2002-05 Adopts 2001 Edition of FL Building CodesORDINANCE OS-2002
• AN ORDINANCI's OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF NORTH PALM
13I?ACH, FLORIDA, AMENDING SECTION 6-16, AUTHORITY, AND SECTION 6-17, CODES
All01'7~ED, OF ARTICI,F,11, MINIMUM CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS, OF CHAPTEK 6,
BU11.llINGS AND BUILDING REGULATIONS, OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE,
VII,I,AGL' OP NORTII PALM BEACH; REPEALING SF,CTION 6-2, ACCESSIBILITY 7'O
13UILUINGS BY HANDICAPPED PERSONS; STATE LAW ADOPTED OF ARTICLIs I OF
CHAPTL'R 6 OF THE OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE VILLAGE OF NORTH PALM
BEACH; REPEALING SECTION 6-3, FIRE DISTRICT, OF ARTICLE I OF CHAPTER 6 OF
"fHE CODE; OF ORDINANCES OF THE VILLAGE OF NORTH PALM BEACH; REPEALING
SECTION 11-11, CODES ADOPTED, AND SECTION 11-12, AMENDMENTS, CORRECT70NS,
ADDITIONS, OF ARTICLE ]1, ELECTRICAL CODE, OF CHAPTER I 1 OF THE CODE, OP
ORDINANCES OF T'HE VILLAGE, OF NORTH PALM BEACH; REPEALING SF,CT'ION 12-16,
ADOI'7'ED BY REFERENCE, AND SECTION 12-17, AMENDMENTS, OF ARTICLE I1, FIKI;
PREVIiN770N CODE, OF CHAPTER 12 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THFi VILI,AGI?
OF NORTH PALM BEACH; REPEALING SECTION 25-1 THROUGH SECTION 25-11,
INCLUSIVE, AND SECTION 25-23 THROUGH SECTION 25-38, INCLUSIVE, OF CHAPTER
25, SWIMMING POOLS, OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE VILLAGE OF NORTH
PALM BRACH; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR THE REPEAL OF Al,l,
ORDINANCES OR PARTS OF ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT IIEREWITH; AND, PROVIDING
I'OR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
RF, 17' ORDAINED BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF NORTH PALM BEACH, FLORIDA:
Section 1. Section 6-16, Authority, of Article II, Minimum Construction Standards, of Chapter
6, Buildings and Building Regulations, of the Code of Ordinances of the Village of North Palm
Beach, is hereby amended to read as follows:
"Section 6-16. Authority.
This article is promulgated in accordance with F.S. chapter 553."
Section 2. Section 6-17, Codes adopted, of Article I1, Minimum Construction Standards, of
Chapter 6, Buildings and Building Regulations, of the Code of Ordinances of the Village of North
Palm Beach is hereby amended to read as follows:
"Section 6-17. Codes adopted.
"The 2001 edition of the Florida Building Code including the amendments to the
code as recommended by the Building Code Advisory Board of Palm Beach County and the
Village of North Palm Beach are hereby adopted and incorporated herein, as part of the
• minimum construction standards for the Village of North Palm Beach, Florida. Department
of Public Services shall be substituted for Building Department in the adopted code."
Section 3. Section 6-2, Accessibility to buildings by handicapped persons; state law adopted, of
Article 1 of Chapter 6 of the Code of Ordinances of the Village of North Palm Beach, is hereby repealed.
• Sectiun 4. Section 6-3, Fire district, of Article I of Chapter 6 of the Code of Ordinances of the
Village of North Palm Beach, is hereby repealed
Section 5. Section 1 I-I 1, Codes adopted, and Section 11-12, Amendments, corrections,
additions, of Article Il, Electrical Code, of Chapter 11 of the Code of Ordinances of the Village of
North Palm Beach, are hereby repealed.
Section 6. Section 12-16, Adopted by reference, and Section 12-17, Amendments, of Article II,
Fire Prevention Code, of Chapter 12 of the Code of Ordinances of the Village of North Palm Beach,
are hereby repealed.
Section 7. Section 25-1 through Section 25-11, inclusive, and Section 25-23 through Section
25-38, inclusive, of Chapter 25, Swimming pools, of the Code of Ordinances of the Village of North
Palm Beach, are hereby repealed.
Section 8. If any section, paragraph, sentence, clause, phrase or word of this Ordinance is for
any reason held b}' a Court to be unconstitutional, inoperative or void, such holding shall not affect
the remainder of this Ordinance.
Section 9. All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.
Section ] 0. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon passage.
I'I,ACED ON FIRST READING THIS 14th DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2002.
I'1.ACED ON PUBLIC HEARING THIS 28th DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2002.
I'I,ACED ON SECOND, FINAL READING AND PASSED THIS-2$fh~AY
(VILLAGE SEAL)
A7"I'ES~ r~-
VILLA CLERK
YOR
2002.
• BCAB
Administrative Amendments to Florida
Building Code, Chapter 1
by Palm Beach County
Building Code Advisory Board
Edition 9/28/01
With Village of North Palm Beach Local Amendments
Words Underlined are additions
Words with strikeouts are deletions
In accordance with the ADA, this document may be obtained in
alternate formats.
Tne Building Code Advisory Board of Palm Beach County was created by a Special Act of the Florida Legislature, at the
request of the Wilding code enforcement and construction Indusbieb. The purpose of the Board is to advise the Board of
• County Commissioners and local governments concerning the adoption of building codes and lhelr enforcement throughout
the County. The AU also grented Palm Beach County special powers eoncerning building codes, in the Interest of the
public's health, safety and general welfare.
100 Australian Avenue S West Palm Beach Florida 33406 S 407.2334100 5 FAX 407-Y3350Y0
bcabadminamendslbc0l.doc ~ !3/28~D7
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CHAPTER 1
ADMINISTRATION
may occur subsequent to such inspection or permitting.
101.4.2.1 The Florida Building Code does not apply to, and no code enforcement action
shall be brought with respect to, zoning requirements, land use requirements and owner
specifications or programmatic requirements which do not pertain to and govern design,
constnaction, erection, alteration, modification, repair or demolition of public or private
buildings, structures, or facilities or to programmatic requirements that do not pertain to
enforcement of the Florida Building Code. Additionally, a local code enforcement
agency may not administer or enforce the Florida Building Code, Building to prevent the
siting of any publicly owned facility, including, but not limited to, correctional facilities,
juvenile justice facilities, or state universities, community colleges, or public education
facilities, as provided by law. NOTE : There may be additional reoulations outside this
code that may affect details of development building design and constnaction.
101.4.8 Appendices. ,
bcabadminamendsfbc0l.dx 2
9!28/01
101.3.3 Permitting And Inspection. The inspection or permitting of anv building.
102 BUILDING DEPARTMENT
• 102.1 Establishment. There is hereby established a department to be called the
468. Part XIII. Florida Statutes.
102.2.3 Plans Examiner 8 Inspector Qualifications. The building official with the
102.2.4 Deputy Building Official Qualifications. The building official may designate
as a deputy an employee in the department who shall. during the absence or disability of
•
bcaDatlminamendslbc0l.doc 3 erzeroi
charges before each applicable governing authority.
charges before each applicable governing authority.
a building inspector, engineer. architect or as a superintendent foreman or competent
mechanic in charge of construction. in the corresponding trade. The plans examiners
and inspectors shall be certified. through the State of Florida for the appropriate trade.
