ORD 2005-01 - Amend Title 11 Electricity Update State Law Changes 01-04-2005ORDINANCE NO. 2005-01
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 11, "ELECTRICITY," OF THE CODE OF
ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS, UPDATING STATE
LAW CHANGES; MAKING OTHER PROVISIONS AND FINDINGS THERETO;
AND DECLARING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS, that:
Section 1: Title 11, Electricity is hereby amended (see Attachment A).
Section 2: This ordinance shall take effect immediately from and after the date of its passage.
PASSED AND APPROVED this the 4th day of January 2005.
CITY OF HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS
Z
Danna Welter, City Secretary
APPROVED AS TO FO
Thomas A. Leeper, City Att rney
PAGE
H: \MYFI LES \W PDOCS\ LEGAL \ORD- RES \ORD05 \01- ELECT -ORDI NANCE. DOC
Sections.
11.01.00E
11.01.01
11.01.02
11.01.03
11.01.04
11.01.05
11.01.06
11.01.0'7
11.01.08
11.01.09
11.01.10
11.01.11
Huntsville, TX Municipal Code
Part 11.01
IN GENERAL
Editor's Note.
Title.
Object and scope of code.
Installation standards.
Additional rules and regulations.
Application for inspection and permit.
Fees for inspection.
Prerequisites to engaging in electrical work; certificates, bond.
Application, examination for, issuance, renewal and revocation of certificates; fees.
Penalties.
Liability for damages.
Double fees in certain cases.
Section 11.01.00E Editor's Note.
*Editor's note - -Ord. of Aug. 1.2, 1969, §§ 1--13 and 16, included herein as §§ 11.01.01 -- 11.01.14, is
codified as superseding prior code Ch. 7, §§ 7- 1- -7 -42, pertaining to the office of electrical inspector,
setting forth standards and specifications for electrical work, requiring permits and fees and licensing and
regulating master electricians. Said chapter and sections were derived from Ord. of May 3, 1927, §§ 1 - -8,
10, 11, 13, 15, 18, 19 and Ord. of Oct. 3, 1961, § 1. Ord. of Aug. 12, 1969 is included herein as enacted,
however, "ordinance" has been changed to "chapter" where appropriate, catchlines have been altered in
several instances to facilitate indexing add reference, and §§ 14, 15 and 17, validity, repealer and effective
date provisions were omitted.
Cross reference(s) -- Buildings, Title 9; fire prevention and protection Title 12; street excavation and
alterations, § 25.03.01 et seq.
Section 11.01.01 Title.
This title shall be known as the "Electrical Code of the City of Huntsville, Texas."
(Ord. of 8- 12 -69, § 1)
Section 11.01.02 Object and scope of code.
A. The object of this code is to reduce the personal hazard and the fire hazard from electrical causes. To
accomplish this, the requirements set forth herein are intended to provide a minimum standard for
electrical installation in the City of Huntsville.
B. The provisions of this title shall not apply to installations in railway cars, automotive equipment,
electrical railways companies, to installations used by electrical public utility telephone telegraph
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companies, radio transmission, or in the distribution of electricity or for the operation of signals or the
transmission of intelligence, in the exercise of their function as such agencies and located outdoors or in
buildings used exclusively for the purpose, provided, however, that these regulations, except as to
permits, shall apply to all such wiring and equipment installed in or on the consumer's premises.
I i • • •
Section 11.01.03 Installation standards.
A. In every case where no specific type or class of material, or no specific standard of construction is
prescribed by the statutes of the State of Texas, installation shall be made in conformity to the standards
provided by the National Electrical Code, 1999 Edition (a copy of which is authenticated by the
signatures of the mayor and the city secretary, and is on file in the city secretary's office).
B. All electrical equipment installed or used shall be in conformity with the provisions of this chapter,
the Statutes of the State of Texas and any order, rules and regulations issued by authority thereof, and
with approved electrical standards for safety to persons and property. Unless by this chapter, by a statute
of the State of Texas, or by any orders, rules or regulations issued by authority thereof, a specific type or
class of electrical equipment is disapproved for installation and use, conformity with the standards of
Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc., as approved by the American Standards Association, and the electrical
provisions of other standards approved by the American Standards Association shall be prima facie
evidence of conformity with approved standards for safety to persons and property, provided, however
that provisions of this section shall not apply to equipment owned and used by an electrical supply or
communication agency in the generation, transmission, or distribution of electricity or for the operation of
signals or the transmission of intelligence.
C. No electrical apparatus, fitting or material shall be used or placed on sale unless such apparatus,
fittings or material is approved by the city building official as complying with the safety requirements of
this code; provided, however, that all such apparatus, fittings or material which bears the label of
Underwriters' Laboratory, Inc., shall be deemed prima facie evidence to satisfy the requirements of this
code, and the city building inspector is authorized to approve such apparatus, fittings and material without
requiring further tests thereof to be made.
D. Approved wiring methods:
1. An approved direct burial cable may be used, when installed in accordance with the National Electrical
Safety Code and the Fire Code, for the distribution of electricity in total underground areas or in areas
where only services are underground.
2. Electrical metallic tubing. Installations in dry walls, attics, outside with watertight fittings and strapped
every five (S) feet. Fibre bushings shall be used on all connections one and one -fourth (1 1/4) through two
(2) inches. Under no conditions shall EMT be installed in concrete or underground.
