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HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance - 2024-O0028 - 2020 National Electrical Code, Amending Article 28.12 - 03/26/2024First Reading March 5, 2024 Item No. 6.4 ORDINANCE NO. 2024 000 28 Second Reading March 26, 2024 Item No. 5.35 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ARTICLE 28.12 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF LUBBOCK, TEXAS WITH REGARD TO ADOPTION OF THE 2020 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE (NFPA 70) AND PROVIDING FOR CERTAIN TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS THERETO TO MEET LOCAL CONDITIONS; ADJUSTING PERMIT AND LICENSE FEES; PROVIDING A PENALTY; PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. WHEREAS, it is the opinion of the City Council that the best interests of the citizens of the City of Lubbock would be served by adopting the 2020 National Electrical Code (NFPA 70), including certain amendments to meet local conditions; and WHEREAS, it is reasonable and proper to adjust permit fees for electrical work to reflect that which has been adopted in the annual operating budget; NOW THEREFORE: BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LUBBOCK: SECTION 1. THAT Article 28.12 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Lubbock is hereby amended to read as follows: ARTICLE 28.12 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE Division 1 Generally § 28.12.001 Adopted. The publication entitled "National Electrical Code", 2020 edition (NFPA 70), published by the National Fire Protection Association, a copy of which, authenticated by the signature of the building official, shall be filed with the city secretary as a public record, is hereby adopted as a part of this code as if fully copied herein in detail, except as modified by the provisions of section 28.12.007 of this article. In the event of a conflict with any provision of the "National Electrical Code" and the Code of Ordinances, the Code of Ordinances shall govern. References in this code to the "National Electrical Code" or the "N.E.C." shall mean and refer to the 2020 edition. § 28.12.002 Definitions. As used in this article and in article 28.13, the following terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as hereinafter set forth: Board. Any reference to the "board" shall mean and refer to the City of Lubbock Building Board of Appeals as established in article 2.03, division 14 of this code. Building O„ fficial. The duly appointed person who holds the position of building official of the City of Lubbock. Inspector. The building official or his designated representative, qualified in electrical code inspections who shall have the duty of inspecting any and all electrical work for code compliance. Job Site. The specific premises or installation described in the electrical permit under which electrical work is being performed. N. E. C. The National Electrical Code as adopted by the City of Lubbock, compiled by the National Fire Protection Association. N. F'. P.A. The National Fire Protection Association. S� Any physical device, panel or installation attached to or located on a building, premises or structure, used to display any message or communicate any thought or idea and which uses electrical current for its intended operation. Window Sign. Any tubing containing neon gas located or installed on the inside of any window used to display any message or communicate any thought or idea and which uses electrical current for its intended operation. § 28.12.003 Construction against implicit repeal. This article being a general ordinance intended as a unified coverage of its subject matter, no part of it shall be deemed to be impliedly repealed by subsequent ordinances if such construction can reasonably be avoided. § 28.12.004 Identification cards. The building official or his designated representative shall have identification cards in their possession at all times when engaged in the enforcement of this code. Identification cards shall be shown upon the request of any person at the job site to be inspected. § 28.12.005 Conflict of interest. No person discharging the duties of inspector under this code shall be an employer or employee of or have any pecuniary interest, direct or indirect, in any business, firm, company or association engaged in any phase of electrical work within the City of Lubbock. § 28.12.006 Sco�e. All electrical work installed within the city shall be installed in conformity with the provisions of this code and it is hereby declared to be unlawful for any person, frm or corporation to install any electrical work in violation of the provisions of this code and the National Electrical Code as adopted. § 28.12. 007 Amendments. (a) Branch Circuits Required - Dwellin Units. Article 210.11(C)(1) is hereby amended to read as follows: (C) Dwellin� (1) Small-Appliance Branch Circuits. In addition to the number of branch circuits required by other parts of this section, three or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch circuits shall be provided for all receptacle outlets specified by 210.52(B). (b) Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection — Dwelling Units. Article 210.12(A) is hereby amended by adding an exception as follows: Exception: A 20-amp circuit supplying a single (simplex) receptacle outlet for a refrigerator in a kitchen shall not require AFCI protection. (c) Commercial Office S ace Rece tacle Outlets. Article 210 Part III is hereby amended by adding Article 210.51 to read as follows: 210.51 Commercial Office Space Receptacle_Outlets. Office spaces classiiied as Group "B"-Business by the Building Code shall be provided with a minimum of four (4) duplex convenience receptacle outlets per office, and/or shall be provided with a duplex convenience outlet for each twelve linear feet of usable wall space, with no point along such wall further than 6 feet from an outlet. Floor outlets further than two feet from a wall shall not be counted towards meeting this requirement. In no case shall more than seven (7) duplex convenience outlets be installed on one 20 amp circuit. (d) Dwellin Unit Rece tacle Outlets - Small A liances. Article 210.52 (B)(1)- (3) is hereby amended to read