ORD 1997-35 - Adopt Updated Editions - Codes 1997 11-25-1997ORDINANCE NO. 97-35
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS, AMENDING TITLE 9, BUILDING CODES,
OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES BY ADOPTING UPDATED
EDITIONS OF THE STANDARD BUILDING CODE, STANDARD
HOUSING CODE, STANDARD SWIMMING POOL CODE,
STANDARD MECHANICAL CODE, STANDARD PLUMBING CODE,
STANDARD GAS CODE; REQUIRING THE PUBLICATION OF THIS
ORDINANCE; AND MAKING OTHER FINDINGS AND
PROVISIONS RELATED THERETO.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS, that:
SECTION 1: Title 9, Building Codes of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Huntsville, Texas, Part
9.02.01 (Codes adopted by reference) is hereby amended:
A. The book entitled "Standard Building Code, 1997 Edition" (a copy of which, authenticated by the
signatures of the mayor and city secretary, and made a public record by this section, is on file in the city
secretary's office) Is hereby adopted as the building code of the city as fully as If copied at length in this
chapter, and the provisions thereof shall be controlling in the construction of all buildings and other
structures within the corporate limits of the city.
B. The book entitled "Standard Housing Code, 1997 Edition" (a copy of which, authenticated by the
signatures of the mayor and city secretary, and made a public record by this section, is on file in the city
secretary's office) is hereby adopted as the housing code of the city as fully as if copied at length in this
chapter, and the provisions thereof shall establish the minimum standards for occupancy of buildings.
C. The book entitled "Standard Swimming Pool Code, 1997 Edition" (a copy of which, authenticated by
the signatures of the mayor and city secretary, and made a public record by this section, is on file in the city
secretary's office) is hereby adopted as the swimming pool code of the city as fully as if copied at length
in this chapter, and the provisions thereof shall establish the minimum standards for the design, construction
or installation, repair or alterations of swimming pools.
D. The book entitled "Standard Mechanical Code, 1997 Edition" (a copy of which, authenticated by the
signatures of the mayor and city secretary, and made a public record by this section, is on file in the city
secretary's office) is hereby adopted as the mechanical code of the city as fully as if copied at length in this
chapter, and the provisions thereof shall establish the minimum standards for the design, construction or
installation, repair or alterations of mechanical systems.
E. The book entitled "Standard Plumbing Code, 1997 Edition" (a copy of which, authenticated by the
signatures of the mayor and city secretary, and made a public record by this section, Is on file In the city
secretary's office) is hereby adopted as the plumbing code of the city as fully as if It was copied at length
in this chapter, and the provisions thereof shall establish the minimum standards for plumbing work in the
city.
F. The book entitled "Standard Gas Code, 1997 Edition" (a copy of which, authenticated by the signatures
of the mayor and city secretary, and made a public record by this section, is on file in the city secretary's
office) is adopted as the gas code of the city as fully as if It was copied at length in this chapter, and the
provisions thereof shall establish the minimum standards for the design, construction, installation, repair or
alteration of gas piping systems and gas appliances.
SECTION 2: Title 9, Building Codes of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Huntsville, Texas, Part
9.02.02 (Standard Building Code) is hereby amended:
1)Section 101.4.8 is hereby added as follows:
Section 101.4.8. The following appendices are intended for enforcement and are made a part of this code
and the city's adopting ordinance for all intents and purposes:
Appendix A-- Weights of Building Materials
Appendix C - -One and Two Family Dwellings
Appendix D-- Standards for Demolition
Appendix E-- Energy Conservation
Appendix G- -Adobe Construction
Appendix J -- Hurricane Construction
Appendix K -- Recommended Guide for Sound Insulation in Multifamily dwellings
(2)Section 102. Delete Section 102 Building Department.
(3)Sections 102.4 and 102.5. Delete Sections 102.4 and 102.5.
(4)Section 3401.5 is hereby amended to read:
3401.5 -- Special Historic Buildings.
The provisions of the Standard Building Code (other than Chapter 34) relating to the alteration, repair,
enlargement, restoration, relocation or moving of buildings or structures shall not be mandatory for existing
buildings or structures identified and classified as Recorded Texas Historic Landmarks, National Historic
Landmarks, or buildings entered into the National Register of Historic Places, or qualified as such by the
building official. It is further provided, however, that:
1.Such buildings or structures are judged by the city building official to be safe;
2.The owner submits complete architectural and engineering plans and specifications bearing the seal of a
registered professional engineer or architect; and
3.The owner complies with the requirements of Part 9.03 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of
Huntsville, Texas.
(5)Section 103.5 is amended to read:
103.5 -- unsafe Buildings.
All buildings or structures which are unsafe, insamits unsanitary or not provided with adequate egress,
or which constitute a fire hazard, or are otherwise dangerous to human life, or which in relation to existing
use constitute a hazard to safety or health by reason of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, obsolescence,
or abandonment, or which, regardless of its structural condition, is unoccupied by its owners, lessees, or
other invitees and is unsecured from unauthorized entry to the extent that it could be entered or used by
nerepy aeciarea aangerous sunstanaara Duuaings ana may De vacatea, securea, regairea, removes or
demolished by the City's building official. All such unsafe buildings are hereby declared illegal and shall be
abated by repair and rehabilitation or by demolition, in accordance with the provisions of Part 9.03 of the
Code of Ordinances of the City of Huntsville, Texas.
