feet in height.
G. Section 903 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Automatic Sprinkler
Systems,” is amended by substituting subsection 903.3 as follows:
Section 903.3 Installation Requirements. Automatic sprinkler systems shall
be designed and installed in accordance with Sections 903.3.1 through 903.3.9.
H. Section 903 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Automatic Sprinkler
Systems,” is amended by adding a new subsection 903.3.9 as follows:
Section 903.3.9 Check valve. All automatic sprinkler system risers shall be
equipped with a check valve.
I. Section 903 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Automatic Sprinkler
Systems,” is amended by adding a new subsection 903.7 as follows:
Section 903.7 Riser room access. All risers shall be located in a dedicated
room with an exterior door, and with lighting and heat for the room.
J. Section 907 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Alarm and Detection
Systems,” is amended by substituting subsection 907.1.3 with the following:
Section 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.
K. Section 907 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Alarm and Detection
Systems,” is amended by substituting subsection 907.6.3 with the following:
Section 907.6.3 Initiating device identification. The fire alarm system shall
identify the specific initiating device address, location, device type, floor level
where applicable and status including indication of normal, alarm, trouble and
supervisory status, as appropriate.
Exception: Special initiating devices that do not support individual device
identification.
L. Section 907 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Alarm and Detection
Systems,” is amended by adding a new subsection 907.12 as follows:
Section 907.12 Latched alarms. All signals shall be automatically “latched” at
the fire alarm control unit until their operated devices are returned to normal
condition, and the control unit is manually reset.
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M. Section 907 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Alarm and Detection
Systems,” is amended by adding a new subsection 907.13 as follows:
Section 907.13 Resetting. All fire alarm control units shall be reset only by an
approved person.
Section 907.13.1 Reset code. The reset code for the fire alarm control unit or
keypad shall be 1-2-3-4-5. The reset code shall not be changed without approval
of the Fire Code Official.
N. Section 907 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Alarm and Detection
Systems,” is amended by adding a new subsection 907.14 as follows:
Section 907.14 Fire alarm control unit location. All fire alarm control units
shall be located in the riser room designed and installed in accordance with Section
903.7, or an approved location.
O. Section 912 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Department
Connections,” is amended by substituting 912.5 with the following:
Section 912.5 Signs. Fire department connections shall be clearly identified in
an approved manner.
All fire department connections shall have an approved sign attached below the
Siamese clapper. The sign shall specify the type of water-based fire protection
system, the structure, and the building areas served.
Section 15. TMC Section 16.16.100 is hereby established to read as follows:
16.16.100 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 11,
“Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings”
A. Section 1103 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Safety Requirements
for Existing Buildings,” is amended by adding a new subsection 1103.5.6 as follows:
Section 1103.5.6 Substantial Alterations. The provisions of this chapter shall
apply to substantial alterations to existing buildings regardless of use when a
substantial alteration occurs in a structure equaling 10,000 or greater square feet.
For purposes of this section, a substantial alteration shall be defined as an
alteration that costs 50 percent or more of the current assessed value of the
structure and impacts more than 50% of the gross floor area.
B. Section 1103 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Safety Requirements
for Existing Buildings,” is amended by adding substituting 1103.7 as follows:
Section 1103.7 Fire alarm systems. An approved fire alarm system shall be
installed in existing buildings and structures in accordance with Sections 1103.7.1
through 1103.7.7 and provide occupant notification in accordance with Section
907.5 unless other requirements are provided by other sections of this code.
C. Section 1103 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire Safety Requirements
for Existing Buildings,” is amended by adding a new subsection 1103.7.7 as follows:
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Section 1103.7.7 Fire alarm control unit replacement. If an existing fire alarm
control unit is replaced with identical equipment that has the same part number it
shall be considered maintenance.
Section 16. TMC Section 16.16.110 is hereby established to read as follows:
16.16.110 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 56, “Explosives
and Fireworks”
A. Section 5601 of the International Fire Code entitled “General” is amended by
substituting the following subsection 5601.1.3:
Section 5608.25601.1.3 Fireworks Regulations. No person, firm or corporation
shall manufacture, sell, or store fireworks in the City of Tukwila, except for a person
granted a permit for a temporary fireworks stand or public display of fireworks , shall
be allowed to buy, possess, and store fireworks according to the permit granted.
1. Section 5601.1.3.1 Fireworks Discharge Prohibited. No person shall
ignite or discharge any fireworks at any time.
