Building Code Review Board
Regular MeetingDeKalb, IL · October 12, 2016
Minutes
MINUTES
City of DeKalb
Building Code Board of Appeals
October 12, 2016
The Building Code Board of Appeals held a meeting on October 12, 2016 at 10:00 A.M.
at the City of DeKalb Municipal Building, 200 South Fourth Street, DeKalb, Illinois,
60115, in the Haish Conference Room, 2nd Floor.
Chair Don Whitmore called the meeting to order at 10:02 AM.
A. ROLL CALL
The following members of the Building Code Board of Appeals were present at
roll call: Chairman Don Whitmore, Steve Doonan, Christine Scholl, and Lisa
Sharp.
Members absent were Steve Irving, Keith O’Higgins, and Charles Shepard.
Staff present were Long Term Planner Derek Hiland, Don Plass of HR Green,
and Administrative Assistant Natalie Nelson.
B. APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Additions / Deletions
Chairman Whitmore requested an addition to the agenda, under New Business:
1. Review of Residential Roofing Application
Chairman Whitmore requested a motion to approve the agenda as amended. L.
Sharp motioned to approve the agenda as amended, S. Doonan seconded the
motion, and all approved by voice vote.
C. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
None.
D. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Additions / Deletions
1. September 29, 2016 Meeting
Amendments to the minutes were requested to correct Deputy Fire Chief Jim
Zarek’s title and minor typographical and grammatical errors. Chairman Whitmore
requested a motion to approve the minutes as amended. C. Scholl motioned to
approve the minutes as amended, S. Doonan seconded the motion, and all
approved by voice vote.
Building Board of Appeals
October 12, 2016
Page 2 of 4
E. OLD BUSINESS
1. Continued review of 2015 ICC Building Codes and Municipal Code Chapter
24 revisions.
The newest version from D. Plass was made available shortly before the meeting
began, and hard copies were distributed to the members present. The version
referenced in this meeting’s discussion is marked “DRAFT distributed 10-12-16”
and page numbers have been added at the bottom. The Commission noted
several instances where revisions requested at the September 29, 2016 meeting
were not incorporated. The Commission compared the minutes from the
September 29, 2016 meeting to this draft and noted the discrepancies, which will
be fixed prior to distributing the next draft. They also noted some minor
typographical and grammatical errors and formatting inconsistencies throughout,
which will also be fixed prior to distributing the next draft.
It was noted that the word “the” will precede the phrase “Chief Building Official”
where applicable.
All references to “Director of Community Development” will be revised to be “the
Chief Building Official.”
All references to “Board of Appeals” or “Building Board of Appeals” will be
revised to be “Building Code Board of Appeals.”
All references to the “code official” will be revised to be “Chief Building Official.”
ARTICLE 9: STATE OF ILLINOIS PLUMBING CODE
Amendment to 890.1130 Protection of Potable Water is out of numerical
order; it will be placed between amendments to 890.930 and 890.1150.
ARTICLE 10: INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE
SECTION 103: DEPARTMENT OF PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
INSPECTION
Amendment to 103.5 Property Maintenance Reinspection Fees
will be revised to remove the reference to “International Property
Maintenance Code/2006” and replace it with “International Property
Maintenance Code/2015.”
SECTION 111: MEANS OF APPEAL
Amendment to 111.1 Application for appeal will be revised to
capitalize the first word “Delete.”
SECTION 304 EXTERIOR STRUCTURE
Building Board of Appeals
October 12, 2016
Page 3 of 4
Amendment to 304.1.1 Unsafe conditions, item 2 under numeral 13 will
be revised to remove “code official” and replace with “Chief Building
Official.”
SECTION 402 LIGHT
Amendment to 402.2 Common halls and stairways will be revised
as follows:
402.2.1 Every common hall and stairway in residential
occupancies, other than in one- and two-family dwellings, shall be
illuminated at all times with not less than a 60-watt standard
incandescent light bulb for each 200 square feet (19 m2) of floor
area or equivalent illumination, provided that the spacing between
lights shall not be greater than 30 feet (9144 mm) a minimum of 5
(five) footcandles.
402.2.2 In other than residential occupancies, means of egress,
including exterior means of egress, stairways shall be illuminated at
all times the building space served by the means of egress when
building space is occupied with not less than 1 (one) footcandle (11
lux) at floors, landings and treads.
APPENDIX A
Delete the first sentence: “The provisions contained in this
appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in
the adopting ordinance.”
F. NEW BUSINESS
1. Review and discuss Residential Roofing Application form
Board members recommended revisions to the drafted Residential Roofing Application
form presented by Don Plass. They recommended the following additions:
• Spaces for the roofing contractor’s contact information,
• Space to list the materials being used,
• A check box to confirm the contractor’s license has been submitted along with
the application, and
• A cross-section graphic to show construction details.
It was noted that the Commission does not wish to make any changes at this time
regarding residential roofing contractor regulations in Municipal Code Chapter 24
Building Code.
Building Board of Appeals
October 12, 2016
Page 4 of 4
G. ANNOUNCEMENTS
The proposed timeline of tasks was reviewed and tentative dates were reset:
10/21/16 – Chapter 24 draft complete and distributed
10/31/16 – BCBA regular meeting in Ellwood Conference Room at 9:00 AM
11/2/16 – Public information meetings in Council Chambers at 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM
11/11/16-11/16/16 – HR Green and City staff prepare City Council agenda item
12/12/16 – City Council first reading
The next Building Board of Appeals meeting will be set for Monday, October 31,
2016 at 9:00AM in the Ellwood Conference Room.
H. ADJOURNMENT
Chairman Whitmore asked for a motion to adjourn. S. Doonan motioned to adjourn, L.
Sharp seconded the motion, and all approved by voice vote. Adjourned at 11:43.
_________________________________
Natalie Nelson, Administrative Assistant
Minutes approved by the Building Board of Appeals on November 3, 2016.
Agenda
Municipal Building
Council Chambers
200 S. Fourth St., 2nd Floor
DeKalb, IL 60115
Rescheduled from October 11, 2016 to October 12, 2016
AGENDA
Building Code Board of Appeals
October 12, 2016
9:00 a.m.
A. Roll Call
B. Approval of Agenda – Additions / Deletions
C. Public Participation
D. Approval of Minutes – Additions / Deletions
1. September 29, 2016 Meeting
E. Old Business
1. Continued review of 2015 ICC Building Codes and Municipal Code Chapter
24 revisions
F. New Business
G. Announcements
H. Adjournment
MINUTES
City of DeKalb
Building Code Board of Appeals
September 29, 2016
The Building Code Board of Appeals held a meeting on September 29, 2016 at 9:00
A.M. at the City of DeKalb Municipal Building, 200 South Fourth Street, DeKalb, Illinois,
60115, in the Council Chambers.
Chair Don Whitmore called the meeting to order at 9:01 AM.
A. ROLL CALL
The following members of the Building Code Board of Appeals were present:
Chairman Don Whitmore, Steve Doonan, Keith O’Higgins, Christine Scholl, Lisa
Sharp, and Charles Shepard.
Member absent at roll call was Steve Irving.
Staff present were Deputy Police Chief Jim Zarek, Community Development
Director Ellen Divita, Don Plass of HR Green, and Administrative Assistant
Natalie Nelson.
Also present was Ken Andersen.
Don Whitmore introduced and welcomed the new members: Steve Doonan and
Keith O’Higgins.
B. APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Additions / Deletions
Chairman Whitmore requested a motion to approve the agenda for September
29, 2016. C. Shepard motioned to approve the agenda, S. Doonan seconded the
motion, and all approved by voice vote.
C. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Chair Whitmore welcomed Ken Andersen as Executive Director of The DeKalb
County Builders and Developers Association and invited to participate as he
desired.
D. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Additions / Deletions
1. September 9, 2016 Meeting – Chairman Whitmore requested a motion to
approve the minutes, as presented. C. Shepard motioned to approve the
minutes, C. Scholl seconded the motion, and approved by voice vote.
Building Board of Appeals
September 29, 2016
Page 2 of 10
L. Sharp noted that the bottoms of the ordinances in packet are cut off when printed.
This is occurred because the originals were on legal size paper. N. Nelson offered to
reprint them. The Commission said it was not necessary as the pages are complete
when viewed electronically and everyone had received them in that manner.
E. OLD BUSINESS
1. Continued review of 2015 ICC Building Codes and Municipal Code Chapter
24 revisions
D. Whitmore provided an overview of the newest editing work Don Plass has done on
Chapter 24, including integrating sections from previous drafts.
D. Plass reported that he met with the City Attorney Dean Frieders, who reviewed the
last draft of Chapter 24 and provided guidance to him. D. Plass explained that since the
International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) is part of the family of 2015 codes, it
should not be treated as a separate chapter of the Municipal Code as the Board
previously discussed and recommended. Attorney Frieders advised the Board to edit
Chapter 24 add an article to Chapter 24 with the following:
• The IPMC should be listed in the Adopted Codes at the beginning of Chapter 24,
• The entirety of the IPMC should be added to Chapter 24, and
• The City of DeKalb amendments should be placed within the text of IPMC.
All of these elements have been added as Article 8. This is different from all of the other
Articles in Chapter 24, but it is not a long code, and property owners and renters will find
it very useful to have all of the standards in one place to reference.
D. Plass reported that Attorney Frieders agreed that adding a disclaimer to the
beginning of Article 8 is necessary to clarify that Building Code Board of Appeals is not
involved in adjudication of property maintenance enforcement.
The Commission requested the following revisions to the amendments to Article 8:
Section 103.5 Property Maintenance Reinspection Fees – the date of the
International Property Maintenance Code should be changed from 2006 to 2015.
Section 111.1 Application for Appeal – deleted the current text and replace it with
the disclaimer text, which states that Building Code Board of Appeals is not
involved in adjudication of property maintenance enforcement.
D. Plass confirmed that Rooming House licensing requirements will still appear
separately as Chapter 14. Those elements of the building code related to rooming
houses would appear in the revised Chapter 24. He also noted that he added the Illinois
Smoke Detector Act and the Illinois Carbon Monoxide Act to the list of adopted codes.
Building Board of Appeals
September 29, 2016
Page 3 of 10
S. O’Higgins asked if removing the BCBA completely from building code violation
enforcement is advisable. Chairman Whitmore recounted a Building Board of Appeals
(BBA) case in the past in which a new home was completed and the overhead
clearance in the stairwell did not meet code requirements. Chairman Whitmore also
recalled case in which a building owner performed electrical work in a rental property
without a permit. In both cases, the City initially refused to the grant occupancy due to
these safety issues. The BBA heard and decided both of these cases. He said that if the
disclaimer in Section 8 had been in place at the time these code violation objections,
were addressed building owners would have had to go to court to resolve them. The
BBA felt the Board should still be able to hear cases regarding code enforcement if a
property owner was appealing a ruling from the Chief Building Official.
S. O’Higgins made a motion to revise the disclaimer at the beginning of Article 8 and in
section 111.1 to state this. Sharp seconded the motion. All approved by voice vote.
L. Sharp suggesting placing the Property Maintenance Article at the end of Chapter 24
instead of between Chapter 7: International Existing Building Code and Chapter 9:
National Electrical Code to make it as easy as possible for homeowners to find, since
the rest of Chapter 24 is intended for use by builders and designers.
D. Plass said the addition of Property Maintenance regulations to Chapter 24 will result
in the deletion of Municipal Code Chapter 13: Housing and Property Maintenance.
C. Scholl asked who is responsible for enforcing property maintenance code violations.
Deputy Police Chief Zarek replied that it is the Police Department’s Crime Free Division.
E. Divita provided a summary of the division of code enforcement duties between the
Building Division and the Crime Free Division. She also provided recent examples of
how property maintenance code violations and fire code violations can occur at the
same time, as in a situation the past weekend when the Fire Department was called in
to be involved in a property maintenance violation.
C. Scholl voiced concern that the title “Crime Free” might promote the belief that DeKalb
has crime problems and DeKalb residents may feel intimidated it. E. Divita explained
that the Police Department is responsible certain types of cases because the current
Building Division staff time is limited to construction and building-related matters.
Currently, Crime Free Division officers place door hanger warning tickets on the doors
of residences with visible property maintenance code violations.
E. Divita reported that in Mesa, Arizona, a Crime Free Division was established and was
very successful addressing landlords and tenants who violate City codes. In DeKalb,
Officer Carl Leoni, Crime Free Housing & Inspection Coordinator, tracks tenant offenses
and notifies the landlord. Several Commission members voiced their thoughts that if
police cars marked as “Crime Free Division” drive through town, it may contribute to
perception of a crime problem.
Building Board of Appeals
September 29, 2016
Page 4 of 10
The Commission then turned its attention to revising the revisions to earlier parts of
Chapter 24.
ARTICLE 0: CONTRACTOR REQUIREMENTS
The Commission agreed to remove “Director of Community Development” throughout
and replace with “Building Code Official”.
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS: D. Plass reported that the City test is being updated.
MECHANICAL CONTRACTORS: A discussion took place regarding the number of
hours and years of experience required for mechanical contractors. The Commission
agreed that DeKalb’s required qualifications for mechanical contractors are acceptable.
GENERAL CONTRACTORS: D. Plass confirmed that the City does not require
registration of each tradesperson beneath a General Contractor’s direction.
PLUMBING CONTRACTORS: A discussion took place regarding allowing tradesmen
besides plumbers to work on pipe located more than 5 feet from a building. D. Plass
reported that Attorney Frieders confirmed that amendments to the Illinois Plumbing
Code are allowed, but they must be reviewed by Illinois Department of Public Health,
which can take a very long time. He also confirmed that homeowners are not allowed to
install their own sewer or sewer system.
K. Anderson asked if amendments to the Illinois Energy Conservation Code are also
allowed. D. Plass replied that amendments are allowed as long as they are more
restrictive than the Illinois codes for plumbing and energy conservation. D. Plass
reported the HR Green plumber has reviewed and approves of all amendments to the
Illinois Plumbing Code.
The Commission’s discussion turned revisions to the DeKalb amendments to the State
of Illinois Department of Public Health Contractor requirements:
c) delete this item because the language is too broad and allows plumbers to
design the sewer system for any size building.
d) delete last sentence
f) delete from “; except the sanitary lateral….Plumbing Contractor/licensed
Plumber”
K. Anderson requested that the Sanitary District review these amendments. The
Commission agreed that was a good idea.
Building Board of Appeals
September 29, 2016
Page 5 of 10
E. Divita reminded the Commission of the input from the Laborer’s Union and reviewed
Matt Swanson’s email to D. Whitmore from September 28, 2015 regarding sewer work.
She read it aloud. Mr. Swanson wrote, “The law does not require building sewers to be
installed by licensed plumbers. We are in agreement with the law. However, we would
make one small suggestion to the prefatory language…”
P2501.1. Scope – The current text reads, “All work shall be performed by State
of Illinois licensed plumbers in accordance with the Plumbing Licensing Act.” To
improve clarity, it should read, “All work shall be performed by State of Illinois
licensed plumbers where required by and in accordance with the Illinois
Plumbing Licensing Law.”
Matt Swanson explained in his email, “Oddly enough, the usual term for an Illinois state
statute is ‘Act,’ but for some reason, the title of this statute is ‘Law’.”
The Commission recommended no further revisions to sections of Article 0 regarding
roofing contractors, alarm contractors, fire sprinkler contractors, and revocation of
contractor’s certificate and bonds.
ARTICLE 1: INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE
101.4.3: This amendment to was added in response to the Commission’s
discussion at the last meeting regarding separation between a toilet rooms and
food preparation areas for new and remodeled facilities that provide food for
public consumption: food preparation. Attorney Frieders recommended this
location, not in ARTICLE 10: STATE OF ILLINOIS PLUMBING CODE because it
comes from the INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE.
L. Sharp recommended that the same amendment should be placed in amendments to
the STATE OF ILLINOIS PLUMBING CODE.
109.2 – Schedule of Permit Fees. This has not been changed since 2014. D.
Plass said HR Green will review to determine if the permit fee schedules can be
simplified.
Schedule A – New Construction Building Fees for one- and two-family dwellings.
This schedule does not address residential roofing permits. D. Plass recommended a
nominal fee of $25 be added to this fee schedule. The Commission supports requiring
that roofing contractors sign a document stating that they will follow roofing regulations
at the time they apply for a permit. No inspections of residential roofs will take place
unless a property owner requests and pays for an inspection, the fee for which has not
been determined yet.
Building Board of Appeals
September 29, 2016
Page 6 of 10
L. Sharp expressed concern about how complex the commercial permit fees. E. Divita
commented that some communities figure commercial permit fees more simply by cubic
feet. C. Scholl asked if commercial permit fees are related to value. E. Divita replied that
value does not affect any permit fees, but that information is requested on permit
applications. The Commission asked that City staff and the City Attorney review of all of
fees with the goal to simplify them and ensure alignment with similar municipalities.
The discussion returned to contractor registration dates. The Commission was informed
that contractor bonds are normally dated for a calendar year. C. Shepard said that some
bond companies will provide an 18-month bond. When City contractor registration
begins to follow the calendar year as well, the City will send renewal notices in
November.
906.3 Size and distribution – Items 1 and 2 of this amendment should be updated
to require a 75 foot travel distance.
914.8.3 Fire Suppression for Aircraft Hangars: Exception – revise text to replace
the first instance of “fired” with “fixed”.
1211.2 Definitions – remove the entry for DEADLATCH.
1211.4 Specifications Applicable Generally to all Multiple Dwelling Buildings or
Buildings and Additions Thereto.
Revise item 1 to replace “Exterior Wood Doors” to be “Exterior Doors” and
update “thread wood screws” to “thread screws”.
Delete item 7 “Deadlatch, Latch” and renumber item 8 to be item 7.
Revise former item 8 to replace “Director of Community Development”
with “Building Code Official”.
Throughout, remove “Community Development Director or his/her designee” and
replace with “Building Code Official”.
1211.4 Additional Specification Applicable to Multiple Dwellings and to Additions
and Alterations Thereto.
Item 1 Entrance Doors to Units – remove “no more than 18 inches” and
replace with “no more than the Illinois Accessibility Code allows”.
Item 2 Lighting – remove the last sentence “Parking facilities….floor level”.
1211.6 Retroactive Operation.
Building Board of Appeals
September 29, 2016
Page 7 of 10
Item 1.a) Entrance Doors to Individual Apartments – revise to remove “no
more than 18 inches nor less than 6 inches” and replace with “no more
than the Illinois Accessibility Code allows nor less than 4 inches”.
Item 1.b) Exterior Wood Doors – delete “Wood”.
1211.7 Retroactive – the Building Official will review the existing Building Security
Ordinances and compare them to the 2015 code to determine if they are
necessary – it may be that these requirements were already added to the new
code. If not needed because the requirements are in the new code, this
amendment to add them will be deleted.
ARTICLE 2: INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE FOR ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY
DWELLINGS
R104.12 – add the “Climate Zone 5A” to table and replace red ink with black ink.
ARTICLE 3: INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE
914.8.3 – Exceptions Item 1. Revise to replace “fired” with “fixed” where it first
appears.
ARTICLE 4: INTERNATIONAL MECHANICAL CODE
M-1602.2 Don Plass will amend the table.s
ARTICLE 5: INTERNATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE
No revisions at this time.
ARTICLE 6: INTERNATIONAL POOL AND SPA CODE
No revisions at this time.
ARTICLE 7: INTERNATIONAL EXISTING BUILDING CODE
1401.2 Insert Date. Applicability - Revised red text indicate DATE TO BE
INSERTED BY JURISDICTION.
ARTICLE 8: INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE
SECTION 112: STOP WORK ORDER
[A] 112.4 Failure to comply – Enter fine [AMOUNT] per advice of City
attorney in both instances.
Building Board of Appeals
September 29, 2016
Page 8 of 10
SECTION 402: LIGHT
402.2 Common halls and stairways – As lighting methods have changed
significantly in the recent past, the Commission recommended deleting the
text that reads, “60-watt standard incandescent light bulb… greater than
30 feet (9144 mm)” and replacing it with, “what is required by the Illinois
Energy Conservation Code”. Retain the last sentence.
SECTION 502: REQUIRED FACILITIES
[P] 502.5 Public toilet facilities – Revise text to delete “International
Plumbing Code” and replace with “Illinois Plumbing Code”.
SECTION 505: WATER SYSTEM
[P] 505.1 General – Revise text to delete “International Plumbing Code”
and replace with “Illinois Plumbing Code”.
SECTION 602: HEATING FACILITIES
602.2 Residential occupancies – delete the Exception entirely
602.3 Heat supply – revise the minimum daytime temperature to delete
“65°” and replace with “68°” and the minimum nighttime temperature to
delete “60 degrees” and replace with “62°”. Also delete Exception 2.
SECTION 8: REFERENCED STANDARDS
Add to the list of adopted codes at the beginning of Chapter 24 the City’s
adoption of the Property Maintenance Code Appendix A, which appears at
the end of Section 8.
ARTICLE 9: STATE OF ILLINOIS PLUMBING CODE
890.120 – Definitions amendments
BUILDING SEWER – Delete the sentence that reads, “A building sewer
shall only be installed by an Illinois registered and license plumbing
contractor/plumber.”