3. Flexible metal conduit. Minimum size one -half inch flexible metal conduit may be used in the
following instances:
a. on all adjustable motors, equipment, light fixtures when accessible;
b. 3/8 inch premanufactured(fixture whips) with a ground may be used for lighting fixtures within an
Page 2of10
Huntsville, TX Municipal Code
accessible location;
c. sealtite with sealtite fittings must be used in damp or grease -laden locations;
d. no connections shall be more that seven (7) feet and not less than eighteen (18) inches and all flexible
conduit must be made with a grounding conductor;
e. in locations impractible or impossible for the use of solid conduit and approved by the building
official.
4. Surface metal raceways.
5. Underfloor raceways.
6. Cellular metal floor raceways.
7. Wireways and buss duct.
8. Nonmetallic sheathed cable, exception - -See Paragraph (g) .
D.1. Unapproved wiring methods: Under no conditions shall BX or BXL be used for any type
installation.
E. The term "fire limits ", as referred to in the provisions of this chapter relating to electrical work within
the fire limits of the City of Huntsville, shall be taken to mean and include the district contained within
the fire limits as they exist at the time of the installation or performance of such electrical work.
E.1. No conductor smaller than #12 AWG shall be permitted within the city limits with the exception of
control wiring. All switch legs shall be #12 AWG or larger. All nonmetallic cable shall be 12/2 with
ground for all power outlets, switch legs not being considered a power outlet. No more than two (2)
outlets shall be allowed on one (1) circuit in the following areas: breakfast rooms, utility areas, kitchens.
Every major appliance shall be on a separate circuit. All air conditioning compressors and air handling
units to be on separate circuits. All receptacles shall be the grounding type.
E.2. Requirements applying to all service conductors: All service conductors shall be installed in
galvanized metal conduit.
F. All electrical wiring in buildings within the fire limits of the City of Huntsville shall in all cases be one
of the seven (7) approved methods described in paragraph (d), one to seven ((1) to (7)) , inclusive.
G. Paragraph (f) will also apply to all nonresidential commercial buildings, grain elevators, or places
used for storage of grain, express houses, freight houses, storage or warehouses, all classes of mills,
factories, garages, hotels, hospitals, auditoriums, laundries, churches, apartment houses in the fire district,
theaters, moving picture shows, and any other public gathering place, machine shops, buildings used for
storing gasoline and other readily inflammable materials, and all classes of printing press and publishing
buildings, filling stations and lumber sheds within the limits of the City of Huntsville. Nonmetallic
sheathed cable will be allowed in apartment houses excluding the fire district. However, the service to
each apartment shall be in metal raceway and served with the proper overload devices.
H. Switchboards, switches, panelboards, control boards and distributing centers of any and all types shall
be deadfront safety type equipment, except motor control equipment located in machinery rooms which
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Huntsville, TX Municipal Code
are safeguarded as provided for elevator control equipment.
1. All panels and switchboards used for the control of lighting and appliance circuits in residential and
commercial buildings shall be of the multi - breaker type. All switches, disconnects, circuit breakers, load
centers and multi- breakers when mounted outside and exposed to the weather shall be raintight designed
for outdoor service. All branch circuit panels consisting of more than six (6) single pole breakers shall
have a main disconnect. When additional breakers are added to an existing panel making a total of over
six (6) single pole breakers a main disconnect shall be required. Also, the service conductors shall be
increased in size to comply with the additional load. All outside air conditioning compressor units shall
have a weatherproof disconnect installed on the adjacent wall at a height not less than five (5) feet from
the finished grade. All wiring from disconnects to compressor units shall be of weatherproof type
installations. Air conditioning contractors not having a master electrician license in the City of Huntsville
will not be permitted to install any wiring to air conditioning units with the exception of low voltage
wiring.
J. Only approved copper wiring shall be installed in any building, house, or structure located within the
corporate limits of the City of Huntsville upon which construction is commenced on or after April 1,
1971. Other approved wiring may be used from the source of power to the point of weatherhead location
on such building, house, or structure.
(Ord. of 8- 12 -69, § 6; Ord. of 2- 23 -71, § 1; Ord. No. 81 -31, § 3, 7 -7 -81; Ord. No. 86 -20, § 1, 7- 15 -86;
Ord. No. 91 -16, § 6, 8 -6 -91)
(2002 -08, Amended, 03/05/2002; 98 -20, Amended, 09/22/1998)
Section 11.01.04 Additional rules and regulations.
A. All works shall be executed in a neat and workmanlike manner. Slipshod, or work not in keeping with
good electrical practice shall be classed as defective and shall be immediately corrected by persons
causing same. No work shall be done under the scope of this chapter unless under the direction of a
master electrician or electrical sign manufacturer.
B. All underground service conductors shall be encased in conduit where they extend up the pole, and
shall be placed on the face of the pole designated by the power company, and to the height designated by
them.
C. When upon inspection or reinspection any sign is found to be in a dangerous or unsafe condition and
the owner or user thereof fails to place such sign in safe condition after being notified to do so by the city
building official within the time limits specified by him, the city building official shall remove such sign
at the expense of the owner or user.
1. Signs may extend to curb line, provided the sign is a safe distance from utility wires. No sign shall at
its lowest point be less than twelve (12) feet above the sidewalk.
2. It shall be unlawful for any person to attach any sign, device or representation used in the nature of
advertisements, announcements or direction on any electrical sign which would bring bottom below
minimum set forth in this title.
3. Light reflectors for the illumination of a building or signboard shall not project more than eight (8) feet
beyond the building line.