Exceptions:
a. Displays authorized by permit issued by the City pursuant to RCW
70.77.260(2) now enacted or as hereafter amended.
b. Use by a group or individual for religious or other specific purposes on
an approved date at an approved location pursuant to a permit issued pursuant to
RCW 70.77.311(2)(c) now enacted or as hereafter amended and as required by
Tukwila Municipal Code.
c. Use of trick and novelty devices as defined in WAC 212-17-030, as
amended, and as hereafter amended and use of agricultural and wildlife fireworks
as defined in WAC 212-17-045 now enacted or as hereafter amended.
d. Legal consumer fireworks, as defined by RCW 70.77.136 now enacted
or as hereafter amended, are small devices designed to produce: (1) visible effects
by combustion and which must comply with the construction, chemical
composition, and labeling regulations of the United States Consumer Product
Safety Commission; and (2) audible effects such as a whistling device, ground
device containing 50 milligrams or less of explosive materials—provided that
devices that are aerial, airborne, discharged, launched, or explode are prohibited.
2. Section 5601.1.3.2 Limitation on Use of Legal Consumer Fireworks.
a. It is unlawful for any person under the age of 16 years to possess, use,
discharge, or transport any fireworks unless under immediate supervision of an
adult (18 years old or older). It is unlawful for any person or entity to sell or give
fireworks to anyone under the age of 16 years unless that person is under the
immediate supervision of an adult (18 years old or older).
b. It is unlawful for any person to smoke within 25 feet of any building or
stand in which fireworks are sold at retail or stored after hours.
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c. It is unlawful for any person to discharge any fireworks, or to permit the
discharge of fireworks, within 300 feet of any structure, combustible material, or
person, or any building or stand in which fireworks are sold at retail or stored after
hours.
d. It is unlawful at any time to throw or toss any fireworks at any person,
animal, vehicle, thing or object.
e. It is unlawful to have in possession or to use, fire, or discharge any
fireworks in any public park within the City, including vehicle parking areas within
or adjacent to a park.
f. During periods of extreme fire danger, the local fire officialFire Code
Official may prohibit the discharge of all fireworks including those described in
subparagraph FF.1.d abovesection 5601.1.3.1.d.
g. Legal consumer fireworks may only be used or discharged within the City
on the following days and times as provided in RCW 70.77.395:
From 12:00 noon to 11:00 p.m. on June 28th of each year;
From 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on each day from June 29th through July 3 rd
of each year;
From 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 midnight on July 4th of each year;
From 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on July 5th of each year; and
From 6:00 p.m. on December 31st until 1:00 a.m. on January 1st of the
subsequent year.
B. Section 5601 of the International Fire Code entitled “General” is amended by
substituting the following subsection 5601.2.2:
3. Section 5601.2.2 Temporary Fireworks Stands.Sale and Retail Display
Retail sales of fireworks shall be permitted only from within a temporary fireworks
stand, and the sale from any other building or structure is prohibited. Temporary
stands shall be subject to the following conditions:
a. It is unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to engage in the retail
sale of any fireworks within the city limits of Tukwila without first obtaining a City
business license.
b. Applications for temporary fireworks stand permits shall be made to the
local fire officialFire Code Official, and must be accompanied by the appropriate
application fee in accordance with the fee schedule adopted by resolution of the
City Council and RCW 70.77.555. Pursuant to this chapter, applications may be
filed only during the period between April 15 and June 1st of the year for which the
permit is sought.
c. Any issued permit shall be used only by the designated permittee and
shall be nontransferable.
d. The maximum number of permits issued by the City in any year shall not
exceed four. Applications shall be reviewed on a first-come, first served basis.
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e. A temporary fireworks stand permit shall be issued only upon compliance
with the following terms and conditions:
(1) The applicant shall have a valid and subsisting Washington State
fireworks license issued by the Washington State Patrol authorizing the holder
thereof to engage in the fireworks business.
(2) The applicant shall provide proof of a liability insurance policy with
coverage of not less than $50,000; and $500,000 for bodily injury liability for each
person and occurrence, respectively; and not less than $50,000 for property
damage liability for each occurrence, or such policy as may comply with, or exceed,
the requirements of RCW 70.77.270.
(3) The applicant shall provide an inventory list of resale items in
accordance with the provisions of section 5601.1.3.1.d.
f. Temporary fireworks stands shall be erected under the supervision of
the Fire DepartmentFire Code Official and shall conform to the following minimum
standards:
(1) Temporary fireworks stands shall not be located:
Within 100 feet of any gasoline stations, oil storage tanks, or
premises where flammable liquids are kept or stored;
Closer than 20 feet to buildings, combustibles, parking, storage,
public roads, motor vehicle traffic, or generators;
Within 25 feet of any property line;
Within 100 feet of tents, other fireworks stands, fuel dispensing
devices, retail propane dispensing stations, flammable liquid storage, and
combustible storage; and
Within 300 feet of bulk fuel storage.