PLUMBING INSPECTOR – Item d) – revise to delete “Plumbing Board of
Appeals” and replace with “Building Code Board of Appeals”
890.180 – Sewer and Water Pipe Installation
Building Board of Appeals
September 29, 2016
Page 9 of 10
Item f) – revise to delete the first sentence and modify the second
sentence to read, “Material backfill of the portion of building drain
penetrating the footing or foundation shall be compacted clay suitable for
damming of ground water.”
890.1210 – Design of a Building Water Distribution System
Item j) – revise the first sentence to read, “New family dwellings having
provisions made for soft water hookup, shall have three valves for bypass,
except for outside lawn hydrants and cold water in kitchen sink with proper
bypass.”
890 – APPENDIX
2. Approved Materials for Building Sewer Pipe Below Ground Outside a
Building – revise the measurement in Item 5) to be 10 feet (not 10 inches).
The Commission discussed the future timeline:
• D. Plass hoped to return the newest revisions electronically to the Commission
members by October 5th, if possible. He also said he will ask Tina Williams at HR
Green to search for the instances of unnecessary hyphens left over from
previous formatting.
• The next Regular Meeting was set October 11, 2016 at 9:00. The purpose of this
meeting is to approve the final draft of Chapter 24.
• The Public Meeting dates are still to be determined.
2. Confirmation of dates for Public Information Meeting
The Commission will set a date for Public Meetings, to which the DeKalb-area builders
would be invited, at the October 11, 2016 meeting.
F. NEW BUSINESS
None.
G. ANNOUNCEMENTS
The next Building Board of Appeals meeting will be set for Tuesday, October 11,
2016 at 9:00AM.
H. ADJOURNMENT
Building Board of Appeals
September 29, 2016
Page 10 of 10
Chairman Whitmore asked for a motion to adjourn the meeting. C. Scholl motioned to
adjourn. L. Sharp seconded the motion. All approved by voice vote. Adjourned at
12:00PM.
_________________________________
Natalie Nelson, Administrative Assistant
Minutes approved by the Building Board of Appeals on [date of approval] .
Chapter 24
BUILDING CODE
24.01 ADOPTION: INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE / 2015
a) There is hereby adopted by reference as the Building Code for the City of DeKalb, the Seventeenth Addition of the
International Code Council (ICC) Building Codes/2015, one copy of such rules and regulations in book form has
been filed in the office of the Building Department for use and examination by the public at least thirty days prior to
the adoption of this Ordinance and shall there be kept available for public use, inspection and examination. The
Building Code for the City of DeKalb shall: regulate the erection, construction, enlargement, alteration, repairs,
moving, removal, demolition, conversion, remodeling, occupancy, equipment, use, height, area and maintenance of
all buildings and/or structures in the incorporated limits of the City of DeKalb; provide for the establishment of a
Building Code Board of Appeals and shall provide for all things and matters set forth in it as though they were set
out fully here and shall be in all respects a self-executing document, except that Section 103 of said Building Code
shall be governed and controlled as provided in the Municipal Code, Chapter 3, "City Administration."
• International Building Code - 2015 Edition
• International Residential Code for One-and Two-Family Dwellings - 2015 Edition
• International Fire Code - 2015 Edition
• International Plumbing Code - 2015 Edition (Chapter 11-For roof drainage only)
• International Mechanical Code - 2015 Edition
• International Fuel Gas Code - 2015 Edition
• International Swimming Pool and Spa Code - 2015 Edition
• International Existing Building Code - 2015 Edition
• International Property Maintenance Code – 2015 Edition
• National Electrical Code - 2014 Edition
• State of Illinois Plumbing Code - 2014
• Illinois Energy Conservation Code - 2015 Edition
• Illinois Accessibility Code - 1997 Edition
• Illinois Radon Resistant Construction Act - 2013 Edition
• Illinois Elevator Safety Act – 2007 Edition
• Illinois Smoke Detector Act – 1987 Edition
• Illinois Carbon Monoxide Alarm Detector Act – 2007 Edition
24.01-01 AMENDMENTS:
Article 0: Contractors
Article 1: International Building Code
Article 2: International Residential Code for One-and Two-Family Dwellings
Article 3: International Fire Code
Article 4: International Mechanical Code
Article 5: International Fuel Gas Code
Article 6: International Swimming Pool and Spa Code
Article 7: International Existing Building Code
Article 8: National Electrical Code
Article 9: State of Illinois Plumbing Code
Article 10: International Property Maintenance Code
ARTICLE 0
CONTRACTOR REQUIREMENTS
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS
a) Registration of Electrical Contractors. Any person, firm or corporation desiring to engage in the business of
electrical contractor shall apply for registration to the Chief Building Official, or his/her designee, on forms
furnished by the City and pay a fee of Two Hundred and Fifty Dollars ($250.00) for registration. The applicant shall
indicate the type of business, together with any limitations on his/her qualifications. The applicant shall have at least
five (5) years’ experience in the installation, alteration, repair and maintenance of electrical wiring equipment and
apparatus. The applicant shall provide documentation of said experience at the time of submission of the
application.
b) Examination. If the applicant fulfills the qualifications for examination, the Chief Building Official or his /her
designee shall proceed to examine the applicant. The Building Department shall notify the applicant of the time and
place of examination and shall examine said applicant as to his/her qualifications and competency to engage in the
business of electrical contractor. The examination shall be practical in character and sufficiently strict to test the
practical and theoretical qualifications of such applicant. If such examination is passed satisfactorily, the application
shall be returned to Chief Building Official or his/her designee, for issuance of a Certificate of Registration. The
applicant shall successfully pass such examination with a grade of not less than 70%.
c) Certificate of Registration. Chief Building Official, or his/her designee, shall there upon register the applicant as an
electrical contractor and shall issue to applicant a Certificate of Registration authorizing applicant to engage in
electrical contracting business for a period from date of issuance of such Certificate of Registration to and including
the following January 31. The Certificate of Registration may be renewed from year to year without examination
upon application for such renewal being filed with the Building Department on or before January 1 of the year for
which certificate is to be issued and upon payment of the Fifty Dollar ($50.00) renewal fee. In order to renew a
Certificate of Registration with the City of DeKalb that has been expired for sixty (60) days, or more, but less than
one (1) year, the contractor shall pay double the renewal fee. If a Certificate of Registration has not been renewed
for a period of one (1) year or more, applicant shall be subject to the provisions of this Chapter for new applicants.
d) Bond. No electrical contractor shall be issued a Certificate of Registration under this Chapter until he/she has made,
executed and delivered to the Chief Building Official or his/her designee, a surety bond, in a form approved by the
City of DeKalb, in the amount of Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000) payable to the City of DeKalb. After the initial
bond is received and approved, electrical contractors may submit continuation certificates along with certificates of
insurance in succeeding years. A record of such bonds shall be maintained in the Building Department. The surety
bond shall be with a recognized and reliable surety company and shall cover compliance with all provisions and
requirements of any and all laws of the State of Illinois, and all ordinances of the City of DeKalb covering electrical
work. The bond shall also hold the City of DeKalb free of damage or loss of every nature for any act or neglect of
the principal of said bond, his/her agent, or employees; guarantee any and all fees or other charges up to ten percent
of the face of said bond due the City against the principal as such; and shall guarantee compliance with this Chapter
of all electrical work installed by the principal, his agents, or employees. The bond shall be for a period ending at
midnight of the next ensuing January 31st.
MECHANICAL CONTRACTORS
a) Eligibility for Examination: Any person, firm or corporation desiring to engage in the business of mechanical
contractor shall apply for registration to Chief Building Official, or his/her designee, on forms furnished by the City
and pay a fee of Two Hundred and Fifty Dollars ($250.00) for registration. The applicant shall indicate the type of
business, together with any limitations on his/her qualifications. The applicant for an HVAC license shall have had
at least 8,500 hours of HVAC practical work related experience, or 5,100 hours of practical work related experience
and a two (2) year certificate in an HVAC related field from a college or trade school. The applicant shall provide
documentation of this information at the time of application for examination.
b) Any applicant that is denied the opportunity to take an examination may appeal as provided in this
Chapter.
c) Examination. There are is separate examinations for residential and commercial licenses. If an applicant fulfills the
qualification for examination, Chief Building Official shall proceed to examine the applicant. The Building
Department shall notify the applicant of the time and place of examination and shall examine said applicant as to
his/her qualifications and competency to engage in the business of mechanical contractor. The examination shall be
practical in character and sufficiently strict to test the practical and theoretical qualifications of such applicant. In its
examination, Chief Building Official shall take into consideration the work limitations specified by the applicant. If
such examination is passed satisfactorily, the application shall be returned to Chief Building Official for issuance of
a Certificate of Registration. Any person who fails the examination may take the examination again after 30 days.
d) Certification of Registration. Chief Building Official, or his/her designee, shall
thereupon register the applicant as a mechanical contractor and shall issue to such applicant a Certificate of
Registration authorizing such applicant to engage in such business for a period from date of issuance of such
certificate of registration to and including the following January 31. The certificate of registration may be renewed
from year to year without examination upon application for such renewal being filed with the Building Department
on or before January 1 of the year for which certificate is to be issued and upon payment of the Fifty Dollar ($50.00)
renewal fee. In order to renew a Certificate of Registration with the City of DeKalb that has been expired for sixty
(60) days, or more, but less than one (1) year, the contractor shall pay double the renewal fee. If a Certificate of
Registration has not been renewed for a period of one (1) year or more, applicant shall be subject to the provisions
of this Chapter for new applicants.
e) Bond. No mechanical contractor shall be issued a Certificate of Registration under this Chapter until he/she has
made, executed and delivered to Chief Building Official or his/her designee, a surety bond in a form acceptable to
the City of DeKalb in the amount of Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000.00) payable to the City of DeKalb. After the
initial bond is received and approved, mechanical contractors may submit continuation certificates along with
certificates of insurance in succeeding years. A record of such bonds shall be maintained in the Building
Department. The surety bond shall be with a recognized and reliable surety company and shall cover compliance
with all provisions and requirements of any and all laws of the State of Illinois, and all ordinances of the City of
DeKalb covering mechanical work. The bond shall also hold the City of DeKalb free of any damage of loss of every
nature for any act or neglect of the principal of said bond, his/her agent or employees; guarantee any and all fees or
other charges up to ten percent of the fact of said bond due the City against the principal as such; and shall
guarantee compliance with this Chapter of all mechanical work installed by the principal, his/her agents, or
employees. The bond shall be for a period ending at midnight of the next ensuing January 31st.
REGISTRATION OF GENERAL CONTRACTORS
a) Certification of Registration. Chief Building Official, or his/her designee, shall thereupon register the applicant as a
general contractor and shall issue to such applicant a Certificate of Registration authorizing such applicant to
engage in such business for a period from date of issuance of such certificate of registration to and including the
following January 31. The certificate of registration may be renewed from year to year without examination upon
application for such renewal being filed with the Building Department on or before January 1 of the year for which
certificate is to be issued and upon payment of the Twenty-five Dollar ($25.00) renewal fee. In order to renew a
Certificate of Registration with the City of DeKalb that has been expired for sixty (60) days, or more, but less than
one (1) year, the contractor shall pay double the renewal fee. If a Certificate of Registration has not been renewed
for a period of one (1) year or more, applicant shall be subject to the provisions of this Chapter for new applicants.
b) Bond. No general contractor shall be issued a Certificate of Registration under this Chapter until he/she has made,
executed and delivered to Chief Building Official, or his/her designee, a surety bond in a form acceptable to the City
of DeKalb in the amount of Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000.00) payable to the City of DeKalb. After the initial
bond is received and approved, the general contractor may submit continuation certificates along with certificates of
insurance in succeeding years. A record of such bonds shall be maintained in the Building Department. The surety
bond shall be with a recognized and reliable surety company and shall cover compliance with all provisions and
requirements of any and all laws of the State of Illinois, and all ordinances of the City of DeKalb covering
construction work. The bond shall also hold the City of DeKalb free of any damage of loss of every nature for any
act or neglect of the principal of said bond, his/her agent or employees; guarantee any and all fees or other charges
up to ten percent of the fact of said bond due the City against the principal as such; and shall guarantee compliance
with this Chapter of all mechanical work installed by the principal, his/her agents, or employees. The bond shall be
for a period ending at midnight of the next ensuing January 31st.
STATE OF ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH LICENSED PLUMBING
CONTRACTOR:
a) All planning and designing of plumbing systems shall be performed only as defined by the Illinois State Plumbing
Code (2014) and the City of DeKalb Plumbing Regulations.
b) The inspection of plumbing and plumbing systems shall be performed only by the plumbing inspector of the City of
DeKalb, as defined by the Illinois State Plumbing Code or, in his absence, by a licensed plumber appointed by the
City Manager.
c) Nothing herein contained shall prohibit licensed plumbers or licensed apprentice plumbers under supervision, from
planning, designing, inspecting, installing, repairing, maintaining, altering or extending building sewers in accordance
with this ordinance. No person who holds a certificate of registration provided for by "The Illinois Structural
Engineering Act", approved June 24, 1919, as amended, or the "Illinois Professional Engineering Act", approved July
20, 1945, as amended, shall be prevented from planning and designing plumbing systems.
d) Nothing herein contained shall prohibit the excavators who are installing mains in new subdivisions from installing
SDR-26 ASTM 3034-1998 sanitary laterals to the property line. In subdivisions or in new commercial and industrial
projects involving main extensions through easements on private property, excavators may run the SDR-26 piping
from the street main and then from manhole to manhole (every 400 feet) until reaching the last manhole outside the
building. From that point, all laterals may be installed by a Illinois registered Plumbing Contractor/licensed Plumber.
e) Nothing herein contained shall allow back-to-back tub or shower installations that prevent access to fixtures when in
need of repair.
f) Nothing herein contained shall prohibit the owner occupant of a single family residence or the owner of a single family
residence under construction for his/her occupancy, from himself/herself planning, installing, altering or repairing the
plumbing system of such residence; except the sanitary lateral from the sanitary main to the building drain, provided
that such plumbing shall comply with the minimum standards for plumbing contained in the Illinois State Plumbing
Code; and shall be subject to inspection by the City of DeKalb, which retains a licensed plumber as an inspector; and
such owner or owner occupant shall not employ other than a plumber licensed pursuant to this code to assist him/her.
g) For purposes of this subsection, a person shall be considered an "occupant" if and only if he/she has taken possession
of and is living in the premises as his/her bona fide sole and exclusive residence, or in the case of an owner of a single
family residence under construction for his/her occupancy, he/she expects to take possession of and live in the
premises as his/her bona fide sole and exclusive residence, and he/she has a current intention to live in such premises
as his/her bona fide sole and exclusive residence for a period of not less than two (2) years after the completion of the
plumbing work performed pursuant to the authorization of this subsection or, in the case of the owner of a single
family residence under construction for his/her occupancy, for a period of not less than two (2) years after the
completion of construction of the residence. Failure to possess and live in the premises as a sole and exclusive
residence for a period of two (2) years or more shall create a rebuttable presumption of a lack of such intention to
occupy.
h) Neither a tenant nor a landlord may perform plumbing work as defined by the Illinois State Plumbing Code.
STATE OF ILLINOIS LICENSED ROOFING CONTRACTOR
All Roofing Contractors shall meet the requirements of the State of Illinois Roofing Industry Licensing Act.
STATE OF ILLINOIS LICENSED PRIVATE ALARM CONTRACTOR
All Fire Alarm Contractors shall meet the requirements of the Private Fire Alarm Contractors Licensing Act.
STATE OF ILLINOIS LICENSED FIRE SPRINKLER CONTRACTOR
All Fire Sprinkler Contractors shall meet the requirements of the Fire Sprinkler Contractor’s Licensing Act.
REVOCATION OF CONTRACTOR’S CERTIFICATE AND BONDS
a) A bond or Certificate of Registration issued to a contractor may be revoked by the City Manager of the City of
DeKalb or his/her designee for the following reasons after due process notice and hearing as provided below:
1. Any material information furnished by the Certificate of Registration or bond holder has been falsely stated;
2. The Certificate of Registration or bond holder has any outstanding financial obligation to the City of DeKalb,
including, but not limited to, past due water bills, past due property tax payments, weed mowing and nuisance
abatement liens or charges, parking or nuisance ticket violations, or any past due loan payment owed to the
City of DeKalb.
3. The Certificate of Registration or bond holder has demonstrated either consistent or gross indifference to City
Codes, standards for performance, or permit requirements and procedures.
b) Upon a determination by the City Manager or his/her designee that probable cause exists for the revocation of a
contractor bond or Certificate of Registration, the bondholder or Contractor and other interested parties shall be
given written notice that a due process hearing will be held to determine if there is cause to revoke the Certificate of
registration or bond. Such notice shall be issued at least five (5) days prior to such hearing and shall be mailed to the
Contractor’s last known address or delivered in person and shall state as follows:
1. Specific grounds for revocation;
2. Date, time and place of hearing;
3. The right of the Contractor or bondholder to participate or to be represented;
4. Possible penalties;
These penalties shall include:
a) A fine of not less than $250.00;
b) Compensation to the City for all costs incurred by the City in remedying substandard work;
c) Certificate of Registration or bond revocation.
c) Failure to pay any fine ordered by the City Manager or his/her designee shall be grounds for the revocation of the
bond or Certificate of Registration under this Section.
d) The City Manager or his/her designee may, at his/her discretion, continue the hearing from time to time.
e) The City Manager or his/her designee shall issue a written decision within five (5) days of the hearing. Should the
City Manager or his/her designee determine that cause exists for the revocation of the Certificate of Registrationer’s
bond, such Certificate of Registration or bond shall be revoked upon the issue of the written decision.
APPEALS FROM DECISIONS OF THE CITY MANAGER
a) Any person who is a party to the revocation hearing and aggrieved by the decision of the City Manager or
his/her designee in regard to the revocation of a Certificate of Registration or bond under this section shall
have the right to appeal to the City Council. Such appeal shall be taken by filing a written notice of appeal
setting forth the grounds for the appeal. Said notice shall be filed with the City Clerk and the City Manager within
ten (10) days after notice of the decision by the City Manager has been rendered. The City Council shall then hold a
hearing on such appeal at a special or regular council meeting occurring at least seven (7) days but not more than
fourteen (14) days after the filing of the notice of appeal. The decision of the Council shall be rendered no later than
the following regular Council meeting.
b) The Mayor, upon finding that the interest of the public or parties other than the Contractor or bond holder would be
better served, may issue a stay of the revocation, which would be issued by the City Manager, but shall report such
stay of revocation to the City Council at its next regular Council meeting, specifying therein the reasons for issuing
the stay, and the expiration date thereof. The City Council may, at its discretion, continue the stay until it reaches a
final decision.
ARTICLE 1
INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE
The following sections of the International Building Code for the City of DeKalb, Illinois, are hereby revised as
follows:
In all Chapters and Sections, where "name of jurisdiction" and/or "chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction" is
written, insert "City of DeKalb".
In all Chapters and Sections where "code official" is written, insert "Chief Building Official”.
In all Chapters and Sections where “Department of Building Safety” is written, insert “Building Department”.
101.4.3 Amended as follows: Plumbing: The provisions of the International Plumbing Code shall apply only to
Chapter 11, Storm Drainage, and Section 403.3.2 Prohibited toilet room location. Toilet rooms shall not open directly
into a room used for the preparation of food for service to the public.
101.4.6 Amended as follows: Energy. The provisions of the Illinois Energy Conservation Code shall apply to all
matters governing the design and construction of buildings for energy efficiency.
103.1 Amended as follows: Code Official: Chief Building Official or his/her designee shall be known as the code
official. The Building Department shall be responsible for the interpretation and enforcement of this code, and shall be
known as the "Building Department" in this code.
109.2 Amended as follows: Schedule of Permit Fees: The fees for each plan examination, building permit and
inspections, and administrative costs associated with the issuance and supervision of permits shall be as prescribed in
Chapter 24, Section 24.04 of the DeKalb Municipal Code.
Schedule A – New Construction Building Fees
One & Two Family Dwellings
Schedule B – Minor & Miscellaneous Permit Building Fees One & Two
Family Dwellings
Schedule C – New Construction & Additions Building Fees
Multi-Family (3+ Units), Commercial, Industrial, Institutional & Detached Garages
Schedule D – Minor & Miscellaneous Building Fees
Multi-Family (3+ Units), Commercial, Industrial & Institutional
Schedule A – New Construction Building Fees
One & Two Family Dwellings
Schedule B – Minor & Miscellaneous Permit Building Fees One &
Two Family Dwellings
Schedule C – New Construction & Additions Building Fees
Multi-Family (3+ Units), Commercial, Industrial, Institutional & Detached Garages
Schedule D – Minor & Miscellaneous Building Fees
Multi-Family (3+ Units), Commercial, Industrial & Institutional
111.2.1 Amended as follows: Final Occupancy Certificate: If a structure, or portion thereof, which has been newly
constructed, enlarged, or altered, complies with all applicable provisions of this code, the code official or his/her
designee(s) shall issue a final occupancy certificate. The certificate shall certify compliance with the provisions of this
code; and shall specify the use group, in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 3 of the 2015 International Building
Code; as well as the type of construction in accordance with Chapter 6 of the 2015 International Building Code; and any
special stipulations and conditions of the building permit.
