F-107.3 Action on application: The code official shall examine or cause to be examined all applications for permits and amendments thereto within a reasonable time after filing. If the application or the construction documents do not conform to the requirements of all pertinent laws, the code official shall reject such application in writing, stating the reasons therefor. If the code official is satisfied that the proposed work or operation conforms to the requirements of this code and all laws and ordinances applicable thereto, the code official shall issue a permit therefor as soon as practicable.

F-107.4 Partial permits: Where permits are required and upon the request of a permit applicant, the code official shall issue a partial permit to occupy the premises or portion thereof before the entire work or operation on the premises is completed, provided that such portion or portions will be occupied safely prior to full completion or installation of equipment and operations without endangering life or public welfare. The code official shall notify the permit applicant in writing of any limitations or restrictions necessary to keep the permit area safe. The holder of a partial permit shall proceed only to the point for which approval has been given, at the permit holder’s own risk and without assurance that approval for the occupancy or the utilization of the entire premises, equipment, or operation will be granted.

F-107.5 Conditions of permit: A permit shall constitute permission to maintain, store or handle materials, or to conduct processes which produce conditions hazardous to life or property; or to install equipment utilized in connection with such activities in accordance with the provisions of this code. Such permission shall not be construed as authority to violate, cancel or set aside any of the provisions of this code. Said permit shall remain in effect until revoked, or for such period of time as specified on the permit. Permits are not transferable and any change in occupancy, operation or tenancy shall require a new permit.

F-107.6 Approved construction documents: Construction documents approved by the code official are approved with the intent that such construction documents comply in all respects with this code. Any omissions or errors on the construction documents do not relieve the applicant of having to comply with all applicable requirements of this code.

F-107.7 Revocation of permit: The code official shall revoke a permit or approval issued under the provisions of this code if, upon inspection, any violation of the code exists, or if conditions of a permit have been violated, or if there has been any false statements or misrepresentations as to material fact in the application, data or construction documents on which the permit or approval was based.

F-107.7.1 Suspension of permit: Any permit issued shall become invalid if the authorized work or activity has not commenced within six months after issuance of the permit, or if the authorized work or activity has been suspended or abandoned for a period of six months after the time of commencement.

F-107.8 Payment of fees: A permit shall not be issued until the designated fees listed in Table F-107.2.3 have been paid. The payment of these fees shall not relieve the applicant or holder of any permit from the payment of other fees or from obtaining other required permits which may be prescribed by ordinance such as building permits, Board of Public Service permits, plumbing permits, fees for water and sewer connections, electrical permits, or fees for other inspections and privileges.

F-107.8.1 Surcharge: In case any activity, for which a permit is required by this code, is carried out or commenced prior to obtaining said permit, the total fees applicable shall be increased by an amount equal to the original total fees applicable and the payment of said fee shall not relieve any persons from fully complying with the requirements of this code nor from other penalties prescribed by law. Where such originally specified permit fees exceed five hundred dollars, that part of the original fee in excess of five hundred dollars shall not be doubled.

F-107.9 Fees non-refundable: The fee for a permit based upon an estimated cost that is higher than later claimed by the applicant shall not be a basis for refund. When construction does not occur, or only partially occurs, fees collected are not refundable.

SECTION F-108.0 INSPECTION

F-108.1 Inspection: The code official shall inspect all structures and premises, except single-family dwellings and dwelling units in two-family and multiple family dwellings of four units or less, for the purposes of ascertaining and causing to be corrected any conditions liable to cause fire, contribute to the spread of fire, interfere with firefighting operations, endanger life or any violations of the provisions or intent of this code or any other ordinance affecting fire safety.

F-108.2 Coordination of inspections: Whenever, in the enforcement of this code or another code or ordinance, the responsibility of more than one code official of the jurisdiction is involved, it shall be the duty of the code officials involved to coordinate their inspections and administrative orders as fully as practicable so that the owners and occupants of the structure shall not be subjected to visits by numerous inspectors or multiple or conflicting orders. Whenever an inspector from any agency or department observes an apparent or actual violation of some provision of some law, ordinance or code not within the inspector’s authority to enforce, the inspector shall report the findings to the code official having jurisdiction.

F-108.3 Right of entry: The code official is authorized to enter the structure or premises at any reasonable time to inspect subject to constitutional restrictions of unreasonable searches and seizures. If entry is refused or not obtained, the code official is authorized to pursue recourse as provided by law.

F-108.3.1 Penalty: No person shall fail or refuse, after proper demand has been made upon that person as provided in this section, to promptly permit the code official or authorized representative to make any inspection provided for by this code. Any person violating this section shall, upon conviction thereof, be penalized as set forth in Section 25.06.180.

F-108.4 Jurisdictional cooperation: The assistance and cooperation of police, building and health department officials and all other officials shall be available as required in the performance of duties.

SECTION F-109.0 FIRE INVESTIGATIONS

F-109.1 Investigation of fires: The code official shall investigate, or cause to be investigated, every fire or explosion occurring within the City of Saint Louis that is of a suspicious nature or which involves the loss of life or serious injury or causes destruction or damage to property. Such investigation shall be initiated immediately upon the occurrence of such fire or explosion; and if it appears that such an occurrence is of a suspicious nature, the code official shall immediately take charge of the physical evidence; and, in order to preserve any physical evidence relating to the cause or origin of such fire or explosion, the code official shall take means to prevent access by any person to the structure or premises until such evidence has been properly processed. The code official shall notify those persons designated by law to pursue investigations into such matters and shall further cooperate with the authorities in the collection of evidence and prosecution of the case and shall pursue the investigation to its conclusion.

F-109.2 Fire records: The code official shall keep a record of all fires and all facts concerning the same, including investigation findings, statistics and information as to the cause, origin and the extent of such fires and the damage caused thereby.

