City of Lockport, NY Chapter 66 Building Construction Administration

[HISTORY: Adopted by the Common Council of the City of Lockport 12-14-2022 by L.L. No. 5-2022.[1]. Amendments noted where applicable.]

[1] Editor's Note: This local law superseded former Ch. 66, Building Construction Administration, adopted 6-4-2008 by L.L. No. 3-2008, as amended.

§ 66-1 Purpose and intent.

This chapter provides for the administration and enforcement of the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code (the Uniform Code) and the State Energy Conservation Construction Code (the Energy Code) in this City of Lockport. This chapter is adopted pursuant to § 10 of the Municipal Home Rule Law. Except as otherwise provided in the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, other state law, or other section of this chapter, all buildings, structures, and premises, regardless of use or occupancy, are subject to the provisions of this chapter.

§ 66-2 Definitions.

In this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings shown in this section:

ASSEMBLY AREA

An area in any building, or in any portion of a building, that is primarily used or intended to be used for gathering 50 or more persons for uses including, but not limited to, amusement, athletic, entertainment, social, or other recreational functions; patriotic, political, civic, educational, or religious functions; food or drink consumption; awaiting transportation; or similar purposes.

BUILDING PERMIT

A building permit, construction permit, demolition permit, or other permit that authorizes the performance of work. The term "building permit" shall also include a building permit which is renewed, amended, or extended pursuant to any provision of this chapter.

CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE

A document issued by the City of Lockport stating that work was done in compliance with approved construction documents and the codes.

CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY

A document issued by the City of Lockport certifying that the building or structure, or portion thereof, complies with the approved construction documents that have been submitted to, and approved by, the City of Lockport and indicating that the building or structure, or portion thereof, is in a condition suitable for occupancy.

CITY

The City of Lockport.

CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

The Code Enforcement Officer appointed pursuant to Subsection B of § 66-3 of this chapter.

CODE ENFORCEMENT PERSONNEL

Includes the Code Enforcement Officer and all inspectors.

CODES

The Uniform Code and Energy Code.

ENERGY CODE

The New York State Energy Conservation Construction Code adopted pursuant to Article 11 of the Energy Law.

FCNYS

The 2020 Fire Code of New York State as currently incorporated by reference in 19 NYCRR Part 1225.

FIRE SAFETY AND PROPERTY MAINTENANCE INSPECTION

An inspection performed to determine compliance with the applicable provisions of 19 NYCRR Part 1225 and the publications incorporated therein by reference and the applicable provisions of 19 NYCRR Part 1226 and the publications incorporated therein by reference.

HAZARDOUS PRODUCTION MATERIALS

A solid, liquid, or gas associated with semiconductor manufacturing that has a degree-of-hazard rating in health, flammability, or instability of Class 3 or 4, as ranked by NFPA 704 (Standard Systems for Identification of the Hazards of Materials for Emergency Response), and which is used directly in research, laboratory, or production processes which have, as their end product, materials that are not hazardous.

INSPECTOR

An inspector appointed pursuant to Subsection D of § 66-3 of this chapter.

MOBILE FOOD PREPARATION VEHICLES

Vehicles that contain cooking equipment that produces smoke or grease-laden vapors for the purpose of preparing and serving food to the public. Vehicles intended for private recreation shall not be considered mobile food preparation vehicles.

OPERATING PERMIT

A permit issued pursuant to § 66-10 of this chapter. The term "operating permit" shall also include an operating permit which is renewed, amended, or extended pursuant to any provision of this chapter.

ORDER TO REMEDY

An order issued by the Code Enforcement Officer pursuant to Subsection A of § 66-23 of this chapter.

PERMIT HOLDER

The person to whom a building permit has been issued.

PERSON

Includes an individual, corporation, limited-liability company, partnership, limited partnership, business trust, estate, trust, association, or any other legal or commercial entity of any kind or description.

PMCNYS

The 2020 Property Maintenance Code of New York State as currently incorporated by reference in 19 NYCRR Part 1226.

RCNYS

The 2020 Residential Code of New York State as currently incorporated by reference in 19 NYCRR Part 1220.

REPAIR

The reconstruction, replacement, or renewal of any part of an existing building for the purpose of its maintenance or to correct damage.

STOP-WORK ORDER

An order issued pursuant to § 66-6 of this chapter.

SUGARHOUSE

A building used, in whole or in part, for the collection, storage, or processing of maple sap into maple syrup and/or maple sugar.

TEMPORARY CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY

A certificate issued pursuant to § 66-7D of this chapter.

UNIFORM CODE

The New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code, Subchapter A of Chapter XXXIII of Title 19 of the NYCRR, adopted pursuant to Article 18 of the Executive Law.

§ 66-3 Office of Code Enforcement Officer created; powers and duties, appointment of inspectors.

A. The Office of Code Enforcement Officer is hereby created. The Code Enforcement Officer shall administer and enforce all the provisions of the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, and this chapter. The Code Enforcement Officer shall have the following powers and duties:

(1) To receive, review, and approve or disapprove applications for building permits, certificates of occupancy, certificates of compliance, temporary certificates of occupancy, and operating permits, and the plans, specifications, and construction documents submitted with such applications;

(2) Upon approval of such applications, to issue building permits, certificates of occupancy, certificates of compliance, temporary certificates of occupancy, and operating permits, and to include in terms and conditions as the Code Enforcement Officer may determine to be appropriate building permits, certificates of occupancy, certificates of compliance, temporary certificates of occupancy, and operating permits;

(3) To conduct construction inspections; inspections to be made prior to the issuance of certificates of occupancy, certificates of compliance, temporary certificates of occupancy, and operating permits; fire safety and property maintenance inspections; inspections incidental to the investigation of complaints; and all other inspections required or permitted under any provision of this chapter;

(4) To issue stop-work orders;

(5) To review and investigate complaints;

(6) To issue orders pursuant to Subsection A of § 66-23, Orders to remedy; appearance tickets; penalties; injunctive relief of this chapter;

(7) To maintain records;

(8) To collect fees as set by the Common Council of this City;

(9) To pursue administrative enforcement actions and proceedings;

(10) In consultation with this City's attorney, to pursue such legal actions and proceedings as may be necessary to enforce the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, and this chapter, or to abate or correct conditions not in compliance with the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, or this chapter; and

(11) To exercise all other powers and fulfill all other duties conferred upon the Code Enforcement Officer by this chapter.

B. The Code Enforcement Officer shall be appointed by the Mayor of the City of Lockport. The Code Enforcement Officer shall possess background experience related to building construction or fire prevention and shall, within the time prescribed by law, obtain such basic training, in-service training, advanced in-service training, andother training as the State of New York shall require for code enforcement personnel, and the Code Enforcement Officer shall obtain certification from the Department of State pursuant to the Executive Law and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

C. In the event that the Code Enforcement Officer is unable to serve as such for any reason, another individual shall be appointed by the Mayor of the City of Lockport to serve as Acting Code Enforcement Officer. The Acting Code Enforcement Officer shall, during the term of their appointment, exercise all powers and fulfill all duties conferred upon the Code Enforcement Officer by this chapter.

D. One or more inspectors may be appointed by the Mayor to act under the supervision and direction of the Code Enforcement Officer and to assist the Code Enforcement Officer in the exercise of the powers and fulfillment of the duties conferred upon the Code Enforcement Officer by this chapter. Each inspector shall, within the time prescribed by law, obtain such basic training, in-service training, advanced in-service training, and other training as the State of New York shall require for code enforcement personnel, and each inspector shall obtain certification from the Department of State pursuant to the Executive Law and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

E. The compensation for the Code Enforcement Officer and inspectors shall be fixed from time to time by the Common Council of this City of Lockport.

§ 66-4 Building permits required; exemptions.

A. Building permits required. Except as otherwise provided in Subsection B of this section, a building permit shall be required for any work which must conform to the Uniform Code and/or the Energy Code, including, but not limited to, the construction, enlargement, alteration, improvement, removal, relocation, or demolition of any building or structure, or any portion thereof, and the installation of a solid-fuel-burning heating appliance, chimney, or flue in any dwelling unit. No person shall commence any work for which a building permit is required without first having obtained a building permit from the City.

B. Exemptions. No building permit shall be required for work in any of the following categories:

(1) Construction of temporary sets and scenery associated with motion picture, television, and theater uses;

(2) Installation of window awnings supported by an exterior wall of a one- or two-family dwelling or multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses);

(3) Installation of partitions or movable cases less than five feet nine inches in height;

(4) Painting, wallpapering, tiling, carpeting, or other similar finish work;

(5) Installation of listed portable electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation or cooling equipment or appliances;

(6) Replacement of any equipment, provided the replacement does not alter the equipment's listing or render it inconsistent with the equipment's original specifications; or

C. Exemption not deemed authorization to perform noncompliant work. The exemption from the requirement to obtain a building permit for work in any category set forth in Subsection B of this section shall not be deemed an authorization for work to be performed in violation of the Uniform Code or the Energy Code.