as follows: (B) Small Appliances. (1) Receptacle Outlets Served. In the kitchen, pantry, breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling unit, the three or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch circuits required by 210.11(C)(1) shall serve all countertop outlets covered by 210.52(C) only and shall exclude outlet for refrigeration equipment. Exception No. 1: In addition to the required receptacles specified by 210.52, switched receptacles supplied from a general-purpose 20-ampere branch circuit as required in 210.70(A)(1), Exception No. 1, shall be permitted. Exception No. 2: In addition to the required receptacles specified by 210.52, a receptacle outlet to serve a specific appliance shall be permitted to be supplied from an individual branch circuit rated 20 amperes or greater. (2) No Other Outlets. The three or more small-appliance branch circuits specified in 210.52(B)(1) shall have no other outlets. Exception No. 1: A receptacle installed solely for the electrical supply to and support of an electric clock in any of the rooms specified in 210.52(B)(1). Exception No. 2: Receptacles installed to provide power for supplemental equipment and lighting on gas-fired ranges, ovens, or counter-mounted cooking units. (3) Kitchen Rece�tacle Requirements. Receptacles installed in a kitchen to serve countertop surfaces shall be supplied by not fewer than three small-appliance branch circuits, either or both of which shall also be permitted to supply receptacle outlets in the same kitchen and in other rooms specified in 210.52(B)(1). Additional small-appliance branch circuits shall be permitted to supply receptacle outlets in the kitchen and other rooms specified in 210.52(B)(1). No small-appliance branch circuit shall serve more than one kitchen. (e) Island and Peninsular Countertops and Work Surfaces. Article 210.52 (C)(2)(a) is hereby amended to read as follows: 210.52{C}{2}{a3 Island and Peninsular Countertops and Work Surfaces. At least one receptacle outlet shall be provided for the first 0.84 mZ (9 ftZ) of the countertop of work surface. A receptacle outlet shall be provided for every additional 1.7mz (18 ft2) of the countertop or work surface. (� Branch Circuit Load Calculations. Article 220.10 is hereby amended to read as follows: 220.10 General. Branch-circuit loads shall be calculated as shown in 220.12, 220.14, and 220.16. Additionally, in dwelling units, 20-amp lighting and receptacle loads, other than the three required small appliance circuits 4 specified in 210.11 (C)(1), shall be equally divided on twenty (20)-amp branch circuits. (g) Receptacle Outlets. Article 220.14(I) is hereby amended to read as follows: (I) Receptacle Outlets. Except as covered in 220.14(J) and (K), receptacle outlets shall be calculated at not less than 180 volt-amperes for each single or for each multiple receptacle on one yoke. A single piece of equipment consisting of a multiple receptacle comprised of four or more receptacles shall be calculated at not less than 90 volt- amperes per receptacle. This provision shall not be applicable to the receptacle outlets specified in 210.11(C)(1) and (C)(2). In no case shall more than seven (7) duplex receptacles be installed on a single 20-amp circuit in commercial occupancies. (h) Non-Residential Buildin�s with multiple services served by under r� ound service laterals. Article 230.2 is hereby amended by adding a new subsection (F), as follows: (F) Non-Residential Buildin�s with multiple services served by under�;round service_laterals. For every non-residential building where multiple services are authorized and are supplied by underground service laterals, there shall be a designated metering/service location at the rear of such building on the exterior wall. There shall be no point along this wall more than seventy-five (75) linear feet from a metering/service location. No utility service point shall be closer than one hundred fifty (150) feet from another utility service point unless otherwise approved. The arrangement and installation of the conductors and equipment shall be as provided for in Article 230.69. (i) Point of Attachment. Article 230.26 is hereby amended to read as follows: 230.26 Point of Attachment. (A) The point of attachment of the service-drop conductors to a building or other structure shall provide the minimum clearances as specified in 230.9 and 230.24. In no case shall this point of attachment be less than 3.0 m(10 ft.) above finished grade. (B) The point of attachment of overhead service drops on a residence or building shall be on the rear of the building (alley side), or at a point agreed upon by the authority having jurisdiction and the serving utility. (j) Service Masts as Su�ports. Article 230.28 is hereby amended to read as follows: 230.28 Service Masts as Supports. Only power service-drop or overhead service conductors shall be permitted to be attached to a service mast. Service masts used for the support of service drop or overhead service conductors shall be installed in accordance with the 230.28(A) and (B) (A) Stren� The Service mast shall be adequate strength or be supported by braces or guys to withstand safely the strain imposed by the service-drop or overhead service conductors. Hubs intended for use with conduit that serves as a service mast shall be identified for use with service-entrance equipment. Where raceway-type service masts are utilized, masts shall consist of rigid metallic conduit (RMC) or intermediate metallic conduit (IMC) not less than 2-inch trade size. (B) Attachment. Service-drop or overhead service conductors shall not be attached to a service mast between a weatherhead or the end of the conduit and a coupling, where the coupling is located above the last point of securement to the building or other structure or is located above the building or other structure. The point of attachment of the service cable shall be no less than twenty-four (24) inches above the roof. (k) Number of Service-Entrance Conductor Sets. Article 230.40, Exception No. 1, is hereby amended to read as follows: Exception No. 1: A building with more than one occupancy shall be permitted to have one set of service-entrance conductors for each service, as defined in 230.2, run to each