[HISTORY: Adopted by the Town Board of the Town of Vernon 8-17-2017 by Ord. No. 2017-03[1] (Ch. 12 of the Town Code). Amendments noted where applicable.]
GENERAL REFERENCES
Fire Department — See Ch. 27.
Building construction — See Ch. 125.
Heating devices — See Ch. 174.
Nuisances — See Ch. 230.
[1]
Editor's Note: This ordinance also repealed former Ch. 160, adopted 5-2-1996 by Ord. No. 60 (Ch. 12 of the Town Code), as amended
A. 
It is the purpose of this chapter to provide the Town of Vernon with rules and regulations to improve public safety by promoting the control of fire hazards and life safety; regulating the installation, use and maintenance of equipment; regulating the use of structures, premises and open areas; providing for the abatement of fire hazards; establishing the responsibilities and procedures for code enforcement; and setting forth the minimum standards for compliance and achievement of these objectives.
B. 
It is also the purpose of this chapter to safeguard, to a reasonable degree, the life and property of the citizens of the Town of Vernon from the hazards of fire and explosion arising from the storage, handling and use of hazardous substances, materials and devices and from conditions hazardous to life or property in the use or occupancy of buildings or premises within the Town of Vernon. Standards of the American Insurance Association or the National Fire Protection Association or other approved nationally recognized safety standards shall be deemed to be evidence of compliance with this intent.
A. 
General. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all public and private buildings and places of employment.
(1) 
The provisions of this chapter shall apply equally to public and private property; they shall apply to all structures, whether existing or new, and they shall apply to the owner of the property as well as the occupant.
(2) 
The provisions of this chapter shall apply equally to new and existing conditions, except that existing conditions not in strict compliance with the terms of this chapter shall be permitted to continue where the exceptions do not constitute a distinct hazard to life or adjoining property or have been superseded by this chapter.
B. 
Exempt building structures. The following buildings and uses are not public buildings or places of employment and are not subject to the provisions of this chapter:
(1) 
One- and two-family dwellings and outbuildings in connection with the dwellings, including but not limited to barns and private garages.
(2) 
Buildings used exclusively for farming as described in § 102.04(3), Wis. Stats.
(3) 
Temporary buildings used exclusively for construction purposes, not exceeding one story in height, and not used as living quarters.
C. 
Exceptions. Nothing contained in this section shall be construed as applying to the transportation of any article or thing shipped in conformity with the regulations prescribed by the Department of Transportation nor as applying to the military forces of the United States.
All inspectable occupancies shall adhere to the following:
A. 
If more than 50% of the interior area of the building is remodeled and/or added to, the entire building shall be brought into compliance with the requirements of this chapter.
B. 
If less than 50% of the gross interior area of a building is remodeled, added to, or both, that part of the building which is remodeled, added to, or both, shall be brought into conformance with this chapter.
C. 
If the use of any existing building is changed and becomes more hazardous as determined by the Chief Fire Inspector, the building shall be brought into compliance with this chapter.
A. 
Whenever necessary to make an inspection to enforce any of the provisions of this chapter, or whenever the Chief Fire Inspector has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in any building or upon any premises any condition which makes such building or premises unsafe, the Chief Fire Inspector may enter such building or premises at all reasonable times to inspect the same or to perform any duty imposed upon him/her by the Fire Chief or by this chapter.
B. 
If the owner or occupant denies entry, the Chief Fire Inspector shall obtain a proper inspection warrant or other remedy provided by law to secure entry. No owner or occupant or any other persons having charge, care, or control of any building or premises shall fail or neglect, after proper request is made as provided, to promptly permit entry therein by the Fire Chief or his authorized representative for the purpose of inspection and examination pursuant to this chapter.
A. 
This chapter shall be enforced by the Fire Chief of the Town of Vernon Fire Department.
B. 
The Fire Prevention Bureau, within the Town of Vernon Fire Department, is to operate under the supervision of the Fire Chief and to assist the Fire Chief in the enforcement of this chapter.
C. 
The Chief Fire Inspector shall be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Fire Prevention Bureau.
D. 
Whenever an inspection by the Town of Vernon Fire Prevention Bureau reveals a fire hazard, the Fire Prevention Bureau may serve a notice, in writing, upon the owner or occupant of the property giving said owner or occupant two weeks or less in which to remove said hazard.
E. 
In the event that said fire hazard has not been corrected or removed within the prescribed time frame, a certified letter will be sent to the owner/occupant giving him/her additional time to respond if deemed necessary.
F. 
In the event that said fire hazard has not been corrected or removed within the extended time frame, it shall be deemed a nuisance and the Fire Prevention Bureau shall have the Town Attorney issue a citation to gain compliance.
G. 
All fees will be charged to the violator.
Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following terms shall, for the purpose of this chapter, have the meaning indicated in this section. Other terms used in this chapter shall be as defined in Ch. ILHR 51, Wis. Adm. Code A, and are adopted herein by reference.
ALARMS
An automated system for the purpose of alerting occupants and emergency personal. Types of fire alarms transmitted to the Fire Department include:
A. 
ACCIDENTAL FALSE ALARMAn alarm set off and transmitted through accidental operation of an automatic or manual fire alarm device; frequent causes are low air pressure on automatic sprinkler dry valves, excessive heat from industrial process or the sun, cold weather, and smoke detector sensitivity adjustment.
B. 
FALSE ALARMAn alarm for which no fire actually exists. Examples include: burnt food, system activated by steam from a shower, and improper maintenance of system and components.
C. 
MALICIOUS FALSE ALARMAny person, firm or corporation who or which shall negligently or willfully cause an alarm of fire to be transmitted to the Fire Department dispatcher, as opposed to an accidental false alarm. Malicious false alarms may be the result of maintenance, removal of component parts from the alarm system, intentionally setting off a system or calling in a false alarm.
APPROVAL
Approval by the Chief of the Fire Department or Chief Fire Inspector of the Fire Prevention Bureau, in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, as applied to a material, device or mode of construction.
APPROVED AGENCY
An agency accepted or acceptable to the Fire Prevention Bureau.
AREA OR SQUARE FOOTAGE OF BUILDING
Refers to the total square footage of the sums of all basements, floor levels, balconies and mezzanines.
A. 
The area for basements and floor levels shall be measured from the outside perimeter of the outside walls.
B. 
The area for mezzanines shall be determined from the product of the length times the width.
C. 
For the purpose of determining square footage, fire division walls will not be accepted as outside walls or area dividers.
D. 