D. Applications for building permits. Applications for a building permit shall be made, in writing, on a form provided by or otherwise acceptable to the Code Enforcement Officer. The application shall be signed by the owner of the property where the work is to be performed or an authorized agent of the owner. The application shall include such information as the Code Enforcement Officer deems sufficient to permit a determination by the Code Enforcement Officer that the intended work complies with all applicable requirements of the Uniform Code and the Energy Code. The application shall include or be accompanied by the following information and documentation:

(1) A description of the location, nature, extent, and scope of the proposed work;

(2) The Tax Map number and the street address of any affected building or structure;

(3) The occupancy classification of any affected building or structure;

(4) Where applicable, a statement of special inspections prepared in accordance with the provisions of the Uniform Code; and

(5) At least two sets of construction documents (drawings and/or specifications) which:

(a) Describe the location, nature, extent, and scope of the proposed work;

(b) Show that the proposed work will conform to the applicable provisions of the codes;

(c) Show the location, construction, size, and character of all portions of the means of egress;

(d) Show a representation of the building thermal envelope;

(e) Show structural information including but not limited to braced wall designs, the size, section, and relative locations of structural members, design loads, and other pertinent structural information;

(f) Show the proposed structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, fire protection, and other service systems of the building;

(g) Include a written statement indicating compliance with the Energy Code;

(h) Include a site plan, drawn to scale and drawn in accordance with an accurate boundary survey, showing the size and location of new construction and existing structures and appurtenances on the site, distances from lot lines, the established street grades and the proposed finished grades, and, as applicable, flood hazard areas, floodways, and design flood elevations; and

(i) Evidence that the documents were prepared by a licensed and registered architect in accordance with Article 147 of the New York State Education Law or a licensed and registered professional engineer in accordance with Article 145 of the New York State Education Law and practice guidelines, including but not limited to the design professional's seal which clearly and legibly shows both the design professional's name and license number and is signed by the design professional whose name appears on the seal in such a manner that neither the name nor the number is obscured in any way, the design professional's registration expiration date, the design professional's firm name (if not a sole practitioner), and, if the documents are submitted by a professional engineering firm and not a sole practitioner professional engineer, the firm's certificate of authorization number.

E. Construction documents. Construction documents will not be accepted as part of an application for a building permit unless they satisfy the requirements set forth in Subsection D(5) of this section. Construction documents which are accepted as part of the application for a building permit shall be marked as accepted by the Code Enforcement Officer in writing or by stamp or, in the case of electronic media, an electronic marking. One set of the accepted construction documents shall be retained by the Code Enforcement Officer, and one set of the accepted construction documents shall be returned to the applicant to be kept at the work site so as to be available for use by the Code Enforcement personnel. However, the return of a set of accepted construction documents to the applicant shall not be construed as authorization to commence work, nor as an indication that a building permit will be issued. Work shall not be commenced until and unless a building permit is issued.

F. Issuance of building permits. An application for a building permit shall be examined to ascertain whether the proposed work is in compliance with the applicable requirements of the Uniform Code and Energy Code. The Code Enforcement Officer shall issue a building permit if the proposed work is in compliance with the applicable requirements of the Uniform Code and Energy Code.

G. Building permits to be displayed. Building permits shall be visibly displayed at the work site and shall remain visible until the authorized work has been completed.

H. Work to be in accordance with construction documents. All work shall be performed in accordance with the construction documents which were submitted with and accepted as part of the application for the building permit. The building permit shall contain such a directive. The permit holder shall immediately notify the Code Enforcement Officer of any change occurring during the course of the work. The building permit shall contain such a directive. If the Code Enforcement Officer determines that such change warrants a new or amended building permit, such change shall not be made until and unless a new or amended building permit reflecting such change is issued.

I. Time limits. Building permits shall become invalid unless the authorized work is commenced within six months following the date of issuance. Building permits shall expire 12 months after the date of issuance. A building permit which has become invalid or which has expired pursuant to this subsection may be renewed upon application by the permit holder, payment of the applicable fee, and approval of the application by the Code Enforcement Officer.

J. Revocation or suspension of building permits. If the Code Enforcement Officer determines that a building permit was issued in error because of incorrect, inaccurate, or incomplete information, or that the work for which a building permit was issued violates the Uniform Code or the Energy Code, the Code Enforcement Officer shall revoke the building permit or suspend the building permit until such time as the permit holder demonstrates that all work then completed is in compliance with all applicable provisions of the Uniform Code and the Energy Code and all work then proposed to be performed shall be in compliance with all applicable provisions of the Uniform Code and the Energy Code.

K. Fee. The fee specified in or determined in accordance with the provisions set forth in § 66-24, Fees, of this chapter must be paid at the time of submission of an application for a building permit, for an amended building permit, or for renewal of a building permit.

§ 66-5 Construction inspections.

A. Work to remain accessible and exposed. Work shall remain accessible and exposed until inspected and accepted by the Code Enforcement Officer or by an inspector authorized by the Code Enforcement Officer. The permit holder shall notify the Code Enforcement Officer when any element of work described in Subsection B of this section is ready for inspection.

B. Elements of work to be inspected. The following elements of the construction process shall be inspected, where applicable:

(1) Work site prior to the issuance of a building permit;

(2) Footing and foundation;

(3) Preparation for concrete slab;

(4) Framing;

(5) Structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, fire protection, and other similar service systems of the building;

(6) Fire-resistant construction;

(7) Fire-resistant penetrations;

(8) Solid-fuel-burning heating appliances, chimneys, flues, or gas vents;

(9) Inspections required to demonstrate Energy Code compliance, including but not limited to insulation, fenestration, air leakage, system controls, mechanical equipment size, and, where required, minimum fan efficiencies, programmable thermostats, energy recovery, whole-house ventilation, plumbing heat traps, and high-performance lighting and controls;

(10) Installation, connection, and assembly of factory manufactured buildings and manufactured homes; and

(11) A final inspection after all work authorized by the building permit has been completed.

C. Remote inspections. At the discretion of the Code Enforcement Officer or inspector authorized to perform construction inspections, a remote inspection may be performed in lieu of an in-person inspection when, in the opinion of the Code Enforcement Officer or such authorized inspector, the remote inspection can be performed to the same level and quality as an in-person inspection and the remote inspection shows to the satisfaction of the Code Enforcement Officer or by such authorized inspector that the elements of the construction process conform with the applicable requirements of the Uniform Code and Energy Code. Should a remote inspection not afford the Code Enforcement Officer or such authorized inspector sufficient information to make a determination, an in-person inspection shall be performed.

D. Inspection results. After inspection, the work or a portion thereof shall be noted as satisfactory as completed or the permit holder shall be notified as to the manner in which the work fails to comply with the Uniform Code or Energy Code, including a citation to the specific code provision or provisions that have not been met. Work not in compliance with any applicable provision of the Uniform Code or Energy Code shall remain exposed until such work shall have been brought into compliance with all applicable provisions of the Uniform Code and the Energy Code, reinspected, and found satisfactory as completed.

E. Fee. The fee specified in or determined in accordance with the provisions set forth in § 66-24, Fees, of this chapter must be paid prior to or at the time of each inspection performed pursuant to this section.

§ 66-6 Stop-work orders.

A. Authority to issue. The Code Enforcement Officer is authorized to issue stop-work orders pursuant to this section. The Code Enforcement Officer shall issue a stop-work order to halt:

(1) Any work that is determined by the Code Enforcement Officer to be contrary to any applicable provision of the Uniform Code or Energy Code, without regard to whether such work is or is not work for which a building permit is required, and without regard to whether a building permit has or has not been issued for such work; or

(2) Any work that is being conducted in a dangerous or unsafe manner in the opinion of the Code Enforcement Officer, without regard to whether such work is or is not work for which a building permit is required, and without regard to whether a building permit has or has not been issued for such work; or

(3) Any work for which a building permit is required which is being performed without the required building permit or under a building permit that has become invalid, has expired, or has been suspended or revoked.

B. Content of stop-work orders. Stop-work orders shall:

(1) Be in writing;

(2) Be dated and signed by the Code Enforcement Officer;

(3) State the reason or reasons for issuance; and

(4) If applicable, state the conditions which must be satisfied before work will be permitted to resume.

C. Service of stop-work orders. The Code Enforcement Officer shall cause the stop-work order, or a copy thereof, to be served on the owner of the affected property (and if the owner is not the permit holder, on the permit holder) personally or by certified mail. The Code Enforcement Officer shall be permitted, but not required, to cause the stop-work order, or a copy thereof, to be served on any builder, architect, tenant, contractor, subcontractor, construction superintendent, or their agents, or any other person taking part or assisting in work affected by the stop-work order, personally or by certified mail; provided, however, that failure to serve any person mentioned in this sentence shall not affect the efficacy of the stop-work order.