SECTION F-110.0 UNSAFE CONDITIONS

F-110.1 General: Whenever the code official shall find in any structure or upon any premises dangerous or hazardous conditions or materials as follows, the code official shall order such hazardous conditions or materials to be removed or remedied in accordance with the provisions of this code:

1. Hazardous conditions liable to cause or contribute to the spread of fire in or on said premises or structure or endanger the occupants thereof;

2. Conditions that interfere with the efficiency or operation of any fire protection equipment and system;

3. Obstructions to or on fire escapes, stairs, passageways, doors or windows, that are liable to interfere with the egress of occupants or the operation of the fire department in case of a fire;

4. Accumulations of dust or waste material in air-conditioning or ventilating systems or grease in kitchen or other exhaust ducts;

5. Accumulations of grease on kitchen cooking equipment, or oil, grease or dirt upon, under or around any mechanical equipment;

6. Accumulations of rubbish, waste, paper, boxes, shavings or other combustible materials, or excessive storage of any combustible material;

7. Hazardous conditions arising from defective or improperly utilized or installed electrical wiring, equipment or appliances;

8. Hazardous conditions arising from defective or improperly installed equipment for handling or using combustible, explosive or otherwise hazardous materials;

9. Dangerous or unlawful amounts of combustible, explosive or otherwise hazardous materials; and

10. All equipment, materials, processes or operations that are in violation of the provisions and intent of this code.

F-110.2 Maintenance: All equipment, systems, devices and safeguards required by this code, or a previous statute or code, for the structure or premises when erected or altered shall be maintained in good working order. The requirements of this code are not intended to provide the basis for removal or abrogation of fire protection and safety systems and devices in existing structures.

F-110.2.1 Occupant responsibility: If an occupant of a structure creates conditions in violation of this code, by virtue of storage, handling and use of substances, materials, devices and appliances, the occupant shall be held responsible for the abatement of said hazardous conditions.

F-110.3 Unsafe conditions: All structures or existing equipment that are or hereafter become unsafe or deficient because of inadequate means of egress facilities, or that constitute a fire hazard, or are otherwise dangerous to human life or the public welfare, or that involve illegal or improper occupancy or inadequate maintenance, shall be deemed an unsafe condition. A vacant structure that is not secured against entry shall be deemed unsafe. Unsafe structures or equipment shall be reported to the building code official, who shall take appropriate action as deemed necessary under the provisions of the building code listed in Chapter 44.

F-110.3.1 Special equipment: Special fire protection equipment shall be installed when adequate fire protection is not being provided or hazardous or dangerous conditions exist. The special fire protection equipment shall be installed in accordance with the requirements of this code and the building code listed in Chapter 44.

F-110.4 Tagging of hazardous equipment: Whenever the code official or duly authorized representative deems anything regulated under a nationally approved standard in or upon any building, structure or premise whether or not specifically mentioned in this code, to be defective or unsafe so as to create an immediate hazard, the code official shall serve upon the owner or the person having control of the property, a written notice to repair or alter as necessary and shall notify any other authority enforcing codes regulating such equipment. The code official shall affix a condemnation tag prohibiting the use thereof until such repairs or alterations are made. When affixed, such tag may be removed only on the order of the code official or duly authorized representative and may be removed only when the hazard to which the order pertains has been eliminated in an approved manner. Until removed, that item or device which has caused the hazard shall not be used or be permitted to be used.

SECTION F-111.0 EMERGENCY MEASURES

F-111.1 Imminent danger: When, in the opinion of the code official, there is imminent danger to the occupants or those in the proximity of any structure or premises because of unsafe structural conditions, or inadequacy of any means of egress, the presence of explosives, explosive fumes or vapors, or the presence of toxic fumes, gases or materials, the code official shall order the immediate evacuation of said structure or premises. All occupants so notified shall immediately leave the structure or premises and persons shall not enter or re-enter until authorized to do so by the code official.

F-111.2 Unlawful continuance: Any person who refuses to leave, interferes with the evacuation of other occupants or continues any operation after having been given an evacuation order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall, upon conviction thereof, be penalized as set forth in Section Four.

F-111.3 Emergency inspections: Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the code official or authorized representative has reasonable cause to believe that the building or premise is so hazardous, unsafe or dangerous as to require immediate emergency inspection to safeguard the public health or safety, the code official shall have the right to immediately enter and inspect such property, and may use any reasonable means required to effect such entry and make such inspections, whether such property be occupied or unoccupied and whether or not permission to inspect has been obtained. If the property is occupied, the code official shall first present proper credentials to the occupant and demand entry, explaining reasons therefore and the purpose of the inspection.

SECTION F-112.0 VIOLATIONS

F-112.1 Notice of violation: Whenever the code official observes an apparent or actual violation of a provision of this code or other codes or ordinances under the code official’s jurisdiction, the code official shall prepare a written notice of violation describing the condition deemed unsafe and specifying time limitations for the required repairs or improvements to be made to render the structure or premises safe and secure.

F-112.1.1 Service of notice: The written notice of violation of this code shall be served upon the owner or occupant or other person responsible for the conditions under violation. Such notice of violation shall be served either by delivering a copy of same to such person by ordinary mail to the last known post office address, delivered in person or by delivering it to and leaving it in the possession of any person in charge of the premises, by affixing a copy thereof in a conspicuous place at the entrance door or avenue of access, and such procedure shall be deemed the equivalent of personal notice.

F-112.2 Failure to correct violations: If the notice of violation is not complied within the time specified by the code official, the code official shall request the legal counsel of the City of Saint Louis to institute the appropriate legal proceedings to restrain, correct or abate such violation, or to require removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of any order or direction made pursuant thereto. The police department of the City of Saint Louis shall be requested by the code official to make arrests for any offense against this code or orders of the code official affecting the immediate safety of the public.

F-112.3 Penalty for violations: Any person who shall violate any of the provisions of this code or fail to comply with any order issued pursuant to any section thereof shall, upon conviction thereof, be penalized as set forth in Section 25.06.180.

F-112.4 Abatement of violation. The imposition of the penalties herein prescribed shall not preclude the legal officer of the City of Saint Louis from instituting 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.

SECTION F-113.0 MEANS OF APPEAL

F-113.1 General: The owner of a building or structure or any other person may appeal from a decision of the code official refusing to grant a modification of the provisions of the Fire Prevention Code. Application for appeal may be made when it is claimed that: the true intent of the Fire Prevention Code or the rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, or the provisions of the Fire Prevention Code do not fully apply. The appeal shall be made to the Board of Building Appeals as outlined and established under the Building Code of the City of Saint Louis.

SECTION F-114.0 CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS

F-114.1 General: The code official shall have the authority to administer rules, evaluate qualifications of firms or individuals, conduct examinations, issue certificates of registration, issue certificates of fitness or competency, evaluate qualifications of testing labs and conduct hearings in order to certify fireworks displays, servicing of portable fire extinguishers and fixed extinguishing systems, sprinkler and standpipe maintenance and flammable liquid storage tank installations as listed in Sections F-520.0, F-521.0, F-3103.7 and F-3212.0.