102.4 Records
• The buildina official shall keen or cause to be kept a record of the business of the
department. The records of the department shall be open to public inspection.
102.5 Liability
liable and is hereby relieved from all personal liability. for any damage that may accrue
to persons or property as a result of any act required or permitted in the discharge of
their duties. Anv suit brought against any current or former officer or employee or
member because of such act performed in the enforcement of any provision of this code
shall be defended by the agency or applicable aovemina authority until the final
termination of the proceedings
102.6 Reports
The buildina official may submit annually a report covering the work of the building
department during the preceding year. He may incomorate in said report a summary of
the decisions of the Board of Adjustments and Appeals during said year.
103 POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE BUILDING OFFICIAL
103.1 General
The building official is hereby authorized and directed to enforce the provisions of this
code. The buildina official is further authorized to render interpretations of this code,
which are consistent with its spirit and purpose.
103.2 Right Of Entry
103.2.1 Whenever necessary to make an inspection to enforce any of the provisions of
this code, or whenever the building official has reasonable cause to believe that there
exists in any building or upon any premises any condition or code violation which makes
such buildina, structure, premises. electrical. gas mechanical or plumbing systems
unsafe, dangerous or hazardous, the building official may enter such buildina, structure
or premises at all reasonable times to inspect the same or to perform any duty imposed
upon the buildina official by this code. If such buildina or premises are occupied. he
shall first present proper credentials and request entry. If such buildina, structure, or
• 103.3 Stop Work Orders
Upon notice from the bu
bcabadminamendsfbc0l.dx 4 92807
neglect after proper request is made as herein provided. to promptly permit entry therein
by the buildina official for the purpose of inspection and examination pursuant to this
code.
•
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demolished in accordance with this section.
103.5.2 If necessary such notice shall also require the building structure electrical gas
bcabadminamendsfbcOi.doc ~j gRgp~
notice prior to stopping the work.
which the permit or approval was based.
103.5.1 When the building official determines a building structure electrical gas
purpose of making the required repairs or of demolishing same
• 103.5.3 The owner, agent or person in control shall have the right to appeal from the
decision of the building official as provided hereinafter. and to appear before the
Building Board of Adjustments and Appeals at a specified time and place to show cause
why he should not comply with said notice.
103.5.4 In case the owner, agent or person in control cannot be found within the stated
time limit, or, if such owner. agent. or person in control shall fail. neglect, or refuse to
comply with notice to repair, rehabilitate. or to demolish. and remove said building.
structure, electrical pas, mechanical or plumbing system or portion thereof, the building
official, after having ascertained the cost. shall cause such building structure. electrical.
gas, mechanical or plumbing system or portion thereof, to be demolished, secured, or
required to remain vacant or unused.
103.5.5 The decision of the building official shall be final incases of emergency which, in
the opinion of the building official. involve imminent danger to human life or health or the
property of others. He shall promptly cause such building stnacture, electrical, gas,
mechanical or plumbing system or portion thereof to be made safe or cause its removal.
For this purpose he may at once enter such structure or land on which it stands or
abutting land or structures. with such assistance and at such cost as he may deem
necessary. He may order the vacating of adjacent stnactures and may require the
protection of the public by appropriate fence or such other means as may be necessary.
and for this purpose may close a public or private way.
fpllOWing mannef:
• 103.6 Requirements Not Covered By Code
Dcabadminamendsfbc0l.da 6 928/01
assessment shall include but not be limited to all administrative costs, postal
expenses. newspaper publication, and shall constitute a lien upon such property
superior to all others except taxes.
2. The Agency Clerk shall file such lien in the County's Official Record Book
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official.
104 PERMITS
C.. .~1'n
nni . . ~1.~1n.! by lL~i~ nndn
nin
Anv owner, authorized agent, or contractor who desires to construct. enlarge, alter,
repair, move. demolish, or change the occupancv of a building or structure. or to erect.
install, enlarge. alter, repair. remove, convert or replace anv electrical, gas. mechanical
or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by the technical codes, or to
cause anv such work to be done shall first make application to the building official and
Buildings/Structures - Construct, erect. enlarge alter move, remove relocate
demolish or change the occupancv of anv building or portion thereof.
Service Systems -Install. enlarge, alter, repair improve, remove, convert or replace
bcabadminamendslbc0l.doc ] 928N1
~ , i~;nnin n .,n,l. n.ln ,. nn! ;n~.~u ni.,.~n ..iln. .
eon
by the building official:
receiving-transmitting antenna extending more than 10 ft above the last anchorage
satellite dish antennas, flag poles, exterior lighting or similar items.
Pools -Install swimming pool, wading pool, or spas above or below ground. unless
• otherwise exempted.
Fuel Tanks -Install or replace gasoline, fuel, oil, bottled gas oxygen. nitrous oxide, or
similar liquid or gaseous storage tanks pumps, and related equipment above or below
ground in a capacity of more than 5 gallons.
Surfaces -Construct replace or resurface asphalt or concrete driveways, parking areas.
EXCEPTIONS:
Ordinary minor repairs. installation or replacement may be made with the
approval of the Building Official without a permit. Installation shall be done in
accordance with the manufacturer-s specification when not in conflict with this or
the technical Codes
Exemption from the permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to
grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the
provisions of this code or the technical codes or any other laws or ordinances of
the applicable governing body.
Building. Building permits may not be required for replacement or repair work
having value of less than $1.000.00 providing however that such work will not
effect the structural integrity fire rating exit access or egress requirements. In
the case of roofing repairs a permit may not be required for work having a value
of less than $500.00
Mechanical. Permits may not be required for the following mechanical work:
1. any portable heating appliance.
2. any portable ventilation equipment.
3. any portable cooling unit.
4. anY Steam, hot Of Chilled Watef DlplnQ Within anY heating Of COOling equipment
regulated by this Code.
5. replacement of any part which does not alter its approval or make it unsafe.
6, any portable evaporative cooler.
7. any self-contained refrigeration system containing 10 Ib or less of.refrigerant
and actuated by motors of 1 horsepower or less.
energy supply lines and outlets. Existing energy supply lines shall not be
altered or extended.
2. Repair or replacement of common household electrical switches and outlets
• on the load side of the electrical source.
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Fire Prevention/Suppression -Install, replace, or relocate fire sprinkler, fire alarm,
smoke detection, or similar fire prevention and protection systems and relate_ d
equipment or appurtenances.
•
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104.3.1.1 Minimum Plan Review Criteria For Buildings.
13 Swimming Pools
barrier requirements
spas
wading pools
Plans shall detail compliance with Section 424.1 of this code.
104.3.1.2 Exemptions.
1. Replacing existing equipment such as mechanical units, water heaters, etc.
2. o~S
2. Minor electrical, plumbing and mechanical repairs
3. Annual maintenance permits
4. Prototype plans:
except for local site adaptions, siding, foundations and/or modifications.
except for structures that require waiver.
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104.2.4 Site Drawings. Drawings shall show the location of the proposed building or
structure and of every existing building or structure on the site or lot. The building official
may require a boundary line survey. or other survey, prepared by a qualified surveyor.
104.5.1 Permit Intent. A perrnit issued shall be construed to be a license to proceed
with the work and not as authority to violate, cancel, alter, or set aside any of the
provisions of the technical codes, nor shall issuance of a permit prevent the building
official from thereafter requiring a correction of errors in plans, construction, or violations
of this code. Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work authorized by
• such permit is commenced within 6 months after its issuance, or if the work authorized
by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 6 months after the time the
work is commenced. One or more extensions of time for periods not more than 90 da
building official if granted.