Buildings that are in close proximity to each other will have their building square footage added together to arrive at the total square footage. For the purpose of determining proximity the following will hold true:
(1) 
Single-story buildings: 30 feet apart or less.
(2) 
Two-story buildings: 60 feet apart or less.
(3) 
Three-story buildings: 60 feet apart or less.
(4) 
All other multiple-story buildings: 60 feet apart.
ASSEMBLY HALLS or PLACES OF ASSEMBLY
All buildings or parts of buildings, other than theaters, which will accommodate more than 100 persons for entertainment, recreation, worship or dining purposes. The following table, per § ILHR 55.06, Wis. Adm. Code, includes various types of occupancies within the scope of this definition, together with the method for determining the capacity. No greater number of persons than the number thus established shall be permitted in any theater or assembly hall.
Use of Occupancy
Basis for Capacity
(square feet per person)
Arenas and field houses
4
Assembly halls with stage
7
Banquet halls
10
Churches (auditoriums)
7
Churches (dining rooms)
10
Dance halls
10
Dining rooms
10
Gymnasiums
6 for seated space; 15 for unseated space
Lecture halls
7
Lodge halls
6 for seated space; 15 for unseated space
Skating rinks
45
Theaters
7
Theater lobbies
7
ASSEMBLY OCCUPANCY
The occupancy or use of a building or structure or any portion thereof by a gathering of 100 persons or more.
ATCP
Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection.
AUTHORITY HAVING JURISDICTION
The Fire Chief, Fire Inspector or designee of the Fire Chief to enforce this chapter and the laws of the State of Wisconsin pertaining to the prevention of fires and public safety and approving equipment, installation, or procedure as outlined in NFPA standards.
AUTOMATIC CLOSING DEVICE
One which functions without human intervention and is actuated as a result of predetermined temperature rise, rate of rise of temperature, combustion products or smoke density.
AUTOMATIC FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
A system which automatically detects a fire condition and actuates a fire alarm signal device.
AUTOMATIC FIRE DETECTOR
A device designed to detect specific products of fire: smoke, heat, or both.
BUSINESS OCCUPANCY
The occupancy or use of a building or structure or any portion thereof for the transaction of business or the rendering or receiving of professional services, including offices.
CEILING
The upper surface of a space, regardless of height. Areas with a suspended ceiling would have two ceilings, one visible from the floor and one above the suspended ceiling.
CHIEF FIRE INSPECTOR OF THE FIRE PREVENTION BUREAU
The head of the Town of Vernon Fire Department, Fire Prevention Bureau.
COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL
All materials not classified as "noncombustible" are considered combustible. This property of a material does not relate to its ability to structurally perform under fire exposure. The degree of combustibility is not defined by standard fire test procedures.
COMMON AREA
With reference to Ch. ILHR 57, Wis. Adm. Code, Occupancies, refers to any area in the building that can be accessed by more than one person from different families at one time.
DAY-CARE CENTER
Any place which receives at any one time, for compensation, four or more persons for care and supervision, for less than 24 hours a day, for more than 10 days a month, without the attendance of a parent, relative or legal guardian.
DWELLING
Any building or portion thereof designed or used as the living and/or sleeping place of one or more persons, and including:
A. 
SINGLE-FAMILY DWELLINGA detached building designed for only one family and containing only one dwelling unit.
B. 
TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGA detached building containing not more than two individual dwelling units which are entirely separated by vertical walls or horizontal floors, unpierced except for access to the outside or common basement.
DWELLING STRUCTURE
Any structure containing one or more rooms providing sleeping and sanitary facilities, but not including a hotel, hospital, nursing home, dormitory, or fraternity or sorority house.
DWELLING UNIT
One or more rooms, which may include a kitchen or kitchenette, sleeping areas, dining areas, and sanitary facilities, designed as a unit for occupancy by not more than one family.
EDUCATIONAL OCCUPANCY
The occupancy or use of a building or structure or any portion thereof by persons assembled for the purpose of learning or of receiving educational instruction.
FAMILY UNIT
Two or more individuals who are related to each other by blood, marriage, adoption or legal guardianship. For purposes of this chapter, a group of not more than four persons not necessarily related by blood or marriage, living together in a single living unit, will be considered equivalent to a single family.
FIRE CHIEF OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT
The head of the Town of Vernon Fire Department or a duly authorized deputy.
FIRE DEPARTMENT
The Fire Department shall be the Town of Vernon Fire Department.
FIRE LANE
Any legally established public thoroughfare or all-weather hard surface area 20 feet or more in width, whether designated or not by name or number, such as avenue, boulevard, circle, court, drive, lane, place, road or way. The street must extend at least 50% of the length of the side of the building and must be accessible to fire-fighting equipment.
FIRE PREVENTION BUREAU
The Fire Prevention Bureau is made up of the following personnel: the Chief of the Town of Vernon Fire Department, the Chief Fire Inspector and the Fire Inspectors and/or any designee of the Fire Chief.
FIRE-RESISTIVE
That type of construction in which the structural members, including walls, partitions, columns, floor and roof construction, are of noncombustible materials with fire-resistant ratings not less than those specified in § ILHR 51.03, Wis. Adm. Code.
FIRE SPRINKLER EQUIPMENT, AUTOMATIC
A system of piping connected to an adequate water supply and provided with approved automatic fire sprinklers or devices so arranged and located as to discharge water automatically to the seat of the fire. Installation shall comply with National Fire Protection Association No. 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, or other applicable NFPA code.
FIRE WALL
A. 
A wall which has a fire-resistance rating of not less than four hours and which divides a building or separates buildings to restrict the spread of fire. A three-foot parapet wall may be a required part of a fire wall in accordance with § ILHR 51.02(13), Wis. Adm. Code.
B. 
For the purpose of determining square footage, fire walls shall not be considered as area dividers.
C. 
For the purpose of determining square footage as it relates to the sprinkling of a building, fire walls shall not be considered as area dividers.
FLOOR, BASEMENT
That level where less than half the height between the floor and ceiling is above the average level of the street, sidewalk or finished grade.
FLOOR, GROUND
That level of a building on a sloping or multilevel site which has its floor line at or not more than three feet above exit discharge grade for at least 1/2 of the required exit discharge.
HIGH-HAZARD OCCUPANCY
Any building which, by reason of its construction or highly combustible occupancy, involves a severe life hazard to its occupants, as determined by the Town of Vernon Fire Prevention Bureau.