In addition, the code official has the authority to enforce provisions of the Mechanical Code as assigned in the Mechanical Code. (Ord. 64772 § 3 (part), 1999.)

25.06.050 Sections F-309.3 and F-309.4--Added.

Add Sections F-309.3 and F-309.4 to read as follows:

F-309.3 Permit required: A permit shall be obtained from the code official prior to the installation or alteration of any commercial kitchen exhaust system or hood suppression system.

F-309.4 System discharge: When a commercial kitchen exhaust suppression system discharges, the commercial cooking appliances shall not be operated until the suppression system has been recharged and placed back in service. When the system is recharged, it shall be tested and inspected in accordance with the appropriate section of Chapter 5.

(Ord. 64772 § 3 (part), 1999.)

25.06.060 Section F-504.1.1 through F-504.1.3--Added.

Add sections F-504.1.1 through F-504.1.3 to read as follows:

F-504.1.1 Periodic inspection: All fire detection and fire alarm systems required to be installed by this code shall be subject to an inspection and test at least once annually. Inspections and tests shall be witnessed by the code official or designated representative. Where the owner of such systems, or occupant of the building containing such systems, has entered into a maintenance service contract with a duly qualified fire detection system installation contractor, any and all results of all tests and inspections, in report form, shall be forwarded to the code official immediately upon completion of the tests and inspections.

F-504.1.2 Central station supervision: All companies engaged in the business of offering sprinkler and fire detection system supervisory service shall, upon completion of inspection and test of sprinkler systems and fire detection systems under their contracts, forward to the code official a written report of the results of such test and serviceability of such sprinkler systems and fire detection systems. Their reports shall contain but not be limited to the following information:

1. Name of company under contract

2. Address of company

3. Date of last inspection

4. Type of system

5. General service condition of system

6. In case of sprinkler systems, the number of supervised systems

F-504.1.3 Fees: A fee shall be assessed by the code official to witness the acceptance test for sprinkler, standpipe, fire fighting foam and other special systems. Fees shall be paid in accordance with the fee schedule established in Table F-107.2.5.

(Ord. 64772 § 3 (part), 1999.)

25.06.070 Section F-519.2.9--Added.

Add subsection to Section F-519.2 to read as follows:

9. In all structures other than Use Group R-3 with two thousand five hundred square feet of floor space. An additional extinguisher shall be required for each additional two thousand five hundred square feet of floor space. Such extinguishers shall be hung at a convenient height in places accessible from within the structure at all times.

(Ord. 64772 § 3 (part), 1999.)

25.06.080 Sections F-520.0 through F-525.0--Added.

Add Sections F-520.0 through F-525.0 to read as follows:

SECTION F-520.0 SALE, LEASING, AND SERVICING OF PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS AND FIXED EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS.

F-520.1 General: The purpose of this section is to regulate the sale, leasing, and servicing of portable fire extinguishers and fixed extinguishing systems in the interest of safeguarding lives and property.

Exception: The activity of filling or charging a portable fire extinguisher prior to its initial sale by its manufacturer shall not be subject to this section. In addition, the licensing and registration provisions of this section shall not apply to any firm which services only its own fire extinguishers for its own use by maintaining its own fire extinguisher service facilities adequate for the purpose and utilizing its own personnel specially trained for such servicing.

F-520.2 Certificate of registration for firms installing or servicing portable fire extinguishers or fixed extinguishing systems: Each firm engaged in the business of servicing portable fire extinguishers or fixed extinguishing systems shall be required to have a Certificate of Registration issued by the code official.

F-520.3 Approval of portable fire extinguishers: No portable fire extinguisher shall be sold or leased in the City of Saint Louis unless it is approved, labeled or listed by a testing laboratory which is approved by the code official as qualified to test portable fire extinguishers.

F-520.4 Fees: All fees prescribed herein shall be charged at the rate prescribed in Table F-107.2.6.

F-520.5 Penalties: Whoever shall do any of the acts as set forth in F-520.5.1 and F-520.5.2 shall be held in violation of this code, and shall, upon conviction thereof, be penalized as set forth in Section 25.06.180.

F-520.5.1 Misrepresentation: Having obtained or attempted to obtain a Certificate of Registration by fraudulent misrepresentation.

F-520.5.2 Violation of regulations. Installed or repaired portable fire extinguishers or fixed extinguishing systems contrary to the provisions of this section or the rules and regulations formulated and administered under the authority of this section.

F-520.6 Application for certificate of registration: Any firm that desires to engage in the business of installing or servicing portable fire extinguishers or fixed extinguishing systems shall make a written verified application to the code official on forms provided for a Certificate of Registration. The application must be signed by the sole proprietor, or each partner, or by an officer of the corporation.

F-520.6.1 Liability: At the time of application for a Certificate of Registration to service portable fire extinguishers or fixed extinguishing systems, the applicant must furnish a certificate of insurance in an amount as determined by the code official.

F-520.6.2 Issue: If the code official finds after reviewing the applicant’s record that the granting or renewing of a Certificate of Registration would not be contrary to public safety and welfare, the code official shall issue or renew such Certificate of Registration authorizing the firm to engage in the business of installing and servicing portable fire extinguishers and fixed extinguishing systems, provided the requisite fee has been paid. The code official shall give each Certificate of Registration an identifying number.

F-520.6.3 Renewal of certificate: Application for renewal of a Certificate of Registration shall be made annually in accordance with detailed procedures to be followed.

F-520.6.4 Revocation: After a hearing is conducted as hereinafter provided, the code official may either refuse to issue or renew, or may suspend or revoke any Certificate of Registration for any of the following causes:

1. Violation - Any violation as listed in Section F-520.5.

2. Misrepresentation - Having obtained or having attempted to obtain a Certificate of Registration by fraudulent misrepresentation.

3. Incompetency - Malpractice or incompetency in fire extinguisher sales or servicing.

4. False Advertising - Advertising fire extinguisher sale or servicing by means of knowingly false or deceptive statements.

5. Fee Not Paid - Failure to pay the original or annual renewal Certificate of Registration fee provided in these regulations.

6. Violation of Rules - Violation of any provision of this section as formulated and administered by the code official or violation of any provision of these regulations.

F-520.6.5 Record: The code official shall keep a list of the names, addresses and Certificate of Registration numbers issued to each firm under these regulations.

F-520.6.6 Public review: The record of all numbers of Certificates of Registration shall be available for review by any person desiring to review same.

