[Added 8-26-2015 by L.L.
No. 4-2015]
A. 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 the Village of Clyde. This chapter is adopted
pursuant to § 10 of the Municipal Home Rule Law. Except
as otherwise provided in the Uniform 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. Unless otherwise specified, the technical requirements of
this chapter shall be retroactive, but shall be permitted to be modified
if their application clearly would be impractical in the judgment
of the Fire Prevention Bureau, and only where it is clearly evident
that a reasonable degree of safety is provided.
B. Creation of enforcement agency. The Department of Fire Prevention
and Building Safety (Code Enforcement Office) is hereby established
in the jurisdiction, which shall be under the administrative and operational
control of the Code Enforcement Officer.
C. Zoning restrictions. The provisions of this chapter with respect
to the location of trades and industries, the use and occupancy of
buildings and the areas of yards and other open spaces, etc., shall
not be deemed to repeal, modify or constitute an alternative to any
lawful zoning regulation which is more restrictive than this chapter.
D. Special definitions. As used in this chapter, the following terms
shall have the meanings indicated:
EXPOSURE HAZARD
Property that may be endangered by radiant heat from a fire
in another structure or an outside fire. A structure within 30 feet
of another building and 100 square feet or larger in area shall be
deemed an exposure hazard.
FIREBREAK
An area where the native vegetation has been permanently
modified or replaced so that fires burning into it can be more easily
controlled. Firebreaks divide fire-prone areas into smaller areas
for easier fire control and to provide access for firefighting.
FRAME BUILDING (FRAME OR WOOD FRAME CONSTRUCTION)
A building in which the structural parts and materials are
principally of wood, or other combustible materials, or are dependent
upon a wood frame for support, including construction having a noncombustible
veneer or a noncombustible covering.
IMMEDIATE LANDSCAPED AREA
The area of improved property extending at least 30 feet
from the foundation of the structure, including the footprint of decks
and all extensions, and the area in which vegetation has been modified
for reduced flammability or aesthetic purposes, such as lawns and
gardens.
ROOF COVERING
Class A, B, or C roof coverings are those which are capable
of resisting severe, moderate or light fire exposure, respectively,
and which do not give off flying brands. Nonclassified roof coverings
are those not listed as Class A, B, or C roof coverings and are likely
to give off flying brands. Exceptions: Class A roof coverings include
coverings of brick, masonry and exposed concrete roof decks, ferrous
or copper shingles or sheets, metal sheets and shingles, clay or concrete
roof tile, or slate installed on noncombustible decks; and minimum
16 oz/ft2 copper sheets installed over
combustible decks.
SPARK ARRESTER
Screening material or a screening device attached to a chimney
termination to prevent the passage of sparks and brands to the outside
atmosphere.
E. Fire limits. Whenever reference is made in the Uniform Code to any
fire zone, fire limits, fire district, hazardous or highly congested
area, it means the fire limits described below of the most appropriate
number as delineated by this section. [NOTE: Such limits may include
the parking of tank vehicles and LP-gas tank vehicles, the use of
open-flame devices, and the controlled use of smoking materials as
provided for in the Uniform Code.] Fire limits shall be designated
as follows:
(1) Within fire limits.
(a)
Fire Limits A, comprising the areas containing highly congested
business, commercial and/or industrial occupancies, wherein the fire
hazard is severe. Fire Limits A shall include Fire Zone 1 as indicated
on the Fire Zone Map.
(b)
Fire Limits B, comprising the areas containing residential,
business, and/or commercial occupancies, or in which such uses are
developing, wherein the fire hazard is moderate. Fire Limits B shall
include Fire Zones 2, 3 and 4 as indicated on the Fire Zone Map.
(2) Outside the fire limits. All those areas not included in Fire Limits
A or Fire Limits B shall be designated herein as outside the fire
limits.
(3) Location within fire limits. A structure shall be deemed to be within
the fire limits if more than 1/3 of the area of such structure is
located therein. A building or structure which is located partly in
one fire zone and partly in another shall be considered to be in the
more highly restrictive fire zone, when more than 1/3 of its total
floor area is located in such zone.
(4) Restrictions on existing buildings. Existing buildings or structures
in fire limits that do not comply with the requirements for a new
building erected therein shall not hereafter be enlarged, altered,
remodeled, repaired, replaced or moved except as permitted by the
Uniform Code or the Zoning Law as applicable.
F. Establishment of fire limits. The area limits referred to in certain
sections of the Uniform Code are hereby established as follows:
(1) (Geographic limits in which the storage of flammable cryogenic fluids
in stationary containers is prohibited): Fire Limits A.
(2) (Geographic limits in which the storage of Class I and Class II liquids in aboveground tanks outside of buildings is prohibited): Fire Limits B, except where specialized fire protection is provided per §
67-29 herein.
(3) (Geographic limits in which the storage of Class I and Class II liquids
in aboveground tanks is prohibited): Fire Limits A.
(4) (Geographic limits in which the storage of liquefied petroleum gas
is restricted for the protection of heavily populated or congested
areas): Fire Limits A.
(5) (Geographic limits in which storage of combustible fibers is restricted):
Fire Limits A.
(6) (Geographic limits in which the use of Class A, B or C roof coverings
is required): Fire Limits A, and where otherwise required by Appendix
B of the Zoning Law (C-2 Zoning Incentives). Where existing roofs have to be repaired, roofs may be
replaced with the same type of roofing material provided the area
does not exceed 25% of the total roof area.
(7) Within fire limits, chimneys which may emit sparks (including but
not limited to fireplaces, woodstoves, barbecues, incinerators or
decorative heating appliances) shall be provided with approved spark
arresters. Vegetation shall not be allowed within 10 feet of a chimney
outlet.
(a)
Exception: Spark arresters shall not be required where the roof
covering of the structure is Class A, B or C, and there is no exposure
hazard.
G. Fire Zone Map. The location and boundaries of fire zones are hereby
established as shown on the Fire Zone Map, which is attached hereto
and hereby made a part of this chapter. Said map or maps and all notations, references and designations
shown thereon shall be, as such, a part of these rules and regulations
as if the same were all fully described and set forth herein.
H. Frame buildings.
(1) No frame building or structure shall be erected, enlarged, increased
in height, moved within or from without to within Fire Limits A or
Fire Limits B, regardless of size or occupancy, without a building
permit having first been obtained from the Code Enforcement Officer.
(2) Unless governed by other regulations, any frame building within Fire
Limits A or Fire Limits B that constitutes an exposure hazard shall
be separated from another building by at least 30 feet and shall be
set back at least 30 feet from any lot line that can be built upon.
(3) Within Fire Limits A and Fire Limits B, the removal of wooden porches,
balconies or additions, or their replacement with noncombustible construction
shall be accomplished as may be required by Appendix B of the Zoning
Law (C-2 Zoning Incentives).
(4) Buildings of frame construction shall conform to all requirements
of the Uniform Code, and as follows:
(a)
Multiple dwellings shall comply with applicable provisions of
the Multiple Residence Law.