HOUSING FOR THE ELDERLY or COMMUNITY-BASED RESIDENTIAL FACILITIES (CBRF)
Any place where three or more unrelated adults reside in which care, treatment or services above the level of room and board but not including nursing care are provided to persons residing in the facility as a primary function of the facility.
INDUSTRIAL OCCUPANCY
The occupancy or use of a building or structure or any portion thereof for assembling, fabricating, finishing, manufacturing, packaging or processing operations, except when classified as a high-hazard occupancy.
INSTITUTIONAL OCCUPANCY
The occupancy or use of a building or structure or any portion thereof by persons harbored or detained to receive medical, charitable or other care or treatment or by persons involuntarily detained.
MERCANTILE OCCUPANCY
The occupancy or use of a building or structure or any portion thereof for the displaying, selling or buying of goods, wares or merchandise, except when classified as a high-hazard occupancy.
MEZZANINE or MEZZANINE FLOOR
Any intermediate floor level, whether accessed by a stairway or not, opened or enclosed.
MULTIFAMILY DWELLING
An apartment house or a building designed for occupancy by three or more families living independently of each other and containing three or more dwelling units, including but not limited to row houses, garden or elevator apartments and rooming houses.
NFPA
The National Fire Protection Association.
NONCOMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL
One which, in the form in which it is used, meets one of the requirements listed below. Materials used adjacent to or in contact with heat-producing appliances, warm air ducts, plenums and chimneys shall be classified as noncombustible only on the basis of Subsection A. "Noncombustible" does not apply to the flame-spread characteristics of interior finish or trim materials. No material shall be classed as noncombustible building construction material which is subject to increase in combustibility or flame-spread classification (FSC) beyond the limits herein established through the effects of age, moisture or other atmospheric conditions. (See note on flame-spread rating in the Wisconsin Administrative Code.)
A. 
Materials which pass the test procedure of ASTM E-136 for defined noncombustibility of elementary materials when exposed to a furnace temperature of 1,382° F. for a minimum period of five minutes and do not cause a temperature rise of the surface or interior thermocouple in excess of 54° F. above the furnace air temperature at the beginning of the test and which do not flame after an exposure of 30 seconds.
B. 
Materials having a structural base of noncombustible material as defined in Subsection A, with a surfacing not more than 1/8 inch thick which has a flame-spread classification (FSC) not greater than 50 when tested in accordance with the method of test for surface burning characteristics of building materials (ASTM E-84).
OWNER
Includes his duly authorized agent or attorney, a purchaser, devisee, fiduciary or person having a vested or contingent interest in the property in question.
PUBLIC BUILDING
Includes any structure, including exterior parts of such building, such as a porch, exterior platform or steps providing means of ingress or egress, used in whole or in part as a place of resort, assemblage, lodging, trade, traffic, occupancy, or use by the public or by three or more tenants.
REMODEL
To remodel or alter, or both, means to change any building or structure which affects the structural strength, fire hazard, internal circulation, or exits of the existing building or structure. This definition does not apply to maintenance, re-roofing, or alterations to the heating and ventilating or electrical systems.
ROOF SPACE
Multifamily, commercial, industrial, governmental and institutional buildings: buildings with combustible roofs shall have all roof spaces subdivided every 3,000 square feet by a one-hour-rated partition unless protected by an approved sprinkler system. All openings must have a minimum of a one-hour-rated self-closing door.
ROW HOUSE
A place of abode arranged to accommodate three or more attached, side-by-side or back-to-back living units.
SPACING
A horizontally measured dimension relating to the allowable coverage of fire detectors.
SPS
Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services.
STORAGE OCCUPANCY
The occupancy or use of a building or structure, or any portion thereof, for the storage of goods, wares, merchandise, raw materials, or agricultural or manufactured products, including parking garages, or the commercial sheltering of livestock and other animals, except when classified as a high-hazard occupancy.
STORY
The space in a building between the surface of any floor and the floor next above or below, or roof next above, or any space not defined as basement, ground floor, mezzanine, balcony, penthouse or attic.
THEATER
All buildings or parts thereof containing an assembly hall having a stage which may be equipped with curtains or movable scenery, or which is otherwise adaptable to the showing of plays, operas, motion pictures or similar forms of entertainment.
VEHICLE
Any self-propelled device fueled by a flammable or combustible liquid or compressed gas used to transport people or goods.
A. 
The following are adopted by reference and incorporated into this chapter as if fully set forth herein. Any violation of the incorporated provisions constitutes a violation of this chapter.
SPS 307
Explosives and Fireworks
ATCP 93
Flammable and Combustible Liquids
SPS 314
Fire Prevention
SPS 316
Electrical
SPS 318
Elevators, Escalators and Lift Devices
SPS 328
Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
SPS 332
Public Employee Safety and Health
SPS 340
Gas Systems
SPS 361-366
Commercial Building Code
B. 
The most recent update to the State Building Codes will be automatically adopted by this chapter.
C. 
Copies of all codes that are adopted by reference are on file at the Town of Vernon Fire Department for viewing upon request by appointment.
A. 
The following most current editions of the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) standards are hereby adopted by reference and made part of this chapter with the same force and effect as though set forth herein in full. Any violation of the incorporated provisions constitutes a violation of this chapter.
NFPA 11
Foam Extinguishing Systems, Low Expansion and Combined Agent
NFPA 11A
Foam Systems, Medium and High Expansion
NFPA 12
Carbon Dioxide Extinguishing Systems
NFPA 12A
Halon 1301 Fire Extinguishing Systems
NFPA 12B
Halon 1211 Fire Extinguishing Systems
NFPA 13
NFPA 15
Standards for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems
Water Spray Fixed Systems
NFPA 17
Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems
NFPA 17A
Wet Chemical Extinguishing Systems
NFPA 26
Water Supplies, Valves Controlling
NFPA 30A
Automotive and Marine Service Station Code
NFPA 33
Spray Application Using Flammable and Combustible Materials
NFPA 34
Dipping and Coating Processes Using Flammable Materials
NFPA 43A
Oxidizing Materials, Liquid and Solid Storage
NFPA 43C
Oxidizing Materials, Gaseous, Storage of
NFPA 50
Oxygen Systems, Bulk, at Consumer Sites
NFPA 50A
Hydrogen Systems, Gaseous, at Consumer Sites
NFPA 50B
Liquified Hydrogen Systems, at Consumer Sites
NFPA 51B
Cutting and Welding Processes or Combustible Liquids
NFPA 69
NFPA 72
Explosion Prevention System
National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
NFPA 80
Fire Doors and Windows
NFPA 92A
Smoke Control Systems to Four Stories in Height
NFPA 96
Cooking Equipment, Vapor Removal
NFPA 105
Smoke-Control Door Assemblies
NFPA 204M
Smoke and Heat Venting
NFPA 654
Chemical, Dye, Pharmaceutical and Plastic Industries Prevention of Fire and Dust Explosion
NFPA 1123
Fireworks, Public Display of
NFPA 1124
Fireworks, Manufacture, Transportation
NFPA 1231
Water Supplies, Suburban and Rural Fire Fighting
NFPA 1961
Fire Hose
NFPA 1962
Fire Hose, Care, Use and Service Testing
NFPA 1963
Fire Hose Connections, Storage of
NFPA 25
Inspections, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems
NFPA 231C
Rack Storage of Materials
NFPA 231D
Rubber Tires, Storage of
NFPA 231F
Roll Paper Storage
B. 