F-520.7 Tagging of serviced portable fire extinguishers or fixed extinguishing systems required: When an employee under the supervision of a licensee services a portable fire extinguisher or fixed extinguishing system, a tag shall be affixed that at least states:

1. The month and year the service was performed.

2. The type of extinguisher or system serviced.

3. The name and license number of the licensee and the name and permit number of the apprentice, if any.

4. The name and Certificate of Registration number of the servicing firm.

F-520.7.1 Information: When a person exempt from the licensing provision of this section services a portable fire extinguisher, a tag shall be affixed that at least states:

1. The month and year when the service was performed.

2. The type of extinguisher serviced.

3. The name and address of the person performing the service and the name and address of their employer.

4. The address of the premises within which the portable fire extinguisher is customarily located.

SECTION F-521.0 SPRINKLER AND STANDPIPE MAINTENANCE

F-521.1 Scope: The purpose of this section is to establish a sprinkler and standpipe system maintenance control in the interest of safeguarding lives and property.

F-521.2 Application: The provisions of this section shall apply to existing sprinkler and standpipe systems installed in buildings prior to the enactment of this code and to all new sprinkler systems hereafter installed.

F-521.3 Sprinkler and standpipe maintenance and inspection: All sprinkler and standpipe systems shall be inspected a minimum of three times a calendar year by a competent person employed by the owner or occupant and holding a certificate of fitness issued by the code official. Additionally, the system must be inspected at least once a calendar year by a duly qualified fire suppression system installation contractor. Records of such inspection shall be recorded at the premises and made available to the code official or the code official’s representative upon request. Annually, the records of these inspections and tests shall be forwarded to the office of the code official for review.

F-521.4 Responsibility: It shall be the owner or occupant’s responsibility to assign the duties of sprinkler and standpipe maintenance to an employee of good character and competent skills, and to submit the individual’s name to the code official for certification.

F-521.5 Certification: Every individual assigned as a sprinkler and standpipe maintenance person must be certified by the code official to engage in such activities.

F-521.6 Examination: Before an individual can receive a Certificate of Fitness, they must successfully pass a written examination administered by the code official or designated representative. The examination shall reveal the individual’s knowledge of the function of sprinkler and standpipe systems, and their ability to recognize faults and remedies thereof.

F-521.7 Renewal of certification: A certificate of fitness shall be valid for a period of one year and shall be renewed on the anniversary of its issuance.

F-521.8 Non-transferable: Certificates of fitness are non-transferable and termination of employment at the premise for which the certificate is issued automatically voids the individual’s certification.

F-521.9 Sprinkler and standpipe systems, maintenance and inspection: In lieu of Sections F-521.3 and F-521.4, the owner or occupant may enter into a Maintenance Service Contract with a duly qualified fire suppression system installation contractor. Service contracts so entered into shall cause the system to be inspected a minimum of four times a calendar year. The responsibility of conducting periodic tests of these systems required under the BOCA National Building and Fire Prevention Codes, shall rest with said contractor. Records of such inspections and tests shall be recorded on inspection forms approved by the code official and supplied by the contractor. A copy of each inspection or test shall be left at the premises with the owner or occupant who shall make such records available to the code official or the code official’s representative upon request. Annually, an inspection of each system and records of required tests performed by the contractor shall be forwarded to the code official for review, by the contractor holding such service contract. The code official or representative shall not be required to witness said inspections or tests.

F-521.10 Fees: The owner or occupant is required to pay fees to the code official in the amounts set forth in Table F-107.2.6 for certification of fitness. Fees must be paid prior to certification.

SECTION F-522.0 FIRE PROTECTION

EQUIPMENT

F-522.1 Scope: Fire extinguishing, fire detection, first-aid fire fighting systems and devices required by the BOCA National Building Code shall be maintained in accordance with the provisions of this section.

F-522.2 Existing occupancies: Upon adoption of this code, the code official shall make, or cause to be made, a survey of each existing business and industrial establishment, mercantile, educational and institutional occupancy, place of assembly, hotel, multi-family dwelling, and trailer camp to determine such fire detecting devices or extinguishing appliances which are necessary in or near boiler rooms; kitchens or restaurants, clubs or like establishments; storage rooms involving considerable combustible material; rooms in which hazardous manufacturing processes are involved; repair garages; and other places of a generally hazardous nature to provide for the safety of the public according to existing conditions and in accordance with the requirements of the BOCA National Building Code. Such devices or appliances may consist of automatic fire alarm systems, automatic sprinkler or water spray systems, standpipe and hose, fixed or portable fire extinguishers of a type suitable for the probable class of fire or suitable asbestos blankets, manual or automatic covers, or carbon dioxide or other special fire extinguishing systems. In special hazardous processes or storage, appliances of more than one type or special systems may be required.

F-522.3 Maintenance of equipment: Sprinkler systems, standpipe systems, fire alarm systems, and other fire protective or extinguishing systems or appliances which have been installed in compliance with any permit or order, or because of any law or ordinance, shall be maintained in operative condition at all times, and it shall be unlawful for any owner or occupant to reduce the effectiveness of the protection so required; except that this shall not prohibit the owner or occupant from temporarily reducing or discontinuing the protection where necessary to make tests, repairs, alterations or additions. The code official shall be notified before such tests, repairs, alterations or additions are started and upon its completion, and shall be advised of the extent of such work for additional requirements. See Section F-521.0 and Section F-522.4.2.

F-522.4 Suppression, detection and alarm nuisance: It shall be the owner or occupant’s responsibility to maintain suppression, detection and alarm systems in such operating condition so as not to cause unnecessary alarms being transmitted to the Fire Department. Remedies to correct this situation shall be accomplished as expediently as possible. Those alarms deemed unnecessary shall be assessed a service charge of one hundred dollars for each response.

F-522.4.1 Notification of sprinkler or fire alarm shut-off: Whenever a sprinkler or fire alarm system is to be shut-off for repairs, it shall be the owner or occupant’s responsibility to determine that the service person performing such repairs has notified the Fire Department of the pending shut-off prior to shutting the system off. When a sprinkler system has central station supervision, the company providing this service shall also be notified of the shut-off. Failure to notify the Fire Department or the Central Station supervising company of sprinkler or fire alarm shut-off resulting in an unnecessary alarm being transmitted to the Fire Department will subject the owner or occupant to a service charge of one hundred dollars for each alarm received.