111.3 Amended as follows: Temporary Occupancy Certificate: Upon the request of the holder of a permit for work
involving the construction of a new structure, or the enlargement, extension, or alteration of an existing structure, and
provided that a reasonable notice of at least twenty-four (24) hours is given, the code official and/or his/her designee(s)
will perform an occupancy inspection. Chief Building Official shall issue a temporary occupancy certificate for a
building or structure before the entire work covered by the permit shall have been completed, provided that such portion
or portions will be occupied safely prior to full completion of the building or structure without endangering life or public
welfare. Provided further that such certificate issued for temporary occupancy shall expire forty-five (45) days from the
date of issuance, after which fines in accordance with Chapter 24 of the City of DeKalb Municipal Code may be issued
for failure to remedy, correct and/or repair any outstanding code violations or deficiencies in workmanship. Extensions of
this grace period may be granted by the Chief Building Official or his/her designee, for weather or market conditions
beyond the control of the permit holder.
Any person, firm or corporation who occupies a newly constructed structure or addition to an existing structure without
having been issued a Temporary Occupancy Certificate by the code official or his/her designee, shall be in violation of this
section and liable to a fine of not less than Two Hundred-Fifty Dollars ($250.00) or more than Five Hundred Dollars
($500.00). Each day that a violation continues shall be deemed a separate offense.
113 Amended as follows: Board of Appeals. Any person shall have the right to appeal a decision of the building
code official to the board of appeals in accordance with the provisions as prescribed in the City of DeKalb Municipal
Code reference to Chapter 22.
115.3 Amended as follows: Unlawful continuance: Any person, firm or corporation who shall continue any work in
or about the structure after having been ordered by Chief Building Official or his/her designee to stop work or served with
a stop work order by the code official or his/her designee, except such work as that person is directed to perform to
remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be liable to a fine of not less than Two Hundred-Fifty Dollars ($250.00) or
more than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00). Each day that a violation continues shall be deemed a separate offense.
903.2.11.1 Amended as follows: Stories without openings. An interior stairway that conforms to requirements of
Section 1005 with a fire separation assembly enclosure of not less than 1 hour, which has a door directly to the exterior
and the stairway does not connect more than 2 stories. The basement or windowless story floor level shall be 15 feet
(4572mm) or less vertically from the exterior door threshold level and the door threshold shall be within 10 feet
(3048mm) or grade. Interior stair doors or openings shall be provided in each 50 linear feet (15240mm) or fraction
thereof on at least one side of the basement or windowless story.
906.3 Amended as follows: Size and distribution. A portable fire extinguisher shall be installed in the following
locations in accordance with NFPA 10 and in the additional locations specified in 906.1 of the International Fire Code.
The extinguisher requirements listed below are minimum standards and may be exceeded at the property owner's
discretion.
1. In use group A occupancies, 2A40BC fire extinguishers shall be located within fifty foot travel distances in all
occupied spaces and egress corridors and passageways.
2. In use group B occupancies, a 2A40BC fire extinguisher shall be located within fifty foot travel distances in all
occupied spaces and egress access corridors and passage-ways.
3. In use group E occupancies, a 2A40BC fire extinguisher shall be located in hallways (near or next to pull boxes)
and within 75 foot travel distances in all occupied spaces.
4. In use group H occupancies, a 4A60BC fire extinguisher shall be mounted in a location which is easily accessible
to the operators of hazardous processes and within thirty foot travel distances. Gasoline service stations required
two 4A60BC fire extinguishers.
5. In use group I-1 and I-2 occupancies a 2A40BC fire extinguisher shall be located in corridors and common
occupied spaces within fifty foot travel distances.
6. In use group M occupancies, a 2A40BC fire extinguisher shall be located near each exit and on each floor within
seventy-five foot travel distances.
7. In use groups R-1 and R-2, a 2A40BC fire extinguisher shall be located in each common hallway and in common,
heated areas. One 1A10BC fire extinguisher shall be located in each kitchen of all R-1, R-2 and R-4 uses.
8. In use group F & S occupancies, a 3A40BC fire extinguisher shall be located by each required exit in F-1 & S-
1 occupancies larger than 1,500 square feet and F-2 & S-2 occupancies larger than 3,000 square feet. They shall
be located within seventy-five foot travel distances.
9. In use group U occupancies, a 2A40BC fire extinguisher or, when required by the code official, a 3A40BC fire
extinguisher, shall be located near the exits and within seventy-five foot travel distances in low hazard uses and
within fifty foot travel distances in moderate and high hazard uses.
10. A Class K style fire extinguisher shall be provided for hazards where there is a potential for fire involving
combustible looking products (vegetable or animal oils and fats). Maximum travel distance shall not exceed
thirty (30’) feet from the hazard to the extinguisher.
11. All fire extinguishers shall be of the rechargeable type to provide that yearly maintenance may be assured. All
required fire extinguishers shall be serviced and tagged on an annual basis.
914.8.3 Amended as follows: Fire Suppression for Aircraft Hangars: Exception.
Exceptions:
1. Where a fired base operator has separate repair facilities on site, Group H hangars operated by a fixed base operator
used for storage of transient aircraft only shall have a fire suppression system, but the system shall be exempt from foam
requirements.
2. To the extent that any hangar that is: 1) smaller than twenty-five thousand square feet (25,000 sq. ft.); 2) with a hangar
door opening of thirty feet (30’) or lower in height; 3) which is not utilized for aircraft painting would otherwise be
required to utilize a foam-based fire suppression system under NFPA 409, the City expressly supersedes such
requirement. At the discretion of the Chief Building Official and Fire Chief, the City may permit the use of a water-based
fire suppression system with a design and capacity acceptable to the City. Any building larger than twenty-five thousand
square feet (25,000 sq. ft.) or with a hangar door taller than thirty feet (30’) in height shall not be subject to this
amendment.
Add 914.8.7 Sources of Ignition. An open flame, flame-producing device or other course of ignition shall not be
permitted in any hangar, except in approved locations or in any location within 50 feet of an aircraft-fueling operation.
The parking of personal automobiles is allowed in an aircraft hangar at the DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport after the
aircraft has been removed; if the vehicle is parked in the same space as the aircraft; and, no vehicle shall be operated
unless the hangar door is in a fully opened position.
Delete in its entirety: Chapter 11: Accessibility
Add Section 1211. MULTIPLE DWELLING BUILDING SECURITY REGULATIONS.
Add 1211.1 Scope. The following security requirements shall apply to all “Multiple Dwelling Buildings”.
Add Section 1211.2 Definitions. For the purpose of this Chapter 24, the following words or groups of words shall have
the meanings assigned to them as hereinafter listed:
BUILDING: A structure having a roof supported by columns or walls for the housing or enclosure of persons or chattels.
BUILDING, NEW: Any building constructed pursuant to a building permit issued by the City of DeKalb pursuant to
an application filed after the effective date of this Chapter 24.
CLEAR WIRE GLASS: Glass which has a wire mesh placed between 2-1/8 inch panels or impregnated into the 1/4 inch
glass part, test and rated as clear wire glass.
CYLINDER: That part of a lockset that has an entrance for the key and, thereby, activates the locking
mechanism.
DEADBOLT: A bolt which has no automatic spring action and which is operated by a key cylinder, thumb-turn, or lever,
and is positively held fast when in the projected position.
DOOR: A moveable frame of wood, or other material on hinges giving ingress or egress from a room, building or other
enclosure.
DOOR, DOUBLE: A pair of doors enclosing a single opening.
DOOR, DUTCH: A single door divided into upper and lower sections operating independently of one another or acting
together as a single door.
DOOR, METAL: A door constructed of steel or its equivalent in strength.
DOOR, OVERHEAD: Any door which when opened is stored overhead.
DOOR, RAIL: A glass panel door which has a metal rail at the top and bottom for support and nothing on the side edges.
DOOR, SLIDING: Any door that slides open sideways.
DOOR, SOLID CORE: Any door constructed out of block wood strips with the grain running in different directions
or any filled core door of equivalent strength.
DOOR STOPS: That projection along the top and sides of a door jamb which check the door's swinging motion.
DWELLING, MULTIPLE: For the purpose of this Chapter 24, a "multiple dwelling means a building or portion thereof,
designed for occupancy by three or more families living independently of each other, including hotels and motels".
Multiple dwelling shall also include rooming houses as defined in the Municipal Code of the City of DeKalb, Illinois,
Chapter 14, "Rooming Houses".
FLUSH BOLTS: Deadbolts on inactive doors which fit into the top and bottom door edges with the activating lever in
the side edge.
HATCHWAY: An opening in the roof of a building.
LATCH: A device for automatically retaining the door in a closed position upon its closing.
LOCK: A device for fastening, joining or engaging two or more objects, and in a locked or fastened condition limits,
and in an unlocked position permits relative movement or separation of the objects, and includes a means to operate the
device into the locked or unlocked position.
SECURITY HINGE: A hinge with non-removable pins or hinge with removable pins that are either concealed or
otherwise non-removable when the door is closed.
SECURITY SCREENING: Wire cloth screening or equivalent material capable of withstanding five 50 foot pound
impacts.
STRIKE PLATE: That piece of metal secured to a door jamb which houses a door latch in the closed position, which
shall be attached with a minimum of three inch (3") screws.
THROW: This term applies to and signifies the outward movement of a bolt or latch and is the distance such bolt or
latch ravels from the unlocked to locked position.
UNIT OF MULTIPLE DWELLING: For the purpose of this Chapter 24, a "unit of a multiple dwelling" means each
individual dwelling unit in an apartment building; each sleeping room in a rooming house; and each motel or hotel unit
in a hotel or motel.
Add 1211.3 Doors and Locks. In addition to all other requirements of the Building Code of the City of DeKalb, the
following requirements for doors and locks shall be complied with by all owners of rental residential property containing
therein more than two (2) units as hereinafter provided. The purpose of this Chapter 24 is to set forth minimum standards
of construction for resistance to unlawful entry and enhance fire safety.
The provisions of this Chapter are not intended to prevent the use of any material or method of construction not
specifically prescribed by this Chapter, provided any such alternate has been approved, nor is it the intention of this Chapter
to exclude any sound method of structural design or analysis not specifically provided for in this Chapter. Structural
design limitations given in this Chapter are to be used as a guide only, and exceptions thereto may be made if substantiated
by calculations or other suitable evidence prepared under the supervision of Chief Building Official.
Chief Building Official shall approve any such alternate provided he finds the proposed design is satisfactory and the
material, method or work offered is, for the purpose intended, at least equivalent of that prescribed in this Chapter in quality,
strength, effectiveness, burglary resistance, durability and safety.
In order to substantiate claims for alternate materials or methods of construction, Chief Building Official shall require
tests, or documentation, or both, as proof of compliance to be made at the expense of the owner or his agent by an approved
agency.
Add 1211.4 Specifications Applicable Generally To All Multiple Dwelling Buildings or Buildings and Additions
Thereto.
The following specifications shall be complied with whenever the items of building equipment mentioned herein are
installed in any multiple dwelling building or in any addition or alteration thereto covered by this Chapter 24.
1. Exterior Wood Doors. Each exterior door to a dwelling unit of a multiple dwelling building shall be of solid core
construction 1-3/4 inch thickness. All exterior doors to a multiple dwelling unit, whenever installed, shall be
equipped with a deadbolt and each hinge shall be secured to the jamb with 2 inch full thread wood screws and
secured to the door edge with 1 inch full thread screws.
2. Exterior Sliding Door. Each lock or security device on each exterior sliding door to a multiple dwelling building
and to each unit of a multiple dwelling building shall be capable of withstanding 300 pounds of pressure in any
direction. Such door shall not lift out of its track when in the locked position.
3. Exterior Door Jamb. Each exterior door jamb to a multiple dwelling building and to each unit of a multiple
dwelling shall be installed in a manner to prevent violation of the strike. Such jamb shall have stops on in-
swinging wood doors of one piece construction or rabbeted or be so constructed as to prevent the jamb from
being bent or fractured.
4. Exterior Out-swinging Door. On each out-swinging door to a unit of a multiple dwelling building, each hinge shall
be a security type hinge.
5. Exterior Window. Each lock or security device on each exterior window to a multiple dwelling building and to
each unit of a multiple dwelling building shall be capable of withstanding 300 pounds of pressure in any
direction. Such window shall not lift out of its track when in the locked position. Each stop on the outside of
wooden framed exterior fixed windows must be of one piece construction or rabbeted. A 1 inch diameter charley
bar is acceptable as meeting the above intent.
6. Deadbolt. Each deadbolt shall contain saw resistant material, have a one inch throw or 1 inch throw and have
the throw encased in metal.
7 . Locks. Each lock shall be constructed of all metal parts, or may be constructed of plastic encased in metal, subject
to approval of Chief Building Official.
Add 1211.4 Additional Specifications Applicable to Multiple Dwellings and to Additions and Alterations Thereto. In
addition to the specifications set forth in Section (d) of this Chapter 24, the following specifications shall also be complied
with whenever the following items of building equipment or facilities are installed in any multiple dwelling building or in
any addition thereto which is covered by this Chapter 24.
1. Entrance Doors to Units. Entrance doors to units of a multiple dwelling building shall be equipped with a single
cylinder deadbolt installed no more than 18 inches, nor less than 4 inches, above the door knob. In addition, each
of such entrance doors shall be provided with a peephole.
2. Lighting. The addresses of each dwelling unit shall be illuminated so as to be easily visible from the street. In
addition, each entrance door shall be illuminated with an intensity of at least 3 foot candle power within a 3 foot
horizontal radius of the locking mechanism of the door. Parking facilities, aisles, passageways and recesses related
to and within the building complex shall be illuminated with an intensity of at least 1.5 foot candle power at the
ground or floor level.
Add 1211.6 Retroactive Operation.
All existing multiple dwelling buildings as specified below shall fully comply with the following requirements and the
owner of each building shall be under a duty to bring his, her or its multiple dwelling building in conformance therewith.
1. Apartments. R-2 Use and Occupancy Classification.
a) Entrance Doors to Individual Apartment Units. Entrance doors to individual apartment units of a building shall
be equipped with a single cylinder deadbolt installed no more than 12 inches nor less than 6 inches above the door knob
unless a security person is on duty in the building or an electric door locking device is in operation. Each lock shall be
constructed to comply with Section 1211.4(8). In addition, each of such entrance doors shall be provided with a peephole.
The peephole must be located so as to enable a person in such dwelling unit to view from the inside of the unit any person
immediately outside said entrance door.
b) Exterior Wood Doors. Each exterior door shall either:
i. Comply with 1211.4(1), or
ii. if not meeting the requirements of 1211.4(1), above, a metal sleeve shall be installed, which said metal sleeve shall have
as its purpose the fortification of the area where the lock is to be installed in such a manner that the metal sleeve shall
securely encase the lock upon the door in the opinion of Chief Building Official.
c) Strike Plate for the Entrance Door to Units and its Door Jamb. A strike plate shall be installed and maintained in
accordance with the definition for "strike plate".
2. Rooming Houses.
Entrance Doors to a Rooming House Building. Entrance doors to a rooming house building shall be equipped with a single
cylinder deadbolt installed no more than 12 inches nor less than 6 inches above the door knob unless a security person is
on duty in the building or an electric door locking device is in operation, or when doors operated by panic bars are required.
Each lock shall be constructed to comply with Section 1211.4(8). In addition, each of such entrance doors shall be
provided with a peephole. The peephole must be located so as to enable a person in such dwelling unit to view from
the inside of the unit any person immediately outside said entrance door.
Add 1211.7 Retroactive. Any owner of a multiple dwelling unit building that has heretofore complied with the
provisions of Ordinance 78-78 and Ordinance 78-116 shall be considered in compliance with the residential building
security regulations of the City of DeKalb.
Add 1211.8 Exemption: Rooming houses that are owner-occupied containing less than eleven (11) roomers shall be
exempt from the provisions of this Chapter 24.
Add 1211.9 Violation. Any person who shall violate a provision of this Chapter 24, or shall fail to comply with any of the
requirements hereof or shall erect or construct a new multiple dwelling building in violation hereof or continue to use,
maintain and occupy any existing multiple dwelling building from and after ninety days after receiving notice to conform
the violation of this Chapter 24, shall be liable and shall pay a fine of not more than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00). Each
day that a violation continues shall be deemed a separate offense.
ARTICLE 2
INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
FOR ONE-AND-TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS
The following sections of the International Residential Code, 2015 edition are hereby revised as follows;
R104.1 Amended as follows: Authority. Chief Building Official or designee, hereinafter known as the “Chief Building
Official” is hereby authorized and directed to administer and enforce all of the provisions of this code.
Add: R104.12 Prefabricated Construction. A certificate of approval by the Illinois Department of Public Health and
a certificate of approval by an approved agency shall be furnished with each prefabricated assembly. Manufacturers of
modular housing construction shall be licensed and bonded with the City of DeKalb in accordance with Municipal Code
Chapter 24 when applicable or as Chief Building Official or his/her designee may direct.
Table R301.2(1) CLIMATIC AND GEOGRAPHIC DESIGN CRITERIA
GROUND WIND DESIGN SEISMIC DESIGN
SNOW Speedd Topographic Special Wind Wind-borne CATEGORYf
(mph)
LOAD effectsk Regionl debris zonem
30psf 115 No No No A
SUBJECT TO DAMAGE FROM WINTER ICE BARRIER FLOOD AIR MEAN
Weatheringa Frost line Termitec DESIGN UNDERLAYMEN HAZARDSg FREEZING ANNUAL
depthb TEMPe T REQUIREDh INDEXi TEMP
Severe 42” Moderate/Heavy -4˚F YES FIRM 2000 47.8˚F
For SI: 1 pound per square foot =0.0479kPa, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s
a. Weathering may require a higher strength concrete or grade of masonry than necessary to satisfy the structural requirements of this code. The weathering
column shall be filled in with the weathering index, “negligible,” “moderate” or “severe” for concrete as determined from Figure R301.2(3). The grade of masonry
units shall be determined from ASTM C 34, C 55, C 62, C 73, C 90, C 129, C 145, C 216 or C 652.
b. The frost line depth may require deeper footings than indicated in Figure R403.1(1). The jurisdiction shall fill in the frost line depth column with the minimum
depth of footing below finish grade.
c. The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table to indicate the need for protection depending on whether there has been a history of local subterranean termite
damage.
d. The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with the wind speed from the basic wind speed map [Figure R301.2(4)A]. Wind exposure category shall be
determined on a site-specific basis in accordance with Section R301.2.1.4.
e. The outdoor design dry-bulb temperature shall be selected from the columns of 97½-perent values for winter from Appendix D of the International Plumbing
Code. Deviations from the Appendix D temperatures shall be permitted to reflect local climates or local weather experience as determined by the building official.
f. The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with the seismic design category determined from section R301.2.2.1.
g. The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with (a) the date of the jurisdiction’s entry into the National Flood Insurance Program (date of adoption of the
first code or ordinance for management of the flood hazard areas), (b) the date(s) of the Flood Insurance Study and (c) the panel numbers and dates of the currently
effective FIRMs and FBFMs or other flood hazard map adopted by the authority having jurisdiction, as amended.
h. In accordance with Sections R905.1.2, R905.4.3.1, R905.5.3.1, R905.6.3.1, R905.7.3.1, and R905.8.3.1,where there has been a history of local damage from the
effects of ice damming, the jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with “YES”. Otherwise, the jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with “NO”.
i. The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with the 100-year return period air freezing index (BF-days) from Figure R403.3(2) or from the 100-year (99
percent) value on the National Climatic Data Center data table” “Air Freezing Index-USA Method (Base 32˚ F).”
j. The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with the means annual temperature from the National Climatic Data Center table “Air Freezing Index-USA
Method (Base 32˚ F).”
k. In accordance with Section R301.2.1.5, where there is local historical data documenting structural damage to buildings due to topographic wind speed-up
effects, the jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with “YES”. Otherwise, the jurisdiction shall indicate “NO” in this part of the table.
l. In accordance with Figure R301.2(4)A, where there is local historical data documenting unusual wind conditions, the jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table
with “YES” and identify any specific requirements. Otherwise, the jurisdiction shall indicate “NO” in this part of the table.
m. In accordance with Section R301.2.1.2.1, the jurisdiction shall indicate the wind-borne debris wind zone(s). Otherwise, the jurisdiction shall indicate
“NO” in this part of the table.
Section R112 Amended as follows: Board of Appeals. Any person shall have the right to appeal a decision of the
building code official to the board of appeals in accordance with the provisions as prescribed in the City of DeKalb
Municipal Code reference to Chapter 22.
R113.4 Amended as follows: Violation Penalties. Unless otherwise specifically noted, any person who shall violate a
provision of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who shall erect, construct, alter or repair
a one or two-family dwelling in violation of an approved plan or directive of the code official, or of a permit or
certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall be liable and shall pay a fine of not less than Fifty dollars
($50.00) nor more than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00), as prescribed in Chapter 24 of the DeKalb Municipal Code. Each
day that a violation continues shall be deemed a separate offense.
R302.6 Amended as follows: D w e l l i n g - G a r a g e F i r e Separation. The garage shall be separated from the
residence and its attic area by means of minimum 5/8 inch (16.51mm) Fire Code gypsum board applied to the garage
side. This application shall be continuous on all walls, ceilings and soffits when habitable space exists above the garage
area.
R309.1 Amended as follows: Floor Surface. Garage and carports floor surfaces shall be of approved noncombustible
material. That area of floor used for parking of automobiles or other vehicles shall be sloped to facilitate the movement of
liquids towards the main vehicle entry doorway. The common wall of garage and living space, including stairwells, shall
have a four (4) inch concrete curb to protect separation wall from liquids.