The most recent update to the NFPA Codes will be adopted upon recommendation of the Fire Prevention Bureau.
C. 
Any fire prevention problem not herein addressed by this chapter or adopted standards will be addressed on the basis of current accepted NFPA national standards.
D. 
NFPA codes.
(1) 
NFPA codes are available for viewing at the Town of Vernon Fire Department upon request by appointment.
(2) 
Copies of the standards may be purchased from the National Fire Protection Association, Subscription Service, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269-9101.
A. 
The Fire Chief shall inspect or cause to be inspected by the Fire Prevention Bureau all buildings and premises, except the interior of private dwellings, as often as may be necessary for the purpose of ascertaining and causing to be corrected any conditions liable to cause fire or any violations of the provisions or intent of this chapter and of any ordinance affecting the fire hazard.
B. 
Upon complaint of any person, the Fire Prevention Bureau shall inspect any buildings and premises within its jurisdiction.
This chapter shall not be construed to affect the responsibility of any person owning, operating or installing any equipment for damage to persons or property caused by any defect therein, nor shall the Town be held as assuming any such liability by reason of the inspection or reinspection authority herein or the permit issued as herein provided or by reason of the disapproval or approval of any equipment authorized herein.
A. 
Dangerous or hazardous conditions. Whenever any officer or inspector of the Fire Department finds dangerous or hazardous conditions in any building or upon any premises, he shall order such dangerous materials or conditions to be removed or remedied in such a manner as may be specified in the order. The following are examples of hazardous conditions:
(1) 
Dangerous or unlawful amounts of combustible or explosive matter.
(2) 
Hazardous conditions arising from defective or improperly installed equipment for handling or using combustible or explosive matter.
(3) 
Dangerous accumulations of rubbish, wastepaper, boxes, shavings or other highly combustible materials.
(4) 
Accumulations of dust or waste material in air-conditioning systems or of grease in kitchen exhaust ducts.
(5) 
Obstructions to or on fire escapes, stairs, passageways, doors or windows liable to interfere with the operations of the Fire Department or egress of occupants in case of fire.
(6) 
Excessive amounts of gasoline.
B. 
Service of orders.
(1) 
The service of such orders may be made upon the owner, occupant or other person responsible for the conditions, either by delivering a copy of the same personally or by delivering the same to and leaving it with any person in charge of the premises. Whenever it may be necessary to serve such an order upon the owner of the premises, such an order may be served either by delivering to and leaving with the person a copy of the order or, if such owner is absent from the jurisdiction of the officer making the order, by mailing such copy to the owner's last known post office address by certified mail and returned receipt.
(2) 
If the building or other premises is owned by one person and occupied by another under lease or otherwise, the order issued in connection therewith, except where the rules or orders require the making of additions to or changes in the premises itself, shall affect the occupant and not the owner unless it is otherwise agreed between the owner and occupant.
(3) 
Period for correction. Conditions that are highly hazardous to the life or safety of the occupants shall be corrected immediately. All other violations and defects shall be corrected within 14 days or such time as the Bureau shall allow.
A report of the Fire Prevention Bureau shall be made semiannually and transmitted to the Fire Chief. The report shall contain all proceedings under this chapter, with such statistics as the Fire Chief may wish to include. The Fire Inspector shall also recommend amendments to this chapter which, in his judgment, shall be desirable.
A. 
The Chief of the Town of Vernon Fire Department shall have the power to modify any of the provisions of this chapter upon application in writing by the owner or occupier, or a duly authorized agent, when there are practical difficulties in the way of carrying out the strict letter of this chapter, provided that the spirit of this chapter shall be observed, public safety secured, and substantial justice done.
B. 
The particulars of such modifications, when granted or allowed, and the decision of the officer in charge of the Fire Prevention Bureau thereon shall be entered upon the records of the Department and a signed copy shall be furnished to the applicant.
C. 
The Fire Chief may require tests as proof of compliance with the intent of this chapter, such tests to be made by an approved agency at the expense of the person requesting approval of the alternate material or method of construction.
D. 
If technical expertise is unavailable within the Department because of new technology, process, products, facilities, materials and uses attending the design, operation or use of a building or premises subject to the inspection of the Department, the Fire Chief may require the owner or the person in possession or control of the building or premises to provide, without charge to the Department, a technical opinion and report. The opinion and report shall be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or fire safety organization acceptable to the Fire Chief and the owner and shall analyze the fire safety properties of the design, operation or use of the building or premises and the facilities and appurtenances situated thereon and prescribe the necessary recommended changes.
A. 
Whenever the Chief Fire Inspector shall disapprove an application or refuse to grant a permit applied for, or when it is claimed that the provisions of this chapter do not apply or that the true intent and meaning of this chapter has been misconstrued or wrongly interpreted, the applicant may appeal from the decision of the Chief Fire Inspector to the Chief of the Fire Department.
B. 
Such appeal shall be in writing and shall be filed with the Chief of the Town of Vernon Fire Department within 30 days from the date of the decision of the Chief Fire Inspector of the Fire Prevention Bureau.
C. 
The Chief of the Town of Vernon Fire Department may affirm, reverse or modify the decision of the Chief Fire Inspector of the Fire Prevention Bureau and shall make such orders as are necessary under the circumstances.
D. 
All appeals shall be in the form of a written notice served on the Fire Department in which the questioned decision is fully stated. Such notice shall be immediately transmitted to the Fire Chief who shall arrange for a hearing on the issue raised.
E. 
Whenever the Fire Chief denies a request for an appeal, the applicant may appeal to the Vernon Town Board. Such appeal shall be in writing and shall be filed with the Town Clerk within 30 days from the date of the decision of the Fire Chief. After due hearing on such appeal, the Vernon Town Board may affirm, reverse or modify the decision of the Fire Chief and shall make such orders as are necessary under the circumstances.