F-522.4.2 Maintaining sprinkler systems in abandoned or unoccupied buildings: It shall be the owner’s responsibility to insure that all automatic sprinkler systems in any building being temporarily vacated or permanently abandoned be maintained in an operable condition at all times. And it shall be unlawful to shut down or in any manner reduce or impair the effectiveness of any sprinkler system, unless prior approval is granted by the code official or until at such time as the building is in the process of being demolished. Any conditions as set forth by the code official governing the shut down of sprinkler systems shall be strictly adhered to. It shall be the owner’s responsibility to notify the code official forty-eight hours prior to vacating any building protected by an automatic sprinkler system. Any person, firm, agency or corporation violating any provision of this section or failing to comply with any written order issued by the code official pertinent to maintaining sprinkler protection in abandoned or temporarily vacated buildings shall, upon conviction thereof, be penalized as set forth in Section 25.06.180.

F-522.5 Existing fire pump installations: Upon adoption of this code the code official shall make or cause to be made, a survey of all occupancies utilizing fire pumps. The code official shall require the owner or occupant to have said fire pump or pumps tested to determine their conformity to the applicable standards of NFPA 20.

F-522.5.1 Tests: Tests on fire pumps shall be held within sixty days of notification from the code official that such test is required. Upon completion of tests, a written report shall be filed within five days with the code official for evaluation.

F-522.5.2 Notification: The owner or occupant shall notify the code official within forty-eight hours prior to the beginning of a pump test, so that the code official or representative can witness said test.

F-522.5.3 Fees: The owner or occupant shall pay to the code official a fee for the witnessing of a fire pump test. Fees shall be paid according to the fees established in Table F-107.2.5.

F-522.6 Periodic flow test: Fire pumps shall be subjected to a water flow test every two years on or about the anniversary date of their last previous test. Procedures for testing shall conform to Sections F-522.5.1 and F-522.5.2.

F-522.7 Requirements for pump testing agency: The testing of fire pumps shall only be accomplished by companies and individuals duly qualified to engage in such work.

SECTION F-523.0 ACCEPTANCE INSPECTIONS

F-523.1 Scope: All sprinkler, standpipe, fire detection, fire alarm and foam system installations where required by the provisions of the BOCA National Building Code shall receive, upon completion, an acceptance inspection by the code official or designated representative.

F-523.1.1 Sprinkler systems: The acceptance inspection of a sprinkler system shall determine that the system has been installed according to plans having received prior approval of the code official and in conformity with the BOCA National Building Code.

F-523.1.2 Standpipe systems: The acceptance inspection of a standpipe system shall determine that the system has been installed according to plans having received prior approval of the code official and in conformity to NFPA 14 and the BOCA National Building Code.

F-523.1.3 Fire detection systems: All fire detection systems and fire alarm systems shall be subject to an acceptance inspection and test upon their completion. The test shall be witnessed by the code official or designated representative.

F-523.1.4 Foam installations: All fire fighting foam installations where required to be installed by the BOCA National Building Code, NFPA 30 and all other applicable NFPA standards, shall be subject to a final acceptance inspection and test upon completion of the installation.

F-523.2 Fees: A fee shall be assessed by the code official for all acceptance and annual inspections and shall be paid according to the fees established in Table F-107.2.5.

SECTION F-524.0 DUCT EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM

F-524.1 General: All automatic fire extinguishing equipment for the protection of kitchen ranges and ducts shall be installed where required by the BOCA National Building Code and Section F-309.0 of the BOCA National Fire Prevention Code.

F-524.2 Acceptance inspection: The installation of automatic fire extinguishing equipment for kitchen ranges and ducts shall be subject to an acceptance inspection by the code official.

F-524.3 Fees: A fee shall be assessed by the code official for all acceptance and annual inspections and shall be paid according to the fees established in Table F-107.2.3.

F-524.4 Portable fire extinguishers: All cooking operations and all food preparation centers within any occupancy, except individual dwelling units, shall provide a sufficient number of portable fire extinguishers to afford adequate fire safety as determined by the code official, but not less than one unit. All extinguishers shall carry a minimum of ten B.C. rating and capacity and be compatible with the fire suppression systems extinguishing agent.

SECTION F-525.0 FALSE ALARMS

F-525.1 General: No person shall give or make a false alarm of any emergency situation.

(Ord. 64772 § 3 (part), 1999.)

25.06.090 Sections F-702.4.1--Added.

Add Section F-702.4.1 to read as follows:

F-702.4.1 Special amusement buildings: Haunted houses and other places of public assembly of similar use shall not operate without having first obtained a Certificate of Operation from the Fire Marshal. No Certificate of Operation shall be issued until the employees of the Special Amusement Building have shown competency in the use of portable fire extinguishers. All employees are expected to maintain this level of competency.

(Ord. 64772 § 3 (part), 1999.)

25.06.100 Sections F-708.0 and F-709.0--Added.

Add Sections F-708.0 and F-709.0 to read as follows:

SECTION F-708.0 BUSINESS

F-708.1 General: All business buildings (Use Group B) shall conduct fire drills every ninety days. These fire drills shall be conducted according to the evacuation plan established by the building owner or manager in conjunction with the code official. All tenants are required to participate in such drills. The extent of the building evacuation shall be determined by the code official.

SECTION F-709.0 ALL OTHER USE GROUPS

F-709.1 General: All other use groups as determined by the code official shall conduct fire drills by the building employees at least every ninety days.

(Ord. 64772 § 3 (part), 1999.)

25.06.110 Section F-2001.2--Amended.

Change Section F-2001.2 to read as follows:

F-2001.2 Approval required: A tent or air-supported structure covering an area of 1000 square feet (93 m2), including all connecting areas or spaces with a common means of egress or entrance and an occupant load of more than 50, shall not be erected, operated or maintained for any purpose without first obtaining approval from the code official. Approval shall not be required for tents utilized for recreational camping purposes.

(Ord. 64772 § 3 (part), 1999.)

25.06.120 Section F-3003.2.1--Added.

Add Section F-3003.2.1 to read as follows:

F-3003.2.1 Limits: The limits in which the storage of explosives, ammunition and blasting agents is prohibited, are hereby established as the entire city.

(Ord. 64772 § 3 (part), 1999.)

25.06.130 Section F-3103.7--Added.

Add Section F-3103.7 to read as follows:

F-3103.7 Certification of registration: Each firm engaged in the business of offering for sale supervised fireworks displays for private or public amusement, shall be required to have a Certificate of Registration issued by the code official.

(Ord. 64772 § 3 (part), 1999.)