D. Effect of stop-work order. Upon the issuance of a stop-work order, the owner of the affected property, the permit holder, and any other person performing, taking part in, or assisting in the work shall immediately cease all work which is the subject of the stop-work order, other than work expressly authorized by the Code Enforcement Officer to correct the reason for issuing the stop-work order.

E. Remedy not exclusive. The issuance of a stop-work order shall not be the exclusive remedy available to address any event described in Subsection A of this section, and the authority to issue a stop-work order shall be in addition to, and not in substitution for or limitation of, the right and authority to pursue any other remedy or impose any other penalty under § 66-23, Orders to remedy; appearance tickets; penalties; injunctive relief, of this chapter or under any other applicable local law or state law. Any such other remedy or penalty may be pursued at any time, whether prior to, at the time of, or after the issuance of a stop-work order.

§ 66-7 Certificates of occupancy and certificates of compliance.

A. Certificates of occupancy and certificates of compliance required. A certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance shall be required for any work which is the subject of a building permit and for all structures, buildings, or portions thereof, which are converted from one use or occupancy classification or subclassification to another. Permission to use or occupy a building or structure, or portion thereof, for which a building permit was previously issued shall be granted only by issuance of a certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance.

B. Issuance of certificates of occupancy and certificates of compliance. The Code Enforcement Officer shall issue a certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance if the work which was the subject of the building permit was completed in accordance with all applicable provisions of the Uniform Code and Energy Code and, if applicable, that the structure, building or portion thereof that was converted from one use or occupancy classification or subclassification to another complies with all applicable provisions of the Uniform Code and Energy Code. The Code Enforcement Officer or an inspector authorized by the Code Enforcement Officer shall inspect the building, structure, or work prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance. In addition, where applicable, the following documents, prepared in accordance with the provisions of the Uniform Code by such person or persons as may be designated by or otherwise acceptable to the Code Enforcement Officer, at the expense of the applicant for the certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance, shall be provided to the Code Enforcement Officer prior to the issuance of the certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance:

(1) A written statement of structural observations and/or a final report of special inspections;

(2) Flood hazard certifications;

(3) A written statement of the results of tests performed to show compliance with the Energy Code; and

(4) Where applicable, the affixation of the appropriate seals, insignias, and manufacturer's data plates as required for factory manufactured buildings and/or manufactured homes.

C. Contents of certificates of occupancy and certificates of compliance. A certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance shall contain the following information:

(1) The building permit number, if any;

(2) The date of issuance of the building permit, if any;

(3) The name (if any), address and Tax Map number of the property;

(4) If the certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance is not applicable to an entire structure, a description of that portion of the structure for which the certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance is issued;

(5) The use and occupancy classification of the structure;

(6) The type of construction of the structure;

(7) The occupant load of the assembly areas in the structure, if any;

(8) Any special conditions imposed in connection with the issuance of the building permit; and

(9) The signature of the Code Enforcement Officer issuing the certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance and the date of issuance.

D. Temporary certificate of occupancy. The Code Enforcement Officer shall be permitted to issue a temporary certificate of occupancy allowing the temporary occupancy of a building or structure, or a portion thereof, prior to completion of the work which is the subject of a building permit. However, in no event shall the Code Enforcement Officer issue a temporary certificate of occupancy unless the Code Enforcement Officer determines 1) that the building or structure, or the portion thereof covered by the temporary certificate of occupancy, may be occupied safely, 2) that any required fire and life safety components, such as fire protection equipment and fire, smoke, carbon monoxide, and heat detectors and alarms are installed and operational, and 3) that all required means of egress from the structure have been provided. The Code Enforcement Officer may include in a temporary certificate of occupancy such terms and conditions as he or she deems necessary or appropriate to ensure the health and safety of the persons occupying and using the building or structure and/or performing further construction work in the building or structure. A temporary certificate of occupancy shall be effective for a period of time, not to exceed six months, which shall be determined by the Code Enforcement Officer and specified in the temporary certificate of occupancy. During the specified period of effectiveness of the temporary certificate of occupancy, the permit holder shall undertake to bring the building or structure into full compliance with all applicable provisions of the Uniform Code and the Energy Code.

E. Revocation or suspension of certificates. If the Code Enforcement Officer determines that a certificate of occupancy, Certification of Compliance, or a temporary certificate of occupancy was issued in error or on the basis of incorrect information, and if the relevant deficiencies are not corrected to the satisfaction of the Code Enforcement Officer within such period of time as shall be specified by the Code Enforcement Officer, the Code Enforcement Officer shall revoke or suspend such certificate.

F. Fee. The fee specified in or determined in accordance with the provisions set forth in § 66-24, Fees, of this chapter must be paid at the time of submission of an application for a certificate of occupancy, certificate of compliance, or for temporary certificate of occupancy.

§ 66-8 Notification regarding fire or explosion.

The Chief of the Fire Department providing firefighting services for a property within this City shall promptly notify the Code Enforcement Officer of any fire or explosion involving any structural damage, fuel-burning appliance, chimney, or gas vent.

§ 66-9 Unsafe buildings, structures, and equipment and conditions of imminent danger.

Unsafe buildings, structures, and equipment and conditions of imminent danger in this City shall be identified and addressed in accordance with the procedures established by City Code Chapter 72, as now in effect or as hereafter amended from time to time.

§ 66-10 Operating permits.

A. Operation permits required.

(1) Operating permits shall be required for conducting any process or activity or for operating any type of building, structure, or facility listed below:

(a) Manufacturing, storing, or handling hazardous materials in quantities exceeding those listed in the applicable Maximum Allowable Quantity tables found in Chapter 50 of the FCNYS;

(b) Buildings, structures, facilities, processes, and/or activities that are within the scope and/or permit requirements of the chapter or section title of the FCNYS as follows:

[1] Chapter 22, "Combustible Dust-Producing Operations." Facilities where the operation produces combustible dust;

[2] Chapter 24, "Flammable Finishes." Operations utilizing flammable or combustible liquids, or the application of combustible powders regulated by Chapter 24 of the FCNYS;

[3] Chapter 25, "Fruit and Crop Ripening." Operating a fruit- or crop-ripening facility or conducting a fruit-ripening process using ethylene gas;

[4] Chapter 26, "Fumigation and Insecticidal Fogging." Conducting fumigation or insecticidal fogging operations in buildings, structures, and spaces, except for fumigation or insecticidal fogging performed by the occupant of a detached one-family dwelling;

[5] Chapter 31, "Tents, temporary Special Event Structures, and Other Membrane Structures." Operating an air-supported temporary membrane structure, a temporary special event structure, or a tent where approval is required pursuant to Chapter 31 of the FCNYS;

[6] Chapter 32, "High-Piled Combustible Storage." High-piled combustible storage facilities with more than 500 square feet (including aisles) of high-piled storage;

[7] Chapter 34, "Tire Rebuilding and Tire Storage." Operating a facility that stores in excess of 2,500 cubic feet of scrap tires or tire by-products or operating a tire rebuilding plant;

[8] Chapter 35, "Welding and Other Hot Work." Performing public exhibitions and demonstrations where hot work is conducted, use of hot work, welding, or cutting equipment, inside or on a structure, except an operating permit is not required where work is conducted under the authorization of a building permit or where performed by the occupant of a detached one- or two-family dwelling;

[9] Chapter 40, "Sugarhouse Alternative Activity Provisions." Conducting an alternative activity at a sugarhouse;

[10] Chapter 56, "Explosives and Fireworks." Possessing, manufacturing, storing, handling, selling, or using explosives, fireworks, or other pyrotechnic special effects materials, except the outdoor use of sparkling devices as defined by Penal Law § 270;

[11] Section 307, "Open Burning, Recreational Fires and Portable Outdoor Fireplaces." Conducting open burning, not including recreational fires and portable outdoor fireplaces;

[12] Section 308, "Open Flames." Removing paint with a torch or using open flames, fire, and burning in connection with assembly areas or educational occupancies; and

[13] Section 319, "Mobile Food Preparation Vehicles." Operating a mobile food preparation vehicle in accordance with the permitting requirements established by this chapter, as now in effect or as hereafter amended from time to time.

(c) Energy storage systems, where the system exceeds the values shown in Table 1206.1 of the FCNYS or exceeds the permitted aggregate ratings in Section R327.5 of the RCNYS;

(d) Buildings containing one or more assembly areas;

(e) Outdoor events where the planned attendance exceeds 1,000 persons;

(f) Facilities that store, handle or use hazardous production materials;

(g) Parking garages as defined in Subsection A of § 66-13 of this chapter;

(h) Buildings whose use or occupancy classification may pose a substantial potential hazard to public safety.