(2) Each temporary fireworks stand shall have at least two exits that
shall be unobstructed at all times and located as far from each other as possible.
Parking for customers shall be located at least 20 feet away from the stand.
(3) Each temporary fireworks stand shall have fire extinguishers in a
readily accessible place and approved by the Fire DepartmentFire Code Official as
to location within the stand, number and type. No smoking shall be permitted in or
near a fireworks stand, and signs reading "NO SMOKING WITHIN 25 FEET" shall
be prominently displayed on the fireworks stand.
(4) Each stand shall be operated by adults (18 years old or older) only.
No fireworks shall be left unattended in a stand.
(5) All weeds and combustible materials shall be cleared from the
location of the stand to at least a distance of 20 feet.
(6) All unsold fireworks, cartons and other rubbish shall be removed
from the location and from the City by 12:00 noon on July 6 each year. The
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fireworks stand shall be dismantled and removed from the location by 12:00 noon
on July 10 each year.
(7) Fireworks shall not be discharged within 300 feet of a fireworks
stand. Signs reading "NO FIREWORKS DISCHARGE WITHIN 300 FEET" shall
be in letters at least two inches high, with a principal stroke of not less than one-
half inch on contrasting background, and such signs shall be conspicuously posted
on all four sides of the stand.
(8) Fireworks retailers shall not knowingly sell fireworks to persons
under the age of 16 and shall require proof of age by means of display of a driver’s
license or photo identification card issued by a public or private school, state,
federal or foreign government showing a photograph and date of birth.
(9) Retail sales of legal consumer fireworks shall only be allowed within
the City on the following days and times as provided in RCW 70.77.395 as now
enacted or hereafter amended:
From 12:00 noon to 11:00 p.m. on June 28th of each year;
From 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on each day from June 29th through July
4th of each year;
From 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on July 5th of each year,
From 12:00 noon to 11:00 p.m. on each day from December 27 th through
December 31st of each year.
(10) If the fireworks stand is proposed for placement on leased property,
the applicant shall provide an affidavit from the property owner that the use is
acceptable.
(11) Additional signage required by the Fire Code Official shall be
prominently displayed on the fireworks stand.
4. Any person who violates any portion of this ordinance shall have their
fireworks subject to seizure by the Tukwila Police Chief, or designee, as provided
for in RCW 70.77.435 and shall be guilty of a civil violation and penalty as provided
in TMC Chapter 8.45.
5. Any person who uses or discharges fireworks in a reckless manner that
creates a substantial risk of death or serious physical injury to another person or
damage to the property of another is guilty of a gross misdemeanor and shall be
punishable by a maximum penalty of 364 days in jail and/or a $5,000 fine. Upon
conviction, the sentencing court may order restitution for any property damage or
loss caused by the offense.
GGC. Section 5608 of the International Fire Code entitled “Fireworks Display” is
amended by adding substituting the following new subsection 5608.2.35608.3 with the
following:
Section 5608.2.35608.3 Pyrotechnic Display Requirements. All fireworks
displays shall conform to the following minimum standards and conditions:
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1. All fireworks displays must be planned, organized, and discharged by a
state-licensed pyrotechnician.
2. All pyrotechnic displays must comply with applicable requirements set
forth in the WAC and RCW’s, the International Fire Code, applicable NFPA codes,
and as required by the Tukwila Municipal Code.
3. A Pyrotechnic Display Permit (explosives operational fire permit) must
be submitted at least 45 days prior to the desired display date. Approval by the
Fire MarshalFire Code Official is required prior to any display of pyrotechnics or the
setup of the pyrotechnic display.
4. The fee for a Pyrotechnic Display Permit shall be in accordance with the
Fire Department Tukwila Fire Permit Fee Schedule adopted by resolution of the
City Council.
5. At the discretion of the Fire Chief that such requirement is necessary to
preserve the public health, safety and welfare, the Pyrotechnic Display Permit may
require that Fire Department apparatus and fire personnel be on site from 30
minutes prior to the start until 30 minutes after the conclusion of the display. All
compensation/costs for fire personnel and apparatus will be paid by the applicant
in accordance with the fee schedule adopted by resolution of the City Council and
amended from time to time.
