[HISTORY: Adopted by the Township Council of the Township of Old Bridge by Ord. No. D-12 (Ch. XII of the 1973 Revised General Ordinances); amended in its entirety 6-18-1979 by Ord. No. D-278. Subsequent amendments noted where applicable.]
GENERAL REFERENCES
Alarms and alarm systems — See Ch. 26.
Uniform construction codes — See Ch. 108.
Fire fighting — See Ch. 176.
Fire insurance claims — See Ch. 180.
Hazardous materials — See Ch. 221.
Heating devices — See Ch. 226.
Property maintenance— See Ch. 366.
Smoking in public buildings — See Ch. 422.
[Amended 1-3-1989 by Ord. No. 70-88]
A. 
The limits referred to in Section F-2800 of the Fire Prevention Code, in which storage of flammable liquids in outside aboveground tanks is prohibited, are hereby established as the entire Township of Old Bridge, except for the M3 Heavy Industrial Zone, as established by the Zoning Ordinance of the Township of Old Bridge.
B. 
The limits referred to in Section F-2800 of the Fire Prevention Code in which new bulk plants for flammable or combustible liquids are prohibited are hereby established as the entire Township of Old Bridge, except for the M3 Heavy Industrial Zones, established by the Zoning Ordinance of the Township of Old Bridge.
[1]
Editor's Note: Former Section 12-1, Codes Adopted; Section 12-2, Establishment and Duties of Fire Marshal; Inspectors; Section 12-3, Definitions; and Section 12-4, Establishment of Limits of Districts in Which Storage of Explosives and Blasting Agents Is To Be Prohibited, which previously preceded this section, were repealed 1-3-1989 Ord. No. 70-88.
[Amended 1-3-1989 by Ord. No. 70-88]
The routes referred to in Section 12-8 for vehicles transporting hazardous chemicals and other dangerous articles are hereby established as only such roads as are designated arterial streets in the Land Subdivision Ordinance of the Township.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Former Section 12-9, Establishment of Fire Lanes on Private Property Devoted to Public Use; Section 12-10, Amendments Made to Fire Prevention Code, as amended 1-7-1985 by Ord. No. 6-85; Section 12-11, Modifications; Section 12-12, New Materials, Processes or Occupancies Which May Require Permits; and Section 12-13, Gasoline Storage, Transport and Sale, which previously followed this section, were repealed 1-3-1989 by Ord. No. 70-88.
[Added 6-18-1984 by Ord. No. 15-84[1]]
The application for a building permit, in addition to Township Uniform Construction Code requirements, shall be accompanied by one copy of specifications and of plans which may be unsealed, drawn to scale, with sufficient clarity and detail dimensions to show the nature and character of the building, which copy shall be forwarded thereafter to the appropriate district fire department by the Department of Community Development.
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. III).
[Added 6-3-1985 by Ord. No. 26-85; amended 7-15-1985 by Ord. No. 31-85]
A. 
Pursuant to Section 11 of the Uniform Fire Safety Act,[1] the Uniform Fire Code shall be enforced locally within the established limits of Fire District Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 4 in the Township of Old Bridge.
[1]
Editor's Note: See N.J.S.A. 52:27D-202.
B. 
The local enforcing agency within the limits of Fire District No. 1 shall be the Board of Fire Commissioners of Fire District No. 2.
[Amended 5-22-2000 by Ord. No. 23-00]
C. 
The local enforcing agency within the limits of Fire District No. 2 shall be the Board of Fire Commissioners of Fire District No. 2.
D. 
The local enforcing agency within the limits of Fire District No. 3 shall be the Board of Fire Commissioners of Fire District No. 3.
E. 
The local enforcing agency within the limits of Fire District No. 4 shall be the Board of Fire Commissioners of Fire District No. 3.
[Amended 5-22-1995 by Ord. No. 34-95; 5-22-2000 by Ord. No. 23-00; 2-7-2011 by Ord. No. 2011-01; 7-9-2018 by Ord. No. 2018-18]
F. 
The Board of Fire Commissioners so designated shall enforce the Uniform Fire Safety Act[2] and the codes and regulations adopted thereunder in all buildings, structures and premises within the established boundaries of said Fire District, except owner-occupied one- and two-family dwellings, used exclusively for dwelling purposes, and shall faithfully comply with the requirements of the Uniform Fire Safety Code and the Uniform Fire Code.
[2]
Editor's Note: See N.J.S.A. 52:27D-192 et seq.
G. 
The local enforcing agency established hereunder shall periodically inspect all life-hazard uses as defined in the Uniform Fire Safety Act and Uniform Fire Code no less than the minimum schedule for inspections provided therein.
H. 
The Board of Fire Commissioners so designated shall appoint a Fire Official or establish a Bureau of Fire Prevention or other agency or office to perform the functions and duties established under the Uniform Fire Safety Act and may establish rules and regulations for the administration of said officer, bureau, agency or office. For all purposes, said officer, bureau, agency or office shall be the agent of the Board of Fire Commissioners.
I. 
The Board of Fire Commissioners so designated shall charge and collect such inspection and permit fees as are established by this chapter. Such fees and revenues shall be appropriated for the cost and expense of enforcing the Uniform Fire Code within the respective fire districts.
[Amended 9-3-1985 by Ord. No. 43-85]
J. 
The Board of Fire Commissioners shall employ at least one paid inspector who shall enforce and administer under the supervision of the Board of Fire Commissioners the Uniform Fire Safety Act and the Uniform Fire Code and any state or local rules and regulations. The Fire Inspector must be certified by the Commissioner of Consumer Affairs and shall be the Fire Official and/or Administrator of the Bureau of Fire Prevention or such other agency or office established by the Board of Fire Commissioners.