(2) Any person who proposes to undertake any activity or to operate any type of building listed in this Subsection A shall be required to obtain an operating permit prior to commencing such activity or operation.

B. Applications for operating permits. An application for an operating permit shall be in writing on a form provided by or otherwise acceptable to the Code Enforcement Officer. Such application shall include such information as the Code Enforcement Officer deems sufficient to permit a determination by the Code Enforcement Officer that quantities, materials, and activities conform to the requirements of the Uniform Code. If the Code Enforcement Officer determines that tests or reports are necessary to verify conformance, such tests or reports shall be performed or provided by such person or persons as may be designated by or otherwise acceptable to the Code Enforcement Officer, at the expense of the applicant.

C. Inspections. The Code Enforcement Officer or an inspector authorized by the Code Enforcement Officer shall inspect the subject premises prior to the issuance of an operating permit. Such inspections shall be performed either in person or remotely. Remote inspections in lieu of in-person inspections may be performed when, at the discretion of the Code Enforcement Officer or an inspector authorized by the Code Enforcement Officer, the remote inspection can be performed to the same level and quality as an in-person inspection and the remote inspection shows to the satisfaction of the Code Enforcement Officer or inspector authorized by the Code Enforcement Officer that the premises conform with the applicable requirements of the Uniform Code and the code enforcement program. Should a remote inspection not afford the City sufficient information to make a determination, an in-person inspection shall be performed. After inspection, the premises shall be noted as satisfactory and the operating permit shall be issued, or the operating permit holder shall be notified as to the manner in which the premises fail to comply with either or both of the Uniform Code and the code enforcement program, including a citation to the specific provision or provisions that have not been met.

D. Multiple activities. In any circumstance in which more than one activity listed in Subsection A of this section is to be conducted at a location, the Code Enforcement Officer may require a separate operating permit for each such activity or the Code Enforcement Officer may, in their discretion, issue a single operating permit to apply to all such activities.

E. Duration of operating permits.

(1) Operating permits shall be issued for a specified period of time consistent with local conditions, but in no event to exceed as follows:

(a) One hundred eighty days for tents, special event structures, and other membrane structures;

(b) Sixty days for alternative activities at a sugarhouse;

(c) One year for all other activities, structures, and operations identified in Subsection A of this section.

(2) The effective period of each operating permit shall be specified in the operating permit. An operating permit may be reissued or renewed upon application to the Code Enforcement Officer, payment of the applicable fee, and approval of such application by the Code Enforcement Officer.

F. Revocation or suspension of operating permits. If the Code Enforcement Officer determines that any activity or building for which an operating permit was issued does not comply with any applicable provision of the Uniform Code, such operating permit shall be revoked or suspended.

G. Fee. The fee specified in or determined in accordance with the provisions set forth in § 66-24, Fees, of this chapter must be paid at the time of submission of an application for an operating permit, for an amended operating permit, or for reissue or renewal of an operating permit.

§ 66-11 Fire safety and property maintenance inspections.

A. Inspections required. Fire safety and property maintenance inspections of buildings and structures shall be performed by the Code Enforcement Officer or an inspector designated by the Code Enforcement Officer at the following intervals:

(1) At least once every 12 months for buildings which contain an assembly area;

(2) At least once every 12 months for public and private schools and colleges, including any buildings of such schools or colleges containing classrooms, dormitories, fraternities, sororities, laboratories, physical education, dining, or recreational facilities; and

(3) At least once every 36 months for multiple dwellings and all nonresidential occupancies.

B. Remote inspections. At the discretion of the Code Enforcement Officer or inspector authorized to perform fire safety and property maintenance inspections, a remote inspection may be performed in lieu of in-person inspections when, in the opinion of the Code Enforcement Officer or such authorized inspector, the remote inspection can be performed to the same level and quality as an in-person inspection and the remote inspection shows to the satisfaction of the Code Enforcement Officer or such authorized inspector that the premises conform with the applicable provisions of 19 NYCRR Part 1225 and the publications incorporated therein by reference and the applicable provisions of 19 NYCRR Part 1226 and the publications incorporated therein by reference. Should a remote inspection not afford the Code Enforcement Officer or such authorized inspector sufficient information to make a determination, an in-person inspection shall be performed.

C. Inspections permitted. In addition to the inspections required by Subsection A of this section, a fire safety and property maintenance inspection of any building, structure, use, or occupancy, or of any dwelling unit, may also be performed by the Code Enforcement Officer or an inspector authorized to perform fire safety and property maintenance inspections at any time upon:

(1) The request of the owner of the property to be inspected or an authorized agent of such owner;

(2) Receipt by the Code Enforcement Officer of a written statement alleging that conditions or activities failing to comply with the Uniform Code or Energy Code exist; or

(3) Receipt by the Code Enforcement Officer of any other information, reasonably believed by the Code Enforcement Officer to be reliable, giving rise to reasonable cause to believe that conditions or activities failing to comply with the Uniform Code or Energy Code exist; provided, however, that nothing in this subsection shall be construed as permitting an inspection under any circumstances under which a court order or warrant permitting such inspection is required, unless such court order or warrant shall have been obtained.

D. OFPC inspections. Nothing in this section or in any other provision of this chapter shall supersede, limit, or impair the powers, duties and responsibilities of the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control ("OFPC") and the New York State Fire Administrator or other authorized entity under Executive Law § 156-e and Education Law § 807-b. Notwithstanding any other provision of this section to the contrary, the Code Enforcement Officer may accept an inspection performed by the Office of Fire Prevention and Control or other authorized entity pursuant to §§ 807-a and 807-b of the Education Law and/or § 156-e of the Executive Law in lieu of a fire safety and property maintenance inspection performed by the Code Enforcement Officer or by an inspector, provided that:

(1) The Code Enforcement Officer is satisfied that the individual performing such inspection satisfies the requirements set forth in 19 NYCRR 1203.2(e);

(2) The Code Enforcement Officer is satisfied that such inspection covers all elements required to be covered by a fire safety and property maintenance inspection;

(3) Such inspections are performed no less frequently than once a year;

(4) A true and complete copy of the report of each such inspection is provided to the Code Enforcement Officer; and

(5) Upon receipt of each such report, the Code Enforcement Officer takes the appropriate action prescribed by § 66-23, Orders to remedy; appearance tickets; penalties; injunctive relief, of this chapter.

E. Fee. The fee specified in or determined in accordance with the provisions set forth in § 66-24, Fees, of this chapter must be paid prior to or at the time each inspection performed pursuant to this section. This subsection shall not apply to inspections performed by OFPC.

§ 66-12 Complaints.

The Code Enforcement Officer shall review and investigate complaints which allege or assert the existence of conditions or activities that fail to comply with the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, this chapter, or any other local law, ordinance or regulation adopted for administration and enforcement of the Uniform Code or the Energy Code. The process for responding to a complaint shall include such of the following steps as the Code Enforcement Officer may deem to be appropriate:

A. Performing an inspection of the conditions and/or activities alleged to be in violation, and documenting the results of such inspection;

B. If a violation is found to exist, providing the owner of the affected property and any other person who may be responsible for the violation with notice of the violation and opportunity to abate, correct or cure the violation, or otherwise proceeding in the manner described in § 66-23, Orders to remedy; appearance tickets; penalties; injunctive relief of this chapter;

C. If appropriate, issuing a stop-work order;

D. If a violation which was found to exist is abated or corrected, performing an inspection to ensure that the violation has been abated or corrected, preparing a final written report reflecting such abatement or correction, and filing such report with the complaint.

§ 66-13 Condition assessments of parking garages.

A. Definitions. For the purposes of this section:

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

An on-site inspection and evaluation of a parking garage for evidence of deterioration of any structural element or building component of such parking garage, evidence of the existence of any unsafe condition in such parking garage, and evidence indicating that such parking garage is an unsafe structure.

DETERIORATION

The weakening, disintegration, corrosion, rust, or decay of any structural element or building component, or any other loss of effectiveness of a structural element or building component.

PARKING GARAGE

Any building or structure, or part thereof, in which all or any part of any structural level or levels is used for parking or storage of motor vehicles, excluding:

(1) Buildings in which the only level used for parking or storage of motor vehicles is on grade;

(2) An attached or accessory structure providing parking exclusively for a detached one- or two-family dwelling; and

(3) A townhouse unit with attached parking exclusively for such unit.

PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER

An individual who is licensed or otherwise authorized under Article 145 of the Education Law to practice the profession of engineering in the State of New York and who has at least three years of experience performing structural evaluations.

RESPONSIBLE PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER

The professional engineer who performs a condition assessment, or under whose supervision a condition assessment is performed, and who seals and signs the condition assessment report. The use of the term "responsible professional engineer" shall not be construed as limiting the professional responsibility or liability of any professional engineer, or of any other licensed professional, who participates in the preparation of a condition assessment without being the responsible professional engineer for such condition assessment.