Exception: Garage floors with a slope of 1.5% grade that continues to slope from the garage floor down the driveway
are not required to have a four (4) inch gas curb.
R313 Delete in its entirety: Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems (See Section R302.13 Fire Protection of Floors)
Add R403.1.3.5.5: In lieu of a continuous solid concrete or masonry footing at intersections of garage and/or porches,
there shall be installed within the wall, a minimum of two (2) solid steel rods, at a length of thirty (30) times the diameter
of the rod with a minimum of eighteen (18) inches, passing beyond the overdig and continuing at the same length into the
connecting wall (2x).
Add R403.3.2.1: Insulated protected footings are allowed as footing alternatives when designed by an Illinois State
Licensed Architect or Structural Engineer.
R503.2.1.1 Amended as follows: Subfloor and combined subfloor underlayment. Where used as subflooring or
combination subfloor underlayment, wood structural panels shall be of one of the grades specified in Tale
R503.2.1.1(1). Where sanded plywood is used as combination subfloor underlayment, the grade, bond classification,
and Performance Category shall be as specified in Table R503.2.1.1(2) unless approved by Chief Building Official.
Table R503.2.1.1(1) Amend as follows: Existing structures with 3/8” plywood sheathing, where more than 50% has deteriorated,
and is no longer structurally sound as determined by authority having jurisdiction, entire sheathing shall be replaced with 7/16” plywood
sheathing.
R503.3.2 Amended as follows: Floor underlayment. Sub-floor shall not be less than ¾” nominal thickness in new
construction unless approved by Chief Building Official.
Delete in its entirety Chapter 11: Energy Efficiency. Refer to the Illinois Energy Conservation Code.
Add M1201.2: Application. In addition to the general administration requirements of Chapter 1, the administrative
provisions of this chapter shall also apply to the mechanical requirements of Chapters 12 through 24, and Chief
Building Official.
Add M1401.6 Furnace Repair: The use of furnace cement or welding for the repair of a furnace heat exchange is
prohibited.
Add M1602.2: Return Air Openings. Return air openings for HVAC systems for all dwelling units, including
manufactured and modular homes shall comply with all of the following:
P2501.1 Amended as follows: Scope. The provisions of this chapter and the current Illinois Plumbing Code including
local amendments shall govern the installation of plumbing. All work shall be performed by State of Illinois licensed
plumbers in accordance with the Plumbing Licensing Act.
The following chapters from the 2015 International Residential Code Part VII Plumbing will be Deleted:
Chapter 25: Plumbing Administration
Chapter 26: General Plumbing Requirements
Chapter 27: Plumbing Fixtures
Chapter 28: Water Heaters
Chapter 29: Water supply and Distribution
Chapter 30: Sanitary Drainage
Chapter 31: Vents
Chapter 32: Traps
Appendix I: Private Sewage Disposal
E3401.1 Amend as follows: Applicability. All electrical to comply with the currently adopted edition of the NFPA
70 - National Electric Code.
The following chapters from the 2015 International Residential Code Part VIII Electrical will be Deleted:
Chapter 34: General Requirements
Chapter 35: Electrical Definitions
Chapter 36: Services
Chapter 37: Branch Circuit and Feeder Requirements
Chapter 38: Wiring Methods
Chapter 39: Power and Lighting
Chapter 40: Devices and Luminaires
Chapter 41: Appliance Installation
Chapter 42: Swimming Pools
Chapter 43: Class 2 Remote-Control Signaling and Power-Limiting Circuits
ARTICLE 3
INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE
The following sections of the International Fire Code, 2015 edition are hereby revised as follows;
101.1 Amended as follows: Title. These regulations shall be known as the Fire Code of the City of DeKalb
hereinafter referred to as “this code”
104.1 Amended as follows: Enforcement Officer. It shall be the duty and responsibility of the Fire Chief, or his/her
designee, and the Chief Building Official, or his/her designee, to enforce the provisions of the Fire Code, as set forth
herein. The aforesaid officials are herein referred to as the “fire code officials.”
105.6 Amended as follows: Require operational permits. The fire code official is authorized and may issue
operational permits for the operations set forth in Sections 105.6.1 through 105.6.46
105.7 Amended as follows: Required construction permits. The fire code official is authorized to review and
approve construction permits for work as set forth in Section s 105.7.1 through 105.7.13.
108 Amended as follows: Means of appeal. Any person shall have the right to appeal a decision of the fire code
official to the board of appeals in accordance with the provisions as prescribed in the City of DeKalb Municipal Code,
reference to Chapter 22.
Add 307.1.2 Burning of leaves and garden debris: The burning of leaves and garden debris within the corporate
limits of the City of DeKalb shall be allowed within the following regulations:
1. The burning of leaves and garden debris shall be kept a minimum of thirty feet from any house, fence,
accumulations of combustibles, other buildings, or lot line.
2. Only small amounts are permitted to be burned at one time and shall be supervised by at least one responsible
adult at all times until the fire is extinguished.
3. A garden hose or other suitable fire fighting equipment is required near the site for immediate use.
4. Leaves and garden debris are prohibited from being burned on a public right of way. Leaf and garden debris
burning is prohibited after sunset.
5. Open burning of leaves or garden debris that will be offensive or objectionable because of smoke or odor
emissions when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make such leaf or garden debris burning hazardous or
objectionable shall be prohibited.
6. The fire code official is authorized to order the extinguishment of such fires.
7. A citation may be issued by a code enforcement official for repeated violations, starting with the second
offense within one week.
506.1 Amended as follows: Key Box: Where required. All new commercial buildings or inaccessible as a result of
security measure, shall provide a secure key box installed in a location accessible to the Fire Department in case of
emergency. This key box shall contain keys necessary to operate or service fire alarm control panels or fire protection
systems and to access restricted areas.
The key box shall be a type approved by the Fire Chief and shall be located and installed as approved by the Chief
Building Official, or his designee.
804.1.1 Delete alternative testing.
903.2.11.1 Add as follows: Stories without openings.
(3) An interior stairway that conforms to requirements of Section 1005 with a fire separation assembly enclosure of not
less than 1 hour, which has a door directly to the exterior and the stairway does not connect more than 2 stories. The
basement or windowless story floor level shall be 15 feet (4572mm) or less vertically from the exterior door threshold
level and the door threshold shall be within 10 feet (3048mm) of grade. Interior stair doors or openings shall be
provided in each 50 linear feet (15240mm) or fraction thereof on at least one side of the basement or windowless story.
906.3 Amended as follows: Size and distribution. A portable fire extinguisher shall be installed in the following
locations in accordance with NFPA 10 and in the additional locations specified in 906.1 of the International Fire Code.
The extinguisher requirements listed below are minimum standards and may be exceeded at the property owner's
discretion.
1. In use group A occupancies, 2A40BC fire extinguishers shall be located within seventy-five foot travel
distances in all occupied spaces and egress corridors and passageways.
2. In use group B occupancies, a 2A40BC fire extinguisher shall be located within seventy-five foot travel
distances in all occupied spaces and egress access corridors and passage-ways.
3. In use group E occupancies, a 2A40BC fire extinguisher shall be located in hallways (near or next to pull
boxes) and within 75 foot travel distances in all occupied spaces.
4. In use group H occupancies, a 4A60BC fire extinguisher shall be mounted in a location which is easily
accessible to the operators of hazardous processes and within thirty foot travel distances. Gasoline service
stations required two 4A60BC fire extinguishers.
5. In use group I-1 and I-2 occupancies a 2A40BC fire extinguisher shall be located in corridors and common
occupied spaces within seventy-five foot travel distances.
6. In use group M occupancies, a 2A40BC fire extinguisher shall be located near each exit and on each floor
within seventy-five foot travel distances.
7. In use groups R-1 and R-2, a 2A40BC fire extinguisher shall be located in each common hallway and in
common, heated areas. One 1A10BC fire extinguisher shall be located in each kitchen of all R-1, R-2 and R-4
uses.
8. In use group F & S occupancies, a 3A40BC fire extinguisher shall be located by each required exit in F-1 & S-
1 occupancies larger than 1,500 square feet and F-2 & S-2 occupancies larger than 3,000 square feet. They
shall be located within seventy-five foot travel distances.
9. In use group U occupancies, a 2A40BC fire extinguisher or, when required by the code official, a 3A40BC fire
extinguisher, shall be located near the exits and within seventy-five foot travel distances in low hazard uses
and within fifty foot travel distances in moderate and high hazard uses.
10. A Class K style fire extinguisher shall be provided for hazards where there is a potential for fire involving
combustible looking products (vegetable or animal oils and fats). Maximum travel distance shall not exceed
thirty (30’) feet from the hazard to the extinguisher.
11. All fire extinguishers shall be of the rechargeable type to provide that yearly maintenance may be assured. All
required fire extinguishers shall be serviced and tagged on an annual basis.
914.8.3 Amended as follows: Fire Suppression for Aircraft Hangars: Exception.
Exceptions:
1. Where a fired base operator has separate repair facilities on site, Group H hangars operated by a fixed base
operator used for storage of transient aircraft only shall have a fire suppression system, but the system shall be
exempt from foam requirements.
2. To the extent that any hangar that is: 1) smaller than twenty-five thousand square feet (25,000 sq. ft.); 2) with a
hangar door opening of thirty feet (30’) or lower in height; 3) which is not utilized for aircraft painting would
otherwise be required to utilize a foam-based fire suppression system under NFPA 409, the City expressly
supersedes such requirement. At the discretion of the Chief Building Official and Fire Chief, the City may
permit the use of a water-based fire suppression system with a design and capacity acceptable to the City. Any
building larger than twenty-five thousand square feet (25,000 sq. ft.) or with a hangar door taller than thirty
feet (30’) in height shall not be subject to this amendment.
Add 914.8.7 Sources of Ignition. An open flame, flame-producing device or other course of ignition shall not be
permitted in any hangar, except in approved locations or in any location within 50 feet of an aircraft-fueling operation.
The parking of personal automobiles is allowed in an aircraft hangar at the DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport after the
aircraft has been removed; if the vehicle is parked in the same space as the aircraft; and, no vehicle shall be operated
unless the hangar door is in a fully opened position.
2305.5 Amended as follows: Fire extinguishers. Approved fire extinguishers complying with Section 906 with a
minimum rating of 2-A:40-BC shall be located at the attendants control station.
Add 5601.1.3.1 Indoor Pyrotechnic Special Effects. The display of pyrotechnic special effects within indoor areas
shall be prohibited.
ARTICLE 4
INTERNATIONAL MECHANICAL CODE
108.4 Amended as follows: Violation Penalties. Unless otherwise specifically noted, any person who shall violate a
provision of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who shall erect, construct, alter or repair
a one or two-family dwelling in violation of an approved plan or directive of the code official, or of a permit or
certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall be liable and shall pay a fine of not less than Fifty dollars
($50.00) nor more than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00), as prescribed in Chapter 24 of the DeKalb Municipal Code.
Each day that a violation continues shall be deemed a separate offense.
108.5 Delete in its entirety: Stop Work Orders.
Section 108 Amended as follows: Means of Appeal. Any person shall have the right to appeal a decision of the
building code official to the board of appeals in accordance with the provisions as prescribed in the City of DeKalb
Municipal Code reference to Chapter 22.
Add: 603.6.1.1 Duct length. Flexible air ducts shall be limited in length to 8 feet overall from the termination point
and contain no more than to be the equivalent of one 90 degree turn with no offset greater than 45 degrees. All flexible
air ducts shall be of the insulated type. Flexible ducts shall only be used for branches.
Add: 801.2.2 Fuel burning appliances. PVC vent piping for a fuel burning appliance that is located in a concealed
space shall be marked/labeled every 36 inches so as to distinguish it from plumbing or other piping.
801.18 Amended as follows: Existing Chimneys and Vents. This shall apply to one and two-family dwellings also.
Add: 918.7 Furnace cement or welding. The use of furnace cement or welding for the repair of furnace heat
exchangers is prohibited.
Add: 1507.4 Bath Fan Venting. All bath fans in concealed locations to be vented with hard pipe.
The following sections of the International Residential Code 2015, Mechanical Chapter, are hereby revised as follows:
Add: M-1401.6 Furnace Repair. The use of furnace cement or welding for the repair of a furnace heat exchanger is
prohibited.
Add: M-1506.4 Bath Fan Venting: All bath fans in concealed locations to be vented with hard pipe.
M-1602.2 Amended as follows: Return air openings for HVAC systems for all dwelling units, including
manufactured and modular homes shall comply with all of the following:
Article 5
INTERNATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE
Section 112 Amended as follows: Board of Appeals. Any person shall have the right to appeal a decision of
the
Chief Building Official to the Building Code Board of Appeals in accordance with the provisions as prescribed in the
City of DeKalb Municipal Code reference to Chapter 22.
404.2.1 Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing. Corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) shall not be installed
outdoors.
404.3.1 Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing. Corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) shall not be used
underground.
503.4.1 Amended as follows: Vent piping.
Vinyl flexible vent piping shall not be used in the following applications:
(a) In clothes dryers as a transitional exhaust duct hook-up.
(b) As part of an exhaust system discharge where any or all of the following exhaust conditions occur:
addition of heat or cooling, moisture, debris, or where a combination of any of the aforementioned is
present in the exhausting air.
503.5.5 (4) Amended as follows: Size of Chimney.
(4) Chimney venting systems using natural draft shall be sized in accordance with approved engineering methods.
Article 6
INTERNATIONAL SWIMMING POOL AND SPA CODE
Section 108 Amended as follows: Means of Appeal. Any person shall have the right to appeal a decision of
the Chief Building Official to the Building Code Board of Appeals in accordance with the provisions as prescribed in
the City of DeKalb Municipal Code reference to Chapter 22.
ADD: Section 202: DEFINITIONS. For the purpose of this Chapter 24, the following words or groups of words
shall have the meanings assigned to them as hereinafter listed:
SWIMMING POOL: Any structure intended for swimming or recreational bathing that contains water over 24
inches deep. This includes in-ground, above-ground and on-ground swimming pools, hot tubs and spas.
Article 7
INTERNATIONAL EXISTING BUILDING CODE
Section 112 Amended as follows: Board of Appeals. Any person shall have the right to appeal a decision of
the Chief Building Official and the Building Code Board of Appeals in accordance with the provisions as prescribed
in the City of DeKalb Municipal Code reference to Chapter 22.
1401.2 Insert Date. Applicability.
Structures existing prior to [DATE TO BE INSERTED BY JURISDICTION], in which there is work
involving additions, alterations or changes of occupancy shall be made to conform to the requirements of this chapter
or the provisions of Chapters 5 through 13. The provisions of Sections 1401.2.1 through 1401.2.5 shall apply to
existing occupancies that will continue to be, or are proposed to be, in Groups A, B, E, F, I-2, M, R and S. These
provisions shall not apply to buildings with occupancies in Group H or I-1, I-3 or I-4.
ARTICLE 8
NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
The following sections of the National Electrical Code, 2014 edition are hereby revised as follows;
Add: 90.4.1 Chief Electrical Inspector Duties. The Chief Electrical Inspector shall have the right during reasonable
hours to enter any building in the discharge of his/her official duties, or for the purpose of making any inspection or
test of the installation or alteration of electrical equipment contained therein, and shall have the authority to cause the
turning off of all electrical current and to cut or disconnect any wire where such electrical current is dangerous to life
or property or may interfere with the work of the Fire Department when performing its duties.
Add: 90.4.2 Inspections.
5. The Chief Electrical Inspector or his/her duly authorized representative shall, when requested by the
building official in the performance of his/her official duties, render unto the building official his/her opinion as to the
proper installation or alteration of installations of electrical wiring systems and service equipment.
6. Upon the completion of the installation or alteration of electrical equipment in any building, it shall be the
duty of the person installing or altering the same to notify the building official, who shall inspect or cause the work to
be inspected with a minimum 24 hour notice.
7. All wires which are to be hidden from view shall be inspected before concealment, and any person installing
such wires shall notify the building official, giving him/her 24 hours in which to make the required inspection, before
such wires are concealed.
Add: 90.4.3 Electrical Branch Wiring; Heating and Cooling. All new branch wiring, (anytime wire is tied into the
main or sub-panel) for the installation of electrical connections of heating equipment, auxiliary equipment and cooling
equipment shall require that a permit to be obtained by a licensed and bonded electrical contractor with the City of
DeKalb when applying for a heating, cooling unit or both. Any re-connections that are not properly sized or installed
shall be corrected by an electrical contractor. Emergency change-outs can be temporarily connected by the heating
contractor without an electrical permit.
Add: Article 100 Definitions.
CHIEF ELECTRICAL INSPECTOR - Chief Building Official or his/her duly authorized representative who is the
authority having jurisdiction and is responsible for administering the requirements of this Code and shall be well
versed in approved methods and electrical control for safety to life and property, and shall abide by the Electrical
Inspector qualifications adopted by the City of DeKalb.
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR - Any person engaged in the business of installing or altering by contract electrical
equipment for the utilization of electricity for light, heat or power.
ELECTRICAL CONNECTION - It shall be unlawful for any electric, light, and power company or of any supplier
thereof to make any electrical connection to any building or any other electrical service application until the certificate
of inspection has been issued by the building official.
SERVICE INSTALLATIONS - Services, when installed for connection to local utility supply, shall conform to the
rules and regulations of the local electric utility supplier as outlined in the book “Information and Requirements for
the Supply of Electric Service” as amended from time to time.
Add: 210.19(A)(5) Microwave Circuits. The wiring used to supply power to a permanently installed microwave oven
shall consist of a minimum of #12 AWG conductors.
210.70(A)(1) Amended as follows: Habitable rooms. At least one wall switch-controlled lighting outlet shall be
installed in every habitable room and bathroom. The switch shall be installed at a point of entry to the room. The main
lighting outlet in each room may not be fed from the load side of a GFCI device. Unless 210.70(A)(1) Exception No. 1
is applied, provision shall be made in the wiring of each ceiling box of all habitable rooms (excluding dining rooms)
for a luminaire to operate independently from a fan.
210.70(A)(3) Amended as follows: Storage or Equipment Spaces. For attics, underfloor spaces, utility rooms, each
area of an unfinished basement, and equipment spaces, at least one lighting outlet containing a switch or controlled by a
wall switch shall be installed. At least one point of control shall be at the usual point of entry to these spaces. A lighting
outlet shall be provided within six feet of any equipment requiring servicing.
210.70(C) Amended as follows: Other Than Dwelling Units. Delete “containing equipment requiring servicing, such
as heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration equipment,”
Add: 230.11 Service Modifications. When any part of the service entrance equipment, branch circuit panel, or
conductor is replaced, modified, or required to be repaired, the service in its entirety must be installed to comply with
the current codes. The minimum number of poles allowed in a main branch circuit panel shall be 16.
230.43 Amended as follows: Wiring Methods for 1000 Volts, Nominal, or Less. Service-entrance conductors and
service laterals overhead shall be installed in accordance with the applicable requirements of this Code covering the type
of wiring method used and shall be limited to galvanized steel rigid or intermediate metal conduit, or rigid aluminum
conduit. Electrical metallic tubing may be used inside a building or structure.
230.70(A)(1) Amended as follows: Readily Accessible Location. The service disconnecting means shall be installed
at a readily accessible location, at or near the meter enclosure, outside of a building or structure.
250.52 Amended as follows: Grounding electrodes. A concrete-encased electrode that complies with 250.52(A)(3)
will be required in all new construction. (Remainder of article unchanged)
300.1(A) Amended as follows: Wiring method requirements. All electrical work as to branch wiring, wiring for lights,
devices, power, or other purpose in all buildings and structures shall be installed by the use of approved Ferrous metal
raceways and their approved fittings and connections (metallic conduit). Except in use groups R-2, three stories or less
in height, R-3, R-4
and U where non-metallic sheathed cable is permitted. Approved rigid non-metallic conduit; except where prohibited by
the 2014 National Electrical Code, may be used in underground, etc. as accepted according to Article 352, 2014 National
Electrical Code.
All buildings with multiple use groups shall comply with approved ferrous metal raceways throughout the entire building
or other approved metal materials according to the 2002 National Electrical Code.
Add: 300.1(D) Mixed Use and Occupancy Buildings. The entire mixed use and occupancy building shall be wired by
the most restrictive code.
300.5(D)(3) Amended as follows: Service Conductors. Underground service conductors shall be installed in
galvanized rigid metal or intermediate metal conduit. Underground service conductors that are not subject to physical
damage may be installed in Schedule 80 rigid electrical nonmetallic conduit, protected by galvanized steel rigid or
intermediate metal conduit, or aluminum rigid conduit to a minimum of 450 mm (18 inches) below grade. No exposed
nonmetallic conduit shall be allowed. Underground service conductors that are not encased in concrete and that are buried
450 mm (18 inches) or more below grade shall have their location identified by a warning ribbon that is placed in the
trench at least 300 mm (12 inches) above the underground installation.
Add: 300.11(A) (3) Tie Wire. Tie wire shall not be allowed as a sole means of supporting or securing conduit or cable
in above ground applications.
Add: 300.13(C) Multiple Conductors. When more than two conductors from a common circuit enter a box, they must
be spliced together, with a single wire added (if applicable) to connect to the device.
Add: 300.13(D) Push-Type Clamping Devices. No push-type or clamp-type connections for splices or for terminating
to devices will be allowed unless the wire connection is secured with a screw or crimping tool.
Exception 1: Disconnecting means for ballasts.