(6)Section 104.1 is hereby amended to read:
104.1 -- Application for Permit.
104.1.1. Any owner, authorized agent, or contractor who desires to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move,
demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect or construct a sign of any
description, or to Install or alter fire extinguishing apparatus, elevators, engines, or to install a steam boiler,
furnace, heater, incinerator, or other heat producing apparatus, or other appurtenances, or to alter, move
or change the access to or from any public street from a driveway, including repair, removal or installation
of curbs or culverts, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be
done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit therefor.
104.1.2. A general permit shall carry with it the right to install in any building or structure, or part thereof,
elevators, sidewalk elevators, vaults, chutes, coal holes, lifts, cranes, derricks, steam power boilers, steam,
oil, gas or vapor engines, provided the same are shown on the drawings and set forth in the specifications
filed with the application for the permit, but where these are not shown on the drawings and covered by
the specifications submitted with said application, special permits shall be required.
104.1.3. Ordinary minor repairs may be made with the approval of the building official without a permit;
provided, that such repairs shall not violate any of the provisions of this code.
104.1.4. Each application for a permit, with the required fee, shall be filed with the building official on a
form furnished for that purpose, and shall contain a general description of the proposed work and its
location. The application shall be signed by the owner, or his authorized agent. The application shall indicate
the proposed occupancy of all parts of the building and of that portion of the site or lot, if any, not covered
by the building or structure, and shall contain such other information as may be required by the building
official.
104.1.5. An application for a permit for any proposed work shall be deemed to have been abandoned six
(6) months after the date of filing for the permit, unless before then a permit has been issued. One or more
extensions of time for periods of not more than ninety (90) days each may be allowed by the building
official for the application, provided the extension is requested in writing and justifiable cause is
demonstrated.
104.1.6. Permits shall be issued only to the following:
1.Any architect or engineer licensed by the State of Texas or a contractor registered by the city;
2.Any property owner, for work to be done by him on a building occupied by him as his home
(7)Section 1.04.2.5 is hereby amended in part to read:
104.2.5. The building official shall require drawings showing the location of the proposed building or
structure and of every existing building or structure on the site or lot to be approved by the city engineer
prior to the filing with the building official. Said drawings shall show the location of all existing easements,
storm sewers, natural drains, waterlines, sewer lines, location of water and sewer connections. The building
official may also require a boundary line survey, prepared by a qualified surveyor.
104.2.7. No building permits shall be issued unless adequate water and sewer service is available to the
property or suitable arrangements have been made for obtaining water and sewer service to the building site.
The city engineer shall certify on said drawing when same is submitted to the building official that the
requirements of this paragraph have been made; otherwise, said permit shall not be issued by the building
official.
104.2.8. Plat diagram. No building permit shall be issued unless adequate information is furnished showing
the proposed vertical elevation of the finished floor of the structure in respect to the street and lot comers
and proof that the building is not subject to flooding by storm water. The city engineer may require
additional engineering data, prepared by a registered professional engineer, indicating the calculated twenty-
five -year high water elevation of creeks or drainage channels when the building is proposed to be placed near
the fioodplain of the channel. Finished floor elevations of proposed buildings near the fioodplain of a creek
or drainage channel shall be a minimum of two (2) feet vertically above the calculated twenty -five -year high
water elevation.
No permit shall be issued for building or Improvements that propose to block the flow of water in creeks
or drainage channels or may cause flooding of adjacent property.
(8)Section 104.4 is amended by adding sentences that shall read:
104.4.5. No person, firm or corporation shall commence work on any project for which a building permit
is required under the provisions of Section 104.1 of this code until such time as a building permit has been
issued by the building official. The City of Huntsville may enjoin or restrain In a court of competent
jurisdiction any construction or work, or continuing construction or work, on any project commenced prior
to the issuance of such building permit.
(9)Section 104.5 is amended to read:
104.5 -- Contractor's Registration Required.
(a)lt shall be the duty of every contractor or builder who shall make contracts for the erection or
construction or repair of buildings for which a permit is required, and every contractor or builder making
such contracts and subletting the same, or any part thereof, to register with the city.
(b)No fee Is required for registration under this section.
(c)No contractor's bond shall be required under the provisions of this section.
(10)Section 104.7.4 is amended to read:
104.7.4 -- Schedule of Permit Fees.
(a)Permit fees.
1.Where the valuation does not exceed one hundred dollars ($100.00), no fee shall be required, unless
an inspection Is necessary, In which case there shall be a ten dollars ($10.00) fee for each inspection.
2.For a valuation over one hundred one dollars ($101.00) up to and including two thousand dollars
($2,000.00), the fee shall be ten dollars ($10.00).
3.For a valuation over two thousand dollars ($2,000.00) up to and Including fifteen thousand dollars
($15,000.00), the fee shall be ten dollars ($10.00) for the first two thousand dollars ($2,000.00) plus
three dollars ($3.00) for each additional thousand or fraction thereof, to and including fifteen thousand
dollars ($15,000.00).