occupancy or group of occupancies. If the number of service disconnect locations for any given classification of service does not exceed six, the requirements of 230.2 (E) and Article 230.69 shall apply at each location. If the number of service disconnect locations exceeds six for any given supply classification, all service disconnect locations for all supply characteristics, together with any branch circuit or feeder supply sources, if applicable, shall be clearly described using suitable graphics or text, or both, on one or more plagues located in an approved, readily accessible location(s) on the building or structure served as near as practicable to the point(s) of attachment or entry(ies) for each service drop or service lateral and for each set of overhead or underground service conductors. (1) Service Equipment - General. Article 230 Part V is hereby amended by adding Article 230.68 to read as follows: 230.68 Meter Installation. (A) Each meter socket installation shall be on the outside of the building, residence or other structure and shall be mounted not more than six (6) feet nor less than five (5) feet above the level of the standing space 6 measured to the center of the meter face, except when the device or area for mounting the meter base is provided by the serving utility or otherwise approved by the authority having jurisdiction andlor servicing utility. (B) Multi-meter bases of two (2) or more meters at any one location shall have a marking of a permanent type to identify the unit and lor space served. Lettering shall no less than one-eight of an inch, clearly visible while facing meterbase. Marking shall be done in a manner that does not allow for weather fading and/or accidental damage or removal without extensive work. Stamping is permitted. (m) Non-Residential Buildin�s with multiple services served by under r� ound service laterals. Article 230 Part V is hereby amended by adding a new Article 230.69 to read as follows: Article 230.69. Non-Residential Buildin�s with multiple services served bv under�round service laterals. Non-Residential Buildings with multiple services served by underground service laterals shall have all services configured in accordance with 230.69 (1) through (6). (1) Taps and service connections, less than 600 amperes. Services rated less than 600A can consist of gutters, wire-way, or wire-trough with a minimum size of ten (10) inch x ten (10) inch x seventy-two (72) inch or as determined by NFPA 70, whichever is greater to contain the service conductors to supply the meter bases and service disconnects at each metering location. Conductors shall be required to traverse the entire length of the wire-way and shall be terminated on an approved termination lug or block. Termination point shall be service rated. (2) Ta�rs and service connections, 600 amperes or greater. Services rated 600 amperes or greater shall have a tap box specifically manufactured with UL listing for the purpose of tapping service conductors at each meter location. It shall possess the full current rating of service and be sized to accommodate bending radius of conductors. Tap box shall be manufactured with correct lug configuration to accommodate the appropriate phases, voltage, conductor size, conductor material, and number of service conductors possible or designed. Enclosure shall be manufactured as suitable for wet location, shall be lockable, and corrosion resistant. In addition to tap box requirements, services rated 600 amperes or greater may consist of gutters, wire-ways, or wire trough with a minimum size of ten (10) inch x ten (10) inch x seventy-two (72) inch or as determined by NFPA70, whichever is greater to contain service conductors to supply the meter bases and service disconnects at each meter location. (3) Conductors and raceways. The contractor shall provide service conductors and raceways from the tap-box, wire-way or wire-trough to the point of connection of the serving utility. There shall be one additional four-inch conduit provided from each point of connection of the serving utility or a terminal junction box adjacent to the metering location. The contractor shall provide an acceptable means for at least six (6) meter taps from the service feed brought to each point of service connection. (4) Sizing of service entrance conductors and equipment. If the actual load of the building is not known, an assumed load of twenty (20) volt-amperes per square foot shall be used to size the service conductors. (5) Phase-matching and balancing of load. All service taps which connect to the building service shall match the phasing of the building service. Service taps connecting to a 3-phase 4-wire building service shall be 3-phase and 4-wire taps. Service taps shall be load balanced before a final inspection is granted and the system shall be balanced back to the building service. (6) Method of grounding services. Multi-meter services shall be grounded at the service connection point in the wire way and all service taps shall be grounded to that point. The grounding conductor shall be sized according to the requirements of Article 250 for the service size. (n) Grounding Electrode System. Article 250.50 is hereby amended to read as follows: 250.50 Groundin�; Electrode System. All grounding electrodes as described in 250.52(A)(1) through (A)(7) that are present at each building or structure served shall be bonded together to form the grounding electrode system. Where none of these grounding electrodes exist, one or more of the grounding electrodes specified in 250.52 (A)(4) through (A)(8) shall be installed and used. In new construction, or in any building reconstruction or addition involving the new construction of a concrete foundation containing reinforcing steel that complies with the requirements of Article 250.52(A)(3), a concrete encased electrode shall be provided as part of the grounding electrode system. Where a concrete encased electrode or metallic water piping is used, a supplemental electrode complying with 250.52 (A)(5) shall be provided. Exception: Concrete-encased electrodes of existing buildings or structures shall not be required to be part of the grounding electrode system where thc steel reinforcing bars or rods are not accessible