K. 
The Fire Official and any subofficials or inspectors shall serve for a term of two years and may be removed from office during the term of appointment only for good cause shown and only after having been offered a hearing upon any charges before the Board of Fire Commissioners.
L. 
The subofficials and inspectors appointed by the Board of Fire Commissioners, upon recommendation of the Fire Official, shall be under the supervision and control of the Fire Official.
M. 
The subofficials, inspectors and other employees of the Fire Official or Bureau of Fire Prevention shall be subject to discipline, suspension or dismissal by the Fire Official for cause, including but not limited to inefficiency or misconduct. Any disciplinary action, suspension or dismissal shall be subject to the right of the affected employee to appeal the same to the Board of Fire Commissioners.
N. 
As provided in the Uniform Fire Safety Act, any person or entity aggrieved by any order of the local enforcement agency shall have the right to appeal to the Construction Board of Appeals of the Township of Old Bridge.
O. 
In addition to the inspection and fees required pursuant to the Act and the regulations of the Department of Community Affairs, the following additional inspections and fees for those uses not defined as life-hazard uses shall be required:
[Amended 9-3-1985 by Ord. No. 43-85; 1-3-1989 by Ord. No. 70-88; 1-3-1989 by Ord. No. 72-88; 10-16-1989 by Ord. No. 38-89; 5-22-2000 by Ord. No. 23-00]
(1) 
The following buildings, uses, premises contained in this section, other than those that are incidental or auxiliary to the agricultural use of farm property, are subject to registration and periodic inspection requirements as hereby established. (Where two or more of the same use or different uses exist at the same building or premises, each one shall be considered as separate and distinct for the purpose of this chapter and shall be registered pursuant thereto.)
(2) 
Type (L) uses.
(a) 
Business use as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 500 square feet or less total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(b) 
Mercantile use as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 500 square feet or less total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use. (Exception: Any Type L uses with suppression/detection systems shall be classified under Type M).
(3) 
Type (M) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 501 square feet or more but less than 1,500 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(b) 
Mercantile uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 501 square feet or more but less than 1,500 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(c) 
Storage buildings as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 501 square feet or more but less than 1,500 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(d) 
Any Type L use with suppression/detection systems.
(4) 
Type (N) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 1,501 square feet or more, but less than 3,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(b) 
Mercantile uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 1,501 square feet or more, but less than 3,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(c) 
Storage buildings as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 1,501 square feet or more, but less than 3,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(5) 
Type (O) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 3,001 square feet or more, but less than 4,500 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(b) 
Mercantile uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 3,001 square feet or more, but less than 4,500 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(c) 
Storage buildings as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 3,001 square feet or more, but less than 4,500 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(d) 
Eating and drinking establishments with less than 50 occupants in which no alcoholic beverages are consumed.
(6) 
Type (P) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 4,501 square feet or more, but less than 7,500 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(b) 
Mercantile uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 4,501 square feet or more, but less than 7,500 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(c) 
Storage buildings as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 4,501 square feet or more, but less than 7,500 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(d) 
Hotels and motels with 100 rooms or less and not defined as life-hazard uses.
(e) 
Buildings where less than 100 persons assemble for the purpose of amusement, entertainment, recreation centers and health spas.
(7) 
Type (Q) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 7,501 square feet or more but less than 12,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(b) 
Mercantile uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 7,501 square feet or more but less than 12,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(c) 
Storage buildings as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 7,501 square feet or more but less than 12,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(d) 
Factory and industrial uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 7,501 square feet or more but less than 12,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(8) 
Type (R) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 12,001 square feet or more but less than 15,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(9) 
Type (S) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 15,001 square feet or more but less than 20,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(10) 
Type (T) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 20,001 square feet or more but less than 25,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(11) 
Type (U) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 25,001 square feet or more but less than 30,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(12) 
Type (V) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 30,001 square feet or more but less than 35,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(13) 
Type (W) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 35,001 square feet or more but less than 40,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(14) 
Type (X) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 40,001 square feet or more but less than 45,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(15) 
Type (KK) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 45,001 square feet or more but less than 50,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(16) 
Type (JJ) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 50,001 square feet or more but less than 55,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(17) 
Type (II) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 55,001 square feet or more but less than 60,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(18) 
Type (HH) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 60,001 square feet or more but less than 65,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(19) 
Type (GG) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 65,001 square feet or more but less than 70,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(20) 
Type (FF) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 70,001 square feet or more but less than 75,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(21) 
Type (EE) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 75,001 square feet or more but less than 80,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(22) 
Type (DD) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 80,001 square feet or more but less than 85,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(23) 
Type (CC) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 85,001 square feet or more but less than 90,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(24) 
Type (BB) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 90,001 square feet or more but less than 95,000 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(25) 
Type (AA) uses.
(a) 
Business uses as defined in the latest edition of the BOCA Basic National Building Code, 95,001 square feet or more but less than 100,00 square feet total gross floor area and not defined as a life-hazard use.
(26) 
Required inspections.
(a) 
All additional uses as listed in the aforementioned schedule shall be inspected for compliance with the provisions of this chapter periodically but not less than specified herein:
[1] 
Type L uses: once every 12 months.
[2] 
Type M uses: once every 12 months.
[3] 
Type N uses: once every 12 months.
[4] 
Type O uses: once every 12 months.
[5] 
Type P uses: once every 12 months.