104.5.2 Permit issued on basis of an affidavit. Whenever a permit is issued in
reliance upon an affidavit or whenever the work to be covered by a permit involves
installation under conditions which, in the opinion of the building official, are hazardous
or complex, the building official shall require that the architect or engineer who signed
the affidavit or prepared the drawings or computations shall supervise such work. In
addition, they shall be responsible for conformity to the permit, provide copies of
inspection reports as inspections are performed, and upon completion make and file with
the building official written affidavit that the work has been done in conformity to the
reviewed plans and with the structural provisions of the technical codes. In the event
such architect or engineer is not available, the owner shall employ in his stead a
competent person or agency whose qualifications are reviewed by the building official.
The building official shall ensure that any person not properly licensed as an engineer or
architect conducting plans review is qualified as a plans examiner under part XII of
Chapter 468, Florida Statutes and that any person not properly licensed as an engineer
or architect conducting inspections is qualified as a building inspector under Part III of
Chapter 468, Florida Statutes.
104.6.2 Work Commencing Before Permit Issuance. Any person who commences
any work on a building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system before
obtaining the necessary permits shall be subject to a penalty of 100 percent of the usual
permit fee in addition to the required permit fees plus penalty fees up to 300 percent of
the usual permit fee, as decided by the building official.
If in the opinion of the building official the claimed
systems appears to be underestimated on the application. permit shall be denied, unless
the applicant can show detailed estimates. and/or bona fide signed contracts (excluding
land valuel to meet the approval of the building official. For permitting purposes,
Valuation of buildings and systems shall be total replacement value to include structural,
electric plumbing mechanical interior finish normal site work (excavation and backfill
for buildings), architectural and design fees, overhead and profit.
104.6.6 Schedule of Permit Fees. On all buildings, structures, electrical, plumbing,
mechanical and gas systems or alterations reauirina a permit a fee for each permit shall
be paid as required at the time of filing application, in accordance with the following
schedule:
3.5% $0.00 to $10 000.00 plus
1.75% $10.000.01 to $100,000.00 plus
•
0.90% $100.000.01 to $500.000.00 plus
0.30% $500,000.01 to $1 000 000.00 plus
bcabadminamendslbc0l.dce 1 ~ 928/01
•
0 150% $1,000 000.00 to and up or fraction thereof
The permit fee shall not be less that $40.00
Moving buildina $250.00
Buildina demolition $250.00
Construction Trailers $40.00
104.6.7 Special Inspection Fee
On new buildings or additions of the following occupancies, the Buildina Official shall
require the contractor to pavan hourly inspection fee. monthly on demand. The
certification of the number of hours to be charged for shall be made by the Buildina
Official on a monthly basis. The hourly rate for the inspection fee shall be $30.00.
1. All occupancy classification buildings and additions except Group R of 50.00_
square feet or more of floor space on the around floor.
2. Group R projects and additions that total thirty f30) or more dwelling units.
105 INSPECTIONS
•
105.1 Reserved Existing Buildina Inspections
Before issuing a permit the buildina official may examine or cause to be examined any
buildin
105.2 Reserved Manufacturers And Fabricators
When deemed necessary by the buildina official. he shall make. or cause to be made, an
inspection of materials or assemblies at the point of manufacture or fabrication. A record
shall be made of every such examination and inspection and of all violations of the
technical codes
105.3 Reserved Resident Inspection Services
The building official may make or cause to be made by others the inspections required
1. for buildings or additions of Tvpe I or Tvpe II construction
2. for all major structural alterations
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11
snaro~
permit was issued. He shall make a record of even such examination and inspection
and of all violations of the technical codes.
NOTE: Refer Chapter 34 Standard Buildina Code for additional information on existing
buildings.
the following instances:
• 3. where the concrete design is based on compressive strength (fc) in excess of
3.000 pounds per square inch
4. for pile driving
Such inspector shall be present at all times that work is in progress on the structural
frame. Such inspector shall be a registered architect, or engineer. or other person
licensed under Chapter 468, Florida Statutes. Such inspectors shall be responsible for
compliance with this Code and shall submit weekly progress reports of the daily
inspections to the building official
At the completion of the construction work or project, such inspector shall submit a
certificate of compliance to the building official, stating that the work was done in
compliance with this Code and in accordance with the permitted drawing. Final inspection
shall be made by the building official before a Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of
Completion is issued.
105.6 Required inspections. The building official upon notification from the permit
holder or his agent shall make the following inspections, and such other inspections as
deemed necessary, and shall either release that portion of the construction or shall notify
the permit holder or his agent of any violations which must be corrected in order to comply
with the technical codes. The building official shall determine the timing and sequencing
of when inspections occur and what elements are inspected at each inspection. A survey
may be required before inspection is approved.
Building
2. Framing inspection: To be made after the roof, all framing, fire blocking and bracing is
in place, all concealing wiring, all pipes, chimneys, ducts and vents are complete and shall
at a minimum include the following building components:
• window/door framing
• vertical cells/columns
• lintel/tie beams fincluding truss layout)
• framingftrusses/bracing/connectors
• draft stopping/fire blocking
• curtain wall framing
• energy insulation
• accessibility
applicant. In addition, the building official may refuse to issue a building permit or issue a
permit with specific conditions if the local authorized hearing board, through a public
• privileges.
106.1.1 Building Occupancy. Anew building shall not be occupied or a change made in
the occupancy, nature or use of a building or part of a building until after the building
bcabadminamendsfbcOt.doc 12 928101
official has issued a certificate of occupancy. Said certificate shall not be issued until all
• required electrical, gas, mechanical, plumbing and fire protection systems have been
inspected for compliance with the technical codes and other applicable laws and
ordinances and released by the building official.
107 TESTS
(Reserved)
laboratory or other approved agency.
108 CONSTRUCTION BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT AND APPEALS
and Appeals. which shall consist of seven members and two alternates The Board shall
be appointed by the applicable aovernino body
has a personal or financial interest.
•
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108.2.2 Terms. The terms of office of the board members shall be staggered so no
•
defined in 108.4. to hear appeals of decisions and interpretations of the building official
swimming pools. fire prevention and housing.
1. The building official rejected or refused to approve the mode or manner of
construction proposed to be followed or materials to be used in the installation or
alteration of a building, structure or service svstem.
2. The provisions of this code do not apply to this specific case.
3. That an equally good or more desirable form of installation can be employed
in anv specific case.
4. The true intent and meaning of this code or anv of the regulations thereunder
have been misconstrued or incorcectly interpreted.
any particular case when, in its opinion, the enforcement thereof would do manifest
injustice and would be contrary to the spirit and pumose of this or the technical codes or
public interest, and also finds all of the following:
others.
2. That the special conditions and circumstances do not result from the action or
inaction of the applicant.
3. That granting the variance requested will not confer on the applicant anv
special privilege that is denied by this code to other buildings structures or
service svstem.
4. That the variance granted is the minimum variance that will make possible the
reasonable use of the building structure or service svstem.
• purpose of this
general welfare.
bcabadminamendslbc0l.doc 14 9/IBI01
failure of a member to vote.
conditions are claimed to exist:
•
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108.5 Procedures Af The Board
108.5.1 Rules And Regulations. The board shall establish rules and regulations for its
own procedure not inconsistent with the provisions of this code. The board shall meet
on call of the chairman. The board shall meet within 30 calendar days after notice of
appeal has been received.