UNSAFE CONDITION

Includes the conditions identified as "unsafe" in Sections 304.1.1, 305.1.1, and 306.1.1 of the PMCNYS.

UNSAFE STRUCTURE

A structure that is so damaged, decayed, dilapidated, or structurally unsafe, or is of such faulty construction or unstable foundation, that partial or complete collapse is possible.

B. Condition assessments: general requirements. The owner or operator of each parking garage shall cause such parking garage to undergo an initial condition assessment as described in Subsection C of this section, periodic condition assessments as described in Subsection D of this section, and such additional condition assessments as may be required under Subsection E of this section. Each condition assessment shall be conducted by or under the direct supervision of a professional engineer. A written report of each condition assessment shall be prepared and provided to the City in accordance with the requirements of Subsection F of this section. Before performing a condition assessment (other than the initial condition assessment) of a parking garage, the responsible professional engineer for such condition assessment shall review all available previous condition assessment reports for such parking garage.

C. Initial condition assessment. Each parking garage shall undergo an initial condition assessment as follows:

(1) Parking garages constructed on or after August 29, 2018, shall undergo an initial condition assessment following construction and prior to a certificate of occupancy or certificate of compliance being issued for the structure.

(2) Parking garages constructed prior to August 29, 2018, shall undergo an initial condition assessment as follows:

(a) If originally constructed prior to January 1, 1984, then prior to October 1, 2019;

(b) If originally constructed between January 1, 1984, and December 31, 2002, then prior to October 1, 2020; and

(c) If originally constructed between January 1, 2003, and August 28, 2018, then prior to October 1, 2021.

(3) Any parking garage constructed prior to the effective date of this chapter that has not undergone an initial condition assessment prior to that effective date shall undergo an initial condition assessment prior to March 1, 2023.

D. Periodic condition assessments. Following the initial condition assessment of a parking garage, such parking garage shall undergo periodic condition assessments at intervals not to exceed three years.

E. Additional condition assessments.

(1) If the latest condition assessment report for a parking garage includes a recommendation by the responsible professional engineer that an additional condition assessment of such parking garage, or any portion of such parking garage, be performed before the date by which the next periodic condition assessment would be required under Subsection D of this section, the owner or operator of such parking garage shall cause such parking garage (or, if applicable, the portion of such parking garage identified by the responsible professional engineer) to undergo an additional condition assessment no later than the date recommended in such condition assessment report.

(2) If the City becomes aware of any new or increased deterioration which, in the judgment of the City, indicates that an additional condition assessment of the entire parking garage, or of the portion of the parking garage affected by such new or increased deterioration, should be performed before the date by which the next periodic condition assessment would be required under Subsection D of this section, the owner or operator of such parking garage shall cause such parking garage (or, if applicable, the portion of the parking garage affected by such new or increased deterioration) to undergo an additional condition assessment no later than the date determined by the City to be appropriate.

F. Condition assessment reports. The responsible professional engineer shall prepare, or directly supervise the preparation of, a written report of each condition assessment and shall submit such condition assessment report to the City within 14 days. Such condition assessment report shall be sealed and signed by the responsible professional engineer, and shall include:

(1) An evaluation and description of the extent of deterioration and conditions that cause deterioration that could result in an unsafe condition or unsafe structure;

(2) An evaluation and description of the extent of deterioration and conditions that cause deterioration that, in the opinion of the responsible professional engineer, should be remedied immediately to prevent an unsafe condition or unsafe structure;

(3) An evaluation and description of the unsafe conditions;

(4) An evaluation and description of the problems associated with the deterioration, conditions that cause deterioration, and unsafe conditions;

(5) An evaluation and description of the corrective options available, including the recommended time frame for remedying the deterioration, conditions that cause deterioration, and unsafe conditions;

(6) An evaluation and description of the risks associated with not addressing the deterioration, conditions that cause deterioration, and unsafe conditions;

(7) The responsible professional engineer's recommendation regarding preventative maintenance;

(8) Except in the case of the report of the initial condition assessment, the responsible professional engineer's attestation that he or she reviewed all previously prepared condition assessment reports available for such parking garage and considered the information in the previously prepared reports while performing the current condition assessment and while preparing the current report; and

(9) The responsible professional engineer's recommendation regarding the time within which the next condition assessment of the parking garage or portion thereof should be performed. In making the recommendation regarding the time within which the next condition assessment of the parking garage or portion thereof should be performed, the responsible professional engineer shall consider the parking garage's age, maintenance history, structural condition, construction materials, frequency and intensity of use, location, exposure to the elements, and any other factors deemed relevant by the responsible professional engineer in their professional judgment.

G. Review condition assessment reports. The City shall take such enforcement action or actions in response to the information in such condition assessment report as may be necessary or appropriate to protect the public from the hazards that may result from the conditions described in such report. In particular, but not by way of limitation, the City shall, by order to remedy or such other means of enforcement as the City may deem appropriate, require the owner or operator of the parking garage to repair or otherwise remedy all deterioration, all conditions that cause deterioration, and all unsafe conditions identified in such condition assessment report pursuant to Subsection F(2) and (3). All repairs and remedies shall comply with the applicable provisions of the Uniform Code. This section shall not limit or impair the right of the City to take any other enforcement action, including but not limited to suspension or revocation of a parking garage's operating permit, as may be necessary or appropriate in response to the information in a condition assessment report.

H. The City shall retain all condition assessment reports for the life of the parking garage. Upon request by a professional engineer who has been engaged to perform a condition assessment of a parking garage, and who provides the City with a written statement attesting to the fact that he or she has been so engaged, the City shall make the previously prepared condition assessment reports for such parking garage (or copies of such reports) available to such professional engineer. The City shall be permitted to require the owner or operator of the subject parking garage to pay all costs and expenses associated with making such previously prepared condition assessment reports (or copies thereof) available to the professional engineer.

I. This section shall not limit or impair the right or the obligation of the City:

(1) To perform such construction inspections as are required by § 66-5, Construction inspections, of this chapter;

(2) To perform such periodic fire safety and property maintenance inspections as are required by § 66-11, Fire safety and property maintenance inspections, of this chapter; and/or

(3) To take such enforcement action or actions as may be necessary or appropriate to respond to any condition that comes to the attention of the City by means of its own inspections or observations, by means of a complaint, or by any other means other than a condition assessment or a report of a condition assessment.

§ 66-14 Parking lots.

A. Applications and plans.

(1) All applications for a building permit shall show the required off-street parking pursuant to the area requirements of the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Lockport. If off-street parking is not required, a statement to that effect shall be endorsed on said application by the Code Enforcement Officer.

(2) Parking areas and parking lots not included in an application for a building permit require an application to be filed accompanied by plans for a permit to construct same and shall show the layout and location of off-street parking and loading areas, layout of the individual parking spaces, type and thickness of pavement, landscaping, drainage, details, fences, barricades, drives, aprons, sidewalks, signs and public lighting.

B. Restrictions.

(1) No part of any street right-of-way shall be included in a parking lot.

(2) Individual parking spaces shall be marked on the pavement when the lot is complete.

(3) Parking lots at all times shall be clean and orderly and free of rubbish and weeds and shall not be used for the storage of vehicles and materials of any description.

C. Applicability. The provisions of this section will not apply to single-family dwellings in the R-1- and R-2-zoned Districts unless there exists an accessory use which requires more than a normal residential parking area.

D. Paving. Every parking lot shall be paved with the type material and thickness sufficient to support the loads to be imposed and with a surface not subject to excessive dusting.

E. Drainage.

(1) All parking lots shall be so graded that stormwater will flow away from any building and will not drain upon abutting properties, sidewalks and pavements.

(2) Drainage for all parking lots shall be designed in accordance with standards and recommendations in the Storm Drainage Manual, published by the Erie and Niagara Counties Regional Planning Board, using the rational method and a minimum recurrent storm of 10 years, and shall lead to an approved public outfall.

(3) All drainage pipes and appurtenances shall be installed by a licensed master plumber and only after receiving a permit from the Senior Plumbing inspector and paying the prescribed fee.

F. Barricades.

(1) Every parking space that abuts a property line shall be provided with a barricade to prevent the encroachment of vehicles over the property line.

(2) The following barricades are approved for use in parking lots in the City of Lockport:

(a) The following, provided that they are located four feet from any property line and installed in accordance with Drawing No. 1:[1]

[1] City of Lockport standard concrete curb.

[2] Reinforced concrete bumper.

[3] Reinforced timber bumper.

[1] Editor's Note: Drawing No. 1 is on file in the office of the Building Inspector.

(b) The following, provided that they are located two feet from any property line and installed in accordance with Drawing No. 1:[2]

[1] Guardrail bumper.

[2] Welded four-inch-pipe bumper.