[6] 
Type Q uses: once every 12 months.
[7] 
Type R uses: once every 12 months.
[8] 
Type S uses: once every 12 months.
[9] 
Type T uses: once every 12 months.
[10] 
Type U uses: once every 12 months.
[11] 
Type V uses: once every 12 months.
[12] 
Type W uses: once every 12 months.
[13] 
Type X uses: once every 12 months.
[14] 
Type KK uses: once every 12 months.
[15] 
Type JJ uses: once every 12 months.
[16] 
Type II uses: once every 12 months.
[17] 
Type HH uses: once every 12 months.
[18] 
Type GG uses: once every 12 months.
[19] 
Type FF uses: once every 12 months.
[20] 
Type EE uses: once every 12 months.
[21] 
Type DD uses: once every 12 months.
[22] 
Type CC uses: once every 12 months.
[23] 
Type BB uses: once every 12 months.
[24] 
Type AA uses: once every 12 months.
(b) 
Registration fees for all additional uses shall be as follows:
[Amended 10-22-2007 by Ord. No. 2007-26; 8-10-2015 by Ord. No. 2015-13]
Class
Square Feet
Fee Per Year
Type L uses
500
$56.95
Type M uses
501 - 1,500
$91.13
Type N uses
1,501 - 3,000
$136.69
Type O uses
3,001 - 4,500
$170.86
Type P uses
4,501 - 7,500
$227.81
Type Q uses
7,501 - 12,000
$284.76
Type R uses
12,001 - 15,000
$353.11
Type S uses
15,001 - 20,000
$410.06
Type T uses
20,001 - 25,000
$512.58
Type U uses
25,001 - 30,000
$626.49
Type V uses
30,001 - 35,000
$797.35
Type W uses
35,001 - 40,000
$911.25
Type X uses
40,001 - 45,000
$1,139.06
Type KK uses
45,001 - 50,000
$1,181.25
Type JJ uses
50,001 - 55,000
$1,223.44
Type II uses
55,001 - 60,000
$1,350
Type HH uses
60,001 - 65,000
$1,093.75
Type GG uses
65,001 - 70,000
$1,603.75
Type FF uses
70,001 - 75,000
$1,729.69
Type EE uses
75,001 - 80,000
$1,856.25
Type DD uses
80,001 - 85,000
$1,982.81
Type CC uses
85,001 - 90,000
$2,109.38
Type BB uses
90,001 - 95,000
$2,235.94
Type AA uses
95,001 - 100,000
$2,362.50
After 100,000 square feet, add in the above category for additional square footage. Inspections not described above shall require a fee of $35 per inspection.
(c) 
Where more than one additional use exists under one ownership at a given location, the highest use shall be registered at full fee and subsequent use at 1/2 scheduled fee.
(d) 
Multiple dwelling inspections. The local enforcing agency shall engage in multiple dwelling inspections pursuant to N.J.A.C. 5:70-2.1. The fee for each inspection shall be the fee per unit as set forth below.
[Added 3-10-2003 by Ord. No. 07-03]
(e) 
Smoke detector inspections. Local enforcing agency shall engage in smoke detector inspections with R-3 uses pursuant to N.J.A.C. 5:70-2.3 and the fee for the inspections shall be set forth below.
[Added 3-10-2003 by Ord. No. 07-03]
(f) 
Fees for inspections. The fee schedule for the inspections in Subsection O(26)(d) and (e) is as follows:
[Added 3-10-2003 by Ord. No. 07-03; amended 3-9-2009 by Ord. No. 2009-04]
[1] 
Inspections conducted on 10 business days' notice or more: $50.
[2] 
Inspections conducted on less than 10 but more than four business days' notice: $75.
[3] 
Inspections conducted less than four business days' notice: $125.
(g) 
Reinspections. All reinspections of multidwelling inspections and smoke detector/carbon monoxide detector inspections shall carry a fee of $35 for each return inspection.
[Added 3-9-2009 by Ord. No. 2009-04]
(27) 
Permits. Permit fees shall be charged as indicated in the New Jersey Administrative Code N.J.A.C. 5:70-2.9(c) with modifications as per Subsection P of this section.
(28) 
The latest adopted New Jersey version of the BOCA Basis Fire Prevention Code and all amendments and supplements thereto to the extent the provisions of same exceed the Uniform Fire Code are hereby adopted by the Township of Old Bridge for the purpose of establishing rules and regulations to improve the safety of the public by promoting the control of fire hazards; regulating the installation, use and maintenance of equipment and the use and occupancy of structures, premises and open areas; providing for the abatement of fire hazards; and establishing and implementing standards to achieve the said objectives. In the event of any conflict between the provisions of this chapter and those set forth in said code, the provisions hereof shall govern. The said standards, rules and regulations set forth in the said code shall be and the same are hereby incorporated in this chapter by reference, three copies of which have been and are now on file in the Office of the Township Clerk of the Township of Old Bridge.
(29) 
Penalties.
(a) 
All penalties as indicated in the New Jersey Administrative Code, Title 5, Chapters 70 and 70-2 (Uniform Fire Code) shall be adopted for the purpose of enforcing this chapter except those penalties imposed as hereinafter provided for violations of this chapter not included within the Uniform Fire Code or authorized by the Uniform Fire Safety Act.