108.5.2 Decisions. The Construction Board of Adjustment and Appeals shall in every
case, reach a decision without unreasonable or unnecessary delay Each decision of
aggrieved party might have at law or in equity.
109 SEVERABILITY
bcabadminamendsfbcOt.doc 15
erzaror
such appeals to a shorter period.
• If anv section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this code is for anv reason held
to be unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions
of this code.
bcabadminamendslbcOt.doc 16 928101
110 VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES
Anv person, firm, corporation or agent who shall violate a provision of this code, or fail to
comply therewith, or with anv of the requirements thereof. or who shall erect, construct,
alter, install, demolish or move anv structure. electrical, gas. mechanical or plumbing
system, or has erected, constnacted. altered. repaired, moved or demolished a building,
• BCAB
Recommended Amendments to the Florida
Building Code
Edition 9/28/01
Words underlined are additions
Words with strikethrough are deletions
In accordance with the ADA, this document may be obtained in alternate
formats.
The Building Code Advisory Board of Palm Beach County vras created by a Special Act of the Fbrida Legislature, al the request of the
building code enforcement and construction Industries. The purpose of the Board k to advise the Board of County Commissioners and bcal
governments concerning the adoption of building codes and their enforcement througtrout the County. The Acl also granted Palm Beach
County special pourers concerning building codes, In the Interest of the publics health, safety and general vrelfare.
100 Australian Avenue S West Palm Beach Florida 33406 $ 561-2335100 $ FAX 561-233-5020
•
bcabrecommendedbldgamerWsfbc2001.doc - 1 - 08/28/01
CHAPTER 2
DEFINITIONS
• SECTION 202 - DEFINITIONS
EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND RESCUE OPENING. An operable window, door or other similar
device that in the event of an emergency provides for a means of escape and access for rescue.
FLOOR ELEVATION -The minimum floor slab elevation shall not be less than eighteen inches
above the crown of road or less than 8.5 feet above mean sea level.
CHAPTER I8
FOUNDATIONS AND RETAINING WALLS
1804 -FOOTINGS AND FOUNDATIONS
1804.1.1 Foundations shall be built on undisturbed soil or properly compacted fill material.
Foundations shall be constructed of materials described in this chapter. All footings and concrete
pads shall be formed full deoth.
CHAPTER 21
MASONRY
2111 MASONRY CONSTRUCTION
2111.1.9 WATER STOP -Where exterior hollow masonry units bear on a concrete floor surface
a 1.5 inch (38 mm1 recess shall be orovided to minimize water intrusion
•
Dcabrecommndedbldaamendslbc2001.doc 2 09/28/07
Exception Refer to Chanter 23 for additional clearance requirements for wood siding
1804.2.2 QUESTIONABLE SOIL. Delete proposed FBC language and substitute the following:
CHAPTER 23
FASTENINGS
•
REVISED TABLE 2306.1
FASTENING SCHEDULE
CONNECTION FASTENER ' NUMBER OR SPACING
WOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL ROOF SHEATHING
Mean Roof Height < 25'
19/32" or greater 8d Common Zone 1 & 2(below)
6" o.c. edges and
6" o.c. intermediate
Zone 3(belowl
4" o.c. edges and
6" o.c. intermediate
Mean Roof Helaht 25'- 35' Max. Bd Common Zone 1 & 2(below)
19132" or greater 6" o.c. edges and
6" o.c. intermediate
Bd Rino-Shank Zone 3(below)
4" o.c. edges and
6" o.c. intermediate
Mean Roof Helaht < 25' 16ga galvanized wire Zone 1. 2 & 3(below)
19/32" - 3/4" staples 3/6" minimum crown. 2" o.c. edges and
1"lea length. plus panel 5" o.c. intermediate
Thickness.
Mean Roof Height 25'- 35 Max.' 16aa galvanized wire Zone 1 8 2lbelow)
staples 3/6" minimum crown. 2" o. c. edges and
1"leg length. dus panel 5" o.c. intermediate
thickness.
Zone 3(below)
Not oermitted
WOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL ROOF FASTENING ZONES
1 -Interior nailing zone
2 -Perimeter nailing zone
3 -Edge nailing zone
•
bcabrecommndedbldoamendsfbc2001.doe
092a~01
REVISED PANEL SPAN TABLE 2307.66
• ALLOWABLE SPANS AND LOADS FOR WOOD STRUCTURAL PANELS IN SHEATHING AND
SINGLE FLOOR GRADES CONTINUOUS OVER TWO OR MORE SPANS, LONG DIMENSION
PERPENDICULAR TO SUPPORTS (See notes 1,ti and 6)
1 in = 25.4 mm
1 psi = 47.8803 Pa
Notes, TABLE 2307.66:
1. The allowable loads were determined using a dead load of 10 psf. K the dead load exceeds 10 psf then the
Sheathing Grade Roof Floor
Span Panel Thickness (in) Maximum Span (in) Load (psf)
Rating
Maximum
Roof/Floor Span With Edge Without Total Live Span (in)
Supported2 Edge Load Load
Support
32/16 5/8 32 28 40 30
4020 19/32, 5/8, 3/4, 7/8 40 32 40 30 16
4824 19/32, 3/4, 7/8 48 36 45 35 20
54/32 7/8, 1 54 40 45 35 24
60/46 7/8, 1, 1-1/8 60 48 45 35 32
46
Single Floor Grade Roof Floor
Span Panel Thickness (in) Maximum Span (in) Load (psf)
Rating Maximum
With Edge Without Total Live Span (in)
Supported2 Edge Load Load
Support
16o.c. 19/32, 5/8 24 24 50 40 16 °
20o.c. 19/32, 5/8, 3/4 32 32 40 30 20 3'°
24o.c. 23/32, 3/4 48 36 35 25 24
32o.c. 7/8, 1 48 40 50 40 32
48o.c. 1-3/32, 1-1/8 60 48 50 40 48
live load shall be reduced accordingly.
2. Tongue-and-groove edges, panel edge clips (one midway between each support, except two equaly spaced
between supports 48 inches on center), lumber blocking, or other. Ony lumber blocking shall satisfy blocked
diaphragm requirements.
3. Maximum framing space shall be 24 inches on center for floors where 1-12 inches of cellular pr lightweight
concrete is applied over the panels.
4. Maximum frame spacing shall be 24 inches on center where 3/4-inch wood strip flooring 5 installed at right
angles to joist.
5. Shall appy ony to panels 24 inches or wider.
•
bcabrecommndedbldaamendsfbc2001.doc 4 0928,01
•
REVISED TABLE 2309.3A
ALLOWABLE LOAD (PSF) FOR WOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL ROOF SHEATHING
OVER TWO OR MORE SPANS AND
LONG DIMENSION PARALLEL TO SUPPORTS
(Wood Structural Panels are 5-ply, &layer unless otherwise noted) ~~~
THICKNESS MAXIMUM LOAD AT MAXIMUM SPAN
SPAN (psf)
PANEL GRADE (inches) SPAN RATING (inches) LNE TOTAL
Structural I 19/32, 5/8 40/20 24 70 80
Sheathing 23/32, 3/4 46/24 24 90 100
19132 40/20 24 402 502
Sheathing 5/B 32/16, 40/20 24 452 552
23/32, 3/4 40/20, 48/24 24 602 652
1 inch = 25.4mm
1 psf = 4.882 kg/m^2.