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D. All signs shall be connected to a separate circuit.
1. There shall be provided one space circuit in panel board for each raceway.
E. An individual circuit shall be provided for in buildings where provisions are made for attic ventilation
and central heating system.
F. Every new service, except single - family residential service, installed within the city, shall have a
service disconnecting means installed on the exterior of the building.
(Ord. of 8- 12 -69, § 7; Ord. No. 82 -25, § 16, 11 -2 -82; Ord. No. 86 -10, § 1, 5 -6 -86; Ord. No. 86 -20, § 2, 7-
15-86)
(2002 -08, Amended, 03/05/2002)
Section 11.01.05 Application for inspection and permit.
A. Permits required.
1. A person commits an offense if he installs, alters or adds any electrical wiring or electrical equipment
within or to any building, structure or premises within the city without a permit therefor.
The master electrician must remain in the site of work being performed at all such times that electrical
work is being performed unless at least one representative being licensed by the State of Texas as a
journeyman electrician is on the same site. The journeyman electrician must be employed by the master
electrician. On new construction of a single family dwelling, a residential wireman electrician licensed
by the State of Texas may act as the master electrician's representative. Any person performing electrical
work without a master, journeyman or residential wireman electrician on site is considered in violation of
this ordinance.
Electrical work performed on an electrical sign must be performed by a master, journeyman or master
electrical sign contractor. The licensed person must remain on site at all times during such time that
electrical work is being performed.
2. Permits shall be issued only to the following:
a. Any master electrician or electrical sign manufacturer holding a valid license issued by the State of
Texas in the city and in charge of the proposed work; or
b. Any property owner, for electrical work to be done by him, on a building occupied by him as his
homestead.
B. No permit is required to execute any of the classes of electrical work specified in the following
paragraphs (b) to (d) , inclusive [sic].
C. The installation, alteration, or repair of electrical equipment for the operation of signals or for the
transmission of intelligence by wire by a communication agency.
D. Electrical work done by anyone who is regularly employed (minimum 40 hrs /week) as or acting as a
maintenance man or maintenance engineer, incidental to and in connection with the business in which he
is employed, and who does not engage in the occupation of an electrician for the geneal public. The
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Huntsville, TX Municipal Code
person performing any maintenance electrical work must be a maintenance electrician and licensed by the
State of Texas as a master, journeyman, or maintenance electrician. Provided, however, that all electrical
maintenance work and service shall be subject to inspection. The building official shall be authorized to
require maintenance work to be permitted and performed by a master electrician when, in the building
official's opinion, unusual or specific hazards exist.
E. The installation, alteration or repair of electrical equipment installed by or for an electrical supply
agency for the use of such agency in the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity.
F. Master electricians and electrical sign manufacturers (under provisions of paragraph (d) , section
11.01.10) shall have the privilege of making minor repairs or alterations, where material and labor does
not exceed three hundred dollars ($300.00) , without first securing a permit, subject to the approval of the
building official.
G. Application for such inspections and permit describing the work to be done shall be made in writing,
accompanied by plans and specifications when required, and submitted to the city building official by the
master electrician or electrical sign manufacturer responsible for the work. The electrician shall be
responsible for notifying the city building official when an inspection is desired.
H. On all applications where plans and specifications require installation above the minimum standards,
as set forth in this code, the plans and specifications shall accompany the application for permit. No
deviation may be made from such plans and specifications without the written approval of the owner,
architect or engineer. On all applications where plans and specifications do not meet the minimum
requirements as set forth in this code, the master electrician, licensed architect or engineer shall alter
accordingly, before permits shall be granted.
I. All applications for inspections shall be accompanied by the inspection fees as hereinafter provided
for.
J. Master electricians and electrical sign contractors shall at all times keep the city building official
notified of the progress of their work and shall request inspections as the work progresses. Upon receipt
of an application requesting inspection, the city building official shall inspect or cause to be inspected
said work within forty -eight (48) hours after receiving applications. Sundays and holidays not included in
this time. After inspecting the electrical wiring covered by an application obtained by the master
electrician, the city electrician shall leave a tag, which shall state that the work has been inspected and
approved or that it is not approved and must be held open for correction. The master electrician is to be
notified if the wiring is to be held open for correction and no person, including the general contractor or
his representative shall lath, coil or in any manner conceal any wiring until they are informed that such
wiring has been approved by the city building official.
K. The master electrician and electrical sign contractor shall have electrical work installed by him
inspected before such work is covered or concealed. All cabinets and panel board covers or trims shall be
left off for final inspection, and any fitting or cover that conceals any wiring which may hinder the proper
inspection of electrical work shall be removed by the master electrician.
L. Master electricians and electrical sign contractors making extensions or additions to existing electrical
systems shall, before proceeding with such work, ascertain from the city building official whether any of
the old work must be changed or must be brought up to the requirements of this title.
M. Upon completion and receipt of final inspection papers covering electrical work, the city building
official shall make a final inspection, and if such work is found to comply with this chapter, a certificate
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of inspection shall be issued stating that the work has been done according to the provisions of this title
and the rules governing the respective class to which it belongs.
N. This certificate shall not relieve the master electrician or electrical sign contractor of his responsibility
for any defective work that may have been concealed or escaped the notice of the inspector.