(b)
Assembly occupancies shall comply with applicable provisions
of the State Standard Building Code for Places of Public Assembly.
[NOTE: "Place of public assembly" shall include: 1) a theatre; 2)
moving picture house; 3) assembly halls maintained or leased for pecuniary
gain where 100 or more persons may assemble for amusement or recreation,
except: a) halls owned by churches, religious organizations, granges,
and public association and free libraries as defined by § 253
of the Education Law; and b) hotels having 50 or more rooms.]
I. Explosives and blasting agents. The manufacture, possession, storage,
sale, transportation, and use of explosives and blasting agents shall
be prohibited within fire limits.
(1) Exception: The possession, storage, sale, transportation, and use
within fire limits of small arms ammunition and primers, smokeless
propellants, black powder propellants; fireworks and pyrotechnic materials;
and vehicles transporting explosive materials, shall be allowed when
in substantial compliance with nationally accepted firesafety practice,
such as but not limited to NFPA 495 (Explosive Materials Code), and
NFPA 1124 (Code for the Manufacture, Transportation, Storage, and
Retail Sale of Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles).
J. Open fires.
(1) Within Fire Limits A, open fires shall be limited to cooking devices,
approved live fire training, and disposal of explosives or contraband.
(2) Within Fire Limits B, open fires shall be limited to recreational
campfires, approved bonfires attended by the Fire Department, approved
live fire training, approved agricultural fires, and the disposal
of explosives or contraband.
K. Fences.
(1) Within fire limits, the construction of fences shall require a building
permit.
(2) Within fire limits, any portion of a fence over six feet in height
and within five feet of a building shall be constructed of noncombustible
material or approved exterior fire-retardant wood or material that
meets the same fire-resistive standards for exterior walls per the
Building Code.
L. Hazardous occupancies. Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary,
no Group H (hazardous) occupancy shall be permitted within Fire Limits
A.
M. Firebreaks. Within fire limits, firebreaks shall be maintained as
provided in this section.
(1) On vacant lots that are 1.25 acres in size or smaller, a firebreak
shall be required over the entire area of the parcel.
(2) On vacant lots that are more than 1.25 acres in size but less than
two acres in size, a firebreak shall be required adjacent to and along
all parcel lines for a width of 30 feet.
(3) Within campgrounds, manufactured home parks, and developments, firebreaks
shall be provided to limit areas of brush, tall grass and highly combustible
vegetation to a maximum of 10 acres.
(4) Where constructed, firebreaks shall be not less than 10 feet in width.
(5) All required firebreaks shall be created and maintained by mowing
all weeds, grass, rank growths, shrubs, trees, and trimmings therein
to a maximum height of 10 inches, or by disking or removing all weeds,
grass, rank growths, shrubs, trees, and trimmings from the firebreak.
(6) Trees may be retained within firebreaks provided that they are kept
free of dead wood and litter and trimmed 10 feet from the ground or
1/3 their height and crowns are not interlaced.
(7) Shrubs may be retained within firebreaks provided all specimens are
kept free of dead wood and litter and they are spaced at a distance
equal to not less than three times their widest diameter, and are
not less than 10 feet from other specimens or buildings.
(8) Unless otherwise required by this chapter or the Uniform Code, firebreaks
may include fire-resistive vegetation such as green lawns and other
plants designated by the Code Enforcement Officer as being fire resistive.
(9) Storage yards for tires, lumber, or other combustible or hazardous
materials of any kind shall be maintained free from combustible ground
vegetation; and shall be provided with suitable firebreaks from the
stored product to brush or forested areas.
N. Waiver. The provisions of this chapter are waived when the Code Enforcement
Officer determines that such enforcement is preempted by other codes,
statutes or ordinances. The details of any action granting such a
waiver shall be recorded and entered in the files of the Department
of Fire Prevention and Building Safety.
O. Modifications.
(1) The Fire Prevention Bureau is authorized to modify any of the technical
requirements of this chapter, upon application in writing by the owner,
a lessee, or a duly authorized representative where there are practical
difficulties in the way of carrying out the technical requirements
of this chapter, provided that the intent of this chapter shall be
complied with, public safety secured, and substantial justice done.
(2) Each application for a modification shall be filed with the Fire
Prevention Bureau and shall be accompanied by such evidence, letters,
statements, results of tests, or other supporting information as required
to justify the request. The Fire Prevention Bureau shall keep a record
of actions on such applications, and a signed copy of the Bureau's
decision shall be provided for the applicant.
(3) All requests for modifications shall be handled as an appeal item
which includes payment of the fee specified in local law.
The Code Enforcement Officer may request and
shall receive, so far as may be necessary in the discharge of his
or her duties, the assistance and cooperation of the Fire Chief, and
other departments or officers and of all other municipal officials
exercising any jurisdiction over the construction, use or occupancy
of buildings or the installation of equipment therein.
A. Fire Prevention Bureau. A Fire Prevention Bureau is hereby created
to serve as a liaison between the Code Enforcement Office and the
Fire Department.
[Added 8-26-2015 by L.L.
No. 4-2015]
(1) The Code Enforcement Officer and the Fire Chief of each fire district
serving the jurisdiction shall serve as members of the Fire Prevention
Bureau, and shall be authorized to use the title "Fire Marshal." The
1st Assistant/Deputy Fire Chiefs of each fire district, and any Assistant/Deputy
Code Enforcement Officers shall also serve as members of the Fire
Prevention Bureau, and shall be authorized to use the title "Deputy
Fire Marshal."
(2) Each fire district may also appoint up to four active volunteer firefighters
in good standing to serve as Fire Prevention Officers as may be necessary
to conduct preincident planning inspections, fire prevention education,
fire watch duties, or assist the Code Enforcement Officer or Fire
Chief in the enforcement of the Fire Prevention Code and Multiple
Residence Law as necessary.
(3) The members appointed to the Fire Prevention Bureau, other than the
Code Enforcement Officer, Assistant/Deputy Code Enforcement Officer(s),
Fire Chief(s) and 1st Assistant/Deputy Fire Chiefs, shall hold office
for two years.
(4) The members of the Fire Prevention Bureau shall study the protection
of life and property from the hazards of fire and explosion in the
fire district(s), and recommend and advise the Village Board with
regard to possible improvements thereto. The members of the Fire Prevention
Bureau shall recommend and advise the Village Board regarding possible
improvements in the administration and enforcement of the provisions
of this chapter and the Uniform Code.
(5) The Fire Prevention Bureau shall cooperate fully with the Code Enforcement
Office, the Planning Board, the Zoning Board and other agencies in
achieving the ultimate safety to life and property from the hazards
of fire and explosion for the Village of Clyde.