for use without disturbing the concrete. (o) Minimum Size of Conductors. Article 310.3(A) is hereby amended to read as follows: 310.3 A Minimum Size of Conductors. The minimum size of conductors for voltage rating up to and including 2000 volts shall be 12 AWG copper or 10 AWG copper-clad aluminum except as permitted elsewhere in NFPA 70 as adopted. Exceptions: (1) Pendant and portable cords. (2) Fixture wire. (3) No. 14 AWG copper or 12 AWG copper-clad aluminum may be used for individual fixture leads at an outlet box. (4) No. 14 AWG copper or 12 AWG copper-clad aluminum may be used for control circuits operating contactors or relays of a size that cannot exceed the load requirements of the control circuit. (5) Wiring for systems covered under Article 700 (Emergency Systems). (6) Wiring for systems covered under Article 600 (Electrical Signs). (7) No. 14 AWG copper or 12 AWG copper-clad aluminum may be used for the wiring of switch legs in residential occupancics where provided with appropriate over current device and calculated switch leg load does not exceed 15 amperes. (8) Notwithstanding exceptions (1)-(7) above, where permitted elsewhere in NFPA 70 as adopted. (p) Conductor Material. Article 310.3(B) is hereby amended to read as follows: (B) Conductor Material. Conductors in this article shall be of aluminum, copper-clad aluminum, or copper unless otherwise specified. Solid aluminum conductors 8, 10, and 12 AWG shall be made of an AA- 8000 series electrical grade aluminum alloy conductor material. Stranded Aluminum conductors 8 AWG through 1000 kcmil marked as Type RFF, RHW, XHHW, THW, THHW, THWN, THHM, THHN, service-entrance Type SE Style U, and SE Style R shall be made of an AA-8000 series electrical grade aluminum alloy conductor material. Aluminum conductors shall be terminated properly with lugs or termination rated for use with conductor material and installed in accordance with NFPA 70B with proper tools for torque. Such conductors may also be used as branch circuit wiring in commercial and industrial applications in No. 4 AWG or larger wire sizes, subject to further conditions outlined herein. Exceptions: (1) No aluminum conductors shall be installed on any branch circuits. (2) No aluminum conductors shall be installed on any grounding systems. (q) Source of Supplv. Article 408.4(B) is hereby amended to read as follows: 408.4(B) Source of S�nlv. All switchboards, switchgear and panelboards supplied by a feeder(s) in other than one- or two-family dwellings shall be permanently marked to indicate each device or equipment where the power originates unless located (same room) and arranged so that source is evident. The label shall be permanently affixed, of sufficient durability to withstand the environment involved, and not handwritten. (r) Panelboard Overcurrent Device Capacity. Article 408 Part III is hereby amended by adding article 408.35 to read as follows: 408.35. Panelboard Spare Circuit Capacitv. Panelboards serving dwelling units shall be provided with capacity for two additional 120-volt branch circuits and shall be provided with a spare raceway of not less than 3/4" trade size installed from the panel to an accessible crawl space in the attic, under the floor, or to the outside of the house where there is no accessible attic or crawl space. § 28.12.008 Interpretations; appeals. (a) It shall be the duty of the building official to interpret the provisions of this code as may be necessary to adininister and enforce the provisions hereof. (b) Any person or persons, jointly or severally, who may be aggrieved by the interpretation of the code rendered by the building official may appeal the decision of the building official to the board. (c) Any person or persons seeking to appeal the decision of the building official rendered in accordance with this section shall comply with the following requirements: (1) Written notice of the appeal must be made to the board within five (5) 10 days of the date on which the building official rendered his decision. (2) The appeal must clearly set forth the decision of the building offcial, together with the position of the person taking the appeal to the board. (3) The person seeking the appeal must set forth his reasons in support of his position, together with any evidence he may have in support of his position. (4) The written appeal shall be filed with the secretary of the board and a copy delivered to the building official. (5) The building official shall have a period of five (5) days from receipt of the appeal to file a response thereto with the board. (6) In cases of emergency to life or property, which emergency shall be specifically set forth in the written appeal filed with the board, the board shall render a decision on such appeal within twenty-four (24) hours from the time said appeal is filed with the board. The board shall determine in any such case whether or not a true emergency exists and its decision in this regard shall be final. (7) In every case to be heard by the board on an emergency basis the building official shall be present and be allowed to present his position to the board. (8) The decision of the board on any appeal taken under this section shall be final and binding. § 28.12.009 Interference with entry of inspector; concealment of wiring, etc. (a) Right of entry. Whenever necessary to make an inspection to enforce any of the provisions of this code, or whenever the building official or inspector has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in any building or upon any premises any condition or code violation which makes such building or premises unsafe, dangerous or hazardous, the building official or inspector may enter such building or premises at all reasonable times to inspect the same or to perform any duty imposed upon the building official or inspector by this code, provided that if such building or premises be occupied, he shall first present proper credentials and request entry; and if such building or premises be unoccupied, he shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or other persons having charge or control of the building or premises and request entry. If such entry is refused, the building official or inspector shall have recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry. (b) Compliance. When the building official or inspector shall have first obtained a proper inspection warrant or other remedy provided by law to secure entry, 11 no owner or occupant or any other persons having charge, care or control of any building or premises shall fail or neglect, after proper request is made as herein provided, to promptly permit entry therein by the building official or inspector for the purpose of inspection and examination pursuant to this code. § 28.12.010 Violation; notification. When the building official or inspector observes or if it comes to his attention that any electrical work is installed contrary to or in violation of the provisions of this code, it shall be his duty to immediately notify the licensed electrical contractor, or the owner or occupant of the premises to immediately correct such installation or cease work on the entire installation until the violation is corrected. § 28.12.011 Premises involved in firc; reinstatement of service. (a) In every case where the chief of the fire department of the City of Lubbock or its fire marshal determines that a fire originated due to any of the following causes: (1) Faulty electrical wiring; (2) Overloading of electrical equipment; (3) Unauthorized electrical installation; or (4) If a fire originating from any cause results in damage to an electrical system it shall be the duty of the fire chief or fire marshal to have the premises involved fully inspected by the building official. (b) In every case where the building official finds that a fire has caused damage to an electrical system or finds that a fire has originated for any of the reasons set forth in this section, no electrical service shall be reinstalled or reconnected to the property by any licensed electrical contractor or by the owner of such property or any other person until such time as such system has been repaired in compliance with this code. All inadequate, substandard or hazardous electrical conditions shall be repaired to meet present code requirements and be approved by the building official. (c) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (a) and (b) of this section, the building official may approve temporary electrical service necessary to complete repairs or reconstruction of the property in question. § 28.12.012 Improperly installed or defective equipment. (a) In the event any part of any electrical equipment or wiring in or about any building, facility, installation, premises or lot within the City of Lubbock is found to have been installed or connected in violation of the provisions of 12 this code, it shall be the duty of the building official or inspector to notify in writing the owner of the premises, or the tenant of the premises, or the person in possession of the premises to immediately cease using electrical current in any such violation identified by the building official or inspector. (b) In the event any part of any electrical equipment or wiring in or about any building, facility, installation, premises or lot within the city is found to have fallen into a state of disrepair which would render the use of such electrical equipment dangerous to life or property, it shall be the duty of the building official or inspector to notify in writing the owner of the premises, or the tenant of the premises, or the person in possession of the premises to immediately cease using electrical current in any such violation or condition identified by the building official or inspector. (c) The written notice required in this section shall state the following: (1) The date that the inspection was made by the building official or inspector where violations of this code or conditions dangerous to life or property were found. (2) The section or sections of the code which the inspection reveals have been violated. (3) In the case of conditions dangerous to life or property, a brief description of said conditions. (4) A specifed time, not to exceed ten (10) days from the date of the written notice, to correct all code violations identified or to correct all conditions identified as dangerous to life or property. (5) A statement advising the owner, tenant or person in control and possession of the building, facility, installation, premises or lot that, if there are any persons using the area in question who require electrical service for life support, that it is the duty of the person receiving this notice to immediately and without failure notify the building official of such fact. (d) In the event that the owner, tenant or person in possession of the premises identified in the above written notice fails to take action necessary to correct any and all code violations or conditions dangerous to life or property within the time specified in the written notice, the building official or inspector shall take the following action: (1) The building official or inspector shall serve upon the owner, tenant or person in possession of the property an order to cease use of the property, facility, installation, premises or lot until such time as proof is presented to the building official that all defects have been 13 corrected and such work is verified by inspection; or (2) In every case where the violation of this code found to exist is of such a nature as to cause immediate danger to life or property, the building official shall issue an order to the public utility supplying such power to immediately terminate such electrical service until such time as all code violations are corrected. (3) In the event that the owner, tenant or person in possession of the building, facility, installation, premises or lot fails to comply with an order of the building official issued under subsection (1) above set forth within three (3) days of receipt of said order, then in such event the building official shall issue his order as provided in subsection (2) above set forth to the public utility providing the electrical services. (4) Notwithstanding any provision set forth in subsections (1) through (3) above, when the building official has been notified by the owner, tenant or person in possession of the building, facility, installation, premises or lot that there is a person residing within any of the foregoing