O. It shall be unlawful for any public service company operating in the City of Huntsville, to furnish
current to any new building, tent, structure or outdoor wiring of any kind, nature or description without
first obtaining a clearance from the city building official, stating that such wiring is approved and a permit
has been issued for the use of current. Whenever any service is discontinued to any building structure for
any cause whatever (excepting nonpayment of bill) a clearance will be necessary before each building or
structure can be reconnected. Any time a building is vacated the city building official must make certain
that there have not been any unauthorized additions made to the wiring of such building that might create
a fire hazard, or that the wiring has not become in such a condition as to be hazardous.
P. Whenever any electrical conductor or electrical material in or on any building or any electrical
conductor on any pole line or any conductor underground becomes, or is in a condition that is dangerous
to life or property, the city building official is hereby empowered to condemn, disconnect and cause the
owner of such conductor or material to immediately correct the same or have it removed.
(Ord. of 8- 12 -69, § 8; Ord. No. 82 -25, § 17, 11 -2 -82)
(2002 -08, Amended, 03/05/2002)
Section 11.01.06 Fees for inspection.
A. Fees for roughing in work:
$ 2.00 minimum fee for roughing in work.
$ 3.00 for first circuits.
$ 0.40 each for all above 4 circuits.
$ 2.00 for final inspection.
B. Fees for replacement of service entrance equipment:
$ 3.00 per service up to and including 60 ampere, includes meter loop.
$ 4.00 per service up to and including 100 ampere, includes meter loop.
$ 5.00 per service up to and including 200 ampere, includes meter loop.
$ 6.00 per service up to and including 400 ampere, includes meter loop.
$ 7.00 per service up to and including 600 ampere, includes meter loop.
$10.00 per service over 600 ampere, includes meter loop.
C. Fees for motor generation:
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$ 1.50 each for first 2 motors below 1 H.P.
$ 0.75 for each additional motor below 1 H.P.
$ 3.00 each for first 2 motors 1 to 5 H.P.
$ 1.50 each additional motor 1 H.P. to 5 H.P.
$ 4.00 for each for first 2 motors 6 H.P. to 10 H.P.
$ 2.00 each additional motor 6 H.P. to 10 H.P.
$ 5.00 each for first 2 motors 11 H.P. to 24 H.P.
$ 3.00 additional motor 11 H.P. to 24 H.P.
$ 7.00 each for first 2 motors over 25 H.P.
$ 4.00 each additional motor over 25 H.P.
D. Fees miscellaneous:
$ 3.00 for electric welder.
$ 2.00 for each electric range.
$ 2.00 for each motion picture projector.
$ 2.00 per circuit for sign and outline lighting.
$ 2.00 temporary service.
$ 2.00 minimum fee for repairs and alterations.
$30.00 for reinspection.
$ 2.00 for each additional meter.
E. Additional trips. In case the city building official is required to make more than one trip from his
office for the purpose of inspecting any work on account of violation of rules, wrong address or any other
irregularities caused by the master electrician or his agent, a charge of one dollar ($1.00) shall be made
for each additional trip.
(Ord. of 8- 12 -69, § 9; Ord. No. 77 -14, 5 -5 -77; Ord. No. 82 -25, § 22, 11 -2 -82)
Cross reference(s) -- Double fees charged in certain cases, § 11.01.14.
Section 11.01.07 Prerequisites to engaging in electrical work; licenses; registration
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A. Every person, firm or corporation before engaging in the business of doing work of installing,
repairing or removal of electrical wiring and equipment shall comply with each and every provision of
this title, except as otherwise provided.
B. Secure an appropriate license by the State of Texas as required by the State of Texas as required by
Title 8, Occupations Code, Chapter 1305 and administered by the Texas Department of Licensing and
Regulation.
C. Register annually with the City of Huntsville as a Master, Journeyman, Master Sign, or Maintenance
Electrician.
D. The registration fee for a person holding a master's license shall be $60.00.
E. The registration fee for a person holding a journeyman's license shall be $12.00.
F. The registration fee for a person holding a maintenance electrician's license shall be $50.00.
G. The registration fee for a person holding a master sign electrician's license shall be $48.00
(Ord. of 8- 12 -69, § 10; Ord. No. 82 -25, § 18, 11 -2 -82)
Editor's note - -Ord. No. 82 -25, § 18, enacted Nov. 2, 1982, repealed prior code section 7 -10(d) ; therefore,
the editor has redesignated provisions formerly set out as prior code § 7 -10(e) [11.01.10(e) ] as a new
subsection (d) , to preserve Code sequence.
(2002 -08, Amended, 03/05/2002)
(Ord. of 8- 12 -69; Ord. of 12- 22 -70; Ord. No. 77 -14; Ord. No. 81 -31; Ord. No. 82 -25)
(2002 -08, Amended, 02/05/2002; 2000 -19, Amended, 09/26/2000; 95 -05, Amended, 02/14/1995)
Section 11.01.09 Penalties.
Any person, firm or corporation who shall violate any of the provisions of this title, or who shall fail to
comply with same shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punished by a
fine of not exceeding five hundred dollars ($500.00) .
(Ord. of 8- 12 -69, § 12; Ord. of 2- 23 -71, § 2)
Section 11.01.10 Liability for damages.
This title shall not be construed to affect the responsibility or liability of any party owning, operating,
controlling or installing any electrical equipment, for damages to persons or to property caused by any
defect therein, nor shall the city or any officer or employee of such city, be held as assuming such liability
by reason of the inspection or reinspection authorized herein, or the certificate or disapproval of any
equipment authorized herein.
(Ord. of 8- 12 -69, § 13)
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Section 11.01.11 Double fees in certain cases.