Notes:
1. Uniform load deFlection limftations: 1/180th of span under live load plus dead load, 1/240th live bad only.
Edges shall be blocked with lumber or other approved type of edge supports.
2. For composite and 4-ply plywood panels, bad shall be reduced by 15 psf.
3. In no case shall anv roof sheathing be less than 32/16 - 19/32 inches olvwood in loans 16 inches or more on
c n er
CHAPTER 24
GLASS AND GLAZING
2405 -IMPACT, WIND, AND OTHER LOADS
2405.2 HAZARDOUS LOCATIONS
CHAPTER 31
SECTION 3107 FLOOD PLAIN
-Delete section in entirety, substitute the foliowing-
bcabreconmidedbldoamerWsfbc2001.doc 5 p9/28/01
•
r~
U
aoolicable aoverning authority.
Building Code Advisory Board of Palm Beach County
RECOMMENDED AMENDMENTS TO THE 1999
• NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
Revised September 28, 2001 for inclusion into the BCAB Recommended
Amendments To The Florida Building Code
Coding:
Words underlined are additions
Words with strikeouts are deletions
•
BCA Breeommendedelecamends.doc
Chapter 27
Electrical Systems
• SECTION 2703 -MODIFICATIONS TO NFPA 70
The following sections of NFPA 70 shall be modified as indicated.
ARTICLE 90 -INTRODUCTION
90-10 - INCORPORATION OF STANDARD
The Model Countywide Administrative Code is hereby adopted by reference and is
incorporated herein to provide for the administration of the National Electrical Code and
these amendments.
Justification: Provides clarification and direction related to how the code will be enforced
administratively.
CHAPTER 2
ARTICLE 210 -BRANCH CIRCUITS
A. General Provisions
Section 210-8 Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection for Personnel
210-8 (a)(7) ~^~,.~~ba ~. All sinks. Where the receptacles are installed to serve the
counter top surfaces and are not located within Eft. (1.83m) of the outside edge of ttae
wet-bar sinks all sinks. Receptacle outlets shall not be installed in a face-up position in
the work surfaces or countertops.
(b) Other than Dwelling Units. All 125-volt, single-phase, 15 and 20 ampere
receptacles installed in the locations specified below shall have ground-fault circuit-
interrupter protections for personnel.
1. Bathrooms
2. Rooftops
3. Outdoors
4. All sinks. Where the receptacles are installed to serve the counter top
surfaces and are located within 6 ft. (1.83m) of the outside edge of all sinks.
Exception No. 1: Receptacles that are not readily accessible and are not supplied
from a dedicated branch circuit for electric snow-melting or deicing equipment shall be
permitted to be installed in accordance with the applicable provisions of Arficle 426.
• Exception No. 2 (to item (3) & (4) above): A sino/e receptacle or duplex receptacle for
BCABrecommendedelecamends.dx 082801
two aapliances located within dedicated space for each appliance that in normal use is
• not easily moved from one place to another. and that is cord-and-p/uv connected in
accordance with Section 400-7(al (61. (al (71, or (al (t31.
Justification: Verbal testimony to the committee reported instances of electrical shock to
restaurant employees involving sinks and adjacent receptacles. The NEC repeatedly
takes steps to protect individuals from the potential shock hazard associated with faulty
electrical equipment plugged into receptacles adjacent to sinks. All sinks present the
same hazard so this change is necessary to protect all individuals similarly exposed to
the same potential hazard.
210-11 Branch Circuits Required.
(c) Dwelling Units.
f4) Kitchen Refrigeration Equipment. The receptacle outlet(s) for refrigeration
equipment serving the kitchen area and in excess of 5 cubic feet shall be installed on a
separate branch circuit rated fifteen 15 or 20 amperes.
Justification: The NEC recognizes that adequate power to refrigerators is needed to
protect the owners from any loss associated with an improperly loaded branch circuit.
This change simply insures that every refrigerator will have a dedicated circuit. The
NEC already recognizes the importance of allowing refrigeration to be placed on a
fifteen ampere branch circuit. Industry typically provides a branch circuit as a matter of
good design and practice. This change also provides for uniform enforcement of
standard installation practice.
210-52 Dwelling Unit Receptacle Outlets
(b) Small Appliances.
(1) In the kitchen, pantry, breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling
unit, the two or more 20 ampere small appliance branch circuits required by Section
210-11 (c) (1) shall serve all receptacle outlets covered by Sections 210-52 (a) and (c)
Exception No. 1: In addition to the required receptacles specified by Section 210-52,
switched receptacles supplied from a general purpose branch circuit as defined in
Section 210-70 (a) (1), Exception No. 1 shall be permitted.
Exception No. 2: The receptacle outlet for refrigeration equipment shall be permitted
• to be supplied from an individual branch circuit rated 15 amperes or greater.
BCABrecommendedelecamends.doc OBR8~01
• Justification: This is a companion change in support of 210- 11(c)(4) deleting the
language which allows refrigeration equipment to be fed from the same circuit which
feeds counter top appliances. Note that exception 2 the NEC currently recognizes the
importance of allowing refrigeration to be placed on a separate fifteen ampere branch
circuit. This change also provides for uniform enforcement of standard installation
practice.
ARTICLE 215 -FEEDERS
Identification of Feeder Conductors. Feeder conductors in NEW BUILDINGS shall
be identified by color or tagging or by such other effective methods as determined by
the Building Official at each point a connection is made if the neutral conductor is
rep sent.
Exception: The existing svstem of coding maybe maintained in new buildings or
additions to existing buildings at industrial and commercial installations.
~ 120/240 volt, single phase, three wire svstem
Phase AA(a~ -Black
Phase AB(a~ -Red
Neutral -White
208Y/120 volt, three phase, four wire svstem
Phase A -Black
Phase B -Red
Phase C -Blue
Neutral -White
Ll 480Y/277 volt, three phase, four wire svstem
Phase A -Brown
Phase B -Purple
Phase C -Yellow
• Neutral -Grev
BCABrecommerMedelecameMS.doc OB/28A1
• u 2~
Phase A
Phase B
Phase C
Neutral
0 delta/120 volt, three phase, four wire system (open delta
-Black
-Orange (higher voltage to Around or high leg)
-Red
-White
Note: A cabinet or enclosure shall be identified by the words "OPEN DELTA"
where Internal Phase "B" and neutral conductors are connected.
Justification: The PBC NEC amendment has provided a color code for new electrical
installations for more that fifteen years. This has provided a superior level of safety
where multiple voltages are present within any electrical system and at minimal cost.
With the number of installations already installed utilizing this standard it is essential the
requirement be maintained.
215-12 Feeder Conductors. All feeder conductors to panel boards with extra circuit
spaces in one and two family dwelling shall include a grounded (neutral) conductor and
it shall be sized not less than the equipment grounding conductor specified in section
250-122.
Justification: The NEC requires a neutral to be provided only when needed. A frequently
reported violation found involves using the ground as a neutral. This is a quick and
inexpensive way to feed 120 volt loads such as site lighting from a 240 volt source. This
practice is a serious violation of the NEC and creates a very unsafe situation for the
owner. The cost to provide a neutral in those few situations this change would be
applicable is less that $50.00.
ARTICLE 230 -SERVICES
D. Service -Entrance Conductors
230-43. Wiring Methods for 600 Volts, Nominal or Less.