(6) The Fire Prevention Bureau should conduct regular monthly meetings
and the Code Enforcement Officer shall act as the Chairperson. A Secretary
shall be appointed by the Fire Prevention Bureau from among its members,
at the first meeting each year. The Secretary shall keep records and
the minutes of each meeting. The agenda for each meeting shall be
the responsibility of the Chairperson. The Chairperson may call special
meetings as necessary, or upon the request of three members of the
Bureau. An annual report of the activity of the Bureau shall be provided
to the Village Board. Members of the Village Board shall be invited
to sit in on any meetings of the Fire Prevention Bureau. The Fire
Prevention Bureau may hold meetings, conduct business and maintain
records in both the offices of the Code Enforcement Officer and one
or more fire stations as necessary.
(7) The Fire Prevention Bureau shall be available for meetings with the
Code Enforcement Officer, Zoning Board, Planning Board and the Highway
Department, for the purpose of reviewing plans and specifications
of site locations, new roads, public and private, new construction
and alterations to existing structures, and applications for operating
permits in order to insure compliance with the provisions of this
chapter and the Uniform Code; and to make constructive recommendations
where necessary and appropriate.
(8) The Fire Prevention Bureau shall have the power to propose regulations
covering any and all special conditions involving the safety of all
buildings and structures, which regulations shall be presented to
the Code Enforcement Officer and/or Village Board for adoption or
other appropriate action, and said Bureau shall have such powers and
perform such other duties as are set forth herein and as may be conferred
upon it from time to time by local law.
(9) The Fire Prevention Bureau shall be authorized to conduct fire patrols
during special events and other times when there is an increased threat
or risk of fire (i.e., threat of arson, during a state of emergency,
or during fire weather warnings).
(10)
The Fire Prevention Bureau shall be responsible for coordinating
public events and activities during Fire Prevention Week (observed
during the week, from Sunday to Saturday, in which October 9 falls),
and Building Safety Month (observed during the month of May).
(11)
Fire investigations. Fire Marshals shall have the authority
to investigate the cause, origin and circumstances of any fire, explosion
or other hazardous condition. Personnel engaged in fire investigation
duties should meet the requirements of NFPA 1033 (Standard for Professional
Qualifications for Fire Investigator).
(12)
Public education. The Fire Marshals shall have the authority
to plan, develop and implement public education programs on topics
related to fire and life safety, building construction and land use.
Personnel engaged in public education duties should meet the requirements
of NFPA 1035 (Standard for Professional Qualifications for Public
Fire and Life Safety Educator).
B. Construction and firesafety inspections made in accordance with §
67-9 shall be the overall responsibility of the Code Enforcement Officer. In addition to or concurrent with such inspections:
[Added 8-26-2015 by L.L.
No. 4-2015]
(1) The Fire Chief may inspect any public building and, with consent
of the owner, any privately owned building for fire hazards. (See
§ 10-1022 of Village Law.)
(2) The Fire Chief may inspect buildings and properties subject to the
Multiple Residence Law to determine whether fire protection and safety
provisions are being complied with. (See § 303 of the Multiple
Residence Law.)
(3) The Fire Chief may inspect any public or private school. (See § 807-a
of the Education Law.)
(4) The Fire Marshals, Deputy Fire Marshals and/or Fire Prevention Officers
may conduct preincident planning inspections.
(5) A Fire Chief, Fire Marshal, Deputy Fire Marshal and/or Fire Prevention
Officer may conduct other inspections as specified in this chapter.
C. The Code Enforcement Officer shall consult with the Fire Department
on all matters relative to the enforcement of this chapter to ensure
that the needs of the Fire Department are met in providing fire protection.
[Added 8-26-2015 by L.L.
No. 4-2015]
D. Any member or employee of the Fire Department may make a report,
in writing, to the Code Enforcement Officer of any buildings or structures
which are, may be, or are suspected to be unsafe buildings within
the terms of this chapter.
[Added 8-26-2015 by L.L.
No. 4-2015]
E. Decisions of the Code Enforcement Officer are deemed to be made in
the best interest, and with the concurrence of, an affected fire district,
in the absence of any credible evidence to the contrary. A final determination
of any dispute relating to an aforementioned code enforcement decision
shall be made in accordance with the provisions of the Uniform Code.
[Added 8-26-2015 by L.L.
No. 4-2015]
F. The Code Enforcement Officer shall be an ex officio member of the
Village Planning Board and Village Zoning Board, and shall act as
Secretary to said boards but shall have no vote upon any matter before
the board(s). As Secretary, the Code Enforcement Officer shall keep
minutes of the Board meetings for public record and conduct all correspondence,
including the notification of decisions. The Code Enforcement Officer
shall prepare and submit the minutes of Board meetings to the Chairperson
and the Board.
[Added 8-26-2015 by L.L.
No. 4-2015]
G. The Fire Department shall keep a record of fires occurring within
its jurisdiction and of facts concerning the same, including statistics
as to the extent of such fires and the damage caused thereby, together
with other information as required by the Code Enforcement Officer.
[Added 8-26-2015 by L.L.
No. 4-2015]
Whenever required by the Uniform Code, or whenever
there are reasonable grounds to believe that any material, construction,
equipment or assembly does not conform with the requirements of the
Uniform Code, the Code Enforcement Officer may require the same to
be subjected to tests or inspections in order to furnish proof of
such compliance. The property owner shall be responsible for all costs
associated with special tests and inspections.
A. Inspection of existing chimneys. Existing chimneys, fireplaces and
vents shall be inspected in accordance with NFPA 211 (Standard for
Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel-Burning Appliances) as
follows. Where required by the Code Enforcement Officer, inspections
shall be conducted by a licensed and qualified building contractor.
[Added 8-26-2015 by L.L.
No. 4-2015]
(1) Level I inspections. A Level I inspection (per NFPA 211) shall be
conducted under the following circumstances:
(a)
During routine cleaning of a flue or flues within the chimney.
(b)
At the time of replacement of one or more connected appliances
with an equal number of appliances of similar type, input rating,
and efficiency.
(2) Level II inspections. A Level II inspection (per NFPA 211) shall
be conducted under the following circumstances:
(a)
Upon addition or removal of one or more connected appliances
or upon replacement of an appliance with one or more of dissimilar
type, input rating, or efficiency, unless the last connected appliance
is removed and chimney use will be discontinued.
(b)
Prior to relining of a flue or replacement of flue lining.
(c)
Upon sale or transfer of the property.
(d)
After a building or chimney fire, weather or seismic event,
or other incident likely to have caused damage to the chimney.
(3) Level III inspections. A Level III inspection (per NFPA 211) shall
be conducted under the following circumstances:
(a)
Where necessary for the investigation of a building or chimney
fire, weather or seismic event, or other incident known to have caused
damage to the chimney or building.
(b)
Where a hazard detected or suspected as the result of a Level
I or II inspection cannot be fully evaluated without access to concealed
areas.