25.06.140 Section F-3104.0--Added.

Add section F-3104.0 to read as follows:

SECTION F-3104.0 CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY

F-3104.1 General: Each individual who engages in the activity of discharging fireworks for public or private amusement shall be required to have a Certificate of Competency issued by the code official.

F-3104.2 Qualifications: An individual applying for a Certificate of Competency must be twenty-one years of age, be capable of reading, writing, speaking and understanding the English language and possessing at least two years experience in the supervision of discharging fireworks displays. Proof of the experience will be required at the time of application.

F-3104.3 Examination: The applicant for a Certificate of Competency must satisfactorily pass a written or oral examination administered by the code official or designated representative.

F-3104.4 Non-transferable: The Certificate of Competency shall be issued to the name of the applicant and is non-transferable.

F-3104.5 Insurance: The permittee shall furnish evidence of public liability and property damage insurance in amounts deemed adequate by the code official.

F-3104.6 Fees: The fees for Certificate of Registration and for the Certificate of Competency shall be paid at the time of application in accordance with the fee schedule as set forth in Table F-107.2.6.

(Ord. 64772 § 3 (part), 1999.)

25.06.150 Sections F-3211.0 through F-3213.0--Added.

Add sections F-3211.0 through F-3213.0 to read as follows:

SECTION F-3211.0 FLAMMABLE LIQUID STORAGE TANK INSTALLATION

F-3211.1 Scope: The installation, abandonment, repair, or removal of any underground or aboveground tank used for the storage of flammable liquids shall comply with the provisions of this code.

F-3211.2 Permit required: A permit shall be obtained from the code official to install, abandon or remove any above or below ground tank used for the storage of flammable liquids without regard to class of liquids.

F-3211.3 Compliance with building code: The layout and field erection of flammable liquid tanks shall comply with the applicable requirements of the BOCA National Building Code.

F-3211.4 Installation: The installation of stationary or temporary tanks for the storage of flammable liquids on any site or location shall be installed within the requirements of the applicable standards of NFPA 30.

F-3211.5 Fire protection and control: The required fire protection shall be as specified in the BOCA National Building Code.

F-3211.6 Gasoline storage: All gasoline storage tanks shall be installed below ground and be vented as required by the BOCA National Building Code. Gasoline may be stored above ground in approved safety containers of not more than five hundred gallons each subject to the approval of the code official.

F-3211.7 Final inspection: All flammable liquid storage tanks shall be subject to a final inspection by the code official or representative before filling tanks; in case of underground tanks, the final inspection shall take place before tanks are covered over.

F-3211.7.1 Responsibility: It shall be the responsibility of the installer to notify the code official forty-eight hours before final inspection is requested.

F-3211.8 Abandonment or removal of tanks: The code official shall be notified forty-eight hours prior to the abandonment, cleaning or removal of a flammable liquid tank.

F-3211.8.1 Requirements: The abandonment or removal of a flammable liquid tank shall comply with the applicable standards of NFPA 30.

F-3211.9 Leaking tanks: The code official shall be notified immediately upon discovery of any leakage of product from a flammable liquid tank, connected piping or pumps.

F-3211.10 Test of tanks or piping: The owner or occupant shall, when required by the code official, cause the testing of tanks, piping, pumps and related equipment, as so designated. Tests shall be performed according to procedures established by the code official.

F-3211.10.1 Witnessing test: Whenever the code official requires any tank, piping, pumps or related equipment to be tested the test shall be witnessed by the code official or designated representative. The code official shall be notified forty-eight hours before each test is to begin.

F-3211.11 Inventory control records to be kept: Accurate inventory control records for the purpose of detecting leakage shall be maintained by the person in control of the premises of each underground storage facility. The person in control of such premises shall make all inventory control records available for inspection and checking by the code official at all reasonable times and shall promptly report any abnormal loss of content to the code official.

F-3211.12 Testing for leaks: Notwithstanding any of the requirements of this chapter for testing piping systems and underground storage tanks, the code official may require testing of any such system when there are grounds to believe that a system may be leaking, including without limitation the failure to maintain inventory control records, or if inventory control records indicate a shortage of product or based upon visual detection of leakage. The code official may, at any time when such leakage shall be apparent, close the entire facility and the facility shall remain closed until such time as the code official has been furnished sufficient proof that the leakage which has caused the closing of the facility has been repaired. The code official may at any time require the construction of intercepting holes or trenches to prevent the continuing migration of the contaminating liquid.

F-3211.13 Permits: A permit shall be obtained from the code official to repair any tank, container or piping and pumps used for the storage and dispensing of flammable liquids.

F-3211.14 Removal of covering devices for inspection: At the time of periodic tests of piping systems, and at any other reasonable time when requested to do so by the code official, dispenser panels, access covers and any other covering devices shall be removed to permit access for inspection. Any deficiencies which are causing the loss of product shall be immediately corrected.

F-3211.14.1 Observation well: An observation well shall be installed for each new tank location as determined by the code official.

F-3211.14.2 Secondary containment: Secondary containment shall be required in new tank installations as determined by the code official.

SECTION F-3212.0 REPAIR OF LEAKING TANKS OR CONTAINERS

F-3212.1 Repairs: Before any tank, equipment or containers used for the storage or conveying of flammable liquids is repaired, the code official shall be notified prior to commencement of work.

F-3212.1.1 Requirements: The repair of all equipment outlined in Section F-3212.1 shall be done in strict compliance of requirements set forth by the code official and NFPA 329 and NFPA 30.

F-3212.2 Requirements for installers of tanks and equipment: Only those companies and individuals duly certified by the code official having met the requirements set forth in Section F-2812.0 for such certification shall be engaged for the purpose of installation or repairing flammable liquid tanks and related equipment.

F-3212.3 Fees: A fee shall be assessed by the code official for witnessing the testing of tanks and equipment. Fees shall be paid according to the fee schedule established in Table F-107.2.5.

F-3212.4 Repair permit: A fee shall be assessed by the code official for the repair, installation or abandonment of tanks and the repair of any tank, piping or pump as listed in Table F-107.2.3

F-3212.5 Cleaning tanks: Before any flammable liquid tank is cleaned, a permit shall be obtained from the code official and a fee paid as listed in Table F-107.2.3.

SECTION F-3213.0 CERTIFICATION OF FLAMMABLE LIQUID TANK INSTALLATIONS

F-3213.1 Scope: The purpose of this section is to regulate the installation, repair and testing of tanks and equipment used for the storage of flammable liquids in the interest of safeguarding lives and property.