structures or areas who requires electrical service for life support, the building offcial is authorized to take one or all of the following courses of action: (A) Notify the owner, tenant or person in possession of the structure or area described above to immediately make arrangement to provide an alternative location for the person involved. (B) Withhold taking action to terminate electrical service for a reasonable period of time not to exceed ten (10) days. (C) To terminate all electrical service not necessary for the life support of the person or persons involved. (D) To request the city attorney to seek a proper court order requiring the relocation of the person or persons involved. § 28.12.013 Liability for defective work. This code shall not be construed to relieve from or lessen the responsibility of any person owning, operating, controlling or installing any electrical wiring connections, fixtures, appliances, apparatus, machinery, equipment or work, inside or outside, overhead or underground in the city, for damages to any person injured by defects therein, nor shall the city be held as assuming any liability by reason of the inspection authorized by this code or certificate or permit issued as provided for and regulated. 14 § 2$.12.014 through § 28.12.140. (Rescrved) Division 2 Permit § 28.12.141 Required. (a) It shall be unlawful for any person to undertake any electrical work within the city without having obtained a permit authorizing the person to undertake said work. (b) There shall only be one electrical permit issued or outstanding at the same time for any electrical work undertaken at any job site within the City of Lubbock, except the building official shall be authorized to issue two (2) or more permits for a job site in cases where the electrical work to be undertaken at a job site is to be done in separate phases and the licensed electrical contractor applying for the permit is to be responsible for one or more phases of the electrical work, but not the total work required for completion of the job. (c) In all cases where a licensed electrical contractor has obtained a permit to undertake electrical work and the contractor is seeking to undertake less than the total electrical work at a job site, the following requirements apply: (1) The licensed electrical contractor shall, prior to the issuance of such permit, supply to the building official drawings, diagrams or plans which show the exact scope of the work to be undertaken. (2) The licensed electrical contractor shall be solely responsible for all electrical work to be undertaken by said contractor at the job site. (3) The licensed electrical contractor who has obtained a permit to do electrical work at a job site when such work is a phase or part of the total work but less than the total work required at the job site shall do only such work at the job site authorized by his permit. (4) In every case where there is more than one electrical permit issued for a job site within the city, where two (2) or more licensed electrical contractors are working on different parts or phases of the electrical work at such site, it shall be the joint responsibility of all such contractors so permitted to see that the individual work undertaken is compatible with all other electrical work undertaken at the job site and in conformity with the approved plans for the job and this code. (5) In every case where two (2) or more licensed electrical contractors have performed phases of work at a job site the building official shall make one final electrical inspection at the job site which shall cover 15 all electrical work undertaken or done at the job site and shall not pass the work unless all electrical work undertaken at the job site is found to comply with the provisions of this code. (d) The building official shall issue only one electrical permit per job site for the same or identical work with the following exceptions: (1) Where the licensed electrical contractor has failed to complete the work and such fact is communicated by the general contractor; or (2) Where the building official is notified in writing by the licensed electrical contractor that his contract for the electrical work is no longer in effect; or (3) Where the building official has been notified in writing by the general contractor permitted at the job site that the licensed electrical contractor originally permitted to do the work at the job site has been replaccd with a new contractor. (e) In every case where the building official determines that a new permit will be issued the person requiring such permit shall pay the full fee therefor and no refund shall ever be made on the original permit issued. ( fl The building official is authorized to require any other type of evidence from the general contractor or the licensed electrical contractor which he deems necessary prior to the issuance of a new electrical permit. (g) The issuance of a new permit under this section shall release the first permitted licensed electrical contractor of any responsibility for compliance with this code for work completed by said contractor and the new permitted licensed electrical contractor shall assume and become responsible for compliance with this code for the entire job site. (h) The building official shall require the owner, general contractor or subcontractor or other interested person to execute an indemnity agreement agreeing to save harmless and defend the city and building official from any and all liability which may be alleged as a result of the issuance of a new electrical permit under this section and to require said agreement to be secured by bonds and insurance deemed appropriate unless a release is signed by all parties. (i) The following types of permits for electrical work may be issued by the building official: (1) General electrical permit. A general electrical permit shall only be issued to a licensed electrical contractor and shall authorize said contractor to perform any type of electrical work at a specific job site 16 for which his license qualifies. (2) General electrical sign permit. A general electrical sign permit shall only be issued to a licensed electrical contractor to perform any type of electrical work at a specific job