(b) 
Except as otherwise provided by law, any violation of the provisions of this chapter, including the latest adopted New Jersey version of the BOCA Basic Fire Prevention Code, and amendments and supplements thereto, shall be punished as provided in Chapter 1, Article II, Penalty. Each and every day that a violation of the provisions of this chapter shall continue after notification thereof by the Bureau of Fire Prevention shall be deemed and considered a separate and specific violation of this chapter. Such penalties as hereinabove provided shall not be exclusive, and, in addition thereto, any violation may be abated by a civil action instituted in a court of competent jurisdiction.
[Amended 1-9-2006 by Ord. No. 38-2005]
P. 
The permit fees established by the Uniform Fire Code shall govern all activities subject to this chapter, except for the following, which shall amend the Uniform Fire Code:
[Amended 10-16-1989 by Ord. No. 38-89; 5-22-2000 by Ord. No. 23-00; 10-22-2007 by Ord. No. 2007-26; 8-10-2015 by Ord. No. 2015-13]
Type
Fee
1
$52.80
2
$118.13
3
$253.13
4
$337.50
5
$843.75
Q. 
No amendment to this chapter shall conflict with the Uniform Fire Safety Act[3] or the Uniform Fire Code.
[3]
Editor's Note: See N.J.S.A. 52:27D-192 et seq.
R. 
Fire watch and Fire Department firesafety standby.
[Added 10-22-2007 by Ord. No. 2007-25]
(1) 
Whenever the appropriate Fire Marshal shall determine that on-site fire inspector(s) or fire-fighting personnel shall be required for fire watch as a result of fire protection system failure or deficiencies, or firesafety at any occupancy or event to insure the safety of the public or emergency responders, the owner or occupant responsible shall obtain a permit for the use or event from the applicable fire district.
(2) 
The following provisions shall apply:
(a) 
The Fire Marshal shall determine the number of inspectors and/or fire-fighting personnel required.
(b) 
The Fire Marshal shall determine the hours that the fire inspector(s) and/or fire-fighting personnel will be on duty.
(c) 
The permit fee shall cover the expenses incurred by the local enforcing agency.
(d) 
The fee for the permit shall include:
[1] 
Compensation for fire inspector(s) at present rate of pay per hour Monday through Friday as specifically assigned and time and one-half per hour thereafter as well as holidays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
[Amended 3-10-2008 by Ord. No. 2008-05]
[2] 
The rate for use of vehicles shall be $25 per hour.
[3] 
Reimbursement rates for other related services, equipment, or expenses shall be provided to the owner by the Fire Marshal prior to the scheduled use or event.
(e) 
The Fire Marshal or designee(s) shall have right of access to the premises and area surrounding it without interference from the property owner.
(f) 
Failure to secure a permit shall be punishable by a penalty as per the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code N.J.A.C. 5:70-12.
[Amended 3-10-2008 by Ord. No. 2008-05]
(g) 
Permit shall be required for each separate event or date of the activity requiring such a permit.
(h) 
Any occupancy or event requiring fire apparatus and fire-fighting personnel on site to insure the safety of the public and/or other occupants, and/or to insure the safety of any building and/or exposures, shall reimburse the appropriate fire district. Fees shall be $150 per required fire apparatus unit per occurrence and $20 per hour per firefighter manning apparatus.
[Added 1-3-1989 by Ord. No. 71-88; amended 5-22-2000 by Ord. No. 23-00]
Annexed hereto as Schedule A and incorporated herewith are the local provisions of the Fire Prevention Code of the Township of Old Bridge, which are expressly incorporated in and made a part of the Fire Prevention Code, as set forth in Chapter 185 of the Code of the Township of Old Bridge and shall supersede any other provisions inconsistent herewith.
Schedule A, Local Provisions
ARTICLE 70
F-7000.0 General
F-7000.1 Scope: This section shall apply to all buildings, structures or premises located within Old Bridge Township.
F-7001.0 Permits
F-7001.1 (Reserved)
F-7001.2 Type 1 permits: The following permits shall be classified as Type 1 permits.
F-7001.2.1 Asphalt (tar) kettle: No person, firm or corporation shall make use or fire any asphalt (tar) kettle without first securing a permit from the Fire Official.
F-7001.2.2 (Reserved)
F-7001.2.3 (Reserved)
F-7001.2.4 Liquefied petroleum gas or liquefied natural gas: A permit shall be obtained from the Fire Official for the storage or use of liquefied petroleum gas or liquefied natural gas utilizing storage containers with an aggregate water capacity exceeding 10 gallons and less than 4,000 gallons.
F-7001.2.5 Flammable or combustible liquids and hazardous materials: A permit shall be obtained from the Fire Official to test, install, remove, repair or alter in any way a stationary tank for the storage of flammable or combustible liquids or hazardous materials, or to modify or replace any line or dispensing device connected thereto if not required to obtain a permit for such activity under the Uniform Construction Code, N.J.A.C. 5:23.
F-7001.2.6 Flammable or combustible liquids: To store five or more gallons but less than 120 gallons of flammable or combustible liquids above ground.
F-7001.2.7 Hazardous materials: To store, handle or process hazardous materials or chemicals which, because of their toxicity, flammability, liability to explosion or decomposition, render fire fighting abnormally dangerous or difficult. Also, to store, handle or process materials which are chemically unstable and which may spontaneously form explosive compounds, or undergo spontaneous reactions of explosive violence or with sufficient evolution of heat to be a fire hazard. Hazardous chemicals or materials shall include but not be limited to such materials as flammable solids, corrosive liquids, radioactive chemicals, toxic materials, poisonous gasses, pesticides, rodenticides and fertilizers.
Exception: Materials or processes covered by a life-hazard use or permit under N.J.A.C. 5:70.