F-3213.2 Registration of persons installing, repairing or testing flammable liquid storage tanks: Each firm engaged in the business of installing, repairing or testing flammable liquid storage tanks shall be required to have a Certificate of Registration issued by the code official.

F-3213.3 Prohibition against installing, repairing or testing flammable liquid storage tanks by personnel from uncertified company: The only person under this section allowed to install, repair or test flammable liquid tanks is a person that holds a Certificate of Registration, or an employee, agent or servant of a firm that holds a Certificate of Registration.

F-3213.4 Applications and hearing on licenses, permits and certificates: Applications for Certificates hereunder shall be made pursuant to regulations adopted by the code official as those regulations may from time to time be amended.

F-3213.5 Penalties: Whoever shall intentionally commit any acts as set forth in F-3213.5.1 and F-3213.5.2 shall be held in violation of this code, and shall, upon conviction thereof, be penalized as set forth in Section 25.06.180.

F-3213.5.1 Operating without certificate: No person shall engage in the business of installing, repairing or testing flammable liquid storage tanks without a current Certificate of Registration.

F-3212.5.2 Misrepresentation: No person shall obtain or attempt to obtain a Certificate of Registration by fraudulent misrepresentation.

F-3213.6 Application for certificate of registration: Any firm that desires to engage in the business of installing, repairing or testing flammable liquid storage tanks shall make a written verified application to the code official on forms provided for a Certificate of Registration, for each separate location or such firm where service is performed. The application must be signed by the sole proprietor, or each partner, or by an officer of the corporation.

F-3213.6.1 Review: If the code official finds after reviewing the applicant’s record that the granting or renewing of a Certificate of Registration would not be contrary to the public safety and welfare, the code official shall issue or renew such Certificate of Registration authorizing the applicant to engage in the business of installing, repairing or testing flammable liquid storage tanks, provided the requisite fee(s) has/have been paid. The code official shall give each Certificate of Registration an identifying number.

F-3213.6.2 Renewal of certificate: An application for renewal of a Certificate of Registration shall be made annually in accordance with detailed procedures to be followed.

F-3213.6.3 Fees: The original and annual renewal fee for Certificates of Registration issued pursuant to these regulations shall be paid according to the fee schedule established in Table F-107.2.6.

F-3213.7 Revocation: The code official shall conduct a hearing pursuant to the revocation of any Certificate of Registration. The code official may then either refuse to renew, suspend or revoke the Certificate of Registration for any of the following causes:

1. Violation - Any violation as listed in Section F-3213.5.

2. Misrepresentation - Having obtained or having attempted to obtain a Certificate of Registration by fraudulent misrepresentation.

3. Malpractice - Malpractice or incompetency.

4. Failure to Pay Fee - Failure to pay the original or annual renewal Certificate of Registration fee provided in these regulations.

5. Violation of any provision of the rules and regulations as formulated and administered by the code official or violation of any provision of this section.

(Ord. 64772 § 3 (part), 1999.)

25.06.160 Sections F-3603.4 through F-3603.5--Added.

Add Sections F-3603.4 through F-3603.5 to read as follows:

F-3603.4 Bulk storage: Bulk storage of Liquid Petroleum Gas of more than one thousand pounds (240 gallons equivalent water capacity) shall not be permitted within the City Limits.

F-3603.5 Recharging: No recharging and/or refilling of any Liquefied Petroleum Gas container shall be permitted within the City limits unless it is performed at a bulk storage transfer facility by a qualified operator of that facility.

(Ord. 64772 § 3 (part), 1999.)

25.06.170 Chapters 45, 46 and 47--Added.

Add Chapters 45, 46 and 47 to read as follows:

CHAPTER 45

OVENS AND FURNACES

SECTION F-4501.0 GENERAL

F-4501.1 Scope: The provisions of this chapter shall apply to the location, design, construction and operation of industrial processing ovens and furnaces operating at approximately atmospheric pressures and temperatures not exceeding seven hundred degrees F. which are heated with oil or gas fuel or which during operation contain flammable vapors from the products being processed. It is the intent of this chapter to provide for the operation of these ovens and furnaces within certain limitations of control depending on oven or furnace design, flammable formulations and ventilation needs, the disregard of which may cause them to function in an unsafe manner, thereby becoming liable to destruction by fire or explosion.

F-4501.2 Permits and construction documents: No oven or furnace to which this code applies shall be operated without a permit from the code official. Application for a permit shall be accompanied by construction documents showing all essential details as to location, design, construction, controls, and calculations for safe operation. The process and materials involved shall be fully described. Catalytic combustion systems utilized for the oxidization or combustion of the exhaust gases or vapors shall be described.

SECTION F-4502.0 DEFINITIONS

F-4502.1 Definitions: The following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this chapter and as stated elsewhere in this code, have the meanings shown herein.

Catalytic Combustion System: An oven heater or any construction that employs catalysts to accelerate oxidization or combustion of fuel air or fume air mixtures for eventual release of heat to an oven process.

SECTION F-4503.0 FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

F-4503.1 General: The layout, arrangement and construction of buildings and structures in which industrial processing ovens and furnaces are installed or operated shall comply with the applicable requirements of the building code for the appropriate occupancy use group classification, and shall be provided with fire protection and fire extinguishment equipment as required by that code. Buildings and structures and their service equipment shall be maintained in safe and sound condition as required by this code.

SECTION F-4504.0 LOCATION AND CONSTRUCTION

F-4504.1 General: Ovens, furnaces and related equipment shall be located with due regard to the possibility of fire resulting from overheating or from the escape of fuel gas or fuel oil, and the possibility of damage to the building and injury to persons resulting from explosion.

F-4504.2 Location: Ovens and furnaces shall be located at or above grade, or if in basements, at least fifty per cent of the wall area of the room in which the oven or furnace is located shall be above grade.

F-4504.3 Accessibility: Ovens and furnaces shall be so located as to be readily accessible for inspection and maintenance and with adequate clearances to permit the proper functioning of explosion vents. Roofs and floors of ovens and furnaces shall be sufficiently insulated and ventilated to keep temperatures at combustible ceilings and floors below one hundred sixty degrees F.

F-4504.4 Construction: Ovens and furnaces shall be constructed of noncombustible materials throughout except where the maximum oven operating temperature is not over one hundred sixty degrees F. The amount of insulation used in oven panel construction shall be enough to prevent the outside surface temperature from exceeding one hundred sixty degrees F., or adequate guards shall be provided to protect personnel. The metal frames of ovens or furnaces shall be electrically grounded.