Fees for permits, certificates, approvals and other functions performed under this chapter shall be established by the Town Board by resolution and shall be payable to the Town of Vernon at the Clerk's office. Such fees shall accompany each application for such approval, certificate, permit, or other function. Double fees will be charged for starting work before fees have been paid or plans have been approved.
Any person who violates any of the provisions of this chapter or who fails to comply with any order made hereunder or who builds in violation of any detailed statement of specifications or plans submitted and approved hereunder, or any certificate or permit herein from which no such appeal has been taken, or who fails to comply with such an order as affirmed or modified by a court of competent jurisdiction within the time fixed herein, shall for each and every violation and noncompliance be subject to the following:
A. 
Except as otherwise provided herein, penalties for a violation of this chapter shall be as described in Chapter 1, § 1-10, of this Code.
B. 
Imposition of a penalty for each such violation shall not excuse the violation or permit it to continue, and such violations or defects shall be corrected or remedied within a reasonable time.
A. 
The Chief Fire Inspector may request from the Building Inspector the revocation of any permit issued in accordance with this chapter in any case where he finds that any of the conditions for issuance have not been maintained or where there has been any false statement or misrepresentation of any material fact in the application or plans on which the issuance was based.
B. 
The Chief Fire Inspector shall promptly notify the permit holder of the request for revocation, and, if so requested by the permit holder, the effective date of the revocation shall be deferred pending a hearing before the Plan Commission of the Town of Vernon. The decision of the Plan Commission for revocation, following the hearing, shall be final.
The intent of this section is designed for the better fire protection of life and property within the Town of Vernon. The Town of Vernon concurs with the state-adopted code regulating automatic sprinkler systems required for commercial or multifamily residential applicable properties.
A. 
Approval of plans and system types.
(1) 
Prior to the installation of a sprinkler system, or the alteration of an existing sprinkler system, plans shall be submitted to the Fire Prevention Bureau for approval.
(2) 
Three copies of the plans and specifications shall be submitted for review; approved plans shall be stamped "Conditionally Approved by the Fire Prevention Bureau," with the date of such approval and signature of the officer granting approval. Two copies shall be returned to the owner and one copy will be kept on file by the Fire Prevention Bureau.
(3) 
The Town of Vernon Fire Department's conditional approval of sprinkler plans does not affirm the accuracy of any calculations performed by the contractor. The accuracy of these calculations is the full responsibility of the contractor.
(4) 
No work may begin on installation of a sprinkler system or alteration of a sprinkler system until it is approved by the Fire Prevention Bureau.
B. 
How installed.
(1) 
Approved automatic fire sprinkler equipment shall be installed in accordance with the current edition of Pamphlet No. 13, Standards for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, or other applicable standards of the NFPA and the Town of Vernon Fire Department.
(2) 
Compressors for the dry pipe systems are required to be wired directly to building power.
(3) 
All compressors of dry pipe systems will have low-limit air switches and alarms.
(4) 
In areas where there is no city water:
(a) 
The sprinkler system is required to be connected to domestic water at the time of installation.
(b) 
When city water becomes available, the owner will have 90 days to hook up to the city main.
(c) 
The sprinkler system supply line is to be the same size as the lateral from the well in accordance with Chapter 125, Building Construction, of this Code.
C. 
Maintenance of equipment.
(1) 
Sprinkler systems and standpipe systems which have been installed in compliance with a permit or order, or because of any law or ordinance, shall be maintained in operative condition at all times.
(2) 
It shall be unlawful for any owner or occupant to reduce the effectiveness of the protection so required, except that this subsection shall not prohibit the owner or occupant from temporarily reducing or discontinuing the protection where necessary to make tests, repairs, alterations or additions.
(3) 
The Fire Chief shall be notified when the system has been shut down for any reason and again when the system has been restored to service.
D. 
Annual inspections. Every sprinkler system required by the Town Code or by the administrative rules of the State of Wisconsin shall be tested in accordance with the NFPA 25 and the results of the testing shall be forwarded to the Fire Prevention Bureau on a yearly basis.
E. 
Application to existing buildings.
(1) 
Where the Fire Prevention Bureau finds that existing buildings are used, in whole or in part, in such a way as to constitute a severe fire hazard to their occupants or adjoining property, the Fire Prevention Bureau may recommend to the Town of Vernon Plan Commission to require compliance with the provisions of this section as they related to new construction.
(2) 
All existing public buildings or places of employment and all additions shall conform to this section as follows:
(a) 
More than 50% remodeled or added to. If more than 50% of the area or square footage of a building is remodeled and/or added to, the entire building shall comply with the requirements of this chapter. When determining what constitutes 50% remodeled or added, add all previous additions or areas remodeled together to arrive at the total area that has been renovated. If this percentage is equal to or greater than 50% of the gross area of the original building as determined as of the effective date of this chapter, the entire building will be required to be brought up to code.
(b) 
Any building with an existing sprinkler system, when making an addition, regardless of size or occupancy, will sprinkler the addition in accordance with NFPA 13 or other applicable NFPA code.
(c) 
If the use or occupancy of a building is changed and the hazard and/or life safety becomes more severe, the entire building shall be brought into compliance with the sprinkler code.
F. 
Fire Department hose connections. Every automatic sprinkler system installed in new or existing buildings shall be equipped with at least one Fire Department hose connection at a location approved by the Chief Fire Inspector. Audible alarm bells are required on the inside and outside of all buildings that have sprinkler systems.
G. 
Exemptions:
(1) 
Safe deposit or other vaults.
(2) 
Electrical service rooms. Smoke detectors, rate of heat rise detectors or fixed temperature detectors shall be required to monitor this space.
The intent of this section is to require automatic fire extinguishing systems in vent hoods and duct systems for all commercial-type kitchens to effectively extinguish fire at its source and reduce the property damage and loss caused by kitchen fires.
A. 
Installation requirements.
(1) 
A dimensional drawing or sketch showing the hood and ducts and the extinguishing system shall be prepared showing the size of the hood and ducts, the area of the protected surface, the model, size and number of package units, the size and length of piping, the number and type of fittings and the number of nozzles and distance of nozzles above the cooking surface.
(2) 
Review of plans. All plans for automatic fire extinguishing equipment shall be submitted for review prior to installation of the equipment. Three sets of plans and specifications shall be submitted to the Department for review. Two sets shall be returned to the installer and shall be stamped "Conditionally Approved by the Chief Fire Inspector" with the date of such approval, and the other set shall be retained by the Chief Fire Inspector.