Exception 2: Factory installed terminations in luminaires.
310.106(B) Amended as follows: Conductor Material. Conductors in this article shall be aluminum, copper-clad
aluminum, or copper unless otherwise specified. Aluminum and copper-clad aluminum conductors shall not be smaller
than 2 AWG.
314.27(A) (2) Ceiling Outlets. At every outlet used exclusively for lighting, the box shall be designed or installed so
that a luminaire or lamp holder may be attached. Boxes shall be required to support a luminaire weighing a minimum
of 23 kg (50lbs.). A luminaire that weighs more than 23 kg (50lbs.) shall be supported independently of the outlet box,
unless the outlet box is listed and marked on the interior of the box to indicate the maximum weight the box shall be
permitted to support. In all habitable rooms with a ceiling fixture (other than recessed fixtures), a box rated for ceiling
fan support shall be installed.
320 Amended as follows: Armored Cable. (Type AC, Trade Name BX) is prohibited from use in the City of
DeKalb.
320.2 Amended as follows: Definition. Type AC cable is a fabricated assembly of insulated conductors in a flexible
metallic enclosure. Any other wiring system that references armored cable is not allowed by this Code.
330.10 (A)(1, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9) Delete in its entirety.
Add: 330.10 Uses permitted.
1. Metal clad cable may be installed in wall locations, and to be limited to three feet (3’) from wall location,
outward to the ceiling, to a proper junction box.
2. Metal clad cable may be fished in walls, ceilings, etc., at required locations as indicated by Article 330.30, A
and B.
3. Metal clad cable shall not be installed above open ceiling, above dropping ceiling, etc.
330.23 Delete in its entirety. Inaccessible attics.
330.31 Delete in its entirety. Single conductors.
330.80 Delete in its entirety. Ampacity.
334.10 (1-5) Amended as follows: Uses Permitted. Type NM, Type NMC, and 334.10 Uses Permitted. Type NM,
Type NMC, and Type NMS shall be permitted only in R-2, R-3, and R-4 structures (as defined by the International
Building Code) not exceeding three floors above grade.
Add: 334.15(D) All Unfinished Areas. Any exposed cable 2134 mm (7 feet) or closer to the floor must be protected
with a durable building material or sleeved in an approved manner.
334.40(B) Devices of Insulating Material. Delete “and for repair wiring in existing buildings where the cable is
concealed.”
410.36(B) Amended as follows: Suspended Ceilings. Framing members of suspended ceiling systems used to support
luminaires shall be securely fastened to each other and shall be securely attached to building structure at appropriate
intervals. Luminaires smaller than 610 mm by 610 mm (24 inches by 24 inches) shall be securely fastened to the ceiling-
framing member by mechanical means such as bolts, screws, rivets. Listed clips identified for the use with the type of ceiling
framing members(s) and luminaire(s) shall also be permitted. Fluorescent fixtures 610 mm by 610 mm (24 inches by 24
inches) or larger shall be supported independently of the ceiling grid by at least two wires on opposite corners of the fixture.
The same size (or larger) wire used to support the ceiling system shall be used to support the fixture, but in no case shall the
wire size be smaller than size No. 12 AWG steel.
Article 9
STATE OF ILLINOIS PLUMBING CODE
The following sections of the locally adopted 2014 Illinois Plumbing Code, are hereby revised as follows:
890.110 Amended as follows: Applicability. Delete 1) and 2); add new 1), 2), 3) and 4).
1) If an existing building or structure is changed from one use to another or from one classification to another, as provided
in Appendix A, Table B, it shall be treated as a new building and shall comply with the requirements of this Part and
the Illinois Accessibility Code for its new use or occupancy if applicable.
2) Regardless of the age of the building, where a health or safety hazard exists because of an existing plumbing installation
or lack thereof, the owner or his/her agent shall install additional plumbing or make such corrections as may be
necessary to abate the hazard or violation of this Part. Existing unused water, waste and vent piping, due to renovation,
remodeling or rework of a plumbing system, shall be removed to the main or point of origin and properly capped or
plugged.
3) Existing building shall comply with the International Property Maintenance Code as amended.
4) All new single family, attached or detached, residential dwellings shall have provisions made for water softener hookup
rough-in. All new water softener connections shall provide a three-valve (full-port) by-pass arrangement whereby the
cold water distribution piping for outside sillcocks and kitchen cold are piped prior to entering a water softener.
Connections and provisions shall be made for properly sized water distribution piping based on water supply fixture
units and an approved trap and vent connecting to the sanitary located in the same room as the proposed by-pass shall
be provided. By-pass connections left for future use shall be properly capped. Exceptions to this rule must be requested
in writing to the Code Administrator prior to start of construction and only then may a decision be granted after an
inspection has been conducted to determine exemption from this requirement.
890.120 Amended as follows: Definitions.
BUILDING DRAIN - That part of the lowest horizontal piping of a drainage system which receives the discharge from
soil, waste, and other drainage pipes inside the walls of the building and conveys it to the building (house) sewer. The
building drain's developed length terminates 5 feet outside the building foundation wall. (See Appendix B: Illustration
F.) Exception, when a building drain discharges into any exterior type of interceptor/separator, the developed length
terminates 5 feet past the outlet of such trap/interceptor, unless such outlet reenters the building.
BUILDING SEWER - That part of the horizontal piping of a drainage system which extends from the end of the building
drain receives the discharge of the building drain and conveys it to a public sanitary sewer or private sewage disposal
system. The building sewer commences 5 feet outside the building foundation wall. (See Appendix B: Illustration F.)
Exception: When a building drain discharges into any exterior type of interceptor/separator, the developed length
terminates 5 feet past the outlet of such trap/interceptor, thus commences the building sewer. A building sewer shall only
be installed by an Illinois registered and licensed plumbing contractor/plumber. The code official of the jurisdiction shall
conduct inspections of all portions of the sewer system up to main connection in street or alley.
PLUMBING INSPECTOR -
a) The position of Plumbing Inspector shall be an Illinois Certified Plumbing Inspector as prescribed by the Illinois
Plumbing License Law, Subpart G: Certification of Plumbing Inspectors and a member liaison to the Plumbing Board
of Appeals or his/her designee shall be an Illinois licensed plumber as defined by the Illinois State Plumbing Code. The
Plumbing Inspector shall be responsible to Chief Building Official, or his/her designee.
b) The Plumbing Inspector or his/her designee shall have the right during reasonable hours to enter any
building or structure in the discharge of his/her official duties, or for the purpose of making any inspection of the
installation, alteration or replacement of plumbing fixtures or the plumbing system therein, and shall have the authority
to order the removal of illegal or unsafe conditions, to require the necessary safeguards during construction, and to insure
compliance with the locally adopted State of Illinois Plumbing Code, inclusive of these sections as amended in Chapter
24 of the City of DeKalb Municipal Code.
c) The Plumbing Inspector or his/her designee shall enforce all of the provisions of this code along with local amendments
and shall act on any question relative to the installation, alteration, repair, maintenance or operation of all plumbing
systems, devices and equipment except as otherwise specifically provided for by statutory requirements or as provided
for in the 2014 edition of the Illinois State Plumbing Code or as amended in the future. The Plumbing Inspector shall
have authority as necessary in the interest of public health, safety and general welfare to adopt and promulgate rules and
regulations to interpret and implement the provisions of this code to secure the intent thereof and to designate
requirements applicable because of local climatic or other conditions. Such rules shall not have the effect of waiving
structural or fire performance requirements specifically provided for in this code, or of violating accepted engineering
practice involving public safety.
d) Whenever there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of local PlumbingAmendments, the
Plumbing Inspector or his/her designee shall have the authority to grant modifications for individual cases, provided the
Plumbing Inspector shall first find that special individual reason that makes the strict letter of these Plumbing
Amendments impractical and the modification is in conformity with the intent and purpose of this code and that such
modification does not lessen health, life and fire safety requirements. The details of action granting modifications shall
be recorded and entered in the files of the plumbing inspection department and submitted to the Plumbing Board of
Appeals for review.
e) The Plumbing Inspector or his/her designee charged with the enforcement of this code and local
PlumbingAmendments, while acting for the jurisdiction, shall not thereby be rendered liable personally, and is hereby
relieved from all personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of any act required or
permitted in the discharge of official duties.
f) Any suit instituted against the Plumbing Inspector or his/her designee because of an act performed by that officer or
employee in the lawful discharge of duties and under the provisions of this code shall be defended by the legal
representative of the jurisdiction until the final termination of the proceedings. The Plumbing Inspector or his/her
designee shall not be liable for costs in any action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the provisions of
this code and local Plumbing Amendments, and any officer of the department of plumbing inspection, acting in good
faith and without malice, shall be free from liability for acts performed under any of its provisions or by reason of any
act or omission in the performance of official duties in connection therewith.
PRIVATE OR PRIVATE USE - In the classification of plumbing fixtures, private applies to only plumbing
fixtures/appurtenances in residences and apartments where the fixtures/appurtenances are intended for the use of a single
family or an individual; hand washing stations (lavatories) within residents' rooms, within shared or common resident
restrooms, or designated for staff use only in hospitals/long-term care units/mental health facilities, and hand washing
stations where food is being prepared.
PUBLIC OR PUBLIC USE - Any installation or use of plumbing fixtures/appurtenances for facilities except those in
residences and apartments. Private bathrooms of hotels/motels are considered to be public use.
QUICK CLOSING VALVES – A valve or faucet that closes automatically when released or one that has fast action
closing, or one that closes with (1/2) one half turn or less.
WET VENT - A vent which also serves as a drain. A vent which receives the discharge of gravity drained gray water
wastes. (See Appendix B: Illustration Y.) Vents receiving discharges from water closets, urinals and any pumped
discharged fixture(s) are prohibited.
890.140 Amended as follows: Repairs and Alterations. Delete c); add new c).
c) Health and Safety. Where a health or safety hazard exists because of an existing plumbing installation or lack thereof,
the owner or his/her agent shall install additional plumbing or make such corrections as may be necessary to abate the
hazard or violation of this Part. In the process of repairing or replacing an existing building sewer constructed of
bituminized fiber pipe, when technically feasible and with regards to practicability, the entire building sewer from the
connection to the sewer main to the building structure shall be replaced with approved materials as listed for building
sewers and drains. The plumbing inspector will review all cases in which the complete removal of bituminized fiber pipe
cannot be achieved and render a decision based on site restraints and or conditions that prevent such provision of this
requirement.
890.150 Amended as follows: Workmanship. Delete b) and c); add new b), c) and d).
b) In the process of installing or repairing any part of a plumbing system, the floors, walls, ceilings, tile work, or any
other part of the building or premises which must be changed, altered or replaced shall be left in a safe structural condition
so as not to pose a health or safety hazard. A framing member shall not be cut, notched or bored in excess of limitations
specified in the International Building Code.
c) Exterior/interior openings through walls, floors, and ceilings shall have the annular space around pipes properly closed
to prevent the entrance of mice, rats or other rodents. Exterior wall openings shall be made water-tight. Penetrations of
floor/ceiling assemblies and assemblies required to have a fire-resistance rating shall be protected in accordance with the
International Building Code.
d) In all buildings where the above ground DWV system is constructed of PVC materials and whereby other non-
plumbing systems exist that is installed with similar/identical piping materials, the DWV system or the other non-
plumbing system shall be properly labeled to distinguish itself from all other such systems. Labels shall be installed at
sufficient intervals on piping to provide ready visibility at changes of direction or branches of the piping, at each side of
penetrations of walls, floors, roofs or similar barriers. Identification may be applied by paint and stencils, manufactured
markers or stamping. Labeling and their attachments shall be durable and corrosion resistant for the environment to
which they are exposed. All piping exposed within plenums shall comply with the provisions of the International
Mechanical Code.
890.170 Amended as follows: Sewer and Water Required. Add new d).
d) Private property building sewer systems and repairs of such shall only be installed by a registered Illinois Plumbing
Contractor/ licensed Plumber. No homeowner shall be permitted to install his/her her own sewer service or system.
890.180 Amended as follows: Sewer and Water Pipe Installation. Add a) 1) and 2); Delete c) and e); add new c),
e) and f)
a)
1) Sewer trenching and/or tunneling not to exceed ten feet (10’) total distance.
2) Ditches shall be left accessible for inspection of sewer and/or water piping.
c) Breakage and Corrosion. Pipes passing under or through walls or floors shall be protected from breakage caused by
stress or strain. Pipes passing under or through cinder, concrete or other corrosive material shall be protected from
external corrosion, stress, or strain by a protecting sleeve or a wrap-on material. (See Appendix B: Illustration AA.)
Ferrous piping installed underground for the purpose of potable hot water distribution shall be protected from external
corrosion or stress by providing a protecting sleeve or wrap-on material for its entire length underground and to the point
just above any floor/wall where protection is not required. Any piping subject to undue corrosion, erosion or mechanical
damage shall be protected in an approved manner.
e) Buried Piping Parallel to Footings. No buried piping shall be laid parallel to inside or outside footings in a ratio closer
than “one foot to one foot” of the bottom edge of the footing. All piping installed parallel to footings shall comply with
the provisions of the International Building Code.
f) The portion of building drain from ten (10) feet outside of the edge of the footing on the inside of the building extending
through or under the footing/foundation and into the building shall be of service weight cast iron. Material backfill of
this portion shall be compacted clay suitable for damming of ground water.
890.200 Amended as follows: Operation of Plumbing Equipment. Delete b); add new b).
b) No groundwater, roof drainage, discharges from footing tile drains or other storm water wastes shall be discharged
into the sanitary drainage system. Exception: Sump discharges from elevator pits are exempt and may indirectly
discharge to the storm or sanitary.
890.320 Amended as follows: Types of Joints. Delete d) and B); add new d) and B).
d) Soldered Joints. The surface to be soldered shall be cleaned bright. The joints shall be properly fluxed (lead free and
water soluble) conforming to ASTM Standard B813-1993 and made with approved lead free solder conforming to ASTM
Standard B32-1989. Joints in copper water tubing shall be made with approved cast bronze or wrought copper pressure
fittings, properly soldered together. All solders or flux containing more than 0.2% lead shall bear a warning label which
states that the solder or flux is not approved for private or potable water use as required by Section 4 of the federal
Hazardous Substances Act (15 USC 1263). Use of this product in the making of joints or fittings in any private or public
potable water system is prohibited. No part of a DWV (drain, waste and vent) system shall be joined or fitted with a
solder or flux containing more than 0.2% lead. Soldered joints are prohibited for underground water services and
distributions systems. Joints for underground water services and distribution systems shall comply with the requirements
of section 890.330 b).
B) Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) pipe shall be installed with solvent welded or
flanged joints only. The pipe shall not be threaded. Transition to metallic plumbing appliances/appurtenances, faucets
and equipment or other piping shall be readily accessible and made with the use of adaptor fittings. The fittings shall be
molded from polyvinyl chloride/chlorinated polyvinyl chloride. The primer and solvent cement used shall be in
accordance with the manufacturer's recommendation for polyvinyl chloride/chlorinated polyvinyl chloride piping.
890.350 Amended as follows: Unions. Delete a) and b); add new a) and b).
a) Drainage System. Unions may be used in the trap seal and on the inlet and outlet side of the trap. Unions shall have
metal to metal seats except that plastic unions may have plastic to plastic seats. Unions are not permitted in any concealed
or inaccessible portion of the drainage system.
b) Water Supply System. Unions in the water supply system shall be metal to metal with ground seats, except that plastic
to metal unions may utilize durable, non-toxic, impervious gaskets. Unions between copper pipe/tubing and dissimilar
metals shall either be made with a brass converter fitting or be a dielectric type union. Unions are not permitted in any
concealed or inaccessible portion of the water distribution system.
890.410 Amended as follows: Fixture Traps/Continuous Waste. Delete b), c) and f); add new b), c), f) and k)7).
b) Distance of Trap to Fixture. The developed length from the fixture outlet to the trap weir shall not exceed 24 inches,
except when an interceptor is used as a trap, it shall be located as close as possible to the fixture. The maximum developed
length from the fixture outlet to the inlet of the interceptor shall not exceed 5 feet. (See Appendix D: Illustration B.) The
standpipe inlet for an automatic clothes washer shall not exceed 48 inches maximum and 18 inches minimum in length
above the weir of the trap.
c) Trap Size. The size of trap for a fixture shall comply with Appendix A: Table E for minimum size of traps. No trap
shall be larger than the fixture drain or fixture outlet to which it is connected or the drainage pipe into which it directly
discharges. Exception for underground fixture and trap drains, whereby the minimum size trap size is 2” in diameter
and are indirectly discharged.
f) Trap Seal. Each trap shall have a water seal of 2 inches except where a deeper seal is required to prevent the loss of
the trap seal by evaporation. Where loss of the trap seal may occur due to evaporation, one of the following shall be used:
1) Mineral oil may be added to the trap.
2) A deeper seal not to exceed 8 inches may be used.
3) An approved automatic trap primer may be used.
k) Prohibited Traps. Use of the following traps is prohibited (see Appendix D: Illustration E):
7) Drum traps.
890.420 Amended as follows: Pipe Cleanouts. Delete a); add new a).
a) Location of Cleanouts Within a Building Drain/Building Sewer
Section 890.510 Amended as follows: Grease Interceptor Requirements
a)
7) All new or altered installations serving institutions or commercial establishments in which grease, fats, culinary oil,
or similar waste products from kitchens or food processing areas, or in which grease, fats, or culinary oils are wasted in
connection with utensil, vat, dish, or floor cleaning processes shall install grease interceptors. All waste lines and drains
carrying culinary oil, grease, or fats in the above type establishments shall be directed to one or more interceptors before
connecting to the plumbing system. If interceptors are located outside the building, they shall be accessible for
maintenance purposes within ten (10) feet of the building.
890.750 Amended as follows: Whirlpool Bathtubs. Add c), d), and e)
c) Manufacturer’s instructions. The [product shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturers installation
instructions.
d) Access to pump. Access shall be provided to circulation pumps in accordance with the fixture or pump manufacturer’s
instructions. Where the manufacturer’s instructions do not specify the location and minimum size of field-fabricated
access openings, and where pumps are located more than 2 feet (609mm) from the access opening, an 18-inch by 18-
inch (457mm by 457mm) minimum sized opening shall be installed. A door or panel shall be permitted to close the
opening. In all cases, the access opening shall be unobstructed and the size necessary to permit the removal and
replacement of the circulation pump.
e) Leak testing. Leak testing and pump operation shall be performed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation
instructions.
890.520 Amended as follows: Gasoline, Oil and Flammable Liquids. Delete b) and d) 1), 2), 3) and 5); add new b)
and d) 1), 2), 3 and 5).
b) Commercial and residential vehicle storage areas greater than 1,000 square feet with floor or trench drains installed
shall comply with subsection (c) (1), (2) or (3) of this Section. Exception: residential garages with fewer than 5 vehicle
bays or less than 1,000 square feet are exempted from this requirement when floor or trench drains are installed.
d) General Requirements
1) Gas and oil interceptors shall be of cast iron, steel, polyethylene, polymer concrete or equally durable fiberglass
materials suitable for gas and oil. Fiberglass interceptors shall not be used for receiving any substance other than
gas and oil. Poured concrete interceptors are prohibited. The installation and construction of all gas and oil
interceptor shall comply with the requirements of NFPA 30 Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code, NFPA
30A Code for Fuel Dispensing and Repair Garages, NFPA 68 Guide for Vent of Deflagrations, and NFPA 69
Standard on Explosion Prevention System.
2) Each gas and oil interceptor or basin shall be provided with a heavy metal cover which shall be bolted into place
and made gas and water-tight.
3) Each gas and oil interceptor and, if provided with separate compartments, each compartment and basin shall be
provided with a vent of at least 2 inches, which shall extend independently to the outer air serving as a local
ventilating pipe. Two or more compartment vents may be connected to a common header which shall be installed
at least 6 inches or higher than the lowest floor/trench drain served and extend to the outer air as a local ventilating
pipe terminal. Floor or trench drains vents are not permitted to be connect neither to this header nor to any other
portion of the sanitary venting system.
4) Floor or trench drains vents that serve in conjunction with a gas and oil interceptor or basin(s) shall connect to a
properly sized vent stack terminating to the atmosphere based on total vent fixture units being served by that
stack vent or each floor/trench drain vent stack may terminate independently to the outer air as a vent terminal.
890.690 Amended as follows: Shower Receptors and Compartments. Delete b); add new b).
b) Water Temperature Safety. All shower compartments and shower-bath combinations shall be
provided with an automatic safety water mixing device to prevent sudden unanticipated changes in water temperature or
excessive water temperatures. The automatic safety water mixing device shall comply with ANSI/ASSE 1016-1996, in
accordance with Section 890.210, and be designed with a maximum handle rotation limit/stop, or comply with ASSE
1017-1998, in accordance with Section 890.210. The automatic safety water mixing device shall be adjusted to a
maximum setting of 115° F for private use and 110° F for public use at the time of installation. The temperature of mixed
water provided to multi-shower units or gang showers shall be controlled by a master automatic safety water mixing
device or the mixed water temperature for such showers shall be individually regulated by automatic safety mixing valves
for each shower unit. A hot water heater thermostat shall not be an acceptable alternative water temperature control
device.