B. Facade inspection of existing buildings. Any unreinforced masonry
building two or more stories in height that has a zoning, housing,
building, or property maintenance code violation which has been continuously
outstanding and not remedied for a period of at least one year from
the date the original order or notice was served shall be inspected
by a licensed professional engineer or registered architect to determine
the structural soundness of foundation walls; exterior walls; parapets;
roofs and drainage; decorative features; overhang extensions; stairways,
decks, porches and balconies; chimneys and towers; window, skylight
and door frames; glazing; doors; basement hatchways; fire escapes;
exhaust vents; signs and other appurtenances.
[Added 8-26-2015 by L.L.
No. 4-2015]
(1) Procedures for conducting the inspection shall be in accordance with
ASTM E2270, "Standard Practice for Periodic Inspection of Building
Facades for Unsafe Conditions," published by ASTM International.
(2) Upon completion of the facade inspection, the inspector shall prepare
a report, bearing his/her signature and seal, for the owner and for
submission to the Code Enforcement Officer. Deteriorated conditions
found by the inspector shall be classified into three categories —
"unsafe conditions," "requires repair/stabilization," and "ordinary
maintenance." Conditions classified as unsafe shall be brought to
the attention of the owner and the Code Enforcement Officer immediately,
prior to preparing any written report.
(3) The term "unreinforced masonry building" shall mean a type of building
where load-bearing walls, non-load-bearing walls or other structures,
such as chimneys and parapets, are made of brick, cinderblock, tiles,
or other masonry material that is not braced by reinforcing beams.
C. Periodic inspection of fire escapes. Fire escape stairs and balconies
shall be examined for structural adequacy and safety, by a registered
design professional or others acceptable to the Code Enforcement Officer
every five years, or as required by the Code Enforcement Officer.
An inspection report shall be submitted to the Code Enforcement Officer
and Fire Prevention Bureau after such examination.
[Added 8-26-2015 by L.L.
No. 4-2015]
(1) The inspection shall determine whether or not the fire escape is
an "imminent hazard" based upon key visual indicators. Key visual
indicators include missing pieces, deformation of joints due to rust
development, loose or absent connections between pieces, or degraded
connections to the structure.
(2) The construction and maintenance requirements for new and existing
fire escapes shall be determined by the Code Enforcement Officer.
The Code Enforcement Officer shall be responsible
for enforcement of the Multiple Residence Law of New York State within
the area of responsibility of the Village of Clyde.
Appeals to Regional Board of Review. Where practical
difficulties or unnecessary hardship may result from enforcement of
the strict letter of any provision of the Uniform Code, applications
for variances may be made to the Regional Board of Review in accordance
with Part 440 of Title 19 of the New York Code of Rules and Regulations.
Whenever it is claimed that the Code Enforcement Officer misconstrued
the Uniform Code in approving or disapproving any application or granting
or refusing to grant any permit or certificate of code compliance,
the person affected may appeal from the decision of the Code Enforcement
Officer to the Regional Board of Review in accordance with Part 440
of 19 NYCRR. Appeals from provisions of the Multiple Residence Law,
in accordance with § 325 of that law, may also be made to
a Regional Board of Review.
[Amended 8-26-2015 by L.L. No. 4-2015]
Permit authority. Pursuant to Subdivision 1 of § 405.00
of the Penal Law of the State of New York, the Code Enforcement Officer
is hereby designated the permit authority to grant and issue permits
for the public or private display of fireworks in accordance with
the provisions of § 405.00 of the Penal Law.
[Amended 8-26-2015 by L.L. No. 4-2015]
The following definitions shall be used in the interpretation
and construction of this chapter. Additional terms not defined herein
may be defined in administrative guidelines, rules and regulations
adopted by the Code Enforcement Officer.
CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER
The municipal official charged with the enforcement and administration
of this chapter and the Uniform Code.
DANGEROUS BUILDING
Any building or structure which has any or all of the following
conditions or defects to the extent that the life, health, property
or safety of the public or its occupants are endangered:
A.
Whenever any door, aisle, passageway, stairway,
fire escape, emergency escape window or other means of exit is not
of sufficient size or is not so arranged or maintained as to provide
safe and adequate means of exit in case of fire or panic.
B.
Whenever any portion thereof has been damaged
by fire, explosion, earthquake, wind, flood or by any other cause,
is likely to partially or completely collapse.
C.
Whenever any portion or member or appurtenance
thereof is likely to fall, or to become detached or dislodged, or
to collapse and thereby injure persons or damage property.
D.
Whenever the building or structure, or any portion
thereof, because of dilapidation, deterioration or decay, or any other
cause, is likely to partially or completely collapse.
E.
Whenever the building or structure, due to dilapidated
condition, deterioration, damage, inadequate exits, lack of required
fire protection equipment, lack of sufficient fire-resistive construction,
faulty electric wiring, gas connections or heating apparatus, or other
cause is determined by the Code Enforcement Officer to be a fire hazard.
F.
Whenever any building or structure is overcrowded
or occupied by more persons than is permitted by the Uniform Code.
G.
Whenever any building or structure, because
of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, decay, damage, faulty construction
or arrangement, infestation, inadequate light, heat, ventilation or
sanitation facilities, or otherwise, is determined by the Code Enforcement
Officer to be unsanitary, unfit for human occupancy or in such a condition
that it is likely to cause sickness or disease.
H.
Whenever any portion of a building or structure
remains on a site after the demolition or destruction of the building
or structure.
I.
Whenever any vacant building or structure is
unsecured against unauthorized entry, contains combustible materials,
or has been deemed abandoned for a period in excess of three years.
FIRE CHIEF
The chief officer of the Fire Department serving the Village
of Clyde, or a duly authorized representative.
UNIFORM CODE
The New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code,
New York State Energy Conservation Construction Code, and any amendments
thereto.
The Board of Trustees of this Village may, by
resolution, authorize the Mayor of this Village to enter into an agreement,
in the name of the Village of Clyde, with other governments to carry
out the terms of this chapter, provided that such agreement does not
violate any provision of the Uniform Code, Part 1203 of Title 19 of
the NYCRR, or any other applicable law.
[Added 8-26-2015 by L.L.
No. 4-2015]
A. General. Where the Fire Chief or Code Enforcement Officer has determined
that a facility using, handling, or storing flammable hazardous materials
requires specialized fire-extinguishing agents, it shall be the responsibility
of the owner or operator to provide the suitable fire control agents,
including but not limited to firefighting foam or chemical extinguishing
agents. The fire control agents shall be supplied in sufficient quantity
to allow for effective fire suppression, and shall be replaced or
replenished as necessary to continuously protect the hazard. Fire
control agents may be stored on the premises, at one or more fire
stations, or on fire apparatus. Fire protection water supplies shall
be adequate to allow for the application of firefighting foam at the
required rate.
B. Propane facilities. A written firesafety analysis, per NFPA 58 (Liquefied
Petroleum Gas Code), shall be developed for all new and existing LP
gas installations that have an aggregate water capacity of more than
4,000 gallons. The firesafety analysis shall be updated when the storage
capacity or transfer system is modified. The firesafety analysis shall
be submitted by the owner, operator, or his/her designee to the Code
Enforcement Officer and Fire Prevention Bureau.