6. Permits granted shall be in effect for the specified event, date and time.
Permit applications shall specify if a pyrotechnic display is needed for a multi-day
event (example: pyrotechnics for professional sports season, concert, or other
multi-day event).
7. An approved Pyrotechnic Display Permit shall not be transferable.
8. The Chief of Police and the Fire MarshalFire Code Official are both
directed to administer and enforce the provisions of this chapter. Upon request by
the Chief of Police or the Fire MarshalFire Code Official, all other City departments
and divisions are authorized to assist them in enforcing this chapter.
9. An approved Pyrotechnic Display Permit may be immediately revoked at
any time deemed necessary by the Fire Marshal Fire Code Official due to any
noncompliance or weather conditions such as extremely low humidity or wind
factor. The display may also be canceled by accidental ignition of combustible or
flammable material in the vicinity due to fall debris from the display.
10. For displays other than the 4th of July, the permit application must also
include a public notification plan for affected residents or businesses. This may
include newspaper, radio, and/or television announcements; door to door
distribution of written announcements; reader boards and/or other methods or
media. The public notification plan is subject to approval by the Fire Chief or
designee. Costs associated with public notification to affected residents shall be
borne by the permit applicant.
Section 17. TMC Section 16.16.120 is hereby established to read as follows:
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16.16.120 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Chapter 80, “Referenced
Standards”
A. Section NFPA of the International Fire Code, entitled “Referenced Standards,” is
amended by modifying the standard reference number dates of publication as follows:
13-22 Installation of Sprinkler Systems
13D-22 Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-family
Dwellings and Manufactured Homes
13R-22 Installation of Sprinkler Systems in Residential Occupancies
up to and Including Four Stories in Height
20-22 Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection
24-22 Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and Their
Appurtenances
72-22 National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
110-22 Emergency and Standby Power Systems
111-22 Stored Electrical Energy Emergency and Standby Power
Systems
1225-22 Standard for Emergency Services Communications
Section 18. TMC Section 16.16.130 is hereby established to read as follows:
16.16.130 Amendments to the International Fire Code – Appendix B, “Fire-Flow
Requirements for Buildings”
A. Section B103 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Modifications,” is amended
by substituting subsection B103.2 with the following:
Section B103.2 Increases . The fire chief is authorized to increase the fire-flow
requirements where exposures could be impacted by fire. An increase shall not be
more than twice that required for the building under consideration.
Exception: For one- and two-family residences when either of the following
conditions apply:
1. The building and exposure are equipped with the 1-hour fire resistant
rated exterior walls tested in accordance with ASTM E 119 or UL 263 with exposure
on the exterior side and projections with 1-hour underside protection, fire blocking
installed from the wall top plate to the underside of the roof sheathing and no gable
vent openings.
2. The walls are a distance greater than 11' to the nearest exposure or lot
line; or face an unbuildable lot, tract or buffer. The distance shall be measured at
right angles from the face of the wall.
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B. Section B105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire-Flow Requirements for
Buildings,” is amended by substituting section B105 with the following:
Section B105.1 One- and two-family dwellings. Fire-flow requirements for
one- and two-family dwellings shall be in accordance with Sections B105.1.1
through B105.1.2.
Section B105.1.1 Buildings less than 3,600 square feet. The minimum fire-
flow and flow duration requirements for buildings less than 3,600 square feet shall
be 1,000 gallons per minute for 1 hour.
Exception: A reduction in required fire-flow of 50 percent, as approved, is allowed
when the building is equipped with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
Section B105.1.2 Buildings greater than 3,600 square feet or more. The
minimum fire-flow and flow duration requirements for buildings that are 3,600
square feet or larger shall not be less than that specified in Table B105.1(2).
Exception: A reduction of fire-flow and flow duration to 1,000 gallons per minute for
1 hour, as approved, is allowed when the building is equipped with the following:
1. An approved automatic sprinkler system.
Section B105.2 Buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings. The
minimum fire-flow and flow duration for buildings other than one- and two-family
dwellings shall be as specified in Table B105.1(2).
Exception: A reduction in required fire-flow of 50 percent, as approved, is allowed
when the building is provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system. The
resulting fire-flow shall not be less than 1,500 gallons per minute for the prescribed
duration as specified in Table B105.1(2).
Section B105.2.1 Tents and Membrane structures. No fire flow is required for
tents and membrane structures.
Section B105.2.2 Accessory residential Group U buildings. Accessory
residential Group U buildings shall comply with the requirements of B105.1.