4.For a valuation over fifteen thousand and one dollars ($15,001.00) up to aim and including fifty
thousand dollars ($50,000.00), the fee shall be forty -nine dollars ($49.00) for the first fifteen thousand
dollars ($15,000.00) plus two dollars and fifty cents ($2.50) for each additional thousand or fraction
thereof, to and including fifty thousand dollars ($50,000.00).
S.For a valuation over fifty thousand and one dollars ($50,001.00) up to and including one hundred
thousand dollars ($100,000.00), the fee shall be one hundred thirty-six dollars and fifty cents ($136.50)
for the first fifty thousand dollars ($50,000.00) plus two dollars ($2.00) for each additional thousand or
fraction thereof, to and Including one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000.00).
6.For a valuation over one hundred thousand and one dollars ($100,001.00) up to and including five
hundred thousand dollars ($500,000.00), the fee shall be two hundred thirty-six dollars and fifty cents
($236.50) for the first one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000.00), plus one dollar and twenty -five
cents ($1.25) for each additional thousand or fraction thereof.
7.For a valuation over five hundred and one thousand dollars ($501,000.00), the fee shall be seven
hundred thirty-six dollars and fifty cents ($736.50) for the first five hundred thousand dollars
($500,000.00), plus seventy -five cents ($0.75) for each additional thousand or fraction thereof, to and
including five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000.00).
(b)Moving of building or structures. For the moving of any building or structure, the fee shall be one
hundred dollars ($100.00).
(c)Demolition of building or structures. For the demolition of any building or structure, the fee shall be ten
dollars ($10.00).
(d)For each inspection requested and made which requires a reinspection, a fee of thirty dollars ($30.00)
shall be charged for each reinspection made.
(1 1)Section 108.4.2 is amended by the addition of a new paragraph that shall read:
108.4.2 -- Notice to Affected Property Owners.
The building official shall notify all affected property owners who own property within one hundred (100)
feet of the site of a proposed variance, of the meeting on the variance, by sending postage prepaid a copy
of the agenda and variance request. The building official shall determine the name and address of such
affected persons by reference to the city tax records.
(12)Section 108 Board Members and Procedures is amended to read:
108.2.1 -- Makeup of the Board.
There is hereby established a board to be called the board of appeals, which shall consist of five (5)
members. Such board shall be composed of three (3) persons with technical background in building design
or construction or experience in the building trades industry, and two (2) other citizens. The mayor (chief
appointing authority) shall appoint board members with the approval of the city council.
108.2.2- -Term of Office.
Each member shall be appointed to a two -year term of office; with three (3) members appointed effective
January 1, odd - numbered years, and two (2) members appointed effective January 1, even - numbered
years.
108.2.3 -- Quorum.
Three (3) members of the board shall constitute a quorum. In varying the application of any provision of
this code or in modifying an order of the building official, affirmative votes of the majority present, but not
less than three (3) affirmative votes, shall be required. A board member shall not act in a case in which he
has a personal interest.
(13)Section 109. Delete Section 109.
(14)Section 110 is amended as follows:
After the word misdemeanor in the first sentence of said section, a comma should be inserted and the
language added "and the punishment therefor shall be as provided in the Code of Ordinances of the City
of Huntsville, Texas." The remainder of said section remains unchanged.
(15)Section 202 Definitions is amended to read:
Applicable governing body: The City of Huntsville.
(16)Section F 101.1.1 is amended to read:
Section F 101.1.1. For the purpose of this code, the fire district is established as follows:
Beginning at the intersection of the east line of Avenue N and the south line of 10th Street;
Thence easterly along said south line of 10th Street to the west line of Avenue J;
Thence southerly along said west line of Avenue ) to the north line of 13th Street;
Thence westerly along said north line of 13th Street to the east line of Avenue M;
Thence northerly along east line of Avenue M to the point of beginning.
(17)Figure 1605 is amended by adding:
City of Huntsville 5 Ibs /sq. ft.
(18)Figure 1606 is amended by adding:
City of Huntsville 75 m.p.h.
(19)Figure 1608 is amended by adding:
City of Huntsville is in Zone 1.
(20)Section 1203.1 is amended to read:
1203.1.1 -- Toilet Facilities.
Every building and each subdivision thereof where both sexes are employed shall be provided with access
to at least two (2) toilets located either in such building or conveniently in a building adjacent thereto on
the same property; provided, however, that only one toilet is required if there are no more than five (5)
employees on any shift.
(21)Section 3108. Delete Section 3108.
(22) Section 507.6.1 is amended to read:
507.6.1 -- Covered mall buildings.
Covered mall buildings shall be classified as Group M occupancies and may contain accessory uses
consisting of Group A, B, E or R occupancies. Individual accessory uses within a covered mall building
shall not exceed the sprinklered area limitation and shall not be located at a height greater than that
permitted for such occupancy group in the type of construction being used. The aggregate area of all
accessory uses within a covered mall building shall not exceed 25% of the gross leasable area.
SECTION 3: Title 9, Building Codes of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Huntsville, Texas, Part
9.02.03 (Standard Housing Code) is hereby amended:
(I )Section 102.01 Is amended to read:
102.1 -- Building Official.
The City of Huntsville (herein called applicable governing body) designates the city' s building official
(herein called housing official) as its enforcement officer.