All electrical permit, inspection, fixture and appliance fees shall apply except that if any person shall
make application for permit as provided herein, after the work has been started or after the work has been
partially completed or concealed, such person shall pay double the fee or fees which would ordinarily be
required. These double fees shall be paid by the person to whom the permit is issued under the terms and
provisions of this title.
(Ord. of 8-12-69, § 16)
Cross reference(s) --Schedule of inspection fees, § 11.01.09.
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Part 11.01
IN GENERAL
Sections:
11.01.00E Editor's Note.
11.01.01 Title.
11.01.02 Object and scope of code.
11.01.03 Installation standards.
11.01.04 Additional rules and regulations.
11.01.05 Application for inspection and permit.
11.01.06 Fees for inspection.
11.01.07 Prerequisites to engaging in electrical work; certificates, bond.
11.01.08 Application, examination for, issuance, renewal and revocation of certificates; fees.
11.01.09 Penalties.
11.01.10 Liability for damages.
11.01.11 Double fees in certain cases.
Section 11.01.00E Editor's Note.
*Editor's note - -Ord. of Aug. 12, 1969, §§ 1--13 and 16, included herein as §§ 11.01.01 -- 11.01.14, is
codified as superseding prior code Ch. 7, §§ 7- 1- -7 -42, pertaining to the office of electrical inspector,
setting forth standards and specifications for electrical work, requiring permits and fees and licensing and
regulating master electricians. Said chapter and sections were derived from Ord. of May 3, 1927, §§ 1 - -8,
10, 11, 13, 15, 18, 19 and Ord. of Oct. 3, 1961, § 1. Ord. of Aug. 12, 1969 is included herein as enacted,
however, "ordinance" has been changed to "chapter" where appropriate, catchlines have been altered in
several instances to facilitate indexing add reference, and §§ 14, 15 and 17, validity, repealer and effective
date provisions were omitted.
Cross reference(s) -- Buildings, Title 9; fire prevention and protection Title 12; street excavation and
alterations, § 25.03.01 et seq.
Section 11.01.01 Title.
This title shall be known as the "Electrical Code of the City of Huntsville, Texas."
(Ord. of 8- 12 -69, § 1)
Section 11.01.02 Object and scope of code.
A. The object of this code is to reduce the personal hazard and the fire hazard from electrical causes. To
accomplish this, the requirements set forth herein are intended to provide a minimum standard for
electrical installation in the City of Huntsville.
B. The provisions of this title shall not apply to installations in railway cars, automotive equipment,
electrical railways companies, to installations used by electrical public utility telephone telegraph
Page 1 of 10
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companies, radio transmission, or in the distribution of electricity or for the operation of signals or the
transmission of intelligence, in the exercise of their function as such agencies and located outdoors or in
buildings used exclusively for the purpose, provided, however, that these regulations, except as to
permits, shall apply to all such wiring and equipment installed in or on the consumer's premises.
(Ord. of 8- 12 -69, § 2)
Section 11.01.03 Installation standards.
A. In every case where no specific type or class of material, or no specific standard of construction is
prescribed by the statutes of the State of Texas, installation shall be made in conformity to the standards
provided by the National Electrical Code, 1999 Edition (a copy of which is authenticated by the
signatures of the mayor and the city secretary, and is on file in the city secretary's office).
B. All electrical equipment installed or used shall be in conformity with the provisions of this chapter,
the Statutes of the State of Texas and any order, rules and regulations issued by authority thereof, and
with approved electrical standards for safety to persons and property. Unless by this chapter, by a statute
of the State of Texas, or by any orders, rules or regulations issued by authority thereof, a specific type or
class of electrical equipment is disapproved for installation and use, conformity with the standards of
Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc., as approved by the American Standards Association, and the electrical
provisions of other standards approved by the American Standards Association shall be prima facie
evidence of conformity with approved standards for safety to persons and property, provided, however
that provisions of this section shall not apply to equipment owned and used by an electrical supply or
communication agency in the generation, transmission, or distribution of electricity or for the operation of
signals or the transmission of intelligence.
C. No electrical apparatus, fitting or material shall be used or placed on sale unless such apparatus,
fittings or material is approved by the city building official as complying with the safety requirements of
this code; provided, however, that all such apparatus, fittings or material which bears the label of
Underwriters' Laboratory, Inc., shall be deemed prima facie evidence to satisfy the requirements of this
code, and the city building inspector is authorized to approve such apparatus, fittings and material without
requiring further tests thereof to be made.
D. Approved wiring methods:
1. An approved direct burial cable may be used, when installed in accordance with the National Electrical
Safety Code and the Fire Code, for the distribution of electricity in total underground areas or in areas
where only services are underground.
2. Electrical metallic tubing. Installations in dry walls, attics, outside with watertight fittings and strapped
every five (5) feet. Fibre bushings shall be used on all connections one and one -fourth (1 1/4) through two
(2) inches. Under no conditions shall EMT be installed in concrete or underground.
3. Flexible metal conduit. Minimum size one -half inch flexible metal conduit may be used in the
following instances:
a. on all adjustable motors, equipment, light fixtures when accessible;
b. 3/8 inch premanufactured(fixture whips) with a ground may be used for lighting fixtures within an
Page 2of10
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accessible location;
c. sealtite with sealtite fittings must be used in damp or grease -laden locations;
d. no connections shall be more that seven (7) feet and not less than eighteen (18) inches and all flexible
conduit must be made with a grounding conductor;
e. in locations impractible or impossible for the use of solid conduit and approved by the building
official.