C. Storage of hazardous materials. The Code Enforcement Officer may
require the separation or isolation of any hazardous materials that
have incompatible firefighting requirements.
D. Precautions against flash fire. Highly combustible material, that
is likely to produce a flash fire, shall not be stored near an opening
in a fire barrier or fire wall, as the flash fire might communicate
through the opening before the protective device could operate.
E. Dumpsters and self-contained compactor containers. Refuse containers
requiring mechanical assistance to be moved shall be provided with
a means of access to their interior without disconnecting from a compactor
unit or they shall have a minimum port opening of two inches in diameter
through which water may be introduced for extinguishing a fire. The
port opening shall be labeled "fire hose port" or similar wording.
Refuse containers which are not part of a compactor unit shall not
be required to have the additional openings or hose connections for
fire extinguishment, if they are provided with a cover to make the
contents accessible during firefighting operations.
F. Stovetop fire suppressors. Owners and/or managers of apartment buildings
containing three or more dwelling units with no automatic fire suppression
or sprinkler system shall:
(1) Install and maintain an approved, automatic, laboratory-tested, fire
extinguishing device designed to suppress fires in all vent hoods
located above cooking appliances; or
(2) Install and maintain other automatic, laboratory-tested stovetop
fire prevention or mitigation technology for all stovetops in the
dwelling.
(3) Stovetop fire prevention or mitigation devices may include but are
not limited to devices with the following trade names: StoveTop FireStop;
Safe-T-Element; StoveGuard; HomeSensor; Innohome Stove Alarm; and
Fidepro.
(4) The Code Enforcement Office shall set a date or dates for achieving
compliance with this subsection, and may establish a phase-in schedule
for compliance.
G. Fire loads. The Code Enforcement Officer is authorized to adopt rules
and regulations for the purpose of governing transient fire loads
within buildings.
H. Spill equipment training and containment.
(1) Employers shall provide employees with suitable safety equipment
for dealing with hazardous spills. Safety equipment used for handling
hazardous materials, including containers used during cleanup, must
be tested and maintained according to OSHA, DOT and EPA standards
governing the spilled substance. The level of personal protective
equipment that employers are required to maintain is dependent on
the nature of the hazardous material involved and the level of threat
it poses from skin and respiratory contact.
(2) Employers shall provide adequate training in the use of safety equipment
from a qualified source.
(3) Areas where a spill hazard exists must have approved containers and
absorbent materials ready in case of a spill.
(4) All catch basins installed at or adjacent to automotive motor fuel-dispensing
facilities, bulk plants or terminals, fleet storage areas, parking
areas for 1,000 or more vehicles, and boatyards, shall be constructed
as approved spill separators to help prevent spilled flammable liquids
from entering sewers and/or watercourses.
I. Emerging hazards. Where an emerging hazard is identified within the
jurisdiction, the Code Enforcement Officer may adopt rules and regulations
imposing reasonable safeguards to protect the public health and safety.
J. Special definitions. As used in this section, the following terms
shall have the meanings indicated:
EMERGING HAZARD
A potential fire or life safety hazard resulting from a new
or reintroduced device, product, technology or methodology, for which
there is no substantive regulation within the framework of existing
safety codes and standards.
FIRE LOAD, TRANSIENT
Any combustible material that is not permanently installed
(can be moved in and out of an area), including but not limited to
paper, cardboard boxes, packing materials, shipping pallets, and flammable
materials or products.
SPILL SEPARATOR
A precast concrete manhole or catch basin intercepting stormwater
piping from streets or parking lots, designed to prevent spilled oil,
gasoline or other fluids from directly entering a storm sewer or contaminating
the environment.
[Added 8-26-2015 by L.L.
No. 4-2015]
A. The following structures and facilities shall be equipped with a
key lock box at or near the main entrance or such other location required
by the Code Enforcement Officer or Fire Chief:
(1) All buildings having an automatic fire alarm, detection or suppression
system.
(a)
Exception: one- and two-family dwellings identified by the Uniform
Code.
(2) All commercial and industrial properties protected by fences, gates
and related barriers presently secured by padlock, electronically
operated or automatic gates, or other control circuits.
(3) Multiple dwellings where two or more dwelling or rooming units share
a common entrance that is normally kept locked.
B. Location. The key lock box shall be located at or near the main entrance
to the building or property. It shall be mounted at a height of six
feet above final grade, or as designated by the Fire Chief.
C. Key lock box contents. The key lock box shall contain labeled keys,
easily identified in the field to provide access into the property
and/or building, for roof access, and to any locked areas within said
facility as may further be directed by the Fire Chief or Code Enforcement
Officer.
D. Compliance. All existing buildings shall comply with the provisions
of this section within six months of its effective date. All newly
constructed buildings, not yet occupied, or buildings currently under
construction, shall comply with the terms hereof prior to the issuance
of the certificate of occupancy.
E. Special definitions. As used in this section, the following terms
shall have the meanings indicated:
FIRE DEPARTMENT MASTER KEY
A limited issue key of special or controlled design to be
carried by Fire Department officials in command which will open key
boxes on specified properties.
KEY BOX (LOCK BOX)
A secure device with a lock operable only by a Fire Department
master key, and used to store building entry keys, preincident plans
and/or related data.
[Added 8-26-2015 by L.L.
No. 4-2015]
A. Alarm registration required.
(1) No person, firm or corporation shall have an alarm system installed,
or use an existing alarm system, unless an alarm registration has
been issued by the Code Enforcement Officer authorizing the use of
such alarm.
(a)
Exception: single-station alarm devices.
(2) Such registration shall be in addition to any construction or building
requirements imposed by the Fire Prevention Code.
B. Application for alarm registration.
(1) The application for an alarm registration shall be in such form as
designated by the Department, and shall contain at least the following
information:
(a)
Name, address and telephone number of the alarm user.
(b)
The address of the premises upon which the alarm system is or
will be located.
(c)
The name, address and telephone number of the person or persons
in charge of the building, place or premises served by the alarm system
if different than the alarm user.
(d)
The type of alarm system for which the registration is sought
(fire, security, medical, gas detection, carbon monoxide, or other
emergency alarm).
(e)
The name, address and telephone number of the contractor installing
and/or providing maintenance and repair service to the alarm system.
(f)
The name and telephone number of the alarm monitoring service,
if any.
(2) The information required on the registration application shall be
treated as confidential and shall not be made available to members
of the general public. The information on the registration application
shall be used by the Department only for emergency response and regulatory
purposes.
(3) An amended application shall be filed within 10 days after any change
in the information provided.
(4) An alarm registration shall be denied if:
(a)
The requested information is not supplied on the application.
(b)
The requested information is incorrect.
(c)
Any person listed on the application does not possess the occupational
or regulatory license required to conduct such activities.
(5) Every application for an alarm registration or renewal shall be accompanied
by a fee of $5.