(2)Sections 102.2 and 102.3. Delete Sections 102.2 and 102.3.
(3)Secdons 103.2.3 and 103.2.4 are amended to read:
103.2.3. When a residential building is to be demolished, It shall be done so in accordance with section 6-
26 of the Huntsville Code.
(4)Sections 103.03 through 103.6. Delete Sections 103.3 through 103.6.
(5)Section 106. Delete Section 106.
(6)Section 107. Amend Section 107 to read:
107 -- Appeals.
Any person receiving notice from the housing official of deficiencies to his property under this code may
within thirty (30) days following the date of such notice enter an appeal In writing to the board of
adjustments and appeals (herein also called housing board of adjustments and appeals). The appellant must
state the variance requested, the reasons for it, and the hardship or conditions upon which appeal is made.
(7)Secdons 108 and 109. Delete Sections 108 and 109.
(8)Section 202. Amend Section 202 by changing the following definitions:
a. Delete abandoned motor vehicle.
b. Applicable governing body shall mean the City of Huntsville.
c. Housing official shall mean the city's building official.
(9)Secdon 308.2. Delete Section 308.2.
(10)Secdon 309. Delete Section 309.
SECTION 4: Title 9, Building Codes of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Huntsville, Texas, Part
9.02.05 (Standard Swimming Pool Code) Is hereby amended:
(1) Section 102. Delete Section 102.
(2) Section 105.5, Cost of Permit, is amended by changing the schedule of fees to that provided by Section
103.7.4 of the Standard Building Code, as adopted.
(3) Section 105.4.1 is amended by deleting the last sentence of the second paragraph, which sentence
reads: "Permits shall be obtained for all of the electrical, plumbing, related utility connections and heating
work prior to Issuance of the building permit for the pool structure."
(4) Section 107. Delete Section 107.
(5) Section 108. Delete Section 108.
(6) Section 202 is amended by changing the following definitions: Administrative authority - City's building
official.
Swimming pool is hereby defined as a receptacle for water, or an artificial pool of water having a depth at
any point of more than eighteen (18) inches, intended for the purpose of immersion or partial immersion
therein of human beings, and including all appurtenant equipment, construction, installed, and maintained
in or above the ground and used collectively by numbers of persons for swimming and recreational bathing.
(7) Section 301 is amended to read:
301 -- General.
Unless otherwise specified in this code, all piping, equipment and materials used in the plumbing system
shall conform to the plumbing code of the City of Huntsville, Texas (herein called the Standard Plumbing
Code) on file in the office of the city secretary.
(8) Section 308 is amended by the addition of a new paragraph 308.4 which shall read as follows:
308 -- Wastewater Disposal.
308.4. No person shall discharge wastewater from a swimming pool, or permit such wastewater to run off
onto an adjoining landowner(s)'s property without the landowner(s)'s express written consent.
(9) Section 313. Delete Section 313.
(10) Section 315 is amended to read:
315- -Final Inspection; Enclosure Required; Operating Permit Required.
All swimming pool installations must be completed. The pool shall be completely filled with water and in
operation before final inspection.
A. For the safety of others, the pool shall be completely enclosed with an approved wall, fence or other
substantial structure not less than four (4) feet in height, and so constructed as entirely to enclose the area
on which the swimming pool is located and to bar all reasonable and normal access to the swimming pool
except through a substantial gate or gates, or a gate which is kept locked when the swimming pool is not
in use, which gates are the same height as the fence; all gates shall be provided with self - latching mechanisms
that can be opened only from the interior of the pool enclosure.
B. Or, alternatively, a substantial pool cover designed for safety may be used in lieu of an approved wall,
fence, or other substantial structural enclosure when the pool is not in use.
C. No person shall allow or permit any public or semiprivate pool to be in existence upon any premises
under the person's ownership, possession or control unless there is a current operating permit for the pool.
Each pool shall have a separate permit. A permit shall expire one year from the date of issuance. There is
imposed an operating permit inspection fee of thirty dollars ($30.00). If the pool fails to pass inspection,
the applicant may reapply for such permit.
D. Public pool means any pool open to the general public, regardless of whether a fee is charged for use of
the pool.
E. Semipublic pool means any pool that is part of, or on the premises of a hotel, motel, trailer court,
apartment project, or condominium complex having more than ten (10) units.
F. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to apply to any pool owned by the state or any of its
subdivisions.
(11) Section 318. Add Section 318 which shall read as follows:
318 -- Sanitary and Safety Conditions.
A. Any person owning or maintaining any swimming pool shall maintain such pool In a sanitary condition.
The bacterial content of the water In any swimming pool shall not be allowed to exceed the safe limits as
prescribed by established standards of the state department of health. Residual chlorine from 1.2 to 2.0
parts per million units of water or any other method of disinfectant approved by the state department of
health shall be maintained in every swimming pool throughout the period of their use. Spas and hot tubs
are required to maintain a minimum of 3.0 parts per million residual chlorine.
B. No water In any swimming pool shall ever be permitted to show an acid reaction to a standard pH test.
C. At all times when the pool Is in use, the water shall be sufficiently clear to permit a six -inch diameter
black disc placed on a white field to be clearly visible at the deepest point of the swimming pool. The water
shall have sufficient clarity at all times so that the entire bottom of the pool Is clearly visible from the
walkways.