Service-entrance conductors shall be installed in accordance with the applicable
requirements of this Code covering the type of wiring method used and shall be limited
to the following methods: ; (1) rigid
metal conduit; (2) intermediate metal conduit; (3) electrical metallic tubing; -~
el (4) wireways; (5)
busways; (6) auxiliary gutters; (7) rigid nonmetallic conduit; (8) cablebus; (~3) Type
• MC~able; (9) mineral-insulated, metal-sheathed cable;
BCABrecommendedelecamends.doc 03288)1
•
t ,
Cable tray systems shall be permitted to support cables for use as service-entrance
conductors in accordance with Article 318.
Justification: Palm Beach County is located in the 140 mph wind borne debris region. Its
of critical importance electrical services are adequately designed and installed using
appropriate materials that are resilient to the damaging effects of severe weather.
F. Service Equipment -Disconnecting Means
230-70 General
(a) Location. The service disconnecting means shall be installed at a readily
accessible location either outside of a building or structure or inside nearest the point
of entrance of the service conductors. If more than eight (8) feet aer set of service
entrance conductors are located inside of the building as determined by Section 230-6,
a disconnect with overcurrent arotection must be installed at the location the
conductors enter the building.
Service disconnecting means shall not be installed in bathrooms.
Justification: The NEC does not provide a uniform guideline on where the first means of
disconnect should be located. This amendment clarifies the intent of the code plus
provides uniformity of enforcement. Also this change represents a potential cost saving
to the customer because often the disconnect may be located within the building
thereby saving the costs associated with using the more expensive exterior rated
enclosures. lath our unique coastal environment its important that such equipment 6e
placed inside and away from the salt air when ever practical.
ARTICLE 250 -GROUNDING
C. Grounding Electrode System and Grounding Electrode Conductor.
250-62. Grounding Electrode Conductor Material. The grounding electrode
conductor shall be of copper. , dalwninum-The material
selected shall be resistant to any corrosive condition existing at the installation or shall
• be suitably protected against corrosion. The conductor shall be solid or stranded,
insulated, covered, or bare.
BCABrecommerxledelewmerWS.doc OB28r01
• F. Equipment Grounding and Equipment Grounding Conductors.
250-118. Types of Equipment Grounding Conductors.
(4) Electrical metallic tubing. When using electrical metallic tubing in an exterior
location for feeders or branch circuits. an insulated eouipment grounding conductor
shall be installed to assure a continuous bond.
Justification: The unique coastal environment and soils of PBC dictate that all metallic
systems with the potential to be exposed to salt air or excessive humidity in an exterior
location include a grounding conductor. This is a safety initiative. The cost is minimal as
most installers are using PVC and a separate copper grounding conductor.
CHAPTER3
ARTICLE 310 -CONDUCTORS FOR GENERAL WIRING
310-2 Conductors.
(b) Conductor Material. Conductors in this article shall be aluminum, copper-clad
aluminum, or copper unless otherwise specified.
(1) Aluminum and copper clad aluminum conductors smaller than No. 2 A.W.G. shall
not be installed.
t2) Aluminum and copper clad aluminum conductors shall not be used for grounding or
bonding.
Justification: The unique coastal environment and soils of PBC dictate that all grounding
conductors with the potential to corrode because of exposure to salt laden air and
excessive humidity be copper. This is a safety initiative. The cost is minimal because all
installers are using copper.
•
BCABrecommendedekcamends.doc OBR8.07
• ARTICLE 333 -ARMORED CABLE
TYPE AC
C. Construction Specifications.
333-21 Grounding. Type AC cable shall include a separate copper groundinq
conductor and shall provide an adequate path for equipment grounding as required by
Section 250-2(d).
(a) Tvpe AC cable with full size Around conductor, sized by 250-122. and an outer
metal armor or sheath that is identified as an acceptable Around return oath may be
used as provided in Article 517-13. Tvpe AC cable shall be terminated with listed
connectors.
Justification: The unique coastal environment and soils of PBC dictate that all grounding
conductors with the potential to corrode because of exposure to salt Laden air and
excessive humidity be copper. This is a safety initiative. The cost is minimal because all
installers have been using a full size copper grounding conductor.
ARTICLE 348 -ELECTRICAL METALLIC TUBING
A. General
348-4 Uses Permitted.
(b) Corrosion Protection. Ferrous or non-ferrous electrical metallic tubing, elbows,
couplings, and fittings shall be permitted to be installed in concrete above grade is
FPN: See Section 300-6 for information on protection against corrosion.
FPN: See Section 250-118 (4) for groundinq requirements.
348-5 Uses Not Permitted. Electrical metallic tubing shall not be used:
(1) Where, during installation or afterward, it will be subject to severe physical damage
(2) Where protected from corrosion solely by enamel
(3) In cinder concrete or cinder fill where subject to permanent moisture unless
protected on all sides by a layer of non-cinder concrete at least 2 inches (50.8mm)
thick or unless the tubing is at least 18 inches (457mm) under the fill
(4) In any hazardous (classified) location except as permitted by Section 502-4, 503-3
• and 504-20
(5) For the support of fixtures or other equipment except conduit bodies no larger than
BCABrecommeMedelecamends.doc OB28A7
• the largest trade size of the tubing. Where practicable, dissimilar metals in contact
anywhere in the system shall be avoided to eliminate the possibility of galvanic
action
t6) Slabs on grade
t71 In direct contact with earth
Exception: Aluminum fittings and enclosures shall be permitted to be used with steel
electrical metallic tubing.
Justification: The unique coastal environment and soils of PBC dictate that all metallic
systems in contact with grade or exposed above grade be corrosive resistant. Electrical
metallic tubing has failed repeatedly when exposed under the conditions mentioned.
This is a safety initiative. The cost is minimal because all installers are typically using
PVC products in this situation.
BCABrecommendedelecamends.doc OB/28g1
ATTACHMENT"B"
• LOCAL CONDRIONS AND FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENTS FOR PALM BEACH COUNTY
AMENDMENTS TO THE 2001 FLORIDA BUILDING CODE
CHAPTER 16. SECTION 1606, SUBSECTION 1606.1.6 -BASIC WIND SPEEd
LOCAL CONDITION: Specific wind details are required by the Code, and are
hereby set.
CHAPTER 18, SECTION 1804. SuesECrloN 1804.1.1
LOCAL CONDITION: Presence of loose, unstable, fine sand occurring
throughout Palm Beach County requires the forming of footer sides to insure
sand erosion into the excavation does not reduce the required bearing width of
designed footings.
FISCAL IMPACT: Enforcement costs will not be increased since and inspector's
glance reveals compliance or not. There is no extra cost to the Contractor or
Owner, since reusable forms are less expensive than lifting steel reinforcing bars
out of the eroded footer trenches to shovel out sand, which has run or washed
into the footing excavation.
CHAPTER 18, SECTION 1804, SUBSECTION 1804.1.7
LOCAL CONDITION: Very flat local terrain and heavy, torrential, short duration
rainfall intensities require raising slabs above yard grade to prevent flooding over
thresholds, and yard grading details are to assure positive drainage, without
adverse impact to adjacent property by direct runoff onto them.
FISCAL IMPACT: Enforcement costs does not increase, since floor height
above grade is easily seen at the door threshold. Raising the floor these few
inches has been a local practice to minimize torrential rain damage to occupied
buildings, and is cheaper than the cost of flooding damage to owners, and the
resulting legal battles involving contractors.