site for which his license qualifies. (3) Homeowner's permit. A homeowner's electrical permit shall only be issued to a person who owns and resides in a single-family home and may be used by said homeowner to do electrical work on the premises used by the homeowner as his homestead residence. § 28.12.142 When permit not required. (a) No permit shall be required for a licensed electrician or homeowner to undertake minor electrical work, which, by way of illustration and not limitation, is as follows: (1) Repair flush and snap switches. (2) Replacing fuses. (3) Changing lamp sockets and receptacles. (4) Replacing neon tubing in or on an existing sign erected in compliance with this code. (5) Changing lamp or ballast. (b) No permit or license shall be required to attach or repair electrical wiring or install service to electrical apparatus or equipment which is a part of a refrigeration, heating or air conditioning system or unit or any motor unit driving other equipment. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed as allowing any person to install new electrical wiring to or in a building or premises in order to install any of the equipment listed herein and this section shall be construed to allow a person to connect to existing wiring only. (c) No permit shall be required, after original installation and inspection, to change an electrical fixture, repair or replace same unless the work will require a change in the size of the wiring supplying current to such fixture. § 28.12.143 Application. Application forms for any type of electrical permit authorized by section 28.12.141(i) shall be obtained from the building official and shall be fully completed by the individual seeking the permit and returned to the building official. The building official shall not issue the permit request if he finds any of the following: 17 (1) That the proposed electrical work does not comply with the provisions of this code. (2) Plans and specifications for the work to be done under the requested permit are insufficient to allow the building official to determine if the work proposed to be done under the requested permit complies with this code. (3) The individual is seeking a permit to perform electrical work which he is not qualified to perform under the license issued to such person. (4) In the case of a homeowner's permit, the individual applying therefor is not the owner and resident of the premises for which the permit is sought. (5) In the case of a homeowner's permit, the individual seeking the permit has failed to demonstrate a working knowledge of this code. (6) The individual seeking the permit has failed to furnish the certificate of insurance required by section 28.12.077(b) of this code, or if such insurance has been cancelled or reduced in coverage. This defect may be cured by compliance with the terms of section 28.12.077 of this code. § 28.12.144 Plans and specifications required. (a) Two (2) sets of electrical plans and specifications shall be submitted to the building official prior to the issuance of a permit for electrical work in the following cases: (1) All new construction for which a building permit is required in accordance with section 28.05.001 of this chapter. (2) All alterations to existing buildings or structures for which a building permit is required in accordance with section 28.05.001 of this chapter. (b) In addition to the foregoing the building official may require two (2) sets of electrical plans and specifications in all cases where, in the opinion of the building official, such plans and specifications are necessary for the building official to determine if the proposed electrical work to be undertaken, if a permit is issued, will comply with the provisions of this code. (c) In every case where plans and specifications are required by this section, they shall contain the following information: (1) The size of the feeders and subfeeders and their length when there are 18 more than four (4) branch circuits. (2) All current connected device locations. (3) All circuitry to panels. (4) All panels and the service entrance must be sized on the plans. (d) In addition to the requirements set forth in subsection (c) of this section, the building official may require the calculations for the plans prior to the issuance of a permit. § 28.12.145 Ready-built homes. Where buildings are constructed in lumberyards or on premises other than where the building is on a permanent foundation, and where such building is to be moved into and located within the city limits, wiring installation shall be made by a licensed electrical contractor, in conformity with this code, and permits shall be applied for. § 28.12.146 Issuance. (a) When the permit fee, as hereinafter established in this code, is paid and all other applicable provisions of this code are complied with, the building official shall issue the permit requested. (b) The permit shall specify the following: (1) The type of permit issued; (2) The proposed work to be done; (3) The location of the job site; (4) The name and address of the licensed electrical contractor receiving the permit or, in the case of a homeowner, his name and address; (5) The name and address of any company, firm, business, partnership or corporation with whom the licensed electrical contractor is an officer, employee or partner; (6) The date of issuance and the signature of the building official; (7) The signature of the licensed electrical contractor or homeowner receiving the permit and responsible for code compliance. § 28.12.147 Emergency work necessitating new wiring. In case of an emergency necessitating immediate new wiring or repairs to electrical 19 wiring, at a time when the office of the building inspection department is closed, the work may be carried out without first obtaining a permit. Thereafter, a written application shall be submitted to the building inspection department for a permit during the next day that such office is open. Before the permit shall be issued, all requirements for its issuance must be complied with. § 28.12.148 through § 28.12.200. (Reserved) Division 3 Inspections § 28.12.201 Required. All electrical work for which a permit has been issued in accordance with the terms of this code shall be inspected