D. The outlet openings on the floor of the pool shall be designed and located to reduce suction currents and
shall be covered with a proper grating.
E. The health officer or his authorized representative may inspect every public swimming pool located within
the city and make an Inspection report. In the event the health officer or his representative discovers a
Violation of the terms and provisions hereof, he shall notify the person owning or maintaining such pool of
the violation, by leaving a copy of an inspection report with the person owning or maintaining such pool.
The health officer shall make a second inspection after a lapse of not less than ten (10) days thereafter, and
If the reported violation shall not have been remedied such person owning or maintaining said pool shall be
subject to the penalties imposed under this chapter and revocation of their license.
(12) Chapter Vi. Add a Chapter VI which shall read:
601 -- Appeals.
Any person aggrieved by a decision of the building officlai may appeal in writing to the board of adjustments
and appeals as provided by the Standard Building Code.
SECTION 5: Title 9, Building Codes of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Huntsville, Texas, Part
9.02.06 (Standard Mechanical Code) is hereby amended:
(1)Section 101.3.3.1. Add Section 101.3.3.1 which shall read:
The following appendices are Intended for enforcement and are made a part of this code and the city's
adopting ordinance for all intents and purposes:
Appendix A-- Guidelines for Estimating Heat Loss and Gain;
Appendix B-- Schedule of Permit Fees; and
Appendix C-- Procedures for Determining Thermal Resistance Valves for Air Distribution Ducts and Plenums.
(2)Section 102. Delete 102.
(3)Section 103.7. Section 103.7.4 (c102) is amended to change the reinspection fee from $5.00 to
$30.00.
(4)Secdon 110. Delete Section 110.
(5)Section 108.1. Amend Section 108. 1, Appeals, to read:
108.1. General.
Any person aggrieved by a decision of the building official may appeal In writing to the board of adjustments
and appeals as provided by the Standard Building Code.
(6)Section 108.4. Delete Section 108.4.
(7)Section 202. Amend Section 202, Definitions, to change or add the following definitions: a.
Administrative authority: CIty's building official. b. Mechanical official: The city's building official.
SECTION 5: Title 9, Building Codes of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Huntsville, Texas, Part
9.02.07 (Standard Plumbing Code) is hereby amended:
(1)Sectlon 101.2 is amended to read:
The appendices included In the Code are Intended for enforcement and are made a part of this code and
the city's adopting ordinance for all intents and purposes:
Appendix A-- Plumbing Permit Fee Schedule
Appendix B- -Rates of Rainfall for Various Cities
Appendix D-- Degree Day and Design Temperatures for Cities in the United States
Appendix F-- Structural Safety
Appendix G - -Fuel Gas Piping
(2)Secdon 103. Section 103 is deleted.
(3)Section 102.6 is amended to read as follows:
102.6 -- Special Historic Buildings.
The provisions of the Standard Plumbing Code (other than Chapter 1) relating to the alteration, repair,
enlargement, restoration or relocation of plumbing installations shall not be mandatory for existing buildings
or structures identified and classified as recorded Texas historic landmarks, national historic landmarks, or
buildings entered Into the national register of historic places, or qualified as such by the building official. It
is further provided, however, that:
1.Such buildings or structures are judged by the city building official to be safe;
2.The owner submits complete architectural and engineering plans and specifications beating the seal of a
registered professional engineer or architect; and
3.The owner complies with the requirements of Article 11 of Chapter 6 of the Code of Ordinances of the
City of Huntsville, Texas.
(4)Section 108.7 is amended to read:
108.7 -- Unsafe Installations.
All plumbing installation regardless of type, which are unsafe or which constitute a hazard to human life,
health or welfare are hereby declared illegal and shall be abated by repair and rehabilitation or by demolition
in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 6, Article III, of the code of Ordinances of the City of
Huntsville.
(5)Section 109. Section 109 is deleted.
(6)Section 701.2 is amended to read:
701.2
If water closets or other plumbing fixtures are installed in buildings where there is no sewer within two
hundred (200) feet of the property line of the tract, suitable provision shall be made for disposing of the
building sewage by some accepted method of sewage treatment and disposal.
(7)Section 1003 is amended to read:
1003.3 -- Grease Interceptors and Traps.
A grease interceptor shall be installed in the waste line leading from sinks, drains or other fixtures in the
following establishments when, in the opinion of the plumbing official, a hazard exists; restaurants, hotel
kitchens or bars, factor cafeterias or restaurants, clubs, or other uses where grease can be introduced into
the drainage system in quantities that can affect line stoppage or hinder sewage disposal.
(a) [Traps.] The grease trap shall be properly vented and if more than four (4) feet horizontally or thirty
(30) inches vertically, from the outlet of the fixture it serves, then the fixture shall have a separate trap and
vent. No food grinders or garbage disposers shall discharge into the grease trap. The grease retaining
capacity of each grease trap in pounds of grease shall be equal to twice the rate of flow capacity in gallons
per minute of waste water so that the trap shall remove and retain ninety (90) per cent of the grease
discharged into it up to its required capacity of accumulated grease. For calculating the requires reguired
sizes of grease traps, the rate of discharge from each fixture connected to the trap shall be based upon the
rates shown in the following table.