4. Surface metal raceways.
5. Underfloor raceways.
6. Cellular metal floor raceways.
7. Wireways and buss duct.
8. Nonmetallic sheathed cable, exception - -See Paragraph (g) .
D.1. Unapproved wiring methods: Under no conditions shall BX or BXL be used for any type
installation.
E. The term "fire limits ", as referred to in the provisions of this chapter relating to electrical work within
the fire limits of the City of Huntsville, shall be taken to mean and include the district contained within
the fire limits as they exist at the time of the installation or performance of such electrical work.
E.I. No conductor smaller than #12 AWG shall be permitted within the city limits with the exception of
control wiring. All switch legs shall be #12 AWG or larger. All nonmetallic cable shall be 12/2 with
ground for all power outlets, switch legs not being considered a power outlet. No more than two (2)
outlets shall be allowed on one (1) circuit in the following areas: breakfast rooms, utility areas, kitchens.
Every major appliance shall be on a separate circuit. All air conditioning compressors and air handling
units to be on separate circuits. All receptacles shall be the grounding type.
E.2. Requirements applying to all service conductors: All service conductors shall be installed in
galvanized metal conduit.
F. All electrical wiring in buildings within the fire limits of the City of Huntsville shall in all cases be one
of the seven (7) approved methods described in paragraph (d), one to seven ((1) to (7)) , inclusive.
G. Paragraph (f) will also apply to all nonresidential commercial buildings, grain elevators, or places
used for storage of grain, express houses, freight houses, storage or warehouses, all classes of mills,
factories, garages, hotels, hospitals, auditoriums, laundries, churches, apartment houses in the fire district,
theaters, moving picture shows, and any other public gathering place, machine shops, buildings used for
storing gasoline and other readily inflammable materials, and all classes of printing press and publishing
buildings, filling stations and lumber sheds within the limits of the City of Huntsville. Nonmetallic
sheathed cable will be allowed in apartment houses excluding the fire district. However, the service to
each apartment shall be in metal raceway and served with the proper overload devices.
H. Switchboards, switches, panelboards, control boards and distributing centers of any and all types shall
be deadfront safety type equipment, except motor control equipment located in machinery rooms which
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are safeguarded as provided for elevator control equipment.
I. All panels and switchboards used for the control of lighting and appliance circuits in residential and
commercial buildings shall be of the multi-breaker type. All switches, disconnects, circuit breakers, load
centers and multi-breakers when mounted outside and exposed to the weather shall be raintight designed
for outdoor service. All branch circuit panels consisting of more than six (6) single pole breakers shall
have a main disconnect. When additional breakers are added to an existing panel making a total of over
six (6) single pole breakers a main disconnect shall be required. Also, the service conductors shall be
increased in size to comply with the additional load. All outside air conditioning compressor units shall
have a weatherproof disconnect installed on the adjacent wall at a height not less than five (5) feet from
the finished grade. All wiring from disconnects to compressor units shall be of weatherproof type
installations. Air conditioning contractors not having a master electrician license in the City of Huntsville
will not be permitted to install any wiring to air conditioning units with the exception of low voltage
wiring.
J. Only approved copper wiring shall be installed in any building, house, or structure located within the
corporate limits of the City of Huntsville upon which construction is commenced on or after April 1,
1971. Other approved wiring may be used from the source of power to the point of weatherhead location
on such building, house, or structure.
(Ord. of 8-12-69, § 6; Ord. of 2-23-71, § 1; Ord. No. 81-31, § 3, 7-7-81; Ord. No. 86-20, § 1, 7-15-86;
Ord. No. 91-16, § 6, 8-6-91)
(2002-08, Amended, 03/05/2002; 98-20, Amended, 09/22/1998)
Section 11.01.04 Additional rules and regulations.
A. All works shall be executed in a neat and workmanlike manner. Slipshod, or work not in keeping with
good electrical practice shall be classed as defective and shall be immediately corrected by persons
causing same. No work shall be done under the scope of this chapter unless under the direction of a
master electrician or electrical sign manufacturer.
B. All underground service conductors shall be encased in conduit where they extend up the pole, and
shall be placed on the face of the pole designated by the power company, and to the height designated by
them.
C. When upon inspection or reinspection any sign is found to be in a dangerous or unsafe condition and
the owner or user thereof fails to place such sign in safe condition after being notified to do so by the city
building official within the time limits specified by him, the city building official shall remove such sign
at the expense of the owner or user.
1. Signs may extend to curb line, provided the sign is a safe distance from utility wires. No sign shall at
its lowest point be less than twelve (12) feet above the sidewalk.
2. It shall be unlawful for any person to attach any sign, device or representation used in the nature of
advertisements, announcements or direction on any electrical sign which would bring bottom below
minimum set forth in this title.
3. Light reflectors for the illumination of a building or signboard shall not project more than eight (8) feet
beyond the building line.
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D. All signs shall be connected to a separate circuit.
1. There shall be provided one space circuit in panel board for each raceway.
E. An individual circuit shall be provided for in buildings where provisions are made for attic ventilation
and central heating system.
F. Every new service, except single- family residential service, installed within the city, shall have a
service disconnecting means installed on the exterior of the building.
(Ord. of 8- 12 -69, § 7; Ord. No. 82 -25, § 16, 11 -2 -82; Ord. No. 86 -10, § 1, 5 -6 -86; Ord. No. 86 -20, § 2, 7-
15-86)
(2002 -08, Amended, 0310512002)
Section 11.01.05 Application for inspection and permit.