F-7001.2.8 Tank abandonment: A permit shall be obtained from the Fire Official to remove, abandon, place temporarily out of service or otherwise dispose of any flammable or combustible liquid or hazardous material tank.
F-7001.2.9 Other: Permits required by the Fire Official for hazardous operations or activities other than those specifically listed.
F-7001.3 Type 2 permits: The following permits shall be classified as Type 2 permits:
F-7001.3.1 Processing equipment: A permit shall be obtained from the Fire Official to install, modify or alter process equipment not required to have a permit under the Uniform Construction Code, N.J.A.C. 5:23.
F-7001.3.2 Flammable or combustible liquids: To store 120 or more gallons but less than 660 gallons of flammable or combustible liquids above ground, or to store any amount of flammable or combustible liquids in underground tanks, storage above ground of more than 660 gallons shall be covered by a Type 4 permits as authorized under the Uniform Fire Code, N.J.A.C. 5:70.
Exception: Fuel oil tanks for heating of one- and two-family dwellings up to 660 gallons in capacity.
Schedule A, Local Provisions
ARTICLE 70
F-7000.0 General
F-7002.0 Fire Safety/Emergency Actions Plans
F-7002.1 General: In addition to those required under N.J.A.C. 5:70, safety evacuation and emergency action plans shall be prepared as set forth in this section where required by Section F-7002.1 through F-7002.2.1.5.
F-7002.1.1 Occupant loads of 50 or more: All buildings with an occupant load greater than 50.
F-7002.1.2 Use Group H: All use Group H buildings.
F-7002.1.3 Use Group F: All use Group F buildings.
F-7002.1.4 Use Group S: All use Group S buildings.
F-7002.1.5 Use Group E: All use Group E buildings.
F-7002.2 Approval and distribution: The fire safety evacuation and emergency action plans shall be approved by the Fire Official and shall be distributed by the owner to all tenants and employees.
F-7002.3 Evacuation plan: The evacuation plan shall be conspicuously posted on every floor and in each tenant space for the occupant's use.
F-7002.4 Maintenance: The fire safety evacuation and emergency action plans shall be maintained to reflect changes in the use and physical arrangement of the building.
F-7002.5 Training: If an emergency action plan assigns employees with specific responsibilities in areas such as evacuation coordination, fire fighting or material leak and spill handling, the employer shall provide a minimum of annual training sessions to prepare the employee for such activities.
F-7002.6 Emergency action teams: Emergency action teams and fire brigades assigned the responsibility of fire fighting beyond the incipient stage with hand extinguishers or assigned the responsibility of containing and controlling hazardous material or flammable or combustible liquid leaks and spills shall be approved by the Fire Official.
In submitting an application for such approval, information shall be included listing the team members, their qualifications and selection criteria utilized for membership.
F-7002.6.1 Equipment and training: Members of emergency action teams and fire brigades as specified in F-7002.6 shall be equipped, trained and maintained in conformance with USOSHA regulations as a minimum.
Equipment utilized shall be compatible with that of the local fire district.
Schedule A, Local Provisions
ARTICLE 70
F-7000.0 General
F-7003 Fire Alarms/Reporting/Fire Reporting
F-7003.1 Fire alarms: The Fire Official shall investigate, or cause to be investigated, the activation of any fire alarm, fire detector, or fire protection system occurring within the jurisdiction to determine the cause for such activation and to determine if the device and/or equipment have been properly restored to full service.
F-7003.2 Failure to report: It shall be a violation of this code for any person or persons, having knowledge of same, to fail to report to the Fire Department and/or Fire Official a fire or the activation of any fire protection system or device; or to fail to report the spill or leakage of any flammable or combustible liquid or gas or of any hazardous material immediately upon gaining such knowledge.
Schedule A, Local Provisions
ARTICLE 70
F-7000.0 General
F-7004.0 Water Supplies
F-7004.1 General: Public and private fire hydrants, connections and appliances shall be installed and maintained in accordance with this section.
F-7004.2 Fire hydrant local standard: Section F-7004.2.1 through F-7004.2.4 shall be considered minimum standards for the installation and placement of public or private fire hydrants.
F-7004.2.1. Public hydrants: Hydrants in single-family residential zones shall be spaced with a hydrant installed one every 500 feet along the roadway(s) measured along the roadway edge.
Hydrants in business, commercial and industrial zones shall be spaced with a hydrant at each intersection and/or one every 300 feet along the roadway(s) as a minimum requirement.
F-7004.2.2 Private hydrants: Hydrants installed on private property shall be located and spaced according to the occupancy and site design requirements based on fire fighting needs with F-7004.2.1 utilized as a minimum requirement.
F-7004.2.3 Additional requirements: All new and existing hydrants, both public and private, shall have two 2.5 inch outlets and one 4.5 inch outlet with National Standard threads; be located within 24 inches of a curb, roadway, fire lane or parking area. All new hydrants, public or private, shall be provided with an individual control valve; be supplied by a water main a minimum of eight inches in diameter which shall be maintained up to the individual hydrant valve and in no case shall be more than 10 feet from the hydrant; and shall be installed in accordance with the standards of the American Water Works Association and NFPA 24.
F-7004.2.4 Approval: The Fire Official shall approve the placement and water supply piping of all fire hydrants prior to installation.
F-7004.2.5 Fire Department connections: All new and existing connections shall be located so that immediate access can be made by the Fire Department and be visible on a street front or in a location approved by the authority having jurisdiction. Obstructions such as fences, bushes, trees, walls or any other similar object shall not be permitted for new or existing installations. A reflective metal sign with raised letters at least one inch (25 mm) in height shall be mounted on the Fire Department connection serving sprinklers or standpipe. Such signs shall read "Automatic Sprinklers and/or Standpipe."