Type of Fixture
Rate of Flow in GPM
Single compartment sink with 11/2 waste
15
Double compartment sink with 11/2 waste
20
Trip compartment sink with 2" waste
25
Dishwashers:
Up to 30 gallon water capacity
15
Up to 50 gallon water capacity
25
Up to 100 gallon water capacity
40
Floor drain, each
5
Manufactured grease traps shall be selected to fit the flow rate requirements of the connected fixtures from
the manufacturer's rating schedule. Concrete grease traps shall be sized as follows:
Minimum size up to seven (7) gpm eighteen (18) inches by eighteen (18) inches by twenty-four
(2 4) inches deep. For each additional gpm flow rate, size shall be increased by one (1) cubic foot.
Reference tables 801.4.1 through 801.4.3.
TABLE 801.4.1
TABLE 801.4.2
TABLE 801.4.3
(b) Interceptors: All waste water from abattoirs, poultry dressing plants and fish and /or seafood markets,
when such water Is used in connection with kitting, dressing, cleaning, washing or handling of such animals,
poultry or seafood, shall discharge into a trough not less than four (4) inches deep and six (6) inches wide.
This trough shall discharge Into a properly trapped and vented catch basin not less than twenty -four (24)
by twenty -four (24) by thirty (30) Inches with tight - fitting solid cover and frame. (See plumbing inspector
for proper size.) In fish or seafood market, the catch basin shall have two -inch vent extending through the
roof independently of any other vent. For calculating the required sizes of grease interceptors, the rate of
discharge from each fixture connected to the Interceptor shall be based upon the rates shown in the
following table 801.4.5.
TABLE 801.4.5 Grease interceptor Sizing
(c)Commercial laundries: Commercial laundry wastes shall be equipped with an interceptor having a
removable wire basket or similar device that will prevent strings, rags, buttons or other materials detrimental
to the public sewer system from passing into the system. Basket or device shall prevent passage Into the
drainage system of solids one -half inch or larger. The basket or device shall be removable for cleaning. The
drain from the interceptor shall discharge Into a properly vented catch basin. Refer to illustrated lint traps
in table 801.4.1 through 801.4.3.
(d)Washateria waste: Waste from washing machines in a washateria shall discharge into a trough at least four
(4) inches deep and six (6)Inches wide or Into a system of copper or cast iron standpipes and drain pipes.
The drain shall then discharge into a lint trap as illustrated on tables 801.4.1 through 801.4.3.
(e)Fixture waste below main sewer elevation: Fixtures installed at a lower elevation than the main sewer or
other disposal means shall drain to a sump with an automatic sewer ejector sized to handle peak load usage.
Waste from fixtures installed above the elevation of the sewer main or other disposal shall not waste into
the sump. Sumps receiving waste from more than six (6) water closets shall be provided with duplex
pumping equipment.
Other Interceptors and /or separators shall be used when, in the judgment of the plumbing inspector, they
are necessary for the proper handling of liquid borne wastes containing elements harmful to the building
drainage system, the public sewer, the sewer treatment plan or any of its processes. See table 801.4.4.
(8)Section 1005 is added to read:
1005.1- -When required. A sample well shall be installed on the outside of the building on the building
sewer.
(9)Section 802 Is amended to read:
802 -- Swimming Pools.
TABLE 801.4.4
Piping carrying waste water from swimming or wading pools including pool drainage, backwash from filters,
water from scum gutter drains or floor drains which serve walks around pools, shall not be connected to the
city sewer system.
(10)Secdon 103. Section 103 is deleted.
(I 1)Sectlon 106.6 is amended to read:
106.6--Contractor License.
All persons who engage In or work at the actual installation, alteration, repair and renovating of plumbing
shall possess either a master or journeyman plumber's license in accordance with the provisions of the state
plumbing license law.
(a)Definidons: The word or term "plumbing" as used in "the plumbing license law" means and shall Include:
I All piping, fixtures, appurtenances and appliances for supply or recirculation of water, gas, liquids, and
drainage or elimination of sewage, including disposal systems or any combination thereof, for all personal
or domestic purposes In and about buildings where a person or persons live, work or assemble; all piping,
fixtures, appurtenances and appliances outside a building connecting the building with the source of water,
gas, or other liquid supply, or combinations thereof, on the premises, or the main In the street, alley or at
the curb: all piping, fixtures, appurtenances, appliances, drain or waste pipes carrying wastewater or sewage
from or within a building to the sewer service lateral at the curb or in the street or alley or other disposal
or septic terminal holding private or domestic sewage;
2.The installation, repair, service, and maintenance of all piping, fixtures, appurtenances and appliances In
and about buildings where a person or persons live, work or assemble, for a supply of gas, water, liquids,
or any combination thereof, or disposal of wastewater or sewage.
(b)Exempdons: The following acts, work and conduct shall be expressly permitted without license:
1.Home owner: Plumbing work done by a property owner in a building owned and occupied by him as his
homestead.