A. Permits required.
1. A person commits an offense if he installs, alters or adds any electrical wiring or electrical equipment
within or to any building, structure or premises within the city without a permit therefor.
The master electrician must remain in the site of work being performed at all such times that electrical
work is being performed unless at least one representative being licensed by the State of Texas as a
journeyman electrician is on the same site. The journeyman electrician must be employed by the master
electrician. On new construction of a single family dwelling, a residential wireman electrician licensed
by the State of Texas may act as the master electrician's representative. Any person performing electrical
work without a master, journeyman or residential wireman electrician on site is considered in violation of
this ordinance.
Electrical work performed on an electrical sign must be performed by a master, journeyman or master
electrical sign contractor. The licensed person must remain on site at all times during such time that
electrical work is being performed.
2. Permits shall be issued only to the following:
a. Any master electrician or electrical sign manufacturer holding a valid license issued by the State of
Texas in the city and in charge of the proposed work; or
b. Any property owner, for electrical work to be done by him, on a building occupied by him as his
homestead.
B. No permit is required to execute any of the classes of electrical work specified in the following
paragraphs (b) to (d) , inclusive [sic].
C. The installation, alteration, or repair of electrical equipment for the operation of signals or for the
transmission of intelligence by wire by a communication agency.
D. Electrical work done by anyone who is regularly employed (minimum 40 hrslweek) as or acting as a
maintenance man or maintenance engineer, incidental to and in connection with the business in which he
is employed, and who does not engage in the occupation of an electrician for the geneal public. The
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Huntsville, TX Municipal Code
person performing any maintenance electrical work must be a maintenance electrician and licensed by the
State of Texas as a master, journeyman, or maintenance electrician. Provided, however, that all electrical
maintenance work and service shall be subject to inspection. The building official shall be authorized to
require maintenance work to be permitted and performed by a master electrician when, in the building
official's opinion, unusual or specific hazards exist.
E. The installation, alteration or repair of electrical equipment installed by or for an electrical supply
agency for the use of such agency in the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity.
F. Master electricians and electrical sign manufacturers (under provisions of paragraph (d) , section
11.01.1.0) shall have the privilege of making minor repairs or alterations, where material and labor does
not exceed three hundred dollars ($300.00) , without first securing a permit, subject to the approval of the
building official.
G. Application for such inspections and permit describing the work to be done shall be made in writing,
accompanied by plans and specifications when required, and submitted to the city building official by the
master electrician or electrical sign manufacturer responsible for the work. The electrician shall be
responsible for notifying the city building official when an inspection is desired.
H. On all applications where plans and specifications require installation above the minimum standards,
as set forth in this code, the plans and specifications shall accompany the application for permit. No
deviation may be made from such plans and specifications without the written approval of the owner,
architect or engineer. On all applications where plans and specifications do not meet the minimum
requirements as set forth in this code, the master electrician, licensed architect or engineer shall alter
accordingly, before permits shall be granted.
1. All applications for inspections shall be accompanied by the inspection fees as hereinafter provided
for.
J. Master electricians and electrical sign contractors shall at all times keep the city building official
notified of the progress of their work and shall request inspections as the work progresses. Upon receipt
of an application requesting inspection, the city building official shall inspect or cause to be inspected
said work within forty -eight (4$) hours after receiving applications. Sundays and holidays not included in
this time. After inspecting the electrical wiring covered by an application obtained by the master
electrician, the city electrician shall leave a tag, which shall state that the work has been inspected and
approved or that it is not approved and must be held open for correction. The master electrician is to be
notified if the wiring is to be held open for correction and no person, including the general contractor or
his representative shall lath, coil or in any manner conceal any wiring until they are informed that such
wiring has been approved by the city building official.
K. The master electrician and electrical sign contractor shall have electrical work installed by him
inspected before such work is covered or concealed. All cabinets and panel board covers or trims shall be
left off for final inspection, and any fitting or cover that conceals any wiring which may hinder the proper
inspection of electrical work shall be removed by the master electrician.
L. Master electricians and electrical sign contractors making extensions or additions to existing electrical
systems shall, before proceeding with such work, ascertain from the city building official whether any of
the old work must be changed or must be brought up to the requirements of this title.
M. Upon completion and receipt of final inspection papers covering electrical work, the city building
official shall make a final inspection, and if such work is found to comply with this chapter, a certificate
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Huntsville, TX Municipal Code
of inspection shall be issued stating that the work has been done according to the provisions of this title
and the rules governing the respective class to which it belongs.
N. This certificate shall not relieve the master electrician or electrical sign contractor of his responsibility
for any defective work that may have been concealed or escaped the notice of the inspector.
0. It shall be unlawful for any public service company operating in the City of Huntsville, to furnish
current to any new building, tent, structure or outdoor wiring of any kind, nature or description without
first obtaining a clearance from the city building official, stating that such wiring is approved and a permit
has been issued for the use of current. Whenever any service is discontinued to any building structure for
any cause whatever (excepting nonpayment of bill) a clearance will be necessary before each building or
structure can be reconnected. Any time a building is vacated the city building official must make certain
that there have not been any unauthorized additions made to the wiring of such building that might create
a fire hazard, or that the wiring has not become in such a condition as to be hazardous.