In areas where the Fire Department connection is not visible or where a sign cannot be mounted to the connection, i.e., a freestanding, curb side connection, a metal sign, as described above, shall be mounted on post and located within close proximity to the connection.
F-7004.2.6 Markings: All fire protection system components shall be red in color.
Control valves for fire system water supplies and risers shall be provided with a sign identifying the area it controls, i.e., riser 1, riser 2, hydrant loop, etc.
The lettering of such sign shall be of a conspicuous color and shall be at least four inches in height. Where control valves are located in separate rooms, the sign(s) shall be provided on the entrance door.
F-7004.2.7 Fire flows: In determining required fire flows, the Fire Official shall utilize the NFPA Fire Protection Handbook (current edition).
F-7004.2.8 Hydrants out-of-service: Hydrants out-of-service shall be conspicuously marked.
Schedule A, Local Provisions
ARTICLE 70
F-7000.0 General
F-7005.0 General Precautions
F-7005.1 Equipment rooms: No storage of any kind shall be permitted within any mechanical equipment, electrical, furnace or boiler room.
F-7005.2 Barbecue grills: Barbecue grills shall not be located or used within or upon any building, or within 10 feet laterally of any building wall or overhang.
Exception: One- and two-family dwellings.
F-7005.3 Interior storage: Interior storage in Use Groups A, F, H, S and M shall not be located above aisleways, corridors or exits, unless upon a mezzanine constructed and approved pursuant to the Uniform Construction Code (N.J.A.C. 5:23).
F-7005.3.1 Floor plans: Operators of new and existing storage or warehouse facilities shall submit a to-scale floor plan of the storage arrangement, including aisles, corridors, exits and elevators, to the Fire Official.
Any changes in arrangement that affects egress or height of storage shall be approved by the Fire Official.
F-7005.3.2 Plans: Non residential occupancies shall be required to provide the Fire Official with to-scale plans of the site and interior floor plans with detail as required by the Fire Official, such as exterior drives, fire lanes, exterior fire protection equipment, doorways, corridors, aisles, use of rooms, high hazard materials, utility controls and fire protection equipment. Submittals shall include 10 feet to the inch to 40 feet to the inch scale drawings, sized to 8 1/2 inch by 11 inch sheets. Plans shall be submitted within 180 days of receiving a notice from the Fire Official and shall not be required to be sealed.
F-7005.3.3 Material information: All occupancies shall be required to provide the Fire Official with full information concerning materials stored or utilized, including amounts, storage arrangement, flow charts and/or Material Safety Data Sheets. Information shall be submitted within 30 days of receiving a notice from the Fire Official.
F-7005.3.4 Access: All buildings or structures protected by fire suppression systems or fire alarms and all other areas required by the Fire Official shall be provided with a key box or locking device approved by the Fire Official. The key box shall contain keys to provide access to all areas of the building or structure and shall be installed in a location(s) approved by the Fire Official, such key box shall only be utilized in response to a report of a fire or fire protection system activation or other emergency call from the Police Communications Center.
Exceptions:
a. Buildings or structures occupied 24 hours a day, seven days a week by personnel possessing keys to all areas.
b. Residential occupancies; provided, however, that residential complexes containing locked common areas and/or master key capabilities shall be provided with a key box.
F-7005.3.5 Key box: The key box shall be provided with a monitored tamper switch and shall be located in a lighted location, seven feet above grade.
F-7005.3.6 Installation: Key boxes shall be installed within 90 days of receiving a notice from the Fire Official.
F-7005.3.7 Open burning: The burning of rubbish or combustible waste matter shall be prohibited except in approved incinerators pursuant to the Uniform Construction Code (N.J.A.C. 5:23).
Exceptions:
1. Agricultural burnings that are being conducted in compliance with a valid permit issued by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.
2. Small campfires for the purpose of cooking food that have received the prior approval of the Fire Official.
F-7005.3.8 Extinguishment: The Fire Official shall order the extinguishment of all prohibited burnings. In the event the Fire Official must call the Fire Department for extinguishment of the fire, the violator may be subject to the entire cost of the Fire Department response as certified by the Chief Executive of the Fire Department. The Fire Official shall collect these costs pursuant to N.J.A.C. 5:70-2.13.
F-7005.3.9 Identification: All rear doors of commercial occupancies shall be marked with the name of the occupant. Such lettering shall not exceed two inches (50 mm) in height. Rear doors also providing access to fire protection shall identify these doors with a sign stating "FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT" and be permanently fastened to the door.
Schedule A, Local Provisions
ARTICLE 70
F-7000.0 General
F-7006.0 Fire Lanes
F-7006.1 Requirements and designation: The Fire Official may require and designate public or private fire lanes as deemed necessary for the efficient and effective use of fire apparatus, access for fire fighting, or the egress of occupants.
For purposes of this section, the previous term, "FIRE ZONE" shall have the same meaning as "FIRE LANE." The previous identification of "FIRE ZONE" shall be changed to "FIRE LANE" as specified below under F-7006.2 markings.