(a)
Exception 1: registration of an alarm system in conjunction
with a building permit for which a fee is paid.
(b)
Exception 2: registration or re-registration of an alarm system
during a firesafety inspection for which a fee is paid.
(6) Upon receipt of a properly executed application, the Department shall
approve the alarm registration and shall forward a copy of the approved
registration to the appropriate emergency response agencies (Fire
Department, Police Department, ambulance service, etc.).
(7) Alarm registrations shall not be transferable.
(8) Statistics for the reporting of nuisance alarms shall be maintained
by the Fire Department and Police Department as applicable.
C. Nuisance alarms.
(1) No person shall allow, permit, cause or fail to prevent the activation
for any reason of more than three nuisance alarms within any six-month
period. The activation of more than three nuisance alarms is excessive,
constitutes a public nuisance and shall be prohibited.
(2) The Police Chief in the case of alarms responded to by the Police
Department only and the Fire Chief in the case of alarms responded
to by the Fire Department shall determine whether a nuisance alarm
has occurred and the frequency of such nuisance alarms.
(3) In the event of four or more nuisance alarms within any six-month
period, the Police Chief, Fire Chief, Code Enforcement Officer, or
their designated agents, are authorized to disconnect such alarm system
from notifying emergency personnel. In the event of a disconnection,
the Department, Fire Department, or any official having the authority
to disconnect shall not be liable for any damages that may result.
(4) Alarm systems that have been disconnected or bypassed due to nuisance
alarms shall be serviced immediately by a competent service technician.
(5) An alarm user shall be given a thirty-day grace period from the date
the alarm is installed or a substantial change in the system is made
during which time nuisance alarms will not be counted. Upon filing
of an amended application, any response to a building, place or premises
in which the alarm user has changed will be considered a first response.
D. Audible alarms.
(1) All audible alarms which may be heard in a public place shall be
equipped and maintained to become deactivated and silenced automatically
after a period of time not to exceed 30 minutes except for fire alarms
and other alarms required by law to sound longer.
(2) The emergency response agency may disable an audible alarm that has
not been silenced after the thirty-minute period and shall not be
liable for any injuries or damage that may result.
E. Systems out of service. The Department shall have the authority to
require an inspection and test of any fire alarm system that has been
out of service for 30 days or more before being restored back into
service.
F. Exemption. This section shall not apply to any alarms attached to
motor vehicles.
G. Special definitions. As used in this section, the following terms
shall have the meanings indicated:
ALARM SYSTEM
Any device which is used in a building, place or premises
for the detection of unauthorized entry, burglary, fire, rescue or
any other emergency and which when activated emits a sound, signal
or message to alert others, whether such sound, signal or message
is emitted on or off premises. Carbon monoxide or gas detection devices
are considered alarm systems for purposes of this chapter.
NUISANCE ALARM
Any alarm caused by mechanical failure, malfunction, improper
installation, lack of proper maintenance, negligence, or any alarm
activated by a cause that cannot be determined.
[Added 8-26-2015 by L.L.
No. 4-2015]
A. Special definitions. As used in this section, the following terms
shall have the meanings indicated:
BUILDING CONTRACTOR
Any person, firm, company or corporation which, for a consideration,
undertakes or advertises the capacity to undertake, or submits a bid
to, or does him or herself or through other personnel employed by
such contractor, construct, alter, repair, add to, subtract from,
improve, move, wreck or demolish the whole or part of any building
or structure, or any of the appurtenances thereto, sidewalk, street
or pavement for which a permit is required by the Village of Clyde.
The term "building contractor" shall mean and include, but not be
limited to, anyone engaged in the business of cement or concrete contracting;
masonry; carpentry; paving and asphalt; roofing; waterproofing; door,
window, glazing, siding, awning, and gutter installation; the construction
of decks, patios, garages, carports and additional rooms; driveway
and walkway construction; kitchen and bathroom remodeling; fence installations;
chimney maintenance; painting; tile setting; swimming pool or hot
tub installation; plumbing; electrical contracting; heating, ventilating,
air conditioning and other mechanical contracting; installation or
maintenance of fixed fire protection systems; septic systems; wells,
silos, grain bins, conveyors, or commercial kitchen ventilation hoods.
HANDYMAN (HANDYWOMAN)
A contractor who performs only ordinary repairs or maintenance
that does not require any type of permit (i.e., a handyman cannot
install or extend any electrical, plumbing, HVAC or alarm system or
perform structural work, or any work over $10,000).
B. Contractor licensing. All building contractors shall be licensed
by the Code Enforcement Office.
(1) Exception 1: handymen or handywomen performing ordinary repairs and
maintenance only (i.e., work that does not require a building permit).
(2) Exception 2: employees such as maintenance personnel working within
their employer's own facilities.
C. An application for building contractor registration and/or license
shall be made on approved forms.
D. The fee for each license shall be $50.
E. Before said license or registration shall be issued or renewed, said
building contractor shall submit proof of workers' compensation and
disability insurance (or proof of exemption) as required by state
law. Each building contractor shall submit proof of general liability
insurance coverage in an amount not less than $100,000. Where a contractor
performs or advertises hot work, such proof of insurance shall specifically
include coverage for hot work.
F. Applicants engaged in the installation or repair of roofs shall provide
documentation of insurance coverage specific to roofing operations
(workers' compensation, disability and/or general liability, as applicable).
G. Each applicant shall provide the legal name and type of business,
legal mailing address, contact phone numbers, email and other such
information as may be necessary to maintain a proper mailing and contact
list of building contractors. Each applicant shall provide adequate
proof of qualification to perform the building construction, improvement,
remodeling, or repair work. Such proof of qualification may include
vocational training certificates, a statement of work-related experience,
professional certifications, or current licenses issued by other government
agencies.
H. Each building contractor performing, advertising or intending to
perform work in pre-1978 housing, schools or child-care facilities
shall provide a certificate or other sufficient proof of completion
of an approved lead-safe work practices course (i.e., EPA or HUD-approved
course).
I. Each building contractor installing fire alarm systems shall submit
proof of licensure by the State of New York.
J. Each building contractor performing asbestos abatement shall submit
proof of licensure by the State of New York.
K. Each building contractor installing manufactured homes shall submit
proof of certification by the State of New York.
L. Each building contractor that is engaged in construction or reconstruction
of water wells, or the installation or repair of water pumps, requiring
the opening of the well casing, shall submit proof of registration
by the State of New York (NYSDEC).
M. Each building contractor that hauls their own construction and demolition
debris shall submit proof of licensure by the Town of Galen.
N. Upon submission of a complete application and fee (if required),
each building contractor shall be issued a license number.
O. Licensure shall be denied or revoked if:
(1) The requested information is not supplied with the application.
(2) The requested information is false or incorrect.
(3) Any person listed on the application does not possess the occupational
or regulatory registration, license or certification required by other
agency to conduct such activities within the jurisdiction.
(4) The applicant is not qualified to work as a building contractor in
his/her field.