CHAPTER 18, SECTION 1804. SUBSECTION 1804.2.2 -QUESTIONABLE SOIL
LOCAL CONDITION: Extremely erratic localized soil conditions has muck and
peat pockets, and/or shallow layers of compressible organic material at many
places throughout the predominantly fine, loose, sandy soils. Without such soil
explorations, there is no way to verify the assumed unit soil bearing capacities of
designers actually exist under building footings.
FISCAL IMPACT: Enforcement cost is minimal since plans examiner only has to
• compare design pressure onto the bearing soil with the allowable capacity stated
in the soils report. To contractors and building owners, soil exploration to confirm
assumed design bearing loads is cheaper than building repairs required to
• correct differential settlement cracking, and saves legal expenses of resulting
damage reimbursement actions.
CHAPTER 21, SECTION 21111, SUBSECTION 2111.1.9_- WATER STOP
LOCAL CONDITON: Driving, local, torrential rains force water onto interior floor
elevations unless a vertical step up exists from the lowest mortar course up to
the interior slab elevation.
FISCAL IMPACT: Enforcement cost is not increased since an inspector's glance
reveals the depressed perimeter area to receive CMU walls or not. The required
recess requires 2" X 8" board be laid horizontally around the perimeter of the
building. Contractor cost is minimal because of lumber reuse. Cost to owner is
much less than water damage in finished building if omitted, and is already a
standard local practice since forming the depressed area for wall masonry has
proven cheaper than claims resulting from wet floors, since neither owner nor
contractor incurs legal expenses.
CHAPTER 23. REVISED TABLE 2306.1 -FASTENING SCHEDULE
LOCAL CONDITION: Chapter 23 tables published in the code cannot be used
since they are specifically limited by the code text to wind speeds less than those
required in Palm Beach County by Section 1606 of the code. The three tables
inserted here have been in local use for many years, having been already
engineered for the higher wind speeds existing locally.
FISCAL IMPACT: Enforcement incurs no extra cost since plan examiners are
checking span table maximums in any case. Inspectors are atop roofs already to
view nailing patterns, with it taking no longer to see one pattern than another.
Cost savings to the contractor, and therefore the owner, will result from inclusion
of these established local prescriptive Tables since additional, expensive,
separate engineering to design unique nailing pattern for every job will be
eliminated.
CHAPTER 23. REVISED PANEL SPAN TABLE 2307.66
LOCAL CONDITION: Chapter 23 tables published in the code cannot be used
since they are specifically limited by the code text to wind speeds less than those
required in Palm Beach County by Section 1606 of the code. The three tables
inserted here have been in local use for many years, having been already
engineered for the higher wind speeds existing locally.
FISCAL IMPACT: Enforcement incurs no extra cost since plan examiners are
• checking span table maximums in any case. Inspectors are atop roofs already to
view nailing patterns, with it taking no longer to see one pattern than another;
Cost savings to the contractor, and therefore the owner, will result from inclusion
• of these established local prescriptive Tables since additional, expensive,
separate engineering to design unique nailing pattern for every job will be
eliminated.
SPANS AND LONG DIMENSION PARALLEL TO SUPPORTS
LOCAL CONDITION: Chapter 23 tables published in the code cannot be used
since they are specifically limited by the code text to wind speeds less than those
required in Palm Beach County by Section 1606 of the code. The three tables
inserted here have been in local use for many years, having been already
engineered for the higher wind speeds existing locally.
FISCAL IMPACT: Enforcement incurs no extra cost since plan examiners are
checking span table maximums in any case. Inspectors are atop roofs already to
view nailing patterns, with it taking no longer to see one pattern than another.
Cost savings to the contractor, and therefore the owner, will result from inclusion
of these established local prescriptive Tables since additional, expensive,
separate engineering to design unique nailing pattern for every job will be
eliminated.
CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE 210, SECTION 21O-H -GROUND-FAULT CIRCUIT-INTERRUPTER
PROTECTION FOR PERSONNEL
Local Condition and Fiscal Impact: The additional simple receptacle
requirements of Section 210 Amendments above cause no added enforcement
cost, since inspectors may visually determine compliance. Added circuits will
cost contractors $25.00 to $50.00 each, typically, depending upon circuit wiring
length. The cost of such safer installations is already passed along to new
building owners since it has been a longstanding, local practice. Local conditions
necessitate the proposed amendment to prevent the adverse economic impact to
the electrical industry in Palm Beach County, which, on these longstanding
electrical requirements, has investments in training, equipment, and business
practices consistent with these requirements. The electrical industry in Palm
Beach County would suffer financially by having to incur costs to redo their
training processes and other business practices, equipment, and supplies to
lower code requirements if this amendment were not continued.
CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE 210, SECTION 210-11 -BRANCH CIRCUITS REQUIRED
Local Condition and Fiscal Impact: The additional simple receptacle
• requirements of Section 210 Amendments above cause no added enforcement
cost, since inspectors may visually determine compliance. Added circuits will
cost contractors $25.00 to $50.00 each, typically, depending upon circuit wiring
• length. The cost of such safer installations is already passed along to new
building owners since it has been a longstanding, local practice. Local conditions
necessitate the proposed amendment to prevent the adverse economic impact to
the electrical industry in Palm Beach County, which, on these longstanding
electrical requirements, has investments in training, equipment, and business
practices consistent with these requirements. The electrical industry in Palm
Beach County would suffer financially by having to incur costs to redo their
training processes and other business practices, equipment, and supplies to
lower code requirements if this amendment were not continued.
CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE 210. SECTION 210-52 -DWELLING UNIT RECEPTACLE OUTLETS
Local Condition and Fiscal Impact: The additional simple receptacle
requirements of Section 210 Amendments above cause no added enforcement
cost, since inspectors may visually determine compliance. Added circuits will
cost contractors $25.00 to $50.00 each, typically, depending upon circuit wiring
length. The cost of such safer installations is already passed along to new
building owners since it has been a longstanding, local practice. Local conditions
necessitate the proposed amendment to prevent the adverse economic impact to
the electrical industry in Palm Beach County, which, on these longstanding
electrical requirements, has investments in training, equipment, and business
practices consistent with these requirements. The electrical industry in Palm
Beach County would suffer financially by having to incur costs to redo their
training processes and other business practices, equipment, and supplies to
lower code requirements if this amendment were not continued.
Local Condition and Fiscal Impact: A local NEC Amendment on this subject
has provided a color code for new electrical installations for more than fifteen
years, and is gladly utilized by the local electric industry because of added speed
and safety in maintenance and repairs, where multiple voltages are present
within any electrical system. Local conditions therefore necessitate the proposed
amendment, as these details are established and accepted county standards and
deletion of the current color-coding system would create an adverse economic
impact to electricians by requiring retraining to a new, less stringent~code.
Enforcement cost is minimal since a quick inspector's glance reveals color tape
wraps on conductor, or the absence of such. The approximate $10.00 cost for
the contractor is repaid when service electricians later know the identity of
conductors when old systems are opened for maintenance or repairs.
Subsequently, there is no cost impact to the owner.
•
• CHAPTER 2. ARTICLE 215. SECTION 215-12 -FEEDER CONDUCTORS
Local Condition and Fiscal Impact: The NEC does not always require a
neutral. A frequently observed code violation is an installation where a ground
wire has been used as the neutral. This creates a very unsafe situation for the
service electrician and the owner. The cost to provide a neutral in those few
situations where the NEC does not require it is less than $50.00 for the
contractor, which the owners absorb.