(3) 
The system shall also be provided with an automatic fuel shutoff.
B. 
Maintenance. All extinguishing systems shall be inspected annually by a factory-authorized representative and a certificate of this inspection, signed by the factory representative and the owner or occupier of the establishment, shall be submitted to the Fire Prevention Bureau.
A. 
Where required. There shall be an automatic closing device:
(1) 
Except on single and two-family dwellings, on all fire and smoke doors, except doors leading directly outside in all buildings, regardless of size.
(2) 
On all fire shutters and vents.
(3) 
Wired into the fire alarm system where a fire alarm system is required.
B. 
How installed. Installation shall be per National Fire Protection Association standards and the National Electrical Code.
In any business occupancy where the exit travel is more than two stories above or below the level of exit discharge and/or subject to 50 or more occupants above or below the level of exit discharge, or subject to 150 or more total occupants, a manual fire alarm system shall be provided.
A. 
Complete information regarding the installation of automatic fire detection systems, including specifications and floor plans showing the location of the fire detection components, shall be submitted to the Town of Vernon Fire Department for approval prior to the installation of the detectors.
B. 
Review of plans. Three sets of plans and specifications shall be submitted. Two sets will be stamped "Conditionally Approved by the Chief Fire Inspector" with the date of such approval, and the other set shall be retained by the Chief Fire Inspector.
C. 
Before requesting final inspection and approval of the installation by the Chief Fire Inspector, the installing contractor shall furnish a written statement to the effect that the automatic fire detection system has been installed in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications.
D. 
Upon completion of the installation, a satisfactory test of the smoke and heat detector system in accordance with NFPA 72E shall be made in the presence of a representative of the Chief Fire Inspector.
E. 
The automatic fire detection systems shall be maintained and tested in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications and recommendations and the requirements of the State of Wisconsin.
F. 
Every public building or place of employment containing either a manual, sprinkler-activated, or fire-detector-activated alarm system shall comply with the following: the Town of Vernon Fire Department will be contacted immediately upon activation of an alarm by on-site personnel or a monitoring agency so not to cause a delay in alarm.
G. 
All systems shall be maintained in operable condition as specified in the State Building Code, Chs. SPS 361-366, Wis. Adm. Code.
H. 
Should the alarm system become inoperable for any reason, the Fire Chief shall be notified and the provisions of Wis. Adm. Code shall apply.
I. 
Audible signal characteristics. The sound levels for signaling shall be installed per NFPA 72.
J. 
All residential (Ch. ILHR 57, Wis. Adm. Code) occupancies are required to have a red strobe light connected to the sprinkler system and/or alarm system for that building. Location shall be approved by the Town of Vernon Fire Department.
K. 
Where NFPA 13R sprinkler systems are approved for residential occupancies, heat detectors are required in each attic space and in each garage unit. The heat detectors are to be incorporated into the building alarm system.
L. 
False alarms. Any person, firm, or corporation having a fire, smoke, or heat detector system shall be charged a fee by the town for a malicious false alarm responded to by the Fire Department.
A. 
Fire lanes shall be at least 20 feet in width with the road edge closest to the building at least 10 feet from the building. See NFPA 1.
B. 
It shall be unlawful for any person to park motor vehicles on, or otherwise obstruct, any fire lane.
A. 
State law adopted. The current and future statutory provisions of § 167.10, Wis. Stats., regulating the sale and use of fireworks, exclusive of any provision therein relating to penalties and subject to any modifications set forth in this section, are hereby adopted by reference and made part of this Code as though fully set forth herein. Any act required to be performed or prohibited by any current or future statute incorporated herein by reference is required or prohibited by this section. Any future additions, amendments, revisions or modifications of § 167.10, Wis. Stats., incorporated herein are intended to be made a part of this Code.
B. 
Definition of "fireworks." "Fireworks" is hereby defined to include all items included in § 167.10(1) (intro.), as well as all items included in § 167.10(1)(f), (j), (k), (L), (m) and (n) of the Wisconsin Statutes.
C. 
Sale of fireworks. It is unlawful for any person to sell fireworks as defined in Subsection B of this section. [§ 167.10(1), Wis. Stat.]
D. 
Possession and use of fireworks.
(1) 
No person may possess or use fireworks as defined in this section without a user's permit from the Town Chair [§ 167.10(3)(a), Wis. Stat.] or from an official or employee of the Town of Vernon designated by the Town Board.
(2) 
Any permit issued by or sold by a fireworks vendor is not valid.
(3) 
The Town Chair shall refer each application for a fireworks permit to the Fire Chief of the Fire Department. The Fire Chief shall review the permit, shall investigate the same, and shall make a recommendation in writing to the Town Board to approve or disapprove the issuance of a permit. The Town Chair may impose restrictions and set forth requirements in the permit concerning the possession or use of fireworks and pyrotechnic displays. Any violation of any restriction or requirement shall be cause for revocation of the permit and shall constitute a violation of this section. [§ 167.10(3)(a), Wis. Stat.]
(4) 
Each permit must be applied for and approved by the Town Board 30 days before use.
(5) 
A copy of the permit must be given to law enforcement officials in the Town at least two days before the date of use. [§ 167.10(3)(g), Wis. Stat.]
(6) 
Each permit must specify the specific quantity and the kinds of fireworks that are going to be used or possessed. [§ 167.10(3)(f)3, Wis. Stat.]
(7) 
Each permit must specify the location at which the fireworks may be possessed or used. [§ 167.10(3)(f)4, Wis. Stat.]
(8) 
The permit must specify the date of the permitted use. [§ 167.10(3)(f)4, Wis. Stat.]
(9) 
A permit may not be issued to a minor [§ 167.10(3)(h), Wis. Stat.] under the age of 18 years old.
(10) 
Residents and nonresidents must have a valid permit to possess or use fireworks while in the Town of Vernon.
(11) 
The Town Chair shall require the applicant for a permit to file a certificate of insurance with the application issued by an insurance company licensed to do business in the State of Wisconsin for at least $1,000,000, which certificate of insurance will provide for the payment of all claims that may arise by reason of the injury to persons or property from the handling, use or discharge of fireworks under the permit. The policy of insurance shall cover any claim made against the Town of Vernon by any person injured by such fireworks display and shall provide that the Town of Vernon or any person may bring an action on such policy of insurance in the person's own name who may be injured to recover damages that the person has sustained. The policy of insurance shall be approved by the Town Attorney and the Town Board before filing with the Town Clerk [§ 167.10(3)(e), Wis. Stat.]