[3] Pole and timber bumper.

[2] Editor's Note: Drawing No. 1 is on file in the office of the Building Inspector.

(3) The color of all barricades shall be such that they contrast with the pavement and are readily discernible at all times of the day or night.

(4) Barricades other than the typical barricades listed above may be installed upon approval of the Code Enforcement Officer. A buffer zone, shrubs, fencing, etc., shall be installed and maintained for privacy of adjoining properties.

G. Aprons.

(1) All aprons installed on driveways connecting to a City street shall conform to the City of Lockport Engineering Department Specifications available at the Engineering Department of the City of Lockport.

(2) All apron widths connecting to a City street or a state arterial shall be installed in accordance with approved plans and City and state laws, rules and regulations.

§ 66-15 Sidewalks.

A. General requirements.

(1) Sidewalks will be required along the entire street frontage of a lot or parcel that abuts a major collector or local street when the lot or parcel is developed and along the entire frontage of such other lots or parcels as the Planning Board or Common Council shall direct. Walks along City streets shall be located in accordance with Figure 1.[1] If the street is a state highway, the walks shall be located in accordance with the work permit issued therefor.

[1] Editor's Note: Figure 1 is on file in the office of the Building Inspector.

(2) The Planning Board, as a part of the site plan approval, or the Common Council may waive the requirement for a street walk on a given parcel or development.

(3) Sidewalks need not be installed on new collector and local streets unless required by the Planning Board as part of an approved site plan or by the Common Council, in which event they shall be located in accordance with Figure 1.[2]

[2] Editor's Note: Figure 1 is on file in the office of the Building Inspector.

(4) Sidewalks shall be installed at the time of development along the entire street frontage of any lot or parcel abutting a collector or local street existing on the effective date of this chapter, unless waived by resolution of the Planning Board as a part of the approved site plan or by the Common Council.

(5) "Site plan," as used in this chapter, shall mean the document and/or procedure as defined in the Zoning Ordinance.[3] The determination of whether a particular street is a major collector, arterial or local street shall be made by the Planning Board either as part of the site plan review or as a separate determination. (See Subdivision Regulations.[4])

[3] Editor's Note: See Ch. 190, Zoning.

[4] Editor's Note: See Ch. 162, Subdivision of Land.

B. Construction standards.

(1) Sidewalks shall be a minimum of four feet wide and a maximum of five feet wide in all residential areas. In all other areas, the sidewalk width shall be determined by the Planning Board.

(2) Elevation and grading.

(a) The elevation of the sidewalk shall be the curb elevation, plus 1/4 inch to one foot for the distance measured from the curbline to the outer line of the sidewalk. Where no curb exists, the elevation of the crown of the street shall be used in place of the curb elevation. Drives shall be so graded that the portion occupying the space reserved for sidewalks shall meet the requirements for sidewalks.

(b) Where no grades have been established or where local conditions warrant a deviation from the foregoing, the Engineering Department shall establish lines and elevations.

(3) Within the street right-of-way where any sidewalks(s) and/or drives exist in the same block, additional sidewalk(s) and/or drives shall conform to those existing in such blocks or to the ruling of the Code Enforcement Officer.

C. Maintenance of sidewalks and snow removal.

(1) The owner or occupant of any premises fronting or abutting on any street shall repair, keep and maintain the sidewalk of such premises free and clear of snow, ice, dirt and other obstructions. Any such owner or occupant shall be liable for any injury or damage by reason of omission, failure or negligence to repair, keep and maintain such sidewalk or to remove snow, ice or other obstructions therefrom.

(2) No person shall plow, shovel, sweep or pile snow, ice or other materials in or beyond the right-of-way of any street or public thoroughfare, or cause such to be done, so as to interfere with the safety and convenience of public travel.

§ 66-16 Electrical standards.

A. Licensing.

(1) License; when required. No person shall conduct electrical inspections pursuant to applicable codes unless the person undertaking such inspections has obtained a license to inspect from the Chief Building Inspector.

(2) Application for license.

(a) Applications for licenses shall be made at the Building Inspection Office. Such applications shall be made on forms prescribed by the Chief Building Inspector and shall contain such information as he or she may require.

(b) Persons seeking a license must submit documentation and certify that they meet the standards for an electrical inspection agency established by the Chief Building Inspector. The standards shall be filed in the office of the Commissioner and the City Clerk.

(3) Issuance of license. The Chief Building Inspector shall issue a license if, in his or her judgment, the applicant meets the standards for an electrical inspector and is competent to conduct electrical inspections. The City shall maintain a minimum of one and a maximum of three licensed inspectors.

(4) Licensee. No person licensed under this chapter shall be deemed as an employee, officer or independent contractor of the City of Lockport.

(5) Revocation and expiration.

(a) The Chief Building Inspector, at any time subsequent to the issuance of a license, if he or she has reason to believe that the licensee no longer meets the standards for an electrical inspector or is no longer competent to conduct electrical inspections, shall, after a hearing before the City's Corporation Counsel, have the power to suspend or revoke the license.

(b) All licenses, unless sooner revoked, shall expire on the last day of December after the date of issuance, and application for a new license shall be made in the same manner as for the original license by the last day of November.

B. Inspections.

(1) Conformance with standards. All electrical installations, alterations and repairs of wiring for electrical, light, heat and power shall be made in conformity with the requirements of the edition of the National Electrical Code, published by the National Fire Protection Association, designated by order or regulation of the Code Enforcement Officer.

(2) Inspections.

(a) Inspections shall only be conducted by individuals licensed by the Chief Building Inspector.

(b) The inspector shall make inspections and reinspections of electrical installations within the City of Lockport upon the written request of the Building Inspections Department pursuant to this chapter.

(c) In the event of any emergency, the inspector shall make electrical inspections upon the oral request of an official or officer of the City of Lockport.

(3) Applicability. The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to the electrical installations in mines, ships, railway cars, automotive equipment or the installations or equipment employed by a railway, electrical or communication utility in the exercise of its function as a utility and located outdoors or in buildings exclusively for that purpose.

(4) Reporting. The inspector shall issue a written report to the Chief Building Inspector within 72 hours after conducting an inspection. The Chief Building Inspector shall enforce all the provisions of this chapter, the electrical provisions of the National Electric Code, all local laws and ordinances, and the Building Code, insofar as any of the same apply to electrical wiring.

(5) Certificate of compliance. The inspector shall issue a certificate of compliance when the electrical installations and equipment are completed and are in conformity with this chapter. The inspector shall cause a copy of the certificate of compliance to be filed with the Chief Building Inspector in the City of Lockport within 72 hours from the completion of the inspection. The certificate of compliance shall be in writing, on the licensee's letterhead, and shall contain the address of the premises and a description of the work approved.

(6) Additional provisions. This § 66-16, entitled "Electrical standards," is a supplement to the Electrical Ordinance of the City of Lockport that was approved by Common Council and effective September 30, 1964, along with any additional amendments. For further information regarding electrical inspections, permits and other pertinent information, refer to Chapter 89, Electrical Standards.

(7) Penalties for offenses. Any person found to be in violation of the provisions under this chapter by the Chief Building Inspector shall be subject to penalties as determined by the Chief Building Inspector. Penalties shall include written warnings, license suspension or license revocation. The inspector shall have the right to request a hearing in the event that its license is suspended or revoked. Said hearing shall be conducted before the City Corporation Counsel.

§ 66-17 Climatic and geographic design criteria.

A. The Code Enforcement Officer shall determine the climatic and geographic design criteria for buildings and structures constructed within this City as required by the Uniform Code. Such determinations shall be made in the manner specified in the Uniform Code using, where applicable, the maps, charts, and other information provided in the Uniform Code. The criteria to be so determined shall include, but shall not necessarily be limited to, the following:

(1) Design criteria to include ground snow load; wind design loads; seismic category; potential damage from weathering, frost, and termites; winter design temperature; whether ice barrier underlayment is required; the air freezing index; and the mean annual temperature;

(2) Heating and cooling equipment design criteria for structures within the scope of the RCNYS. The design criteria shall include the data identified in the Design Criteria Table found in Chapter 3 of the RCNYS; and

(3) Flood hazard areas, flood hazard maps, and supporting data. The flood hazard map shall include, at a minimum, special flood hazard areas as identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in the Flood Insurance Study for the community, as amended or revised with:

(a) The accompanying Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM);

(b) Flood Boundary and Floodway Map (FBFM); and

(c) Related supporting data along with any revisions thereto.

B. The Code Enforcement Officer shall prepare a written record of the climatic and geographic design criteria determined pursuant to Subsection A of this section, shall maintain such record within the office of the Code Enforcement Officer, and shall make such record readily available to the public.

§ 66-18 Definitions; building permit fees.