For these reasons, this requirement has been established practice via previous
code amendments for many years. Consequently, local conditions justify this
current amendment because a change from the long established practice of
requiring a neutral conductor would have an adverse economic impact on local
electric contractors by requiring retraining of workmen and would create a
potentially unsafe condition due to confusion infield supervision.
ARTICLE 230. SECTION 230-43 -WIRING METHODS FOR 6OO VOLTS. NOMINAL OR
LESS.
LOCAL CONDITION: Palm Beach County has 3 second design wind gusts to
140 mph. It is of critical importance, therefore, that exposed, outside electrical
services are adequately designed and properly installed using proven materials
that are resilient to the damaging effects of severe, local weather.
FISCAL IMPACT: Enforcement cost does not rise since no viewing time
increase is incurred for inspector checking NEC compliance or compliance to this
old local practice. The extra cost will run less than 10% of the service
conductors, at approximately $50.00 on atypical new house, which the
contractor will relay to the owner who will save in the long term by avoiding costs
to rebuild electrical service after severe winds.
ARTICLE 230. SECTION 230-70 -GENERAL
Local Condition and Fiscal Impact: The NEC does not provide a clear, specific
guideline on where the first means of disconnect should be located. This
amendment continues existing County specifics to cover the absence in the
published NEC book. So the local condition justifying this current amendment is
the existence of the detail as awell-established and accepted trade practice. To
stop the practice will adversely affect contractors by required retraining of their
workmen. This amendment brings a potential cost saving to the owner because
the disconnect may often be located within the building, thereby saving the costs
of a more expensive exterior enclosure. With our unique coastal environment it is
' important that such equipment be placed inside and away from the salt air
whenever practical. Inspectors incur no extra time in viewing the disconnect
• location. Contractors will incur no extra cost, since this amendment just provides
location direction, so owners will not pay any more.
• ARTICLE 250. SECTION 250-62 -GROUNDING ELECTRODE CONDUCTOR MATERIAL
LOCAL CONDITION: The salt laden coastal environment and soils of Palm
Beach County dictate that all grounding conductors eliminate the potential to
corrode because of exposure to corrosive elements and excessive air borne
humidity by copper use. Safety is greatly increased by minimizing corrosion from
local conditions.
FISCAL IMPACT: Enforcement cost does not increase since an inspector
verifying a secure grounding connection sees the material type without extra
effort. No increases in cost exists to the contractor or the owner because
electricians are already using copper to minimize the future expense of service
call backs and to minimize conduit size.
ARTICLE 250. SECTION 250-118 -TYPES OF EQUIPMENT GROUNDING CONDUCTORS
LOCAL CONDITION: The salt laden corrosive environment and soils of PBC
dictate that all exterior metallic systems with the potential of being exposed to
salt air or excessive humidity include a grounding conductor. This is a safety
necessity in the severe local conditions.
FISCAL IMPACT: Enforcement cost does not rise since an inspector viewing
the electric assembly can observe the existence of the grounding conductor.
Actual hard cost to the contractor is typically under 10% of the cost of the run,
and no extra compared to present practice, as most electricians are already
using PVC and a separate copper grounding conductor, to reduce service call
expenses. The owner receives longer, safer, service.
CHAPTER 3, ARTICLE 31 O. SECTION 310-2 -CONDUCTORS
LOCAL CONDITION: The corrosive, salt laden coastal environment and soils of
Palm Beach County dictate that all grounding conductors with the potential to
corrode because of exposure to salt laden air and excessive humidity be copper.
This is a safety necessity in severe local conditions.
FISCAL IMPACT: Enforcement cost does not increase since the inspector sees
the material tyke with no extra effort when checking wire size. No extra cost
exists for the contractor or owner because all electricians are already using
copper to minimize service call backs and to minimize conduit size.
CHAPTER 3, ARTICLE 333. SECTION 333-21 -GROUNDING
• LOCAL CONDITION: The corrosive, salt laden local coastal environment and
soils of PBC dictate that all grounding conductors with the potential to corrode
• because of exposure to salt laden air and excessive humidity be copper. This is a
safety initiative in severe local conditions.
FISCAL IMPACT: Enforcement cost does not rise since the presence of the
required, separate copper grounding conductor and connectors used is open for
view and obvious, as wire sizes are closely verified. No overall cost increase
exits for contractors or owners because electricians have been using full size
copper grounding conductors already to minimize their service call back
expenses.
CHAPTER 3, ARTICLE 348, SECTION 348-4 -USES PERMITTED
LOCAL CONDITION: The corrosive, salt laden local coastal environment and
soils of PBC dictate that all metallic systems in contact with earth or exposed to
salt bearing air above grade be corrosive resistant. Common electric, metallic
tubing has failed repeatedly when exposed under the severe Palm Beach County
local conditions. This is a safety necessity.
FISCAL IMPACT: Enforcement cost does not increase since the type materials
being used are open for view and obvious as the inspector takes a close look to
verify required wire sizes. No extra cost to the contractor or owner is involved,
because electricians are typically using PVC products in this situation already.
CHAPTER 3, ARTICLE 348, SECTION 348-5 -USES NOT PERMITTED.
LOCAL CONDITION: The corrosive, salt laden local coastal environment and
soils of PBC dictate that all metallic systems in contact with earth or exposed to
salt bearing air above grade be corrosive resistant. Common electric, metallic
tubing has failed repeatedly when exposed under the severe Palm Beach County
local conditions. This is a safety necessity.
FISCAL IMPACT: Enforcement cost does not increase since the type materials
being used are open for view and obvious as the inspector takes a close look to
verify required wire sizes. No extra cost to the contractor or owner is involved,
because electricians are typically using PVC products in this situation already.
CHAPTER 31, SECTION 3109, SUBSECTION 3109.1 -CONSTRUCTION IN FLOOD PLAIN
LOCAL CONDITION: Our FEMA Community Rating System participation, which
lowers flood insurance rates, requires retention of such local regulations.
FISCAL IMPACT: Enforcement cost does not increase since plan review and
• inspections verify minimum elevations by simply observing spot elevations on
surveys that have been prepared by surveyors, perhaps adding 30 seconds to a
45 minute inspection time. There are no cheaper options to the contractor. Cost
• to the owner is less than loss of flood insurance discounts and damages from
building flooding if such floor elevation minimums do not exist.
CHAPTER 31. SECTION 3109. SUBSECTION 3109.2 - MINIMUM FLOOR ELEVATION
LOCAL CONDITION: Our FEMA Community Rating System participation, which
lowers flood insurance rates, requires retention of such local regulations.
FISCAL IMPACT: Enforcement cost does not increase since plan review and
inspections verify minimum elevations by simply observing spot elevations on
surveys that have been prepared by surveyors, perhaps adding 30 seconds to a
45 minute inspection time. There are no cheaper options to the contractor. Cost
to the owner is less than loss of flood insurance discounts and damages from
building flooding if such floor elevation minimums do not exist.
LOCAL CONDITION: Our FEMA Community Rating System participation, which
lowers flood insurance rates, requires retention of such local regulations.
FISCAL IMPACT: Enforcement cost does not increase since plan review and
inspections verify minimum elevations by simply observing spot elevations on
surveys that have been prepared by surveyors, perhaps adding 30 seconds to a
45 minute inspection time. There are no cheaper options to the contractor. Cost
to the owner is less than loss of flood insurance discounts and damages from
building flooding if such floor elevation minimums do not exist.
•