by the building official for compliance with this code. The building official in discharging this duty shall make the following inspections: (1) Rough-in inspection. The licensed electrical contractor or homeowner who has secured the permit for electrical work shall be responsible for notification to the building official that the electrical work is ready for a rough-in inspection at such time that all raceways, panelboard cabinets, service equipment, outlet boxes, junction boxes, conduit, conductors and conductor splices are installed and ready for visible inspection. The building official shall refuse to make any rough-in inspections in every case where the electrical work has been covered from view. (2) Final inspection. The licensed electrical contractor or homeowner who has secured the permit for electrical work shall be responsible for notification to the building official that the electrical work is ready for a final inspection. Electrical work shall be considered ready for final inspection when such work has passed all prior inspections made by the building official or when such work has been corrected to comply with this code where a violation has been found to exist upon prior inspection and where the electrical work has been completed in accordance to plans and specifications by the licensed electrical contractor or homeowner who has secured the permit. The building official or his designated representative shall have the option of requiring the presence of the permitted licensed electrical contractor in charge of the work at any final inspection. (3) Additional inspection. In addition to the inspections required to be made by the building official under subsections (1) and (2) of this section, said official is further required to make any and all additional inspections he shall deem necessary to insure that all electrical work undertaken or existing in the City of Lubbock is in compliance with � this code. (4) Sign inspections. The licensed electrical contractor securing a permit for electrical work in connection with any sign to be installed within the city shall be responsible for notification to the building official that the electrical work, for which the permit is issued, is ready for inspection by said official. Electrical work necessary for installation or erection of a sign shall be considered ready for inspection when all work necessary for its installation or erection has been completed by the licensed electrical contractor holding the permit. The building official shall have the authority to require a sign to be opened or uncovered when necessary to complete the inspection required by this subsection. § 28.12.202 Requests. (a) Every licensed electrical contractor or homeowner securing a permit under this code to undertake electrical work shall be responsible to notify the building official of any requested inspection. 'The building official shall complete such inspection within twenty-four (24) working hours after receipt of notice requesting such inspection. (b) Request for inspection may be made in writing or by telephone and shall contain or specify the following information: (1) The address where the work is located; (2) The permit number if requested by the building official; (3) The licensed electrical contractor's name and address or name of homeowner; (4) The type of inspection requested. § 28.12.203 Procedure for communicating results. (a) The building official after completing any inspection required or authorized by this code shall notify in writing, to the permit holder, the results of this inspection. The permit holder shall be deemed notified if the results are posted securely in a prominent place at the job site. (b) If code violations have been observed, the notifcation shall clearly identify the nature of the violation and shall identify the location of the violation. § 28.12.204 Clearance to electric utility company. No electric utility company furnishing electric service within the City of Lubbock 21 shall furnish electric service in any of the following cases until written authorization has been secured from the building official: (1) No new service shall be furnished to any new building, structure, tent, installation, sign or outdoor lighting until authorization has been secured from the building official. (2) Where electrical service has been terminated due to the alteration or repair of any building, structure, installation, sign, premises or outdoor lighting until authorization has been secured from the building official. (3) Where electrical service has been terminated due to fire, windstorm, earthquake, explosion or any other similar disaster to any building, structure, installation, sign, premises or outdoor lighting until authorization has been secured from the building official. (4) Where electrical service has been terminated due to unsafe electrical conditions existing at or in any building, structure, installation, sign, premises or outdoor lighting and the utility has been made aware of such fact by the building official, the utility will not provide electrical service in such cases until authorized in writing by the building official. § 28.12.205 through § 28.12.300. (Reserved) SE ION 2. THAT violation of any provision of this Ordinance shall be deemed a mis meanor punishable as provided by Section 1.01.004 of the Code of Ordinances of the City f Lubbock, Texas. SE ION 3. THAT should any paragraph, sentence, clause, phrase or word of this Ordinance be d lared unconstitutional or invalid for any reason, the remainder of this Ordinance shall not affected thereby. ON 4. THAT pursuant to Section 214.218 of the Texas Local Government Code, this ice shall not be implemented or enforced until after the 30'h day after the date of final ado �ION 5. THAT the City Secretary is hereby authorized to cause publication of the �ptive caption of this Ordinance as an alternative method provided by law. �� AND IT IS SO ORDERED. Passed by the City Council on first reading on March 5, �p�4 _ ___ ,__ _ Passed by the City Council on second reading on Mareh 2fi, 2�24 TRAY N AYOR ATTEST: Courtney Paz, City Secretar APPROVED AS TO CONTENT: � obert Wallace, Director of Development Services APPROVED AS TO FORM: , � Amy �s Deputy ' ttorne Z3