2.Plumbing work done by anyone who Is regularly employed as or acting as a maintenance man or
maintenance engineer, incidental to and In connection with the business In which he is employed or
engaged, and who does not engage in the occupation of a plumber for the general public; construction,
installation and maintenance work done upon the premises or equipment of a railroad by an employee
thereof who does not engage in the occupation of a plumber for the general public; and plumbing work
done by persons engaged by any public service company in the laying, maintenance and operation if its
service mains or lines to the point of measurement and the installation, alteration, adjustment, repair,
removal, and renovation of all types of appurtenances, equipment and appliances, including doing all that
is necessary to render the appliances usable or serviceable; appliance installation and service work done by
anyone who is an appliance dealer or is employed by an appliance dealer, and acting as an appliance
installation man or appliance service man in connecting appliances to existing piping installations; water
treatment Installations, exchanges, services, or repairs. Provided, however, that all work and service herein
named or referred to shall be subject to inspection and approval in accordance with the terms of all local
valid city or municipal ordinances.
3.Plumbing work done by a licensed irrigator or licensed installer when working and licensed under the
Licensed Irrigators Act, Article 8751,
V.T.C.S., as amended.
4.Plumbing work done by an LP gas Installer when working and licensed under Chapter 113, Natural
Resources Code, as amended.
S.Any water treatment dealer or his employee when certified in accordance with section 3A of the
"plumbing license law".
(I 2)Sectlon 106.5.2. Section 106.5.2 is deleted.
SECTION 5: Title 9, Building Codes of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Huntsville, Texas, Part
9.02.07 (Standard Plumbing Code) is hereby amended:
(1) Section 101.4.8 is amended to read:
101.4.8 -- Appendices.
The appendices include_d in this code are intended for enforcement and are made a part of this code and
the city's adopting ordinance for all intents and purposes:
Appendix A - -Flow of Gas through Fixed Orifices
Appendix D-- Example Problems
Appendix E--5 PSI Gas Sizing
(2) Section 102. Section 102 is deleted.
(3) Section 101.5.3 is amended to read:
101.5.3 -- Special Historic Buildings.
The provisions of the Standard Gas Code (other than Chapter 1) relating to the alteration, repair,
enlargement, restoration, or relocation of gas installations shall not be mandatory for existing buildings or
structures identified and classified as recorded Texas historic landmarks, national historic landmarks, or
buildings entered into the national register of historic places, or qualified as such by the building official.
It is further provided, however, that:
1. Such buildings or structures are judged by the city building official to be safe;
2. The owner submits complete architectural and engineering plans and specifications bearing the seal of
a registered professional engineer or architect; and
3.The owner complies with the requirements of Part 9.03 Demolition or Repair of Dilapidated or
Substandard Buildings of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Huntsville, Texas.
(4) Section 103.5 is amended to read:
103.5 -- Unsafe Gas Systems.
All gas systems, regardless of type, which are unsafe or which constitute a hazard to human life, health or
welfare are hereby declared illegal and shall be abated by repair and rehabilitation or by demolition in
accordance with the provisions of Part 9.03 Demolition or Repair of Dilapidated or Substandard Buildings
of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Huntsville.
(5) Sections 108 and 109. Sections 108 and 109 are deleted.
(6) Section 306.2 is amended to read:
306.2 -- Metallic Tubing.
When acceptable to the administrative authority seamless copper or steel tubing may be used. Copper
tubing shall be of standard type K or L complying with ASTM B 88 or ASTM B 280. Steel tubing shall
comply with ASTM A 539. When requested by the administrative authority, tin lined copper tubing
complying with specifications of this paragraph shall be used.
Copper tubing for gas Installation shall only be used on mobile home installation and appliance Installation.
Maximum length for copper tubing for appliance Installation is six (6) feet.
(7) Section 306.3 is amended to read:
306.3 -- Plastic Piping.
When approved by the administrative authority, plastic pipe or tubing and fittings conforming with ASTM
D 2513 and the following material specifications, with compatible fittings, may be used for outside natural
gas piping underground. See 309.14 for limitations.
Material
ASTM Standard
Polyethylene (PE- 2406CD) D 1248
Orange Pipe SDR 11
All plastic pipe approved for use with natural gas shall bear the manufacturer's name or trademark, pipe
size, plastic pipe material designation code, standard dimension ration number, the ASTM specifications to
which the pipe conforms, ASTM D 2513, and the production code number to indicate resins used In
manufacturing. See 314 for outside use.
(8) Section 306.4.2 is amended to read:
306.4.2 -- Plastics.
Plastic pipe, tubing and fittings shall be joined by either, heat fusion method, or by means of compression
couplings or flanges. The joining method used shall be compatible with the materials being joined. The
recommendations of the manufacture shall also be taken into consideration when determining which method
is to be used. The following shall be observed when making such joints:
1. Plastic pipe or tubing shall not be threaded.
2. Heat - fusion joints shall be made in accordance with qualified procedures which have been established and
proven by test to produce gas -tight joints at least as strong as the pipe or tubing being joined.
3. Heat - fusion shall be made between different kinds of plastic.
4. Heat - fusion or mechanical joints shall be used when joining polyethylene (PE) pipe, tubing or fittings.
Joints made with compression couplings shall be assembled in accordance with compression coupling
manufacturer's recommendation. Only compression couplings designed for use with plastic pipe in natural
gas service shall be used.