890.720 Amended as follows: Drinking Fountains. Delete e) and f); add new e) and f).
e) Installation and Location. Drinking fountains shall not be installed as an integral part of or connected to any other
plumbing fixture, such as a lavatory or sink, nor shall a drinking fountain be installed in a restroom or toilet room, except
those in correctional facilities. Drinking fountains required by this part, with gross floor area of 5,000 or more square
feet or an occupancy that exceeds more than two single user restrooms in the space shall provide a “hi-lo” ADA approved
drinking fountain and shall be made accessible to the public and located on an accessible route according to the
requirements set forth by the Illinois Accessibility Code and the Illinois State Plumbing Code.
f) Substitution. Whenever a drinking fountain is required by this Part, bottled drinking water or a water dispensing faucet
(water station) may be substituted for a drinking fountain, provided drinking water is accessible to the public and is not
more than 50 percent of the minimum required drinking fountains based on building use and occupancy. When bottled
drinking water is provided in lieu of a drinking fountain, the bottled water used must be commercially sealed in
accordance with the Bottled Water Act [815 ILCS 310] or must comply with the Department's Public Area Sanitary
Practice Code (77 Ill. Adm. Code 895).
890.740 Amended as follows: Kidney Dialysis Machines. Delete c); add new c).
c) Discharge. The discharge for each dialysis unit or machine, portable or stationary, shall be
provided with an individual indirect waste connection to the sanitary drainage system by means of an approved air gap.
Each stand pipe shall be individually trapped and vented.
890.790 Amended as follows: Laundry Trays/Sinks and Drains. Delete d); add new d).
d) All laundry/washer boxes shall have a minimum of a 2 inch drain that is properly trapped and
individually vented. (See Section 890.410(b).)
890.800. Amended as follows: Special Fixtures and/or Items Designed for a Particular Purpose. Delete a); add
new a).
a) Emergency showers and eye wash stations within a building shall be provided with a trapped and vented receptor and
shall comply with ANSI Z358-1-1998 and OSHA regulation 29 CFR 1910.151. Potable water shall be provided with an
automatic safety water mixing device to prevent sudden unanticipated changes in water temperature or excessive water
temperatures. The automatic safety water mixing device shall comply with ANSI/ASSE 1016-1996, in accordance with
Section 890.210. The tepid temperature range setting is generally considered to be 78 degrees F to 92 degrees F, based
to the normal surface temperature of the human eye.
890.810 Amended as follows: Minimum Number of Plumbing Fixtures. Delete 1) A); add new 1) A).
1) Employee Restrooms and Drinking Fountains
A) Restroom facilities and drinking fountains shall be provided for all employees within each place
of employment and shall meet the requirements of the Illinois Accessibility Code. The minimum numbers of fixtures
provided shall be based on the maximum number of male and female employees working at any one time, as shown in
Appendix A, Table B. (The numbers of fixtures required for employees are included in the numbers shown in Table B
for all building types/uses except Hospital Rooms, Penal Institutions, and Other Institutions. The entry in Appendix A,
Table B, entitled "All Facilities for Employee Use" shall be used to determine the minimum number of fixtures required
for employees in hospitals, penal/other institutions, and all other buildings/facilities that do not appear in Appendix A,
Table B.)
890.930 Amended as follows: Horizontal Piping. Delete e); add new e).
e) Plastic Pipe. Hangers and straps shall not compress, distort, cut or abrade the piping and shall allow
free movement of the pipe. Wire pipe hooks or similar metallic banding iron straps, unless provided with a protective
manufacturing coating, shall not be used to support plastic pipe. Restraining joints and expansion joints shall be installed
as required. All horizontal piping shall be supported at intervals of not more than 4 feet, and at ends of branches, and at
changes of direction or elevation. Trap arms in excess of 3 feet shall be supported as close as possible to the trap.
890.1040 Amended as follows: Air Gaps.
The air gap between an indirect waste and the drainage system shall be at least two (2) times the diameter
of the fixture drain or drainage pipe served, but shall never be less than one and one half (1-1/2) inch. For
requirements in excess of this minimum, see Appendix A: Table C, and Appendix H: Illustration F.
890.1150 Amended as follows: Water Service Pipe Installation. Add a) 5); Delete b) 3); add new b) 3). b)
3) When it is not possible to comply with subsection (b) (1) or (2), a pressure rated pipe approved
for building drain material listed in Appendix A: Table A shall encase the water service pipe. The casing pipe shall be
sealed with a casing seal and extend 10 feet on either side of the center of the sanitary sewer pipe. The sleeve or case
shall be at least 2 times the size of the water service. On directional bored water services where the proper separation of
a building drain or sewer cannot be verified or existing building drain or sewer is of unknown material or known to be
constructed of non-approved materials for such installation, the water service shall be encased for its entire length.
890.1200 Amended as follows: Water Service Sizing. Delete a); add new a).
a) Water Service Pipe Sizing. The water service pipe from the street main (including the tap) to the
water distribution system for the building shall be sized in accordance with Appendix A, Tables M, N, O, P and Q. Water
service pipe and fittings shall be at least 1-inch diameter. Plastic water service pipe is prohibitive. If flushometers or
other devices requiring a high rate of water flow are used, the water service pipe shall be designed and installed to provide
this additional flow.
890.1210 Amended as follows: Design of a Building Water distribution System. Add j)
j) All new family dwellings shall have provisions made for soft water hookup, with three valves for bypass, except for
outside lawn hydrants and cold water in kitchen sink with proper bypass. Connections and provisions shall be made of
properly sized and vented trap within five feet (5') distance of water softener. Bypass connection for future use shall be
capped. Exceptions must be requested in writing to the Board of Appeals and will be granted only after inspection has
been conducted.
890.1320 Amended as follows: Drainage System Installation. Delete e), g), i) and m); add new e), g), i)
and m).
e) Dead Ends. Dead ends shall be avoided in a drainage system, except where necessary to extend the
system to install a cleanout in an accessible location. A dead end intended for future connection (extension) shall have a
vented connection to the outside atmosphere based on proposed drainage fixture unit load values or at least half the
diameter of the largest drainage pipes which ever is greater, but never less than 2” in diameter. (See Appendix J:
Illustration A.)
g) Large Piping. Horizontal drainage piping larger than 3 inches but less than 8 inches in diameter shall be installed with
a grade of at least ⅛ inch per foot. For piping 8 inches or larger in diameter, the grade is determined by the number of
drainage fixture units connected to the drain pipe. (See Appendix A: Table G.)
i) Changes in Direction. Changes in direction shall be made in drainage piping by the use of 45° wyes, long sweeps,
short sweeps, quarter, fifth, sixth, eighth, or sixteenth bends, or by a combination of these fittings. Single and double
sanitary tees and short sweep quarter bends shall be used in drainage lines only where the direction of flow is from the
horizontal to the vertical and may be used for making necessary vertical offsets between the ceiling and floor above.
(See Appendix J: Illustrations B, C and D.)
Exception:
A short sweep drainage quarter bend of less than 3 inches diameter and placed in a horizontal to horizontal position for
a stack vent arm may be used to receive gray water waste only.
m) Back-to-Back Fixtures. Back-to-back fixtures shall be installed with fittings that will prevent mixing of the discharge
prior to a change in direction of flow of the discharge from each fixture, or shall be installed with fittings especially
designed to eliminate throw-over or backflow of the discharge from one fixture to the other fixture. Double sanitary tees
(crosses installed in a horizontal to vertical position) and double short sweep quarter bends (twin ells installed in a
horizontal to horizontal position) shall not be used in conjunction with back-to-back fixture drains from water closets,
urinals and fixtures or appliances with pump action discharge.
890.1130 Amended as follows: Protection of Potable Water. Delete e) 1); add new e) 1).
e) Prohibited Connections.
1) Sewage Lines. There shall be no direct connection between potable water lines to equipment and vessels containing
sewage. Such connections shall be made only through a minimum fixed air gap as outlined in Section 890.1140(a).
Exception: The installation of a trap seal primer valve to prevent loss of a trap seal on a floor drain and complying with
ANSI/ASSE 1018-1986 or CSA B125-2001, is not considered a direct connection between potable water lines to
equipment and vessels containing sewage.
890.1340 Amended as follows: Determination of Sizes for Drainage System. Delete e); add new e).
e) Future Fixtures. When provision is made for the future installation of fixtures, those provided for
shall be considered in determining the required size of drain pipes and vent piping during initial
construction. Properly sized vent piping provided for such future installation of fixtures shall connect to all fixture drains.
In a multi-story building, when openings are roughed in for future fixtures below the uppermost level, properly sized
vent piping shall be connected to the vent system and carried down to the appropriate lower level and connected to all
fixture drains.
890.1360 Amended as follows: Sanitary Wastes Below Sewer. Delete b), e), f) and g) 2); add new b), e), f) and g)
2).
b) Design. Sump and pumping equipment shall be designed and installed to discharge, during the pumping cycle, all
contents (including future rough-in fixtures) accumulated in the sump except for sump contents that must remain in the
sump for the continued proper operation of the pumping equipment (e.g., contents needed to submerge or prime the
pump) according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
e) Vent Sizes. Building sump vents shall be sized based on the total of drainage fixture units being discharged into sump
and in accordance with Appendix A: Table K.
f) Connections. No direct connection of a steam exhaust, blowoff, or drip pipe shall be made with the building drainage
system waste water. When steam exhaust, blowoff or drip pipes are discharged into the building drainage system, they
shall not exceed a temperature of 180° F. When higher temperatures exist, cooling methods shall be provided to reduce
the temperature to 180°F or less. Pump discharge lines shall discharge into a 4 inch building drain through a wye type
fitting a minimum of 4 feet downstream any fixture drain connected to that building drain. Where the discharge line
connects into horizontal drainage piping, the connector shall be made through a wye type fitting into the top of the
horizontal drainage piping.
g) Elevator Pits
2) All discharges from elevator sumps shall indirectly discharge to the sanitary sewer or storm drain. All discharges
from elevator sumps shall be provided with a properly sized receptor or area located either inside or outside a building.
The discharge piping shall also be terminated in a frequently visited area whereby detection of discharge can be noticed
and serviced by maintenance personnel. A permanent sign shall be posted at the termination point to indicate elevator
sump discharge piping and the necessary instructional procedures and contacts to notify in the event of discharge.
890.1370 Amended as follows: Floor Drains. Delete a), a) 1), a) 4), e) and e) 3); add new a), a) 1), a) 4), e) and e) 3).
a) Required. Any building or structure in which plumbing fixtures or piping is installed in or under a
concrete floor to accommodate fixtures on the level of the concrete floor shall have at least one trapped and vented floor
drain. When plumbing fixtures are installed on the level immediately above a concrete crawl space, at least one trapped
and vented floor drain shall be installed only if fixtures and appurtenances require the use of floor drains. Additional
floor drains shall be required if the installation of fixtures and appurtenances requires the use of floor drains. In a multi-
family dwelling, each unit shall have a floor drain if fixtures and appurtenances installed therein require the use of a floor
drain.
1) Underground floor drains connected to a building drain or a building sub-drain within 4 feet of a stack shall be
individually vented. All other floor drains shall be vented as required by Appendix A, Table I. A floor drain in
conjunction with any sump/sewage basket shall be provided with an individual vent. The sump/sewage basket vent can
not be used in lieu of conventional vent piping for any fixture(s) discharging into a sump/sewage basket.
4) At least one floor drain shall be located in every restroom having a masonry or concrete floor those except those for
private use. Exception: Excess and private toilet rooms located within public buildings that are provided in excess of the
minimum requirements of this Part shall provide a floor drain and comply with the requirements of the Illinois
Accessibility Code.
e) Provision for Evaporation. Floor drain seals subject to evaporation shall be of the deep seal type shall be fed by means
of a priming device designed for that purpose, or shall be filled with mineral oil.
3) Floor drains must be indirectly discharged to the drainage system, or a backwater valve that conforms to the
requirements of Section 890.1320(o) shall be installed.
890.1380 Amended as follows: Storm Water Drainage within a Building .
Any piping installed within a building for the purpose of carrying storm water from a roof and connected to storm sewer
shall conform with the requirements of Underground Storm and Subsoil Drain System (Inside and Outside Building),and
Sections 890.910 through 890.930.
890.1430 Amended as follows: Vent Terminals. Delete c); add new c).
c) Location of Vent Terminal. No vent terminal from a gas/oil, acid waste, and or drainage system shall be directly
beneath a door, window, overhang or other ventilating intake opening of the building, nor shall any such vent terminals
be installed within 12 feet horizontally of such an opening unless it is at least two (2) feet above the top of such opening.
(See Appendix K: Illustration E.)
890.1450 Amended as follows: Vent Grades and Connections. Delete a) and b); add new a and b).
a) Grade. All vent and branch vent pipes shall be installed so as to drain back to the soil or waste pipe at a minimum of
1/8” per foot. (See Appendix K: Illustration F.)
b) Vertical Rise. Where any vent pipes connect to a horizontal soil or waste pipe, for the purpose of providing a fixture
vent, the vent shall be taken off above the center line of the soil or waste pipe, and for dry vent connections, the vent
pipe shall rise vertically, or at an angle not more than 45 degrees from the vertical to a point of 6 inches above the flood
level rim of that fixture before offsetting horizontally or before connecting to the branch vent. (See Appendix K:
Illustration G.)
890.1460 Amended as follows: Fixtures Back-to-Back. Delete n); add new n).
n) Distance. Two fixtures set back-to-back, within the distance allowed between a trap and its vent, may be served with
one (1) continuous soil or waste-vent pipe, provided that each fixture discharges separately into an approved double
fitting having inlet openings at the same level. (See Section 890.1480(b) and Appendix K: Illustration K.) Double
sanitary tees (crosses installed in a horizontal to vertical position) and double short sweep quarter bends (twin ells
installed in a horizontal to horizontal position) shall not be used in conjunction with back-to-back fixture drains from
water closets and fixtures or appliances with pump action discharge.
Exception: Back-to-back flush tank designed water closet connections to double sanitary tees shall be permitted where
the horizontal developed length between the outlet of the water closet and connection to the double sanitary tees is 18
inches or greater and does not exceed the requirements of Appendix A Table I, allowed distances from fixture trap to
vent.
890.1470 Amended as follows: Fixture Vent Traps. Delete b); add new b).
b) Trap Weir. The vent pipe opening from a soil or waste pipe, except for water closets or fixtures with an integral trap,
shall not be below the trap weir. (See Appendix K: Illustration M.) Water closet or fixtures with an integral trap, whereby
the vent is naturally installed below the weir of the trap, shall be vented on either the first vertical or horizontal outlet
downstream section of the fixture drain and conforms to the requirements of Appendix A Table I, allowed distances from
fixture trap to vent.
890.1480 Amended as follows: Types of Fixture Trap Vents. Delete c); add new c).
c) Vertical Wet Vent. A vertical wet vent may be used for two fixtures set on the same floor level, but connecting at
different levels in the stack, provided the vertical drain is one (1) pipe diameter larger than the upper fixture drain and
that both drains conform to Appendix A: Table I. (See Appendix K: Illustrations P and Q.) Vertical wet vents receiving
discharges from water closets, urinals and any pumped discharged fixture(s) are prohibited. The dry vent connection to
the vertical wet vent size shall be in accordance to Appendix A, Table K.
890.1490 Amended as follows: Installation of Vents for Fixture Traps. Delete b) and c); add new a) and b).
a) Different Level. If any stack has fixtures entering at different levels, the fixtures other than the fixtures entering at the
highest level shall be vented, except as otherwise provided. (See Section 890.1480 and 890.1510)
b) Horizontal Branch Drains. Where a water closet discharges into a branch drain, each fixture discharging into that
branch drain shall be individually vented; however, this does not include battery or circuit venting as along as the fixtures
are identical.
890.1500 Amended as follows: Installation of Wet Venting. Delete 1) and 2); add new 1) and 2).
1) Not more than 4 drainage fixture units drain into a minimum 2 inch diameter wet vent or larger; and
2) The horizontal branch shall be a minimum of 2 inches and connect to the stack at the same level as the water closet
drain. It may also connect to the water closet bend. (See Appendix K: Illustration S.) No fixture(s) may be installed with
the drain from an individual vented kitchen sink equipped with a food-waste disposer and or dishwasher and serving as
a wet vent.
890 APPENDIX A: Plumbing Materials, Equipment, use Restrictions and Applicable Standards.
TABLE A. Amended as follows: Approved Materials and Standards.
All materials must meet at least one of the approved standards listed.
1. Approved Building Drainage/Vent Pipe - Above Ground or Basement Inside a Building
1) Acrylonitrite Butadiene Styrene (ABS) Pipe ASTM D 2661-2011
ASTM F 628-2012
Joints ASTM D 2235-2011
Solvent Cement1 ASTM D 2235-2011
2) Brass Pipe ASTMB 43-2009
3) Cast Iron ASTM A 74-2009
ASTM A 888-2011
ASTM-C 564-2012
CISPI 301-2009
4) Copper/Copper Alloy Pipe ASTM B 42-2010
ASTM B 302-2012
5) Copper/Copper Alloy Tubing ASTM B 75- 2011
(K-L-M or DWV)2 ASTM B 88- 2009
ASTM B 251-2010
ASTM B 306-2009
6) Galvanized Steel Pipe3 ASTM A 53-2012
7) Glass Fiber Borosilicate Pipe3 ASTM C 1053-2010
8) High Silicon Content Cast Iron Pipe3 ASTM A 377-2008e
9) Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Clear Pipe3 ASTM D 1784-1990
10) Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe and Fittings ASTM D 2665-2012
ASTM D 2949-2010
11) Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe with Cellular
Core4 ASTM F 891-2010
Joints ASTM D 2855-2010
Primer ASTM F 656-2010
Solvent Cement1 ASTM D 2564-2012
12) Polyvinylidene Fluoride3 ASTM D 3222-2010
13) Solder ASTM B 32-2008
Flux ASTM B 813-1993
Note: Solvent cement must be handled in accordance with ASTM F 402-11988
A) All primer for PVC underground must be of purple color.
2. Type M copper tubing, DWV copper tubing, and galvanized steel pipe are approved for above-ground
uses only.
3. Approved for corrosive waste.
4. PVC pipe with cellular core is approved only for gravity drainage and venting. It is
not approved for pressurized drain, waste or venting applications.
2. Approved Materials for Building Sewer Pipe Below Ground Outside a Building
B1 Materials may be installed to within 7' of the structure - Backfill with CA-7, 12" under and 6"
Over
B2 For pressure main applications
1) Asbestos Cement Pipe ASTM C 428M – 2011 e1
2) Cast Iron Soil Pipe / Fittings ASTM A 74-2009
Hubless Soil Pipe CISPI 301-2010
CISPI 310-2010
Rubber Gaskets ASTM C 564-2012
3) Copper / Copper Alloy Tubing (Type K only) ASTM A 88-2009
4) Concrete Pipe ASTM C 14-2011
ASTM C 76-2013
B1 5) Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe, SDR-26
Joints – Elastomeric seal only AASTM D 3034-2008
10” Minimum horizontal separation from
water service
6) Vitrified Clay Pipe Pressurized by a Pump or
Ejector is Prohibited ASTM C 4-2009
ASTM C 700-2013
7) Cast Iron Soil Pipe /Fittings ASTM A 74-2009
Hubless Soil Pipe CISPI 301-2009
B2 8) Ductile Iron 3” Minimum ASTM A 377-1984
9) Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe, SDR-26
Joints – Elastomeric seal only ASTM D2855-2010
18” minimum vertical separation from water service
3. Approved Building Pipe Material Drain, Waste and Vent System Below Ground or
Basement Inside a Building (Building Drain*)
1) Brass Pipe ASTM B 43-2009
2) Cast Iron Pipe ASTM A 74-2009
ASTM A 888-2011
ASTM C 564-2012
CISPIS 301-2009
3) Copper / Copper Alloy Pipe ASTM B 42-2010
ASTM B 302-2012
4) High Silicon Content Cast Iron Piper ASTM A 377-2008e1
For Corrosive Waste or Corrosive Soil Material
5) Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe, Schedule 40, solid core ASTM D 2665-2012
Solvent Cement ASTM D 2564-2012
Primer (purple) ASTM F 2010
ASTM B 306-2009
6) Galvanized Steel Pipe3 ASTM A 53-2012
7) Glass Fiber Borocilicate Pipe3 ASTM C 1053-2010
8) High Silicon Content Cast Iron Pipe3 ASTM A 377-2008e
9) Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Clear Pipe3 ASTM D 1784-1990
10) Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe and Fittings ASTM D 2665-2012
ASTM D 2949-2010
11) Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe with Cellular
Core4 ASTM F 891-2010
Joints ASTM D 2855-2010
Primer ASTM F 656-2010
Solvent Cement1 ASTM D 2564-2012
12) Polyvinylidene Fluoride3 ASTM D 3222-2010
13) Solder ASTM B 32-2008
Flux ASTM B 813-1993
Note: Solvent cement must be handled in accordance with ASTM F 402-1988
* Building drain shall be viewed as that portion of the sanitary sewer from 10' outside the structure through
the foundation and under the building sub-floor only when SDR-26 building sewer material is installed. All
other materials used for the building drain shall extend to 5'outside the structure. The purpose of this change
is to allow clay fill to be used to create a water barrier between the SDR-26 bedding rock and the foundation.
5. Approved Materials for Water Service Pipe
1) Brass Pipe ASTM B 43-2009
2) Cast Iron (ductile iron) Water Pipe ASTM A 377-2008e1
3) Copper / Copper Alloy Pipe (Type K only) ASTM B 42-2010
ASTM B 302-2012
4) Copper / Copper Alloy Tubing (Type K only) ASTM B 88-2009
890 APPENDIX A: TABLE B Amended as follows: Minimum Number of Plumbing Fixtures.
Delete Footnotes: 4; add new Footnotes 4.