P. Whenever any electrical conductor or electrical material in or on any building or any electrical
conductor on any pole line or any conductor underground becomes, or is in a condition that is dangerous
to life or property, the city building official is hereby empowered to condemn, disconnect and cause the
owner of such conductor or material to immediately correct the same or have it removed.
(Ord. of 8- 12 -69, § 8; Ord. No. 82 -25, § 17, 11 -2 -82)
(2002 -08, Amended, 03/05/2002)
Section 11.01.06 Fees for inspection.
A. Fees for roughing in work:
$ 2.00 minimum fee for roughing in work.
$ 3.00 for first circuits.
$ 0.40 each for all above 4 circuits.
$ 2.00 for final inspection.
B. Fees for replacement of service entrance equipment:
$ 3.00 per service up to and including 60 ampere, includes meter loop.
$ 4.00 per service up to and including 100 ampere, includes meter loop.
$ 5.00 per service up to and including 200 ampere, includes meter loop.
$ 6.00 per service up to and including 400 ampere, includes meter loop.
$ 7.00 per service up to and including 600 ampere, includes meter loop.
$10.00 per service over 600 ampere, includes meter loop.
C. Fees for motor generation:
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$ 1.50 each for first 2 motors below l H.P.
$ 0.75 for each additional motor below 1 H.P.
$ 3.00 each for first 2 motors 1 to 5 H.P.
$ 1.50 each additional motor 1 H.P. to 5 H.P.
$ 4.00 for each for first 2 motors 6 H.P. to 10 H.P.
$ 2.00 each additional motor 6 H.P. to 10 H.P.
$ 5.00 each for first 2 motors 1 I H.P. to 24 H.P.
$ 3.00 additional motor 11 H.P. to 24 H.P.
$ 7.00 each for first 2 motors over 25 H.P.
$ 4.00 each additional motor over 25 H.P.
D. Fees miscellaneous:
$ 3.00 for electric welder.
$ 2.00 for each electric range.
$ 2.00 for each motion picture projector.
$ 2.00 per circuit for sign and outline lighting.
$ 2.00 temporary service.
$ 2.00 minimum fee for repairs and alterations.
$30.00 for reinspection.
$ 2.00 for each additional meter.
E. Additional trips. In case the city building official is required to make more than one trip from his
office for the purpose of inspecting any work on account of violation of rules, wrong address or any other
irregularities caused by the master electrician or his agent, a charge of one dollar ($1.00) shall be made
for each additional trip.
(Ord. of 8- 12 -69, § 9; Ord. No. 77 -14, 5 -5 -77; Ord. No. 82 -25, § 22, 11 -2 -82)
Cross reference(s) -- Double fees charged in certain cases, § 11.01.14.
Section 11.01.07 Prerequisites to engaging in electrical work; licenses; registration
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A. Every person, firm or corporation before engaging in the business of doing work of installing,
repairing or removal of electrical wiring and equipment shall comply with each and every provision of
this title, except as otherwise provided.
B. Secure an appropriate license by the State of Texas as required by the State of Texas as required by
Title 8, Occupations Code, Chapter 1305 and administered by the Texas Department of Licensing and
Regulation.
C. Register annually with the City of Huntsville as a Master, Journeyman, Master Sign, or Maintenance
Electrician.
D. The registration fee for a person holding a master's license shall be $60.00.
E. The registration fee for a person holding a journeyman's license shall be $12.00.
F. The registration fee for a person holding a maintenance electrician's license shall be $50.00.
G. The registration fee for a person holding a master sign electrician's license shall be $48.00
(Ord. of 8-12-69, § 10; Ord. No. 82 -25, § 18, 11 -2 -82)
Editor's note - -Ord. No. 82 -25, § 18, enacted Nov. 2, 1982, repealed prior code section 7 -10(d) ; therefore,
the editor has redesignated provisions formerly set out as prior code § 7 -10(e) [11.01.10(e) ] as a new
subsection (d) , to preserve Code sequence.
(2002 -08, Amended, 03/05/2002)
(Ord. of 8- 12 -69; Ord. of 12- 22 -70; Ord. No. 77 -14; Ord. No. 81 -31; Ord. No. 82 -25)
(2002 -08, Amended, 02/05/2002; 2000 -19, Amended, 09/26/2000; 95 -05, Amended, 02/14/1995)
Section 11.01.09 Penalties.
Any person, firm or corporation who shall violate any of the provisions of this title, or who shall fail to
comply with same shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punished by a
fine of not exceeding five hundred dollars ($500.00) .
(Ord. of 8- 12 -69, § 12; Ord. of 2- 23 -71, § 2)
Section 11.01.10 Liability for damages.
This title shall not be construed to affect the responsibility or liability of any party owning, operating,
controlling or installing any electrical equipment, for damages to persons or to property caused by any
defect therein, nor shall the city or any officer or employee of such city, be held as assuming such liability
by reason of the inspection or reinspection authorized herein, or the certificate or disapproval of any
equipment authorized herein.
(Ord. of 8- 12 -69, § 13)
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Huntsville, TX Municipal Code
Section 11.01.11 Double fees in certain cases.
All electrical permit, inspection, fixture and appliance fees shall apply except that if any person shall
make application for permit as provided herein, after the work has been started or after the work has been
partially completed or concealed, such person shall pay double the fee or fees which would ordinarily be
required. These double fees shall be paid by the person to whom the permit is issued under the terms and
provisions of this title.
(Ord. of 8-12-69, § i6)
Cross reference(s) --Schedule of inspection fees, § 11.01.09.
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