(12) 
Failure to provide the information requested or the certificate of insurance in the amount required shall be sufficient cause to deny the permit.
(13) 
Penalties.
(a) 
A person who possesses or uses fireworks, as defined in this section, without a valid permit, or who sells fireworks in the Town of Vernon is subject to a forfeiture of up to $1,000 per violation. [§ 167.10(9)(b), Wis. Stat.] Each firework illegally possessed, used or sold maybe a separate violation.
(b) 
A parent or guardian who allows a minor to possess or use fireworks (not including those for which no permits are required) is subject to a forfeiture of up to $1,000 per violation [§ 167.10(9)(c), Wis. Stat.]
(c) 
A town may obtain an injunction prohibiting a person from violating § 167.10(8)(a), Wis. Stats. Violations of such an injunction are criminal misdemeanors, subject to up to nine months in jail and a fine of $10,000. [§ 167.10(9)(a), Wis. Stat.]
(14) 
Nothing herein contained shall prohibit the use or sale of blank cartridges for circus or theatrical purposes, or signal purposes in athletic contests or sports events, or use by the militia, police or military organizations; nor the use or sale of colored flares or torpedoes for railway, aircraft, or highway signal purposes.
E. 
Enforcement. [§ 167.10(8)(a) and (b), Wis. Stat.]
(1) 
A town may petition the Circuit Court for an order enjoining violations of Sub. (2), (3) or (6) or an ordinance adopted under Sub. (5) of § 167.10, Wis. Stats.
(2) 
Fireworks stored, handled, sold, possessed or used by a person who violates this section, an ordinance adopted under Sub. (5) or a court order under Par. (a) may be seized and held as evidence of the violation. Except as provided in § 968.20(4), only the fireworks that are the subject of a violation of this section, an ordinance adopted under Sub. (5) or a court order under Par. (a) may be destroyed after conviction for a violation. Except as provided in § 968.20(4), Wis. Stats, fireworks that are seized as evidence of a violation for which no conviction results shall be returned to the owner in the same condition as they were when seized to the extent practicable.
For the purpose of this section, the following minimum standards shall apply to the storage, handling, and display of live Christmas trees and foliage:
A. 
Trees and foliage shall be stacked not closer than 10 feet to any gasoline pump or other device for the transfer of petroleum products.
B. 
Aisles or clear spaces of not less than three feet shall be maintained at all times.
C. 
No Christmas trees or foliage shall contact any electrical lines or wires.
D. 
A fire extinguisher with a 2A-10BC rating or greater shall be provided by the merchant for each 75 feet of travel in the display and/or storage area.
E. 
All storage and sales of Christmas trees and foliage shall be held outside of all buildings.
F. 
It shall be unlawful to light a match or any flame-producing device or to smoke or carry a lighted cigar, cigarette, or pipe in areas where Christmas trees or foliage is sold, displayed or stored. The person in charge of the Christmas tree sales shall post "No Smoking" signs in locations designed to give persons entering the area notice of this regulation.
The following provisions will apply to assembly, educational and institutional properties:
A. 
Cotton batting, either natural, artificial, or manufactured, straw, dry vines, leaves, trees, or other combustible materials shall not be used for decorative purposes in show windows or other parts of commercial, industrial, or institutional occupancies unless made flame-retardant; provided, however, that nothing in this section shall be held to prohibit the display of stable goods permitted and offered for sale.
B. 
All drapes, hangings, curtains, drops, and all other decorative material used in public buildings that would tend to increase the fire and panic hazard shall be made from material which is not combustible or shall be treated and maintained in a flame-retardant condition by means of a flame-retardant solution or a process approved by the Fire Inspector.
C. 
Christmas trees. Artificial Christmas trees, except those within individual living units, shall be flame-retardant or nonflammable. Natural Christmas trees, except those within individual living units, shall have the trunk sawed off at least one inch above the original cut end and shall be cut immediately prior to being placed in a water-bearing stand. The water level shall always be above the cut.
D. 
Exit doors, exit lights, fire alarm sending stations, and fire extinguishing equipment shall not be concealed or obstructed by any decorative material.
E. 
Treatments used to accomplish flame retardation shall be renewed as often as may be necessary to maintain the flame-retardation effect.
F. 
The approved Class A-B-C flame-spread rating of the flame-retardant material or process used as required in this section shall be in accordance with interior finish requirements for that occupancy as stated in the Wisconsin Administrative Code.
A. 
No person shall smoke, carry a lighted cigar, cigarette or pipe, or light a match or other flame-producing device in any retail mercantile establishment, except in areas approved for such purposes by the Fire Chief. It shall be the duty of the person in charge of such establishment to enforce the regulations of this section.
B. 
Smoking shall be prohibited in all rooms or parts of buildings which contain flammable liquids in open containers or in which flammable liquids are used in any manufacturing process or where the vapors from flammable liquids are present or sold.
C. 
A plainly printed notice or the provisions of this section shall be posted in a conspicuous place in every occupancy. Such printed notices shall also be posted in any place of public assembly where smoking is permitted.
A. 
Before welding or cutting operations have begun in areas not designed or approved for that purpose, specific authorization shall be obtained from the owner of the premises or his duly authorized agent.
B. 
When welding or cutting operations are performed above or within 35 feet of construction or material exposed to the operation, or within 35 feet of floor, ceiling or wall openings so exposed:
(1) 
Such construction or combustible material shall be protected by noncombustible shields or covers from possible sparks, hot metal or oxide.
(2) 
Such floor, ceiling or wall shall be protected by noncombustible shields or covers.
(3) 
One or more portable fire extinguishers of approved type and size shall be kept at the location where welding or cutting is to be done.
C. 
Welding or cutting shall not be done in or near rooms or locations where flammable gases, liquids, or vapors, lint, dust, or loose combustible stocks are present when sparks or hot metal from the welding operation may cause ignition or explosion of such material.
D. 
Except as provided, welding or cutting shall not be performed on containers and equipment which contain or have contained flammable liquids, gases, or solids until these containers and equipment have been thoroughly cleaned or inerted or purged.
E. 
Hot tapping may be permitted on tanks or pipelines by the owner-operator thereof.
F. 
When welding or cutting is being done close to automatic heads, damp cloth guards may be used to shield the individual heads but shall be removed when the work is completed.
All decorative materials in atriums shall be noncombustible or shall be flame-retardant treated and be so maintained.