Footnotes:
4. Whenever a drinking fountain is required by this code, bottled drinking water or a water dispensing faucet (water
station) may be substituted for a drinking fountain, provided drinking water is accessible to the public. When bottled
drinking water is provided in lieu of a drinking fountain, the bottled water used must be commercially sealed in
accordance with the Illinois Bottled Water Act [815 ILCS 310] or must comply with the Department's Public Area
Sanitary Practice Code (77 Ill. Adm. Code 895). All worship places and funeral homes shall provide one (1) drinking
fountain per 1000 people and conform to the requirements of 890.720 e) and f).
These materials are approved for the following usage. They reflect those materials from 2014 Illinois Plumbing Code,
Appendix A, Tables 1 -6 and those referenced in the City of DeKalb Municipal Code, Chapter 24. These materials shall
be used in these locations within the City of DeKalb proper.
ARTICLE 10
INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE
CHAPTER 1
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
PART 1 — SCOPE AND APPLICATION
SECTION 101
GENERAL
101.1 Amended as follows: Title. These regulations shall be known as the Property Maintenance Code of the City
of DeKalb, Illinois hereinafter referred to as “this Code.”
[A] 101.2 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to all existing residential and nonresidential structures and all
existing premises and constitute minimum requirements and standards for premises, structures, equipment and facilities
for light, ventilation, space, heating, sanitation, protection from the elements, a reasonable level of safety from fire and
other hazards, and for a reasonable level of sanitary maintenance; the responsibility of owners, an owner’s authorized
agent, operators and occupants; the occupancy of existing structures and premises, and for administration, enforcement
and penalties.
[A] 101.3 Intent. This code shall be construed to secure its expressed intent, which is to ensure public health, safety
and welfare insofar as they are affected by the continued occupancy and maintenance of structures and premises.
Existing structures and premises that do not comply with these provisions shall be altered or repaired to provide a
minimum level of health and safety as required herein.
[A] 101.4 Severability. If a section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this code is, for any reason, held to be
unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this code.
SECTION 102
APPLICABILITY
[A] 102.1 General. Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the specific
requirement shall govern. Where differences occur between provisions of this code and the referenced standards, the
pro- visions of this code shall apply. Where, in a specific case, different sections of this code specify different
requirements, the most restrictive shall govern.
[A] 102.2 Maintenance. Equipment, systems, devices and safeguards required by this code or a previous regulation or
code under which the structure or premises was constructed, altered or repaired shall be maintained in good working
order. No owner, owner’s authorized agent, operator or occupant shall cause any service, facility, equipment or utility
that is required under this section to be removed from, shut off from or discontinued for any occupied dwelling, except
for such temporary interruption as necessary while repairs or alterations are in progress. The requirements of this code
are not intended to provide the basis for removal or abrogation of fire protection and safety systems and devices in
existing structures. Except as otherwise specified herein, the owner or the owner’s authorized agent shall be responsible
for the maintenance of buildings, structures and premises.
[A] 102.3 Application of other codes. Repairs, additions or alterations to a structure, or changes of occupancy, shall
be done in accordance with the procedures and provisions of the International Building Code, International Existing
Building Code, International Energy Conservation Code, International Fire Code, International Fuel Gas Code,
International Mechanical Code, International Residential Code, International Plumbing Code and NFPA 70. Nothing
in this code shall be construed to cancel, modify or set aside any provision of the International Zoning Code.
[A] 102.4 Existing remedies. The provisions in this code shall not be construed to abolish or impair existing remedies
of the jurisdiction or its officers or agencies relating to the removal or demolition of any structure that is dangerous,
unsafe and insanitary.
[A] 102.5 Workmanship. Repairs, maintenance work, alterations or installations that are caused directly or indirectly
by the enforcement of this code shall be executed and installed in a workmanlike manner and installed in accordance
with the manufacturer’s instructions.
[A] 102.6 Historic buildings. The provisions of this code shall not be mandatory for existing buildings or structures
designated as historic buildings where such buildings or structures are judged by the code official to be safe and in the
public interest of health, safety and welfare.
[A] 102.7 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be those that are
listed in Chapter 8 and considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference
and as further regulated in Sections 102.7.1 and 102.7.2.
Exception: Where enforcement of a code provision would violate the conditions of the listing of the equipment or
appliance, the conditions of the listing shall apply.
[A] 102.7.1 Conflicts. Where conflicts occur between pro- visions of this code and the referenced standards, the
provisions of this code shall apply.
[A] 102.7.2 Provisions in referenced codes and standards. Where the extent of the reference to a referenced code or
standard includes subject matter that is within the scope of this code, the provisions of this code, as applicable, shall
take precedence over the provisions in the referenced code or standard.
[A] 102.8 Requirements not covered by code. Requirements necessary for the strength, stability or proper operation
of an existing fixture, structure or equipment, or for the public safety, health and general welfare, not specifically
covered by this code, shall be determined by the code official.
[A] 102.9 Application of references. References to chapter or section numbers, or to provisions not specifically
identified by number, shall be construed to refer to such chapter, section or provision of this code.
[A] 102.10 Other laws. The provisions of this code shall not be deemed to nullify any provisions of local, state or
federal law.
PART 2 — ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT
SECTION 103
DEPARTMENT OF PROPERTY MAINTENANCE INSPECTION
103.1 Amended as follows: General. The division of code enforcement/property maintenance inspection is hereby
created and the executive official in charge thereof shall be known as Chief Building Official or his/ her designee.
103.2 Delete in its entirety. Appointment.
103.3 Delete in its entirety. Deputies.
[A] 103.4 Liability. The code official, member of the board of appeals or employee charged with the enforcement of
this code, while acting for the jurisdiction, in good faith and with- out malice in the discharge of the duties required by
this code or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered civilly or criminally liable personally, and is
hereby relieved from all personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of an act or by
reason of an act or omission in the discharge of official duties.
103.4.1 Amended as follows: Legal Defense. Any suit instituted against any officer or employee because of an act
performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties and under the provisions of this Code shall be
defended and indemnified in accordance with Section 3.26 of the City of DeKalb Municipal Code. The code official
or any subordinate shall not be liable for costs in an action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the
provisions of this code.
103.5 Amended as follows: Property Maintenance Reinspection Fees - It is hereby made the duty of the Code
Official to serve a notice in writing upon the owner, agent, occupant, or person, firm or corporation, in possession,
charge or control of any lot, building or premises in or upon which any violation of the International Property
Maintenance Code/2006, may be found, requiring them to install repair, replace or remove the same within a time
specified in such a manner as prescribed therein. It shall not be necessary in any case to specify in what manner the
violation shall be resolved. If the person so notified shall refuse or neglect to comply with such order within the time
and manner specified, the Code Official shall send a bill for any and all additional reinspections required to obtain
compliance in accordance with the following fee schedule:
Property Maintenance Reinspection Fee Schedule
Fee
Initial Inspection $ 0.00
2nd Reinspection $ 50.00
3rd Reinspection $ 100.00
Any additional reinspection $ 250.00\ each
Any violation observed or recorded which is not a part of the original written notice, shall be in and of itself separate
from said notice, and shall constitute a new violation. (92-60) (94-45)
SECTION 104
DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE CODE OFFICIAL
[A] 104.1 General. The code official is hereby authorized and directed to enforce the provisions of this code. The code
official shall have the authority to render interpretations of this code and to adopt policies and procedures in order to
clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies and procedures shall be in compliance with the
intent and purpose of this code. Such policies and procedures shall not have the effect of waiving requirements
specifically provided for in this code.
104.2 Amended as follows: Inspections.
a) Inspections Generally: The Code Official shall make all of the required inspections, or shall accept
reports of inspection by approved agencies or individuals. All reports of such inspections shall be in writing and be
certified by a responsible officer of such approved agency or by the responsible individual. The Code Official is
authorized to engage such expert opinion as deemed necessary to report upon unusual technical issues that arise, subject
to the approval of the appointing authority. Inspections pursuant to this Code shall be conducted based upon complaint,
by invitation of a tenant or property owner, or based upon the observation of a City employee from public property,
private property open generally to the public or while invited on private property, unless the Code specifically provides
otherwise.
b) Interior Inspections: Inspections of interior areas of private property shall be authorized where:
1. Required by applicable City Code (e.g. in connection with building renovation or construction);
2. Initiated by complaint received from an occupant or user of a private structure;
3. Authorized in dealing with a Chronic Disorderly House as contemplated by Chapter 52 of the City Code;
4. Authorized by the owner or manager of a given structure;
5. Authorized by Court Order or warrant;
6. City personnel are invited into a building or structure voluntarily and observe code violations or other violations
of City ordinance or applicable law; or,
7. Otherwise authorized by law.
c) Inspection Protocol: It shall be the policy of the City to conduct “sidewalk inspections”, or inspections of the exterior
and visible exterior common areas of all residential properties within the City, including rental and owner-occupied
properties, for the purpose of discovering and correcting dangerous or unsafe conditions and other property code or
property maintenance issues. Such inspections shall be conducted on a regular basis, so that properties are inspected on
a three-year cycle, based upon available City staffing and resources. Properties may be subject to reinspection on a more
or less frequent basis based upon any observed violations, complaints received by the City relative to any property,
conditions observed during the provision of normal City services, based upon conditions otherwise observed by or
brought to the attention of City staff, and based upon the allocation of available City resources and staffing.
A] 104.3 Right of entry. Where it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or whenever
the code official has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in a structure or upon a premises a condition in violation
of this code, the code official is authorized to enter the structure or premises at reasonable times to inspect or per- form
the duties imposed by this code, provided that if such structure or premises is occupied the code official shall present
credentials to the occupant and request entry. If such structure or premises is unoccupied, the code official shall first
make a reasonable effort to locate the owner, owner’s authorized agent or other person having charge or control of the
structure or premises and request entry. If entry is refused, the code official shall have recourse to the remedies provided
by law to secure entry.
[A] 104.4 Identification. The code official shall carry proper identification when inspecting structures or premises in
the performance of duties under this code.
[A] 104.5 Notices and orders. The code official shall issue all necessary notices or orders to ensure compliance with
this code.
104.6 Amended as follows: Department records. The Code Official shall keep official records of all business and
activities of the division specified in the provisions of this Code. Such records shall be retained in the official records
as long as the building or structure to which such records relate remains in existence, unless otherwise provided for by
other regulations.
SECTION 105
APPROVAL
[A] 105.1 Modifications. Whenever there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of this code,
the code official shall have the authority to grant modifications for individual cases upon application of the owner or
owner’s authorized agent, provided the code official shall first find that special individual reason makes the strict letter
of this code impractical, the modification is in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code and that such
modification does not lessen health, life and fire safety requirements. The details of action granting modifications shall
be recorded and entered in the department files.
[A] 105.2 Alternative materials, methods and equipment. The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent
the installation of any material or to prohibit any method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code,
provide that any such alternative has been approved. An alternative material or method of construction shall be
approved where the code official finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the
provisions of this code, and that the material, method or work offered is, for the purpose intended, at least the
equivalent of that prescribed in this code in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and safety.
Where the alternative material, design or method of construction is not approved, the code official shall respond in
writing, stating the reasons the alternative was not approved.
[A] 105.3 Required testing. Whenever there is insufficient evidence of compliance with the provisions of this code or
evidence that a material or method does not conform to the requirements of this code, or in order to substantiate claims
for alternative materials or methods, the code official shall have the authority to require tests to be made as evidence of
compliance at no expense to the jurisdiction.
[A] 105.3.1 Test methods. Test methods shall be as specified in this code or by other recognized test standards. In the
absence of recognized and accepted test methods, the code official shall be permitted to approve appropriate testing
procedures performed by an approved agency.
[A] 105.3.2 Test reports. Reports of tests shall be retained by the code official for the period required for retention of
public records.
[A] 105.4 Used material and equipment. The use of used materials that meet the requirements of this code for new
materials is permitted. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good repair or
have been reconditioned and tested where necessary, placed in good and proper working condition and approved by the
code official.
[A] 105.5 Approved materials and equipment. Materials, equipment and devices approved by the code official shall
be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.
[A] 105.6 Research reports. Supporting data, where necessary to assist in the approval of materials or assemblies not
specifically provided for in this code, shall consist of valid research reports from approved sources.
SECTION 106
VIOLATIONS
[A] 106.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for a person, firm or corporation to be in conflict with or in violation of
any of the provisions of this code.
[A] 106.2 Notice of violation. The code official shall serve a notice of violation or order in accordance with Section
107.
[A] 106.3 Prosecution of violation. Any person failing to comply with a notice of violation or order served in
accordance with Section 107 shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor or civil infraction as determined by the local
municipality, and the violation shall be deemed a strict liability offense. If the notice of violation is not complied with,
the code official shall institute the appropriate proceeding at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation,
or to require the removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the structure in violation of the provisions of this
code or of the order or direction made pursuant thereto. Any action taken by the authority having jurisdiction on such
premises shall be charged against the real estate upon which the structure is located and shall be a lien upon such real
estate.
106.4 Amended as follows: Violation penalties. Any person, who shall violate a provision of this Code, or fail to
comply therewith, or with any of the requirements thereof, shall be subject to a fine of not less than Fifty Dollars
($50.00) nor more than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00), unless otherwise specified in this Code or the City of DeKalb
Municipal Code. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate
offense.
106.5 Amended as follows: Abatement of violation. The imposition of the penalties herein prescribed shall not
preclude the City Attorney or designee from instituting appropriate action to restrain, correct or abate a violation, or to
prevent illegal occupancy of a building, structure or premises, or to stop an illegal act, conduct, business or utilization
of the building, structure or premises.
Add: 106.6 Additional Enforcement. The City may seek enforcement of any of the provisions of this Code by
referral of the violator to an Administrative Hearing procedure, as set forth in Chapter 17 of the Municipal Code. The
City may also bring suit for injunctive relief in the Circuit Court against any person violating any provision of this
Code, and by such suit may seek a Court Order enjoining violation of, and/or requiring compliance with, any
provision herein. Nothing in this Chapter shall be construed as limiting the City from any of the remedies available to
it to enforce the provisions of this Chapter.
SECTION 107
NOTICES AND ORDERS
[A] 107.1 Notice to person responsible. Whenever the code official determines that there has been a violation of this
code or has grounds to believe that a violation has occurred, notice shall be given in the manner prescribed in Sections
107.2 and 107.3 to the person responsible for the violation as specified in this code. Notices for condemnation
procedures shall also comply with Section 108.3.
[A] 107.2 Form. Such notice prescribed in Section 107.1 shall be in accordance with all of the following:
1. Be in writing.
2. Include a description of the real estate sufficient for identification.
3. Include a statement of the violation or violations and why the notice is being issued.
4. Include a correction order allowing a reasonable time to make the repairs and improvements required to bring
the dwelling unit or structure into compliance with the provisions of this code.
5. Inform the property owner or owner’s authorized agent of the right to appeal.
6. Include a statement of the right to file a lien in accordance with Section 106.3.
Add: 107.2.1 Warning Ticket. This type of notice shall advise the alleged violator that the same has violated a
specified provision of the Municipal Code, and shall prescribe an appropriate time period to remedy the violation. In
addition, the Warning Ticket shall advise the alleged violator that the failure to remedy the specified violation within
the prescribed time period will result in the issuance of a Failure-To-Comply Ticket.
Add: 107.2.2 Failure-To-Comply Ticket. This type of notice shall advise the alleged violator to make payment in
the amount specified on the ticket for the applicable offense. The Failure-To-Comply Ticket shall also, where
applicable, advise the alleged violator to abate the specified violation within seven (7) days or the City will cause the
observed violation to be abated. The cost of such summary abatement shall be a lien on the real property where the
violation was abated or removed.
Any person served with a Failure-To-Comply Ticket may settle and compromise the violation claim by ceasing and/or
abating said violation and paying to the City of DeKalb the applicable amount as shown within seven (7) days.
[A] 107.3 Method of service. Such notice shall be deemed to be properly served if a copy thereof is:
1. Delivered personally;
2. Sent by certified or first-class mail addressed to the last known address; or
3. If the notice is returned showing that the letter was not delivered, a copy thereof shall be posted in a conspicuous
place in or about the structure affected by such notice.
[A] 107.4 Unauthorized tampering. Signs, tags or seals posted or affixed by the code official shall not be mutilated,
destroyed or tampered with, or removed without authorization from the code official.
[A] 107.5 Penalties. Penalties for noncompliance with orders and notices shall be as set forth in Section 106.4.
107.6 Amended as follows: Transfer of ownership. It shall be unlawful for the owner of any property, dwelling
unit or structure who has received a compliance order or upon whom a notice of violation has been served to sell,
transfer, mortgage, lease or otherwise dispose of such dwelling unit or structure to another until the provisions of the
compliance order or notice of violation have been complied with, or until such owner shall first furnish the grantee,
transferee, mortgagee or lessee a true copy of any compliance order or notice of violation issued by the Code Official
and shall furnish to the Code Official a signed and notarized statement from the grantee, transferee, mortgagee or lessee,
acknowledging the receipt of such compliance order or notice of violation and fully accepting the responsibility without
condition for making the corrections or repairs required by such compliance order or notice of violation.
SECTION 108
UNSAFE STRUCTURES AND EQUIPMENT
[A] 108.1 General. When a structure or equipment is found by the code official to be unsafe, or when a structure is
found unfit for human occupancy, or is found unlawful, such structure shall be condemned pursuant to the provisions
of this code.
[A] 108.1.1 Unsafe structures. An unsafe structure is one that is found to be dangerous to the life, health, property or
safety of the public or the occupants of the structure by not providing minimum safeguards to protect or warn occupants
in the event of fire, or because such structure contains unsafe equipment or is so damaged, decayed, dilapidated,
structurally unsafe or of such faulty construction or unstable foundation, that partial or complete collapse is possible.
[A] 108.1.2 Unsafe equipment. Unsafe equipment includes any boiler, heating equipment, elevator, moving stairway,
electrical wiring or device, flammable liquid containers or other equipment on the premises or within the structure which
is in such disrepair or condition that such equipment is a hazard to life, health, property or safety of the public or
occupants of the premises or structure.
[A] 108.1.3 Structure unfit for human occupancy. A structure is unfit for human occupancy whenever the code official
finds that such structure is unsafe, unlawful or, because of the degree to which the structure is in disrepair or lacks
maintenance, is insanitary, vermin or rat infested, contains filth and contamination, or lacks ventilation,
illumination, sanitary or heating facilities or other essential equipment required by this code, or because the location of
the structure constitutes a hazard to the occupants of the structure or to the public.
[A] 108.1.4 Unlawful structure. An unlawful structure is one found in whole or in part to be occupied by more per-
sons than permitted under this code, or was erected, altered or occupied contrary to law.
[A] 108.1.5 Dangerous structure or premises. For the purpose of this code, any structure or premises that has any or
all of the conditions or defects described below shall be considered dangerous:
1. Any door, aisle, passageway, stairway, exit or other means of egress that does not conform to the approved
building or fire code of the jurisdiction as related to the requirements for existing buildings.
2. The walking surface of any aisle, passageway, stairway, exit or other means of egress is so warped, worn loose,
torn or otherwise unsafe as to not provide safe and adequate means of egress.
3. Any portion of a building, structure or appurtenance that has been damaged by fire, earthquake, wind, flood,
deterioration, neglect, abandonment, vandalism or by any other cause to such an extent that it is likely to
partially or completely collapse, or to become detached or dislodged.
4. Any portion of a building, or any member, appurtenance or ornamentation on the exterior thereof that is not of
sufficient strength or stability, or is not so anchored, attached or fastened in place so as to be capable of resisting
natural or artificial loads of one and one-half the original designed value.
5. The building or structure, or part of the building or structure, because of dilapidation, deterioration, decay, faulty
construction, the removal or movement of some portion of the ground necessary for the support, or for any other
reason, is likely to partially or completely collapse, or some portion of the foundation or underpinning of the
building or structure is likely to fail or give way.
6. The building or structure, or any portion thereof, is clearly unsafe for its use and occupancy.
7. The building or structure is neglected, damaged, dilapidated, unsecured or abandoned so as to become an
attractive nuisance to children who might play in the building or structure to their danger, becomes a harbor for
vagrants, criminals or immoral persons, or enables persons to resort to the building or structure for committing
a nuisance or an unlawful act.
8. Any building or structure has been constructed, exists or is maintained in violation of any specific requirement
or prohibition applicable to such building or structure provided by the approved building or fire code of the
jurisdiction, or of any law or ordinance to such an extent as to present either a substantial risk of fire, building
collapse or any other threat to life and safety.
9. A building or structure, used or intended to be used for dwelling purposes, because of inadequate maintenance,
dilapidation, decay, damage, faulty construction or arrangement, inadequate light, ventilation, mechanical or
plumbing system, or otherwise, is determined by the code official to be unsanitary, unfit for human habitation
or in such a condition that is likely to cause sickness or disease.
10. Any building or structure, because of a lack of sufficient or proper fire-resistance-rated construction, fire
protection systems, electrical system, fuel connections, mechanical system, plumbing system or other cause, is
determined by the code official to be a threat to life or health.