A. Definitions. For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:

FLOOR AREA

The habitable floor, using exterior building dimensions, plus the floor area of any accessory structure, such as a garage, shed, tennis court, etc.

B. Building permit fees. The following fees shall be payable to the Department of Building Inspection before the issuance of a building permit, certificate of occupancy or home occupation:

(1) One- and two-family dwellings and additions.

(a) Six hundred fifty square feet or less: $250.

(b) Each additional square foot: $0.15.

(2) Multiple dwellings.

(a) Multiple dwelling, including three or more dwelling units, townhouses, apartment buildings and additions.

[1] First five units: $0.15 per square foot.

[2] Next 10 units: $50 each.

[3] Additional units: $25 each.

(3) Detached residential storage buildings, porches, decks and miscellaneous structures/buildings.

(a) One hundred forty-four square feet or less: $40.

(b) One hundred forty-four square feet to 360 square feet: $75.

(c) Each additional square foot: $0.10.

(4) Residential alterations and repairs.

(a) Up to $1,000 of cost: $35.

(b) For each $1,000 over $1,000 of cost: $2.

(5) Swimming pools: $50.

(6) Solid-fuel-burning devices and/or chimneys: $50.

(7) Residential driveways.

(a) Not included with building permit: $30.

(b) Resurface driveway: $30.

(8) Nonresidential buildings, including buildings and structures accessory thereto and additions.

(a) Zero to 1,000 square feet of floor space: $350.

(b) Each additional square foot of floor space: $0.25 per square foot.

(9) Nonresidential alterations and repairs.

(a) Up to $1,000: $100.

(b) For each $1,000 over $1,000: $2.

(10) Demolition of buildings.

(a) Residential.

[1] Up to 1,000 square feet: $50.

[2] Over 1,000 to 2,000 square feet: $75.

[3] Over 2,000 square feet: $100.

[4] Detached accessory structure: $25.

(b) Nonresidential.

[1] From zero to 5,000 cubic feet: $75.

[2] Five thousand one to 10,000 cubic feet: $100.

[3] Ten thousand one to 20,000 cubic feet: $125.

[4] Twenty thousand one to 50,000 cubic feet: $150.

[5] Fifty thousand one to 100,000 cubic feet: $175.

[6] One hundred thousand one to 200,000 cubic feet: $225.

[7] Two hundred thousand one to 500,000 cubic feet: $300.

[8] Over 500,000 cubic feet: $1,000.

(11) Fences: $20.

(12) Signs.

(a) Permanent sign (12 square feet or under), per face: $25.

(b) Permanent sign (13 square feet and up), per face: $50.

(c) Alteration to or relocation of existing signs: $30.

(d) Temporary signs:

[1] Thirty-day permit: $50.

(e) A-frame sign: $50.

(13) Plumbing fixtures.

(a) One to five: $60.

(b) Six to 10: $85.

(c) 11 to 15: $135.

(d) 16 to 20: $225.

(e) Each additional fixture: $10.

(14) Sewer laterals.

(a) First 100 feet: $50.

(b) For each additional 50 feet: $10.

(15) Water laterals.

(a) First 100 feet: $50.

(b) For each additional 50 feet: $10.

(16) Hot water tanks and furnaces: $30.

(17) Tanks.

(a) Aboveground: $0.05 per gallon.

(b) Underground: $0.05 per gallon.

(c) Removal of residential tanks: $50.

(d) Removal of commercial tanks: $100.

(18) Home occupation application fee: $100.

(a) Annual fee: $50.

(19) Temporary building or trailers: $100.

(20) Certificates of compliance.

(a) Single-family: $100.

(b) Two-family: $125.

(c) Multiple-family, each dwelling unit or sleeping room: $25, with a minimum fee of $150.

(d) Commercial, per tenant: $75, with a minimum fee of $250.

(e) Industrial, per tenant: $125, with a minimum fee of $500.

(f) Copy of any certificate: $25.

(21) Recreation fees.

(a) Single-family dwelling or building lot: $50.

(b) Two-family dwelling: $75.

(c) Multiple-family (per unit): $35.

(d) Multiple-family development (per acre or portion thereof): $150.

(22) Parking lot: $200.

(a) Resurface parking lot: $100.

(b) Less than 25% of total area (i.e., patch): $50.

(23) Operating permits:

(a) Tents: $25.

(b) Food trucks: $25 annually (January 1 through December 31).

(c) All others: $50.

(24) Marking property lines and curb box location: $20.

§ 66-19 Excavations; drainage; chimneys.

A. Natural ponds, excavations, quarries and gravel pits. Owners of property upon which ponds, excavations, quarries and gravel pits excavated or formed by natural causes exist shall be responsible for the posting of "no trespassing" signs.

B. Yard drainage.

(1) Yards and areas must always be properly drained and connected to a storm sewer or other approved outfall. Where storm- or roof water connects to four-inch drain tile under curb or open gutter, there must be a four-inch T just inside of curb or gutter and a four-inch cast-iron pipe brought three inches above grade capped with a mushroom vent cap for overflow.

(2) The rear yard of all lots upon which a structure is to be constructed shall be drained either:

(a) By grading of the lot with a 1% grade pitching from the rear lot line toward the front property line, using the curb level or the crown of the road as the base level; or

(b) With an approved swale system that will direct all water to an approved outfall without spilling any on adjacent property and only after filing of an appropriate deed restriction to prevent the altering of the swales; or

(c) By a stormwater drainage system designed to drain a minimum ten-year recurrent storm at such a rate that water will not enter the lowest architectural opening of a building on the lot. This system must have appropriate provisions for cleaning and maintenance.

C. Chimneys, gas vents and smoke pipes. If a fire or related heating problem should occur, as referenced in the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code Section 1163.9e, in any chimney, smokestack flue, gas vent, smoke pipe or connector, then that item shall be inspected for safety of operation, unhealthful emission of smoke, structural and fire safety by the Code Enforcement Official or his designated representative before any further use. Any cost connected to this inspection shall be the responsibility of the property owner. If any equipment is found unsafe, the device shall be withdrawn from service until the necessary repairs have been made and the device reinspected.

§ 66-20 Building contractors.

A. License required; definitions.

(1) It shall be unlawful to engage in business in the City of Lockport as a building contractor without first having obtained a license therefor as hereinafter provided.

(2) As used in this section, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:

BUILDING CONTRACTOR

Includes anyone engaged in the business of cement or concrete contracting, either flat form or wall work, or as a masonry contractor or as a carpenter contractor or as a general building contractor and any person engaged in the construction, alteration or repair of buildings or other structures or sidewalks or street pavements or demolition of buildings or any other similar activity requiring a permit from the City of Lockport.

LICENSE REVOCATION BOARD

A board that will meet periodically at the request of the Chief Building Inspector when he feels the need to remove or suspend a license from a person or corporation doing business within the City of Lockport. This Board shall consist of the Chief Building Inspector, one Council member, two contractors and one citizen, all appointed by the Mayor for two-year terms.

B. License. Any person desiring to engage in the contracting business shall make application for a license to the Building Inspector on a form prescribed by him. The application shall be signed and verified under oath by the applicant if an individual and by a duly authorized agent if a partnership or by a duly authorized officer of a corporation. The application shall contain the following information:

(1) If a person, the name, residence and business address of the applicant.

(2) If a partnership, the name, residence and business address of each partner.

(3) If a domestic corporation, the name and business address of the corporation, the name and residence address of the principal officer of the corporation; if a foreign corporation, the date it was authorized to do business in the State of New York, together with the names of the particular officers and local agents and their residence and business addresses.

(4) The number of years the applicant has engaged in the contracting business.

(5) The specific type of business or work performed by the applicant.

(6) The approximate number of persons to be employed by the applicant.

(7) Satisfactory evidence that employees of the applicant are covered by workmen's compensation and disability insurance.

(8) Satisfactory evidence that the applicant is covered by general liability, personal injury and property damage insurance.

(9) Such other information as the Building Inspector may require.

C. Issuance of license; fees. The Building Inspector, upon satisfactory proof of the above requirements, shall issue a license. Any application so approved shall be issued by the Building Inspector upon payment to him of the fee required by this section.

D. Duration; posting; renewal; duplicates; transferability; fees.

(1) All licenses shall expire each year on the 31st day of December.

(2) Each license issued shall be posted in a conspicuous place on the contracting establishment.

(3) Any license which has not been suspended or revoked may, upon the payment of a fee prescribed by this section, be renewed for an additional period of one year from its expiration upon the filing of an application for renewal on a form to be prescribed by the Building Inspector.

(4) A duplicate license may be issued for a lost, destroyed or mutilated license upon application therefor to the Building Inspector upon payment of the fee prescribed therefor by this section.

(5) No license shall be assignable or transferable.

(6) The fee for a license or for a renewal thereof to conduct a contracting business shall be $200.