In any building with an elevator/elevators, at least one elevator shall be a minimum size so as to accommodate a seventy-six-inch by twenty-four-inch ambulance stretcher in a full reclining position. Buildings with at-grade access at the second floor are exempt.
The requirements of this section shall apply to all buildings or parts of buildings which accommodate public or private day-care centers. Day-care centers will be required to be inspected not less than twice per year by the Fire Prevention Bureau.
All dwellings and buildings within the Town of Vernon damaged from fire shall be boarded up or secured, as shall be required by the Fire Prevention Bureau, within 24 hours of the time of the fire. The owner shall assume the liability for the protection of the public until the property is secured.
It is unlawful to ignite or burn any type of barbecue grill inside residential occupancies. They shall not be burned within 24 inches of any combustible material. They may not be used on any balcony within five feet of any opening into a dwelling or apartment.
A. 
No person shall burn, cause to be burned, or permit to be burned any fire outside of a building with the following exceptions. Both the person igniting such fire and the owner of the land upon which such fire may occur shall be equally responsible for compliance with the requirements of this section.
B. 
All open burning shall comply with the following:
(1) 
Before a property owner is authorized to set a fire on his/her property, the property owner must have a signed burning permit on file with the Town of Vernon Fire Department. Permit may be obtained from the Town Hall, Vernon Fire Station 1, or on the Town of Vernon website. Signed permit may be filed at Town Hall, Vernon Fire Station 1, faxed to 262-662-3510 or emailed to clerk@townofvernon.org. The special charge shall be established through a separate Town resolution and shall be paid to the Town of Vernon in the Clerk's Office.
(2) 
The size of the pile of material burned shall not exceed four feet by four feet by three feet, except as provided in Subsection B(4).
(3) 
Any open pile of material burned shall be at least 50 feet from any structure, wood or lumber pile or wooden fence, or other combustible material, and provisions shall be made to prevent the fire from spreading to within 50 feet of such items.
(4) 
Burning shall be allowed in barrels or containers only if such barrels or containers are constructed and vented so as to prevent smoke from spreading beyond property lines that is offensive to neighboring property owners. Barrels and containers used for burning shall be kept at least 25 feet from any structure or material described in Subsection B(3) above.
(5) 
Such burning and the disposal of ash residue shall not be permitted on or within any improved street, drainage ditch, alley, parkway, public place, or public right-of-way.
(6) 
Fuel for burning shall consist of dry material only and shall not be ignited with flammable or combustible liquid.
(7) 
Material for burning shall not include rubbish, garbage, trash, any material made of or coated with rubber, plastic, leather or petroleum-based materials and may not contain any flammable liquids.
(8) 
No burning shall be permitted between 1/2 hour after sunset and 7:00 a.m., and all fires shall be completely extinguished by 1/2 hour after sunset. Burning shall be prohibited when the wind velocity exceeds nine miles per hour or when drought conditions exist.
(9) 
Burning shall be physically supervised by a competent person at least 18 years of age and personally attended by such person within sight of such burning until such fire is completely extinguished. Necessary extinguishing agents shall be readily available.
(10) 
No fire shall be conducted or permitted which results in smoke that is offensive to neighboring property owners or creates a nuisance for others.
C. 
Burning of stumps in place, wood for construction purposes, or clearing of land shall be permitted only under the following conditions:
(1) 
Authorization for said burning is obtaining from the Fire Chief or his designee.
(2) 
Burning complies with the requirements of § NR 429.04, Open Burning, Wis. Adm. Code.
(3) 
Burning complies with NFPA 10 Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers.
D. 
The following are exempt from the provisions of this section:
(1) 
Cooking fires and barbecue pits, grills and outdoor fireplaces.
(2) 
Any fires inside of a structure, including but not limited to fireplaces and incinerators.
(3) 
Fires set for training or instruction of fire fighters or testing of fire equipment.
(4) 
Fire specifically approved in writing by the Fire Chief or his designee.
E. 
The Town Chairperson and/or Fire Chief or his designee may suspend all burning or attach additional restrictions to burning when deemed necessary due to atmospheric or other conditions. The Fire Chief, or his/her designee, is responsible for posting a suspension, or additional restriction of burning both on the Town of Vernon website, and at both Fire Departments.
F. 
Any person who shall violate any provision of this section or any regulation made hereunder shall be issued a citation with the forfeiture stated at $50, plus court costs, for the first violation and $100, plus court costs, for subsequent violations. In addition to such forfeitures and costs, in the event a violation results in the response of the Town of Vernon Fire Department, said violator shall be assessed an additional charge of $200, said assessment to be paid to the Town of Vernon.
A. 
Definition. When used in this section, the words "flammable liquid" shall include all volatile flammable liquids with flash points at or below 100° F. under the requirements of the Standard Method of Testing for Flash Point of Volatile Flammable Liquids and the American Society for Testing Materials.
B. 
No person shall keep or store or use, or permit the keeping, storing or using, of gasoline within the Town in quantities larger than 10 gallons without first obtaining permission from the Fire Chief. Nothing herein contained shall be construed as applying to gasoline contained in the tanks of motor vehicles, vessels, boats or airplanes, when such tanks are permanently connected with the motor engine which they supply.
The following items shall not be stored in basements or storage bins of apartments or other multifamily dwellings in the Town of Vernon:
A. 
Charcoal, except in a metal container equipped with a metal cover.
B. 
Oily rags or dust mops.
C. 
Flammable liquids of any nature other than motor oils or similar oils in metal quart containers.
D. 
Bottle gases, propane, acetylene, oxygen or other substances of a similar nature.
E. 
Gasoline motors and gasoline-powered equipment such as outboard motors, power lawn equipment, snow blowers, snowplows, motor bikes, motorcycles, etc.
A. 
Purpose. The purpose of this section is to promote the public safety and welfare of the Town of Vernon and to facilitate the orderly use of ponds maintained by the Town of Vernon for purposes of fire protection.
B. 
Entry prohibited. No person may enter upon or into or otherwise use any pond which is located on land owned by the Town of Vernon which is maintained by the Town for the purpose of providing a supply of water for fire protection purposes, unless entry or use is made by authorized representatives of the Town or the Town of Vernon Fire Department for fire protection purposes. Entry is prohibited for any other purpose, including but not limited to swimming, wading, fishing, boating, skiing and skating.
C. 
Posting of signs. Signs prohibiting entry and use shall be posted in a conspicuous place near or adjacent to the pond.
D. 
Penalties. Penalties for a violation of this section shall be as described in Chapter 1, § 1-10, of this Code.