11. Any portion of a building remains on a site after the demolition or destruction of the building or structure or
whenever any building or structure is abandoned so as to constitute such building or portion thereof as an
attractive nuisance or hazard to the public.
[A] 108.2 Closing of vacant structures. If the structure is vacant and unfit for human habitation and occupancy, and is
not in danger of structural collapse, the code official is authorized to post a placard of condemnation on the premises
and order the structure closed up so as not to be an attractive nuisance. Upon failure of the owner or owner’s authorized
agent to close up the premises within the time specified in the order, the code official shall cause the premises to be
closed and secured through any available public agency or by contract or arrangement by private persons and the cost
thereof shall be charged against the real estate upon which the structure is located and shall be a lien upon such real
estate and shall be collected by any other legal resource.
[A] 108.2.1 Authority to disconnect service utilities. The code official shall have the authority to authorize dis-
connection of utility service to the building, structure or system regulated by this code and the referenced codes and
standards set forth in Section 102.7 in case of emergency where necessary to eliminate an immediate hazard to life or
property or where such utility connection has been made without approval. The code official shall notify the serving
utility and, whenever possible, the owner or owner’s authorized agent and occupant of the building, structure or service
system of the decision to disconnect prior to taking such action. If not notified prior to disconnection the owner, owner’s
authorized agent or occupant of the building structure or service system shall be notified in writing as soon as practical
thereafter.
[A] 108.3 Notice. Whenever the code official has condemned a structure or equipment under the provisions of this
section, notice shall be posted in a conspicuous place in or about the structure affected by such notice and served on the
owner, owner’s authorized agent or the person or persons responsible for the structure or equipment in accordance
with Section 107.3. If the notice pertains to equipment, it shall be placed on the condemned equipment. The notice shall
be in the form prescribed in Section 107.2.
[A] 108.4 Placarding. Upon failure of the owner, owner’s authorized agent or person responsible to comply with the
notice provisions within the time given, the code official shall post on the premises or on defective equipment a placard
bearing the word “Condemned” and a statement of the penal- ties provided for occupying the premises, operating the
equipment or removing the placard.
[A] 108.4.1 Placard removal. The code official shall remove the condemnation placard whenever the defect or defects
upon which the condemnation and placarding action were based have been eliminated. Any person who defaces or
removes a condemnation placard without the approval of the code official shall be subject to the penal- ties provided by
this code.
[A] 108.5 Prohibited occupancy. Any occupied structure condemned and placarded by the code official shall be vacated
as ordered by the code official. Any person who shall occupy a placarded premises or shall operate placarded equipment,
and any owner, owner’s authorized agent or person responsible for the premises who shall let anyone occupy a placarded
premises or operate placarded equipment shall be liable for the penalties provided by this code.
[A] 108.6 Abatement methods. The owner, owner’s authorized agent, operator or occupant of a building, premises or
equipment deemed unsafe by the code official shall abate or cause to be abated or corrected such unsafe conditions
either by repair, rehabilitation, demolition or other approved corrective action.
[A] 108.7 Record. The code official shall cause a report to be filed on an unsafe condition. The report shall state the
occupancy of the structure and the nature of the unsafe condition.
SECTION 109
EMERGENCY MEASURES
[A] 109.1 Imminent danger. When, in the opinion of the code official, there is imminent danger of failure or collapse
of a building or structure that endangers life, or when any structure or part of a structure has fallen and life is endangered
by the occupation of the structure, or when there is actual or potential danger to the building occupants or those in the
proximity of any structure because of explosives, explosive fumes or vapors or the presence of toxic fumes, gases or
materials, or operation of defective or dangerous equipment, the code official is hereby authorized and empowered to
order and require the occupants to vacate the premises forthwith. The code official shall cause to be posted at each
entrance to such structure a notice reading as follows: “This Structure Is Unsafe and Its Occupancy Has Been Prohibited
by the Code Official.” It shall be unlawful for any person to enter such structure except for the purpose of securing the
structure, making the required repairs, removing the hazardous condition or of demolishing the same.
[A] 109.2 Temporary safeguards. Notwithstanding other provisions of this code, whenever, in the opinion of the code
official, there is imminent danger due to an unsafe condition, the code official shall order the necessary work to be done,
including the boarding up of openings, to render such structure temporarily safe whether or not the legal procedure
herein described has been instituted; and shall cause such other action to be taken as the code official deems necessary
to meet such emergency.
[A] 109.3 Closing streets. When necessary for public safety, the code official shall temporarily close structures and
close, or order the authority having jurisdiction to close, sidewalks, streets, public ways and places adjacent to unsafe
structures, and prohibit the same from being utilized.
[A] 109.4 Emergency repairs. For the purposes of this section, the code official shall employ the necessary labor and
materials to perform the required work as expeditiously as possible.
[A] 109.5 Costs of emergency repairs. Costs incurred in the performance of emergency work shall be paid by the
jurisdiction. The legal counsel of the jurisdiction shall institute appropriate action against the owner of the premises or
owner’s authorized agent where the unsafe structure is or was located for the recovery of such costs.
[A] 109.6 Hearing. Any person ordered to take emergency measures shall comply with such order forthwith. Any
affected person shall thereafter, upon petition directed to the appeals board, be afforded a hearing as described in this
code.
SECTION 110
DEMOLITION
[A] 110.1 General. The code official shall order the owner or owner’s authorized agent of any premises upon which is
located any structure, which in the code official’s or owner’s authorized agent judgment after review is so deteriorated
or dilapidated or has become so out of repair as to be dangerous, unsafe, insanitary or otherwise unfit for human
habitation or occupancy, and such that it is unreasonable to repair the structure, to demolish and remove such structure;
or if such structure is capable of being made safe by repairs, to repair and make safe and sanitary, or to board up and
hold for future repair or to demolish and remove at the owner’s option; or where there has been a cessation of normal
construction of any structure for a period of more than two years, the code official shall order the owner or owner’s
authorized agent to demolish and remove such structure, or board up until future repair. Boarding the building up for
future repair shall not extend beyond one year, unless approved by the building official.
[A] 110.2 Notices and orders. Notices and orders shall com- ply with Section 107.
[A] 110.3 Failure to comply. If the owner of a premises or owner’s authorized agent fails to comply with a demolition
order within the time prescribed, the code official shall cause the structure to be demolished and removed, either through
an available public agency or by contract or arrangement with private persons, and the cost of such demolition and
removal shall be charged against the real estate upon which the structure is located and shall be a lien upon such real
estate.
[A] 110.4 Salvage materials. When any structure has been ordered demolished and removed, the governing body or
other designated officer under said contract or arrangement aforesaid shall have the right to sell the salvage and valuable
materials. The net proceeds of such sale, after deducting the expenses of such demolition and removal, shall be promptly
remitted with a report of such sale or transaction, including the items of expense and the amounts deducted, for the
person who is entitled thereto, subject to any order of a court. If such a surplus does not remain to be turned over, the
report shall so state.
SECTION 111
MEANS OF APPEAL
111.1 delete as follows: Application for appeal. In accordance with Chapter 17 of the City of DeKalb Municipal
Code, upon receipt of a Failure-To-Comply Ticket, the alleged violator may petition for an Administrative Hearing by
signing and returning the ticket to the City of DeKalb within seven (7) days of the specified violation date. A Notice
of Hearing will be mailed to the alleged violator specifying the time and place of the Administrative Hearing.
111.1 Add: New Section Enforcement of Code Violations:The Building Code Board of Appeals shall not have
any jurisdiction over the application or enforcement of the Property Maintenance Code. Claims relating to violations
of such codes may be processed through the Circuit Court as Ordinance Violations or other available Circuit Court
remedies, through the Administrative Hearing Process contemplated by Chapter 17 of the City Code of Ordinances,
through the City's Mail-In Ordinance procedure, or through other legally permissible processes, as determined by City
staff.
111.2 Delete in its entirety. Membership of board.
111.2.1 Delete in its entirety. Alternate Members.
111.2.2 Delete in its entirety. Chairman.
111.2.3 Delete in its entirety. Disqualification of member.
111.2.4 Delete in its entirety. Secretary.
111.2.5 Delete in its entirety. Compensation of Members.
111.3 Delete in its entirety. Notice of Meeting.
111.4 Delete in its entirety. Open Hearings.
111.4 .1 Delete in its entirety. Procedure.
111.5 Delete in its entirety. Postponed Hearings.
111.6 Delete in its entirety. Board Decisions.
111.6.1 Delete in its entirety. Records and Copies.
111.6 .2 Delete in its entirety. Administration.
111.7 Delete in its entirety. Compensation of Members.
111.8 Delete in its entirety. Compensation of Members.
SECTION 112
STOP WORK ORDER
[A] 112.1 Authority. Whenever the code official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner
contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the code official is authorized to issue a stop
work order.
[A] 112.2 Issuance. A stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, to the owner’s
authorized agent, or to the person doing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately
cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized
to resume.
[A] 112.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the code official shall not be required to give a written notice
prior to stopping the work.
[A] 112.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order,
except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be liable to a
fine of not less than [AMOUNT] dollars or more than [AMOUNT] dollars.
CHAPTER 2
DEFINITIONS
SECTION 201 GENERAL
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the
meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words stated in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender
include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the International
Building Code, International Existing Building Code, Inter- national Fire Code, International Fuel Gas Code,
International Mechanical Code, International Plumbing Code, International Residential Code, International Zoning
Code or NFPA 70, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as stated in those codes.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such terms
shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
201.5 Parts. Whenever the words “dwelling unit,” “dwelling,” “premises,” “building,” “rooming house,” “rooming
unit,” “housekeeping unit” or “story” are stated in this code, they shall be construed as though they were followed by
the words “or any part thereof.”
SECTION 202
GENERAL DEFINITIONS
202 Add as follows: General Definitions.
ANCHORED. Secured in a manner that provides positive connection.
[A] APPROVED. Acceptable to the code official.
BASEMENT. That portion of a building which is partly or completely below grade.
BATHROOM. A room containing plumbing fixtures including a bathtub or shower.
BEDROOM. Any room or space used or intended to be used for sleeping purposes in either a dwelling or sleeping unit.
ADD: BOARDING HOUSE. See Rooming House.
Amend as follows: CODE OFFICIAL. The Chief Building Official, or his designee, that is charged with the
administration and enforcement of this Code, or any duly authorized representative.
CONDEMN. To adjudge unfit for occupancy.
COST OF SUCH DEMOLITION OR EMERGENCY REPAIRS. The costs shall include the actual costs of the
demolition or repair of the structure less revenues obtained if salvage was conducted prior to demolition or repair. Costs
shall include, but not be limited to, expenses incurred or necessitated related to demolition or emergency repairs, such
as asbestos survey and abatement if necessary; costs of inspectors, testing agencies or experts retained relative to the
demolition or emergency repairs; costs of testing; surveys for other materials that are controlled or regulated from being
dumped in a landfill; title searches; mailing(s); postings; recording; and attorney fees expended for recovering of the
cost of emergency repairs or to obtain or enforce an order of demolition made by a code official, the governing body or
board of appeals.
DETACHED. When a structural element is physically dis- connected from another and that connection is necessary to
provide a positive connection.
DETERIORATION. To weaken, disintegrate, corrode, rust or decay and lose effectiveness.
ADD: DORMITORY. A boarding or lodging house where sleeping accommodations with or without dining
facilities are designed or provided for more than 20 individuals, exclusive of the resident family and having common
toilet and bathroom facilities.
[BG] DWELLING UNIT. A single unit providing complete, independent living facilities for one or more persons,
including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation.
[Z] EASEMENT. That portion of land or property reserved for present or future use by a person or agency other than
the legal fee owner(s) of the property. The easement shall be per- mitted to be for use under, on or above a said lot or
lots.
EQUIPMENT SUPPORT. Those structural members or assemblies of members or manufactured elements, including
braces, frames, lugs, snuggers, hangers or saddles, that transmit gravity load, lateral load and operating load between
the equipment and the structure.
EXTERIOR PROPERTY. The open space on the premises and on adjoining property under the control of owners or
operators of such premises.
ADD: EXTERMINATION. The control and elimination of insects, rats or other pests by eliminating their harborage
places; by removing or making inaccessible materials that serve as their food; by poison
GARBAGE. The animal or vegetable waste resulting from the handling, preparation, cooking and consumption of food.
[BE] GUARD. A building component or a system of building components located at or near the open sides of elevated
walking surfaces that minimizes the possibility of a fall from the walking surface to a lower level.
[BG] HABITABLE SPACE. Space in a structure for living, sleeping, eating or cooking. Bathrooms, toilet rooms,
closets, halls, storage or utility spaces, and similar areas are not considered habitable spaces.
HISTORIC BUILDING. Any building or structure that is one or more of the following:
1. Listed or certified as eligible for listing, by the State Historic Preservation Officer or the Keeper of the National
Register of Historic Places, in the National Register of Historic Places.
2. Designated as historic under an applicable state or local law.
3. Certified as a contributing resource within a National Register or state or locally designated historic district.
HOUSEKEEPING UNIT. A room or group of rooms forming a single habitable space equipped and intended to be
used for living, sleeping, cooking and eating which does not contain, within such a unit, a toilet, lavatory and bathtub
or shower.
IMMINENT DANGER. A condition which could cause serious or life-threatening injury or death at any time.
INFESTATION. The presence, within or contiguous to, a structure or premises of insects, rodents, vermin or other
pests.
INOPERABLE MOTOR VEHICLE. A vehicle which can- not be driven upon the public streets for reason including
but not limited to being unlicensed, wrecked, abandoned, in a state of disrepair, or incapable of being moved under its
own power.
[A] LABELED. Equipment, materials or products to which have been affixed a label, seal, symbol or other identifying
mark of a nationally recognized testing laboratory, inspection agency or other organization concerned with product
evaluation that maintains periodic inspection of the production of the above-labeled items and whose labeling indicates
either that the equipment, material or product meets identified standards or has been tested and found suitable for a
specified purpose.
LET FOR OCCUPANCY or LET. To permit, provide or offer possession or occupancy of a dwelling, dwelling unit,
rooming unit, building, premise or structure by a person who is or is not the legal owner of record thereof, pursuant to
a written or unwritten lease, agreement or license, or pursuant to a recorded or unrecorded agreement of contract for the
sale of land.
ADD: LODGING HOUSE. A dwelling unit in which sleeping accommodations and/or meals are provided for not
more than twenty (20) persons seeking shelter on a temporary basis for indefinite periods and open to the public and
transients. This definition includes only those uses operating under the authorization of a recognizable local, state or
federal agency.
NEGLECT. The lack of proper maintenance for a building or structure.
[A] OCCUPANCY. The purpose for which a building or portion thereof is utilized or occupied.
OCCUPANT. Any individual living or sleeping in a building, or having possession of a space within a building.
ADD: ONE-FAMILY DWELLING. A building containing one dwelling unit with not more than one (1) family or
an individual plus no more than two (2) lodgers or boarders or guests.
OPENABLE AREA. That part of a window, skylight or door which is available for unobstructed ventilation and which
opens directly to the outdoors.
OPERATOR. Any person who has charge, care or control of a structure or premises which is let or offered for
occupancy.
[A] OWNER. Any person, agent, operator, firm or corporation having legal or equitable interest in the property; or
recorded in the official records of the state, county or municipality as holding title to the property; or otherwise having
control of the property, including the guardian of the estate of any such person, and the executor or administrator of the
estate of such person if ordered to take possession of real property by a court.
PERSON. An individual, corporation, partnership or any other group acting as a unit.
PEST ELIMINATION. The control and elimination of insects, rodents or other pests by eliminating their harborage
places; by removing or making inaccessible materials that serve as their food or water; by other approved pest
elimination methods.
[A] PREMISES. A lot, plot or parcel of land, easement or public way, including any structures thereon.
[A] PUBLIC WAY. Any street, alley or similar parcel of land essentially unobstructed from the ground to the sky,
which is deeded, dedicated or otherwise permanently appropriated to the public for public use.
Amend as follows: ROOMING HOUSE. A building in which sleeping accommodations and/or meals are provided
for compensation (pursuant to previous arrangements for definite periods and not open to the public or transients) and
in accordance with Article 3 of the Unified Development Ordinance.
ROOMING UNIT. Any room or group of rooms forming a single habitable unit occupied or intended to be occupied
for sleeping or living, but not for cooking purposes.
RUBBISH. Combustible and noncombustible waste materials, except garbage; the term shall include the residue from
the burning of wood, coal, coke and other combustible materials, paper, rags, cartons, boxes, wood, excelsior, rubber,
leather, tree branches, yard trimmings, tin cans, metals, mineral matter, glass, crockery and dust and other similar
materials.
[BG] SLEEPING UNIT. A room or space in which people sleep, which can also include permanent provisions for
living, eating and either sanitation or kitchen facilities, but not both. Such rooms and spaces that are also part of a
dwelling unit are not sleeping units.
STRICT LIABILITY OFFENSE. An offense in which the prosecution in a legal proceeding is not required to prove
criminal intent as a part of its case. It is enough to prove that the defendant either did an act which was prohibited, or
failed to do an act which the defendant was legally required to do.
[A] STRUCTURE. That which is built or constructed or a portion thereof.
TENANT. A person, corporation, partnership or group, whether or not the legal owner of record, occupying a building
or portion thereof as a unit.
TOILET ROOM. A room containing a water closet or urinal but not a bathtub or shower.
ADD: TWO – FAMILY DWELLING. A building containing two (2) dwelling units with not more than one (1)
family or individual plus not more than two (2) lodgers or boarders or guests per unit.
ULTIMATE DEFORMATION. The deformation at which failure occurs and which shall be deemed to occur if the
sustainable load reduces to 80 percent or less of the maximum strength.
[M] VENTILATION. The natural or mechanical process of supplying conditioned or unconditioned air to, or removing
such air from, any space.
WORKMANLIKE. Executed in a skilled manner; e.g., generally plumb, level, square, in line, undamaged and without
marring adjacent work.
[Z] YARD. An open space on the same lot with a structure.
CHAPTER 3
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
SECTION 301
GENERAL
301.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the minimum conditions and the responsibilities of persons
for maintenance of structures, equipment and exterior property.
301.2 Responsibility. The owner of the premises shall maintain the structures and exterior property in compliance
with these requirements, except as otherwise provided for in this code. A person shall not occupy as owner-occupant or
permit another person to occupy premises that are not in a sanitary and safe condition and that do not comply with the
requirements of this chapter. Occupants of a dwelling unit, rooming unit or housekeeping unit are responsible for
keeping in a clean, sanitary and safe condition that part of the dwelling unit, rooming unit, housekeeping unit or premises
which they occupy and control.
301.3 Vacant structures and land. Vacant structures and premises thereof or vacant land shall be maintained in a
clean, safe, secure and sanitary condition as provided herein so as not to cause a blighting problem or adversely affect
the public health or safety.
SECTION 302
EXTERIOR PROPERTY AREAS
302.1 Sanitation. Exterior property and premises shall be maintained in a clean, safe and sanitary condition. The
occupant shall keep that part of the exterior property that such occupant occupies or controls in a clean and sanitary
condition.
Add: 302.1.1 Planting of grass. After demolition and/or alteration of any kind to the lot, the owner shall be required
to properly fill, grade and seed or sod the lot within thirty (30) days of demolition and/or alteration or the commencement
of seasonable weather or issuance of a new construction permit. Once seeded or sodded, new grass shall be maintained;
if need be it shall be reseeded or re-sodded until such time as the grass takes hold, grows and survives. After new grass
takes hold it must be maintained in accordance with Section 302.4 of this Code. (Example - parking in the yard that
causes ruts which alters the grade of the lot.)
302.2 Amended as follows: Grading and drainage. All premises shall be graded and maintained to prevent the
erosion of soil and to prevent the accumulation of stagnant water thereon, or within any structure located thereon.
Surface and subsurface water drainage shall be in accordance with Sections 6.26 and 6.26-5 of the City of DeKalb
Municipal Code.
302.3 Amended as follows: Sidewalks, driveways, parking lots and private streets. All sidewalks, walkways,
stairs, driveways, parking spaces, parking lots, private streets, and similar areas shall be kept in a proper state of repair,
and maintained free from hazardous conditions. Existing gravel driveways and parking lots must be maintained but not
expanded. Expansion of any gravel driveway or parking lot will require the entire driveway or parking lot be hard
surfaced in accordance with Section 12.03.1 of the Unified Development Ordinance.
Add: 302.3.1 Public Sidewalks. All public sidewalks shall be kept clear of ice and snow after an accumulation of two
(2) inches or more in accordance with Section 51.21-5 of the City of DeKalb Municipal Code.
Add: 302.3.2 Clearing parking lots and private streets. Any person owning or operating a parking lot or private
street shall keep it clear, as may be practical, of snow, ice, dirt, debris and properly surfaced to include the repair of
potholes in accordance with Section 12.05 of the City of DeKalb Unified Development Ordinance.
302.4 Amended as follows: Weeds. All premises and exterior property shall be maintained free from weeds or plant
growth in excess of eight (8) inches. All noxious weeds shall be prohibited. Weeds shall be defined as all grasses, annual
plants and vegetation, other than trees or shrubs provided; however, this term shall not include cultivated flowers and
gardens.
Upon failure of the owner or agent having charge of a property to cut and destroy weeds after service of a notice of
violation, they shall be subject to prosecution in accordance with Section 106.3. Upon failure to comply with the notice
of violation, any duly authorized employee of the jurisdiction or contractor hired by the jurisdiction shall