(5) The building contractor knowingly and willfully violates § 67-51
of this chapter.
P. As applicable, the license number of the building contractor shall
be included on building permit applications.
Q. Each license shall expire one year from the date of issuance.
R. An owner may construct a building or structure on his or her own
property, as long as the structure will be occupied by the owner or
owner's family, firm or corporation and its employees, and not for
use by the general public and not offered for sale or lease. However,
if the person or his or her family, firm or corporation has previously
sold or transferred a building or structure which had been constructed
by such person acting without licensure within the prior twenty-four-month
period, starting from the date on which a certificate of occupancy
was issued for such building or structure, then such person may not
construct another separate building without having first obtained
on his or her own behalf a building contractor license. An owner shall
not hire someone to manage construction of a building on his or her
behalf, unless that person is a licensed building contractor.
S. The Code Enforcement Officer shall compile and maintain a list of
all licensed building contractors, including their legal names and
types of businesses, phone numbers, registration numbers, and pertinent
information regarding lead certification, insurance coverage, and
the date of expiration.
T. The Code Enforcement Officer shall develop and hold public education
sessions, offered free of charge to all licensed building contractors,
a minimum of once per calendar year. Building contractors shall not
be required to attend such training.
[Added 8-26-2015 by L.L.
No. 4-2015]
A. General requirements. Except for emergency work, the conducting of
construction operations between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
shall be prohibited.
B. Fire and life safety.
(1) Adequate escape facilities shall be maintained at all times in buildings
under construction for the use of construction workers. Escape facilities
shall consist of doors, walkways, stairs, ramps, fire escapes, or
ladders, arranged in accordance with the general principals of the
Uniform Code insofar as they can reasonably be applied to buildings
under construction.
(2) No building or structure under construction shall be occupied in
whole or in part until all exit facilities required for the part occupied
are completed and approved for use.
(3) Existing buildings may be occupied during repairs or alterations
only if all existing exits and all existing fire protection equipment
are continuously maintained or, in lieu thereof, other measures are
taken which provide equivalent safety.
(4) Flammable or explosive substances or equipment for repairs or alterations
may be introduced in a building only if the condition of use and safeguards
provided are such as not to create any additional danger or handicap
to egress beyond the normally permissible conditions in the building.
C. Adjacent construction.
(1) Adjacent construction shall not cause serious adverse environmental
conditions or a hazard to the public or property.
(2) Adequate precautions shall be taken to minimize the possibility of
injury to the public and damage to adjacent properties.
(3) Where adjacent construction results in a code violation upon adjacent
property, the violation shall be corrected at the expense of the owner
or operator of the adjacent construction.
D. Hazards to firefighters. Whenever construction operations uncover
potential hazards to firefighters, such hazards shall be mitigated
as part of the construction project. Such hazards may include, but
are not limited to, bracket chimneys and the lack of fire stopping.
E. Construction scaffolds.
(1) Approval. The installation of a scaffold on, over or adjacent to
public property shall be preapproved by the authority having jurisdiction.
Supported scaffolds over 60 feet in height shall require a building
permit.
(2) Footing. Supported scaffold footings shall be level and capable of
supporting the loaded scaffold. The legs, poles, frames, and uprights
shall bear on mud sills or base plates.
(3) Guying ties and braces. Supported scaffolds with a height-to-base
ratio of more than 4:1 shall be restrained from tipping by guying,
tying, bracing, or the equivalent.
(4) Clearance to power lines. Scaffolds shall not be erected, used, dismantled,
altered, or moved such that they or any conductive material handled
on them might come closer to exposed and energized power lines than
10 feet.
(a)
Exception 1: For insulated power lines of less than 300 volts,
the minimum clearance shall be three feet.
(b)
Exception 2: For uninsulated power lines of more than 50 kv,
the minimum clearance shall be 10 feet plus 0.4 inch for each one
kv over 50 kv.
(c)
Exception 3: Scaffolds and materials may be closer to power
lines where such clearance is necessary for performance of work, and
only after the utility company, or electrical system operator, has
been notified of the need to work closer and the utility company,
or electrical system operator, has deenergized the lines, relocated
the lines, or installed protective coverings to prevent accidental
contact with the lines.
(5) Suspension scaffolds.
(a)
Suspension scaffolds shall be tied or otherwise secured to prevent
swaying.
(b)
Tiebacks must be secured to a structurally sound anchorage on
the building or structure. Sound anchorages do not include standpipes,
vents, other piping systems or electrical conduit.
(6) Other safety precautions.
(a)
Personnel shall be prohibited from working on scaffolds covered
with snow, ice or other slippery material except as necessary for
removal of such material.
(b)
Suspension ropes shall be shielded from heat-producing processes.
When corrosive substances are used on a scaffold, the ropes shall
be shielded, treated to protect against the corrosive substances,
or shall be of material that will not be damaged by the substance
being used.
(c)
Work on or from scaffolds is prohibited during storms or high
winds unless a competent person has determined that it is safe for
workers to be on the scaffold and those employees are protected by
a personal fall arrest system or wind screens. Wind screens shall
not be used unless the scaffold is secured against the anticipated
wind forces imposed.
(d)
Rubbish shall not be allowed to accumulate on scaffolds.
F. Grading, excavation, and filling of land.
(1) Permit required. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation
to excavate, strip, move, remove, grade, fill or deposit any topsoil,
earth, sand, clay, gravel, humus, rock or other mineral deposit from,
upon, or within any land within the jurisdiction, unless a permit
shall have been duly issued by the Code Enforcement Officer. Permits
may be otherwise required by state or local law or these rules and
regulations for the specific activity being conducted (i.e., installation
of a septic system).
(a)
Exception 1: Not more than an aggregate of 15 cubic yards of
excavation or clean fill shall be allowed without a permit at one-
and two-family dwellings.
(b)
Exception 2: Agricultural activities such as land tilling and
drain tile installation shall not require a permit.
(c)
Exception 3: Public utility work.
(2) Protection of underground facilities. Building contractors and other
persons engaged in demolition or excavation work shall contact Dig
Safely New York for underground utility stakeouts, in accordance with
NYS Code Rule 753. Public utilities shall be protected from damage
due to grading or excavation operations.
(3) Safety precautions.
(a)
A competent person shall inspect, on a daily basis, excavations
and the adjacent areas for possible cave-ins, failures of protective
systems and equipment, hazardous atmospheres, or other hazardous conditions.
If these conditions are encountered, exposed persons must be removed
from the hazardous area until the necessary safety precautions have
been taken. Inspections are also required after natural (e.g., heavy
rains) or man-made events such as blasting that may increase the potential
for hazards.
(b)
Support systems such as shoring, bracing, or underpinning shall
be provided to ensure the stability of adjacent structures such as
buildings, walls, sidewalks or pavements.