S. Flanges or special joints may be used providing they are properly qualified by the manufacturer and
utilized in accordance with manufacturer's recommendation. Polyethylene (PE) pipe and tubing shall not
be flared.
6. When compression type mechanical joints are used, the gasket material in the fitting shall be compatible
with the plastic piping and with the gas distributed by the gas company. An internal tubular rigid stiffener
shall be used In conjunction with the fitting and the stiffener shall be flush with end of the pipe or tubing
and extend at least to the outside end of the compression fitting when Installed. The stiffener shall be free
of rough or sharp edges and shall not be a force fit in the plastic. A split tubular stiffener shall not be used.
7. The joint shall be designated and installed to effectively sustain the longitudinal pull -out forces caused
by contraction of the piping or by external loading.
(9) Section 101.4. Section 101.4 is deleted.
(10) Section 103.5 is amended to read:
103.5--Contractor License.
All persons who engage in or work at the actual Installation, alteration, repair and renovating of plumbing
shall possess either a master or journeyman plumber's license In accordance with the provisions of the state
plumbing license law.
A. Definitions. The word or term "plumbing" as used In the plumbing license law means and shall Include:
1. All piping, fixtures, appurtenances and appliances for supply or recirculation of water, gas, liquids and
drainage or elimination of sewage, Including disposal systems or any combination thereof, for all personal
or domestic purposes in and about buildings where a person or persons live, work or assemble; all piping,
fixtures, appurtenances and appliances outside a building connecting the building with the source of water,
gas, or other liquid supply, or combinations thereof, on the premises, or the main In the street, alley or at
the curb; all piping, fixtures, appurtenances, appliances, drain or waste pipes carrying wastewater or sewage
from or within a building to the sewer service lateral at the curb or in the street or alley or other disposal
or septic terminal holding private or domestic sewage;
2. The installation, repair, service, and maintenance of all piping, fixtures, appurtenances and appliances
in and about buildings where a person or persons live, work or assemble, for a supply of gas, water, liquids,
or any combination thereof, or disposal of wastewater or sewage.
B. Exemptions. The following acts, work and conduct shall be expressly permitted without license:
1. Plumbing work done by a property owner In a building owned and occupied by him as his homestead.
2. Plumbing work done by anyone who is regularly employed as or acting as a maintenance man or
maintenance engineer, incidental to and In connection with the business In which he is employed or
engaged, and who does not engage in the occupation of a plumber for the general public; construction,
installation and maintenance work done upon the premises or equipment of a railroad by an employee
thereof who does not engage in the occupation of a plumber for the general public; construction, Installation
and maintenance work done upon the premises or equipment of a railroad by an employee thereof who
does not engage in the occupation of a plumber for the general public; and plumbing work done by persons
engaged by any public service company In the laying, maintenance and operation of Its service mains or lines
to the point of measurement and the installation, alteration, adjustment, repair, removal and renovation of
all types of appurtenances, equipment and appliances, including doing all that Is necessary to render the
appliances usable or serviceable; appliance Installation and service work done by anyone who Is an appliance
dealer or is employed by an appliance dealer, and acting as an appliance Installation man or appliance service
man In connection with appliances to existing piping installations; water treatment Installation, exchanges,
services, or repairs. Provided, however, that all work and service herein named or referred to shall be
subject to inspection and approval in accordance with the terms of all local valid city or municipal
ordinances.
3. Plumbing work done by a licensed irrigator or licensed installer when working and licensed under the
Licensed Irrigators Act, Article 8751, V.T.C.S. as amended.
4. Plumbing work done by an LP Gas installer when working and licensed under Chapter 113, Natural
Resources Code, as amended.
S. Any water treatment dealer or his employee when certified in accordance with Section 3A of the
"Plumbing License Law."
(11) Section 103.7.4. Section 103.7.4 Is deleted.
SECTION 6: Any person, firm or corporation violating any provision of this ordinance or failing to
comply with any requirement of the ordinance will be guilty of a misdemeanor and subject
to a fine of up to five hundred ($500.00) dollars upon conviction. Each day during or
upon which a person shall violate or continue violation of any provision of this ordinance
shall constitute a distinct and separate offense. The violation of any provision of the
ordinance or the failure to comply with any requirement of this ordinance shall each
constitute a distinct and separate offense. Texas Local Government Code § 53.001 and
§ 54.001.
SECTION 7: If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this ordinance is for any
reason held invalid or unconstitutional, such portion shall be deemed a separate, distinct and
independent provision and such holding shall not affect any of the remaining provisions of
this ordinance.
SECTION 8: All ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict with the provisions of this ordinance are
hereby repealed; provided, however, that such repeal shall be only to the extent of such
inconsistency and In all other respects this ordinance shall be cumulative of other ordinances
regulating and governing the subject matter covered by this ordinance.
SECTION 9: This ordinance shall take effect ten (10) days after its passage by the City Council. The
City Secretary shall publish the caption of this ordinance In the official City newspaper at
least twice within ten ( 10) days of its passage. Texas Local Government Code § 52.013.
PASSED AND APPROVED THIS 25TH DAY OF NOVEMBER, 1997.
THE CITY OF Hl1NTS ILLE
by William B. r1reen, Mayor
A EST:
APP