Section B105.3 Water supply for buildings equipped with an automatic
sprinkler system. For buildings equipped with an automatic sprinkler system,
the water supply shall be capable of providing the greater of:
1. The automatic sprinkler system demand, including hose stream
allowance.
2. The required fire flow.
C. Section B105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire-Flow Requirements for
Buildings,” is amended by deleting the following tables from section B105:
Table B105.1(1). Required Fire-Flow for One- and two-family dwellings,
Group R-3 and R-4 Buildings and Townhouses.
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Table B105.2. Required Fire-Flow for Buildings Other than One- and two-
family dwellings, Group R-3 and R-4 Buildings and Townhouses.
D. Section B105 of the International Fire Code, entitled “Fire-Flow Requirements for
Buildings,” is amended by adding new subsection B105.4 as follows:
Section B105.4 Alternative Fire Flow Mitigation. For development projects,
where it has been determined not feasible to extend the water main by the local
water purveyor, the following alternative fire flow mitigations are approved for use
in accordance with Sections B105.4.1 through B105.4.2
Section B105.4.1 One- and two-family dwellings. Fire flow will not be required
for one- and two-family dwellings if all of the following mitigations are met;
1. The fire-flow calculation area is less than 3600 square feet.
2. The construction type of the dwelling is Type VA.
3. The dwelling is equipped with an automatic fire sprinkler system installed
in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 with a water supply of no less than 30
minutes.
4. The dwelling has a fire separation distance of no less than 150 feet on
all sides.
Section B105.4.2 Buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings. Fire
flow will not be required for buildings other than one- and two-family dwellings if all
of the following mitigations are met;
1. The fire-flow calculation area is less than 3600 square feet.
2. The construction type of the building is not Type VB.
3. The building is equipped with an automatic fire sprinkler system installed
in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 with a water supply of no less than 30
minutes.
4. The building has a fire separation distance of no less than 150 feet on
all sides.
Section 19. Corrections by City Clerk or Code Reviser Authorized. Upon
approval of the City Attorney, the City Clerk and the code reviser are authorized to make
necessary corrections to this ordinance, including the correction of scrivener’s errors;
references to other local, state or federal laws, codes, rules, or regulations; or ordinance
numbering and section/subsection numbering.
Section 20. Severability. If any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause or
phrase of this ordinance or its application to any person or situation should be held to be
invalid or unconstitutional for any reason by a court of competent jurisdiction, such
invalidity or unconstitutionality shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of the
remaining portions of this ordinance or its application to any other person or situation.
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Section 21. Effective Date. This ordinance or a summary thereof shall be published
in the official newspaper of the City, and shall take effect and be in full force on July 1,
2023, after passage and publication as provided by law.
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, at
a Regular Meeting thereof this _______ day of _________________, 2023.
ATTEST/AUTHENTICATED:
Christy O'Flaherty, MMC, City Clerk Allan Ekberg, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM BY: Filed with the City Clerk:
Passed by the City Council:
Published:
Effective Date:
Ordinance Number:
Office of the City Attorney
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City of Tukwila
City Council Planning & Community Development Committee
Meeting Minutes
April 17, 2023 – 5:30 p.m. – Hybrid Meeting; Hazelnut Conference Room & MS Teams
Councilmembers Present: Kathy Hougardy, Chair; De’Sean Quinn, Thomas McLeod
Staff Present: Rachel Bianchi, Nora Gierloff, Jerry Hight, Derek Speck, Brandon Miles
Guest: Jon Napier, Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority
Chair Hougardy called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
BUSINESS AGENDA
A.Ordinance: 2021 State Building Code Adoption
Staff is seeking Council approval of an ordinance to adopt the 2021 State Building Codes
effective July 1, 2023.
Item(s) for follow-up:
Provide King County Area Median household income (AMI).
Committee Recommendation
Unanimous approval. Forward to May 1, 2023 Regular Consent Agenda.
B.Ordinance: Fire Code Amendments
The Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority is seeking Council approval of an ordinance that
would amend Tukwila Municipal Code Chapter 16.16 to address changes to Washington
Administrative Code Chapter 51-54A, provide better readability, align with regional
development standards, and support PSRFA operations.
Committee Recommendation
Unanimous approval. Forward to April 24, 2023 Committee of the Whole.
C.Multi-Family Tax Exemption Program
Staff presented an overview of policy considerations relating to renewing and/or expanding
the MFTE program.
Committee Recommendation
Unanimous agreement for staff to develop code amendment to implement MFTE program for
Tukwila South. Return to Committee.
II.MISCELLANEOUS
The meeting adjourned at 6:35 p.m.
Committee Chair Approval
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