F-7006.2 Markings: The owner shall, within 30 days of being given a notice to do so by the Fire Official, mark the lane as follows:
a. Signs constructed of metal and with raised red letters a minimum of two inches in size on a white background with the wording "NO PARKING FIRE LANE" shall be posted. Spacing of the signs shall be even, with a minimum of one sign for every 100 feet of fire lane or part thereof, or as ordered by the Fire Official. Any variation to this section shall be approved in writing by the Fire Official prior to installation.
b. The area of the fire lane on improved areas shall be delineated along its entire circumference with yellow lines four inches in width. Within the yellow lines shall be marked "NO PARKING FIRE LANE" in yellow letters 18 inches in height. The number of times this wording is to be repeated shall be at the discretion of the Fire Official. The inside of the fire lane shall be further marked with diagonal striping yellow in color and four inches in width spaced at intervals of five feet. If the designated fire lane abuts a curb, the curbing shall be yellow in color where it abuts the fire lane.
F-7006.3 Notification: The marking of fire lanes shall be the responsibility of, and at the expense of, the property owner and shall be completed within 30 days of receipt of notification.
F-7006.4 Unpaved areas: Unpaved fire lanes installed on public or private property shall comply with the "Fire Lane Typical Details" installation methods blueprint available from the Fire Protection Subcode Official and be approved by the Fire Official.
Selection of a method to be used as per the typical details shall be subject to the approval of the Fire Official. Signs and markings shall be provided as required by the Fire Official.
F-7006.5 Restricted access: Gates, chains or other methods utilized to prevent unauthorized access to fire lanes shall be approved by the Fire Official prior to installation.
F-7006.6 Installation, maintenance: Fire lanes shall be installed and maintained by the owner of the premises in conformance with the provisions of this chapter. Fire lanes in existence prior to the enactment of this chapter shall be required to conform to the provisions herein at the discretion of the Fire Official.
F-7006.7 Obstructions: See the Fire Prevention Code, N.J.A.C. 5:70-3.1(a)3, F-311.2.
F-7006.8 Multiple use: In designated areas where the fire lane and loading zone are common in usage, it shall be at the discretion and approval of the Fire Official. When approved, priority and enforcement procedures for these areas shall be governed as though the area was a fire lane with the exception being the loading or unloading of material to an occupancy.
The designated area shall be marked in the following ways:
a. The area (lane) shall have the roadway marked and signs installed in accordance with the other provisions of Section F-7006.0 Fire Lanes.
b. Securely mounted beneath the fire lane sign shall be a sign indicating loading zone as specified by the authority having jurisdiction.
F-7006.9 Access control devices for gated communities or buildings:When access control devices, including bars, grates, electric or magnetic locks or similar devices, which would inhibit rapid Fire Department emergency access to the building are installed, such devices shall be approved by the Fire Official. All access control devices shall be provided with an approved means for deactivation or unlocking by the Fire Department. Access control devices shall also comply for exiting. Any variation of this section shall be approved in writing by the Fire Official prior to installation.
[Added 6-30-2008 by Ord. No. 2008-21]
Schedule A, Local Provisions
ARTICLE 70
F-7000.0 General
F-7007.0 Construction Activities
F-7007.1 General: All construction requiring a construction permit under N.J.A.C. 5:23, the Uniform Construction Code, shall comply with the requirements of the Fire Prevention Code and this section as shall be applicable. The term "construction activities" as used in this section shall refer to those construction activities which require a permit under the Uniform Construction Code.
F-7007.2 Refuse containers: All active construction sites and locations shall be provided with noncombustible refuse container(s) in such numbers as shall be necessary to contain all combustible refuse generated by the construction activities.
All combustible refuse, rubbish and debris shall be cleaned up and deposited in the container(s) on a daily basis. Refuse container(s) shall be located a minimum of 20 feet away from any building, structure, lot line or combustible material storage location.
F-7007.3 Extinguishers: While construction activities are in progress, fire extinguishers shall be provided by the builder in accordance with the following subsections, and shall be maintained in a location approved by the Fire Official. Personnel normally on the construction site shall be instructed in the use of the fire extinguishers provided.
F-7007.3.1 Industrial, commercial: At construction sites for new industrial or commercial structures, at least four portable fire extinguishers having a rating of at least 10-A, 60-BC shall be provided.
F-7007.3.2 Multiunit residential: At construction sites for new residential structures where more than three buildings or buildings containing four or more dwelling units are under construction, at least four portable fire extinguishers having a rating of at least 10-A, 60-BC shall be provided, and in addition, one extinguisher with similar rating shall be provided for each site supervisor.
F-7007.3.3 All other locations: In locations other than those specified in F-7007.3.2 and F-7007.3.3, at least one portable fire extinguisher having a rating of at least 4-A, 30-BC shall be within a travel distance of 75 feet or less to any point of the structure under construction.
F-7007.4 Liquids and gases: Flammable or combustible liquids and gases shall be stored, handled or used in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Fire Prevention Code and the standards of the National Fire Protection Association.
F-7007.5 Occupied buildings: When construction activities take place in occupied buildings, special fire safety precautions shall be taken as required by the Fire Official in accordance with the Fire Prevention Code.
F-7007.5.1 Fire prevention equipment: When fire suppression, detection or alarm systems or devices are affected by construction activities, their down time shall be kept to a minimum. When possible, isolation of system components shall occur to insure operation in unaffected areas.
Whenever fire protection systems or devices are removed from service, a fire watch shall be posted if deemed necessary by the Fire Official. When the area affected is of a high hazard use, normal operations and occupancy of the area may be required to be suspended by the Fire Official until protection is restored.