F-4504.5 Relief vents: Ovens and furnaces which may contain flammable air-gas mixtures shall be equipped with relief vents for freely relieving internal explosion pressures and all explosion-venting panels or doors shall be arranged so that when open, the full vent opening will be an effective relief area.

F-4504.6 Ducts: All duct work shall be constructed of noncombustible material. Ducts shall be made tight throughout and shall have no openings other than those required for the proper operation and maintenance of the system. Ducts passing through combustible walls, floors, or roofs shall have adequate insulation and clearances to prevent surface temperatures from exceeding one hundred sixty degrees F. Exhaust ducts shall not discharge near doors, windows or other air intakes in a manner that will permit re-entry of vapors into the building.

SECTION F-4505.0 VENTILATION

F-4505.1 General: Ovens and furnaces in which flammable or toxic vapors are liberated or through which products of combustion are circulated shall be ventilated by the introduction of a supply of fresh air and proper exhaust to outdoors. Discharge pipes shall not terminate within ten feet measured horizontally from any door, window or wood frame walls of any building.

F-4505.2 Air circulation: Ventilation shall be arranged to provide vigorous and well-distributed air circulation within the oven or furnace to insure that the flammable vapor concentration will be safely below the lower explosive limit at all times. Unless the oven or furnace is operated in accordance with specific approval specifying particular solvents and rate of ventilation, the rate of ventilation shall not be less than ten thousand cubic feet of fresh air per gallon of solvent evaporated in continuous process ovens or furnaces, and not less than three hundred eighty cubic feet per minute per gallon of flammable solvent evaporated in batch process ovens or furnaces.

F-4505.3 Duct openings: Exhaust duct openings shall be located in the area of greatest concentration of vapors.

F-4505.4 Power fans: All exhaust shall be by mechanical means using power driven fans.

F-4505.5 Safety controls: Safety controls shall be sufficient in number and substantially constructed and arranged to maintain the required conditions of safety and prevent the development of fire and explosion hazards.

F-4505.5.1 Ventilation controls: Ventilation controls, suitably interlocked, shall be provided which will insure the required pre-ventilation and ventilation of the system.

F-4505.5.2 Fuel controls: Fuel safety controls, suitably interlocked and arranged to minimize the possibility of dangerous accumulations of explosive air-fuel mixtures in the heating system, shall be provided.

F-4505.5.3 Temperature controls: Excess temperature controls shall be provided to maintain a safe operation temperature within the oven or furnace.

F-4505.5.4 Conveyor controls: Conveyor interlocks shall be provided in conveyor ovens or furnaces having a flammable vapor hazard, so that the conveyor cannot move unless ventilating fans are operating and discharging the required amount of air.

CHAPTER 46

VEHICLE TIRE REBUILDING PLANTS

SECTION F-4601.0 GENERAL

F-4601.1 Scope: The equipment, processes and operation of automobile tire rebuilding and recapping plants shall comply with the applicable requirements of this code and the detail provisions of this chapter.

F-4601.2 Permit required: A permit shall be obtained from the code official to conduct or maintain any tire recapping or rebuilding plant.

SECTION F-4602.0 FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

F-4602.1 General: The layout, arrangement and construction of buildings and structures used for tire rebuilding or recapping shall comply with the applicable requirements of the building code for the appropriate occupancy use group classification, and shall be provided with fire protection and fire extinguishment as required by that code. Buildings and structures and their service equipment shall be maintained in safe and sound condition as required by this code.

F-4602.2 Opening protectives: Fire doors or other opening protectives to exitway or elevator enclosures or similar shaft enclosures required by the building code shall be kept closed except when the opening is in actual use.

F-4602.3 Mixed occupancies: When tire rebuilding plants are required to be separated from other occupancies in the building by the building code, such separation shall be maintained in good condition and shall not be pierced or broken in any manner. When a sprinkler system is required by the building code in a tire rebuilding plant, it shall be maintained in proper and continuous working order.

F-4602.4 Dust collecting system: Buffing machines shall be located in a room separated from the remainder of the plant as required by the building code, and fire doors in such separations shall be maintained free of all obstructions at all times. Each machine shall be connected to an ample dust collecting system conforming to NFPA 91, listed in Chapter 44.

F-4602.5 Ventilation: Each room, where rubber cement is used or mixed, or flammable or combustible solvents are applied, shall be equipped with effective mechanical or natural ventilation.

CHAPTER 47

HAZARD ABATEMENT IN EXISTING BUILDINGS

SECTION F-4701.0 GENERAL

F-4701.1 Scope: The provisions of this chapter are to provide a reasonable degree of safety to persons occupying existing buildings that do not conform to the minimum requirements of the building code listed in Chapter 44 by requiring the alterations listed herein to such existing buildings.

F-4701.2 Application of other codes: All alterations to an existing building which are caused directly or indirectly by the enforcement of this code shall be done in accordance with the applicable procedures and provisions of the building, plumbing and mechanical codes and NFPA 70 listed in Chapter 44.

F-4701.3 Continued maintenance: All service equipment, means of egress devices and safeguards which are required by this chapter or which were required by a previous statute or other code in a building or structure when erected, altered or repaired shall be maintained in good working order. The requirements of this chapter are not to provide the basis for removal or abrogation of fire protection and safety systems and devices in existing buildings. These requirements are intended to require that existing buildings which do not comply with these provisions be altered to provide a minimum level of safety as required herein.

SECTION F-4702.0 MEANS OF EGRESS

F-4702.1 Number of exits: In nonresidential buildings, every occupied story more than six stories above grade shall be provided with not less than two independent exits. In residential buildings, every story exceeding two stories above grade shall be provided with not less than two independent exits. In stories where more than one exit is required, all occupants shall have access to at least two exits. Every occupied story which is both completely below grade and greater than 2,000 square feet (186 m2) shall be provided with not less than two independent exits.

Exception: A single exit is acceptable under any one of the following conditions:

1. Where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system and an approved automatic fire detection system with smoke detectors located in all corridors, lobbies and common areas.

2. Where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic fire detection system, and the exit is an approved smokeproof enclosure or pressurized stairway.

3. Where an existing fire escape complying with the building code listed in Chapter 44 is provided in addition to the single exit.

4. Where permitted by the building code listed in Chapter 44.

F-4702.2 Exit enclosure: All interior exits and shafts shall be enclosed with approved assemblies except as provided for in Table F-4702.2.

Table 4702.2

Enclosure Exceptions

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