[1]
Excavation below the level of the base or footing of any foundation
or retaining wall shall be prohibited unless: i) a support system
such as underpinning is provided; ii) the excavation is in stable
rock; or iii) a registered professional engineer determines that the
structure is sufficiently removed from the excavation and that excavation
will not pose a hazard to persons or property.
[2]
Excavations under sidewalks and pavements are prohibited unless
an appropriately designed support system is provided or another effective
method is used.
(4) Protection of open excavations. Open excavations in or near roads,
pedestrian walkways and similar locations shall be protected by an
approved barricade or continuously guarded.
(5) Time limit on open excavations. No excavation for building or any
other purposes in the jurisdiction, whether or not completed, shall
be left open for more than 90 days without proceeding with the erection
of a building thereon. In the event that any such excavation remains
open for more than 90 days, the Code Enforcement Officer shall order
that the erection of a building on the excavation begin forthwith
or, in the alternative, that the excavation be filled to grade. If
the owner of the land fails to comply with the order within 15 days
after service thereof upon him, the Code Enforcement Officer shall
cause the excavation to be filled to grade, and the cost plus an administrative
fee of $50 shall be charged against the real estate. The billing and
collection of said costs shall be as provided in local law.
(6) Excavation and fill of watercourses. A permit shall be required for
excavation, grading or fill within any watercourse receiving drainage
from a public roadway, or in any watercourse lying within a public
easement or right-of-way. Precautionary measures to protect and maintain
the flow of watercourses shall be taken.
(7) Temporary erosion control. Precautionary measures necessary to protect
adjacent watercourses and public or private property from damage by
water erosion, flooding or deposition of mud or debris originating
from the site shall be put in effect. Precautionary measures shall
include provisions of properly designed sediment control facilities
so that downstream properties are not affected by upstream erosion.
(8) Tracking of dirt onto public streets. Adequate cleaning of equipment
to prevent the tracking of dirt and debris onto public streets shall
be provided.
(9) Revegetation. The loss of trees, ground cover, and topsoil shall
be minimized on any grading project. In addition to mechanical methods
of erosion control, graded areas shall be protected to the extent
practical from damage by erosion by planting grass or ground cover
plants and/or trees. Such plantings shall provide for rapid, short-term
coverage of the slopes as well as long-term permanent coverage. A
plan by a registered design professional shall be provided where required
by the Code Enforcement Officer.
(10)
Hazards from existing grading. Whenever any existing excavation,
embankment or fill has become a hazard to life or limb, endangers
structures, or adversely affects the safety, use or stability of a
public way or drainage channel, such excavation, embankment or fill
shall be eliminated.
G. Landscaping requirements.
(1) General. Landscaping is required for all new buildings and additions
over 500 square feet in floor area. Said landscaping shall be completed
within one year from the date of occupancy of the building.
(2) Street-side yards. All required yards and open spaces abutting public
streets shall be completely landscaped, except for those areas occupied
by utilities, access driveways, parking areas, paved walkways, playgrounds,
walls, structures or other required facilities.
(3) Maintenance. All required live landscaping shall be properly maintained.
All dead or dying landscaping shall be replaced immediately and all
sodded areas mowed, fertilized and irrigated on a regular basis.
(4) Prevention of mulch fires.
(a)
Approved receptacles for smoking materials shall be installed
at all entrances to public buildings and in designated smoking areas.
Mulch shall not be used in or near these areas.
(b)
A minimum eighteen-inch clearance shall be provided between
landscaped mulch beds and combustible building materials.
(c)
Noncombustible landscaping materials such as rock, decorative
stone or pea gravel shall be used around the gas meter and next to
the combustible portions of the structure.
(5) Fire-resistant plants. Within the immediate landscaped area, only
fire-resistant plants should be used. Highly flammable plants shall
be prohibited within five feet of structures.
H. Temporary
structures and storage.
[Added 7-20-2022 by L.L. No. 2-2022]
(1) Enclosed structures. Construction trailers, sheds and storage containers:
During building construction, trailers, sheds and storage containers
serving as contractor's offices and temporary storage facilities
are permitted. Such facilities shall not be located in any required
front yard on the site. Temporary structures shall be removed upon
the completion of construction.
(2) Open storage. The temporary open storage of building materials, equipment
or debris associated with the construction, renovation, or demolition
of a building or structure on the premises for which a valid building
permit exists shall be allowed with the following conditions:
(a)
Storage shall not be located in any required front yard.
(b)
No equipment or materials shall be stored or placed within 10
feet of a side or rear property line.
(c)
Items covered by tarps or stored in the open bed of a vehicle
or trailer shall be considered open storage.
(d)
All debris shall be stored in specific containment areas or
dumpsters.
(e)
All building materials, equipment and debris shall be removed
from the site within 30 days of the issuance of a certificate of occupancy
or similar notice of completion.
(3) Fencing. Temporary construction fencing may be installed to protect
the public from injury or maintain security during construction or
demolition projects in conjunction with an active building permit.
All such fencing shall be removed upon completion of construction
and prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
[Added 8-26-2015 by L.L.
No. 4-2015]
A. Fire exits in existing buildings shall comply with the building code
that applied at the time of construction. Existing buildings that
were not required to comply with a building code at the time of construction
shall comply with the minimum egress requirements specified below:
(1) At least two exit routes shall be available in a building to permit
prompt evacuation of building occupants during an emergency, except
where a single exit route is permitted by the Uniform Code.
(2) Dwelling units shall have adequate fire exits. Windows are acceptable
for the first and/or second floor. The third floor or above shall
have a fire escape or an acceptable second stairway and exit.
(a)
Exception 1: where a fire sprinkler system is installed in conformity
with NFPA 13, NFPA 13R, or NFPA 13D, as applicable.
(b)
Exception 2: above the second floor and below the seventh floor,
where a means of escape is provided and equipped with a portable escape
ladder compliant with ASTM F2175 (Standard Specification for Portable
and Permanent Emergency Escape Ladders for Residential Use).
(3) Every existing structure in which the means of egress are, in the
opinion of the Code Enforcement Officer, inadequate for the safety
of the occupants, shall be provided with means of egress or means
of escape as directed by the Code Enforcement Officer.
B. In the event that a building, facility or occupancy is determined
to have an impractical evacuation capability, additional fire protection
equipment, procedures and/or construction shall be provided to mitigate
the hazard to life. The term "impractical evacuation capability" shall
mean the documented inability of occupants to evacuate or reach a
place of safety within 13 minutes.
C. In addition to any other emergency plans required by the Uniform
Code, every employer with more than 10 employees shall have written
fire prevention and emergency action plans (as required by 29 CFR
Part 1910).
D. The Code Enforcement Officer shall establish minimum requirements
for the contents and posting of evacuation floor plans. Where evacuation
floor plans and written fire prevention and emergency action plans
are required or provided, copies of such plans shall be provided to
the Fire Department and Code Enforcement Officer.
E. Where required by the Code Enforcement Officer, approved floor markings
shall be provided to ensure that exit routes and safe clearances from
equipment are maintained.