E. Compliance with regulations. It shall be the duty of all building contractors to comply with all ordinances relating to the construction of buildings or other structures, to the construction of streets or sidewalk pavement and all laws or ordinances pertaining to or regulating the activities engaged in.

F. Revocation of license. Any building contractor's license may be revoked by the License Board for repeated violations of any ordinance relating to the construction of buildings, building permits, the use of streets or the replacing of streets, sidewalks or parkways or any other ordinance relating to the work performed by such contractor. The Building Inspector shall also revoke any license upon the building contractor's failure to keep insurance coverage in force. Such revocation may be in addition to any fine imposed for violating this section.

G. Insurance. No permit shall be issued for the construction of a building or structure in the City or for the repair or alteration of the interior or exterior of any building or structure unless a certificate or other proof is filed showing that the contractor carried workmen's compensation insurance and public liability insurance with limits of at least $100,000 for each person, $300,000 for each accident or bodily injury liability and $10,000 on property damage liability.

H. Penalties for offenses. Any person, firm or corporation violating any provision of this section shall be guilty of a violation and subject to a fine not to exceed $250 or imprisonment for a period not exceeding 15 days, or both.

§ 66-21 Recordkeeping.

A. The Code Enforcement Officer shall keep permanent official records of all transactions and activities conducted by all Code Enforcement personnel, including records of:

(1) All applications received, reviewed and approved or denied;

(2) All plans, specifications and construction documents approved;

(3) All building permits, certificates of occupancy, certificates of compliance, temporary certificates, stop-work orders, and operating permits issued;

(4) All inspections and tests performed;

(5) All statements and reports issued;

(6) All complaints received;

(7) All investigations conducted;

(8) All condition assessment reports received;

(9) All fees charged and collected; and

(10) All other features and activities specified in or contemplated by §§ 66-4 through 66-14, inclusive, of this chapter.

B. All such records shall be public records open for public inspection during normal business hours. All plans and records pertaining to buildings or structures, or appurtenances thereto, shall be retained for at least the minimum time period so required by state law and regulation.

§ 66-22 Program review and reporting.

A. The Code Enforcement Officer shall annually submit to the Common Council of this City a written report and summary of all business conducted by the Code Enforcement Officer and the inspectors, including a report and summary of all transactions and activities described in § 66-21, Recordkeeping, of this chapter and a report and summary of all appeals or litigation pending or concluded.

B. The Code Enforcement Officer shall annually submit to the Secretary of State, on behalf of this City, on a form prescribed by the Secretary of State, a report of the activities of this City relative to administration and enforcement of the Uniform Code.

C. The Code Enforcement Officer shall, upon request of the New York State Department of State, provide to the New York State Department of State true and complete copies of the records and related materials this City is required to maintain; true and complete copies of such portion of such records and related materials as may be requested by the Department of State; and/or such excerpts, summaries, tabulations, statistics, and other information and accounts of its activities in connection with administration and enforcement of the Uniform Code and/or Energy Code as may be requested by the Department of State.

§ 66-23 Orders to remedy; appearance tickets; penalties; injunctive relief.

A. Orders to remedy. The Code Enforcement Officer is authorized to order in writing the remedying of any condition or activity found to exist in, on or about any building, structure, or premises in violation of the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, or this chapter. An order to remedy shall be in writing; shall be dated and signed by the Code Enforcement Officer; shall specify the condition or activity that violates the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, or this chapter; shall specify the provision or provisions of the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, or this chapter which is/are violated by the specified condition or activity; and shall include a statement substantially similar to the following: "The person or entity served with this order to remedy must completely remedy each violation described in this order to remedy by _____[specify date], which is 30 days after the date of this order to remedy." The order to remedy may include provisions ordering the person or entity served with such order to remedy 1) to begin to remedy the violations described in the order to remedy immediately or within some other specified period of time which may be less than 30 days; to continue diligently to remedy such violations until each such violation is fully remedied; and, in any event, to complete the remedying of all such violations within 30 days of the date of such order to remedy; and/or 2) to take such other protective actions (such as vacating the building or barricading the area where the violations exist) which are authorized by this chapter or by any other applicable statute, regulation, rule, local law or ordinance, and which the Code Enforcement Officer may deem appropriate, during the period while such violations are being remedied. The Code Enforcement Officer shall cause the order to remedy, or a copy thereof, to be served on the owner of the affected property personally or by registered mail or certified mail within five days after the date of the order to remedy. The Code Enforcement Officer shall be permitted, but not required, to cause the order to remedy, or a copy thereof, to be served on any builder, architect, tenant, contractor, subcontractor, construction superintendent, or their agents, or any other person taking part or assisting in work being performed at the affected property personally or by registered mail or certified mail within five days after the date of the order to remedy; provided, however, that failure to serve any person mentioned in this sentence shall not affect the efficacy of the compliance order.

B. Appearance tickets. The Code Enforcement Officer and each inspector are authorized to issue appearance tickets for any violation of the Uniform Code.

C. Penalties. In addition to such other penalties as may be prescribed by state law,

(1) Any person who violates any provision of this chapter or any term, condition, or provision of any building permit, certificate of occupancy, certificate of compliance, temporary certificate, stop-work order, operating permit or other notice or order issued by the Code Enforcement Officer pursuant to any provision of this chapter shall be punishable by a fine of not more than $250 per day of violation, or imprisonment not exceeding 15 days, or both; and

(2) Any person who violates any provision of the Uniform Code, the Energy Code or this chapter, or any term or condition of any building permit, certificate of occupancy, certificate of compliance, temporary certificate, stop-work order, operating permit or other notice or order issued by the Code Enforcement Officer pursuant to any provision of this chapter, shall be liable to pay a civil penalty of not more than $250 for each day or part thereof during which such violation continues. The civil penalties provided by this subsection shall be recoverable in an action instituted in the name of this City.

D. Injunctive relief. An action or proceeding may be instituted in the name of this City, in a court of competent jurisdiction, to prevent, restrain, enjoin, correct, or abate any violation of, or to enforce, any provision of the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, this chapter, or any term or condition of any building permit, certificate of occupancy, certificate of compliance, temporary certificate, stop-work order, operating permit, order to remedy, or other notice or order issued by the Code Enforcement Officer pursuant to any provision of this chapter. In particular, but not byway of limitation, where the construction or use of a building or structure is in violation of any provision of the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, this chapter, or any stop-work order, order to remedy or other order obtained under the Uniform Code, the Energy Code or this chapter, an action or proceeding may be commenced in the name of this City, in the Supreme Court or in any other court having the requisite jurisdiction, to obtain an order directing the removal of the building or structure or an abatement of the condition in violation of such provisions. No action or proceeding described in this subsection shall be commenced without the appropriate authorization from the Common Council of this City.

E. Remedies not exclusive. No remedy or penalty specified in this section shall be the exclusive remedy or remedy available to address any violation described in this section, and each remedy or penalty specified in this section shall be in addition to, and not in substitution for or limitation of, the other remedies or penalties specified in this section, in § 66-6, Stop-work orders, of this chapter, in any other section of this chapter, or in any other applicable law. Any remedy or penalty specified in this section may be pursued at any time, whether prior to, simultaneously with, or after the pursuit of any other remedy or penalty specified in this section, in § 66-6, Stop-work orders, of this chapter, in any other section of this chapter, or in any other applicable law. In particular, but not by way of limitation, each remedy and penalty specified in this section shall be in addition to, and not in substitution for or limitation of, the penalties specified in Subdivision 2 of § 382 of the Executive Law, and any remedy or penalty specified in this section may be pursued at any time, whether prior to, simultaneously with, or after the pursuit of any penalty specified in Subdivision 2 of § 382 of the Executive Law.

§ 66-24 Fees.

A fee schedule shall be established by resolution of the Common Council of this City. Such fee schedule may thereafter be amended from time to time by like resolution. The fees set forth in, or determined in accordance with, such fee schedule or amended fee schedule shall be charged and collected for the submission of applications, the issuance of building permits, amended building permits, renewed building permits, certificates of occupancy, certificates of compliance, temporary certificates, operating permits, fire safety and property maintenance inspections, and other actions of the Code Enforcement Officer described in or contemplated by this chapter.

§ 66-25 Intermunicipal agreements.

The Common Council of this City may, by resolution, authorize the Mayor of this City to enter into an agreement, in the name of this City, with other governments to carry out the terms of this chapter, provided that such agreement does not violate any provision of the Uniform Code, the Energy Code, Part 1203 of Title 19 of the NYCRR, or any other applicable law.

§ 66-26 Severability.

If any section of this chapter shall be held unconstitutional, invalid, or ineffective, in whole or in part, such determination shall not be deemed to affect, impair, or invalidate the remainder of this chapter.

§ 66-27 When effective.

This chapter shall take effect immediately upon filing in the office of the New York State Secretary of State in accordance with § 27 of the Municipal Home Rule Law.