F-7007.6 Access: Temporary all-weather surface access roads, gravel or equivalent, capable of supporting a thirty-ton emergency vehicle, shall be provided at all times for Fire Department vehicular access to all structures under construction and storage of combustible construction materials. Access to such locations shall be within 125 unobstructed feet at all times. Every dead-end roadway more than 300 feet in length shall be provided at the closed end with a temporary turnaround acceptable to the Fire Official.
F-7007.7 Water supply: The fire protection water supply system, including fire hydrants shown on the approved site plan, shall be installed and in service prior to placing combustible building materials on the project site or utilizing them in the construction of building structures. If phased construction is approved, coordinated phased installation of the fire protection water system shall be permitted as approved by the Fire Official with the following subsection as a minimum requirement:
F-7007.7.1 One- and two-family dwellings: In one- and two-family dwelling developments, fire hydrant(s) shall be within 250 feet of combustible construction material and accessible by roadways as required by Section F-7007.6.
F-7007.7.2 Multifamily dwellings: In multifamily apartment, condominium and townhouse development(s), fire hydrants shall be within 250 feet of combustible construction material and accessible by roadways as required by F-7007.6.
F-7007.7.3 Industrial, commercial sites: Industrial and commercial developments shall be provided with fire hydrant(s) as required by the Fire Official on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the planned construction activities and site design, with the minimum requirement being the installation of any required public water main(s) and/or fire hydrant(s) prior to the introduction of combustible materials to the site.
-7007.8 Open communications in buildings: Emergency services wireless communication frequencies must be able to operate within all new or existing buildings. A signal booster must be installed and maintained as required by the Fire Official. Any variation of this section shall be approved in writing by the Fire Official prior to installation.
[Added 6-30-2008 by Ord. No. 2008-21]
Schedule A, Local Provisions
ARTICLE 70
F-7000.0 General
F-7008.0 Storage of Flammable or Combustible Liquids or Hazardous Materials
F-7008.1 Abandonment of tanks: Any flammable or combustible liquid or hazardous material tank no longer in use shall comply with F-7008.1.1 to F-7008.1.4.
F-7008.1.1 Tanks "temporarily out of service" shall have the fill line, gauge opening, and pump connection secured against tampering. Vent lines shall remain open and be maintained.
F-7008.1.2 Any tank not used for a period of 90 days shall be properly safeguarded or removed in a manner approved by the Fire Official.
F-7008.1.3 Any tank which has not been used for a period of one year shall be removed from the property in a manner approved by the Fire Official, and the site restored in an acceptable manner after approval of the Health Officer.
F-7008.1.4 Tanks which are to be returned to service shall be tested in a manner approved by the Fire Official.
F-7008.2 Tank marking: Aboveground tanks or containers for flammable, combustible or hazardous material, or structures housing same, shall be provided with decals and lettering identifying their contents. Such marking shall include the product name, U.N. classification number and NFPA 704 designation or an industry equivalent approved by the Fire Official.
F-7008.3 Secondary containment: All new and existing aboveground tanks or containers for flammable or combustible liquids or hazardous materials or structures containing same shall be provided with secondary containment constructed of an impermeable material and sized to hold 150% of the largest tank within the containment area.
Exception: Existing single-family residential fuel oil tank installations containing less than 660 gallons. Containers containing five gallons or less when located at a retail establishment or consumer location of use.
F-7008.4 Temporary tank/container installations: Temporary aboveground tank/container installations for flammable or combustible liquids or hazardous materials shall comply with NFPA 30.
F-7008.4.1 Temporary: Tank installations shall be considered temporary when the following apply:
1. The tank(s) is being utilized on an active construction site.
2. The tank(s) is being utilized for a period not exceeding six months.
3. The tank(s) is being utilized as an emergency fuel source while a permanent installation is undergoing repair or replacement.
F-7008.5 Testing: Buried or partially buried tanks for the storage of flammable or combustible liquids or hazardous materials shall be subject to periodic integrity testing in accordance with the schedule set forth below.
Exception: Residential fuel oil tanks 1,000 gallons or less in capacity.
A permit shall be obtained from the Fire Official prior to conducting tests and a certificate of test completion shall be filed with the Fire Official and Health Officer.
1. For tanks age one year to 14 years: once every five years.
2. For all tanks 15 years and older: once every two years until replacement.
F-7008.5.1 Waiver: This testing frequency may be waived by the Fire Official, after consulting the Health Officer, provided that the storage tank has been designed and constructed with double wall, membrane envelope or vault methods of containment and has an adequate leak detection system.
F-7008.5.2 Determining age: Determining the testing schedule applicable to each storage tank location, the owner or operator shall provide specific proof of age, such as code enforcement permits or purchase/installation invoices. In the absence of specific proof of age, the tank shall be considered to be more than 15 years old for the purpose of this section.
Schedule A, Local Provisions
ARTICLE 70
F-7000.0 General
F-7009.0 Reinspections
F-7009.1 Penalty charges: In instances where the Fire Inspector has to return to the same occupancy multiple times to gain compliance in abating violations, a penalty levy of double the inspection fee shall be charged after the first reinspection.
Schedule A, Local Provisions
ARTICLE 70
F-7000.0 General
F-7010.0 Refuse Container(s)
F-7010.1 Refuse container(s): All shopping centers and/or locations where container(s) will be used shall be provided with noncombustible refuse container(s) in such numbers as shall be necessary to contain all combustible refuse generated by site activities.
All combustible refuse, rubbish and debris shall be cleaned up and deposited in the container(s) on a daily basis. Refuse container(s) shall be located a minimum of 20 feet away from any building or structure. At the discretion of the Fire Official, signage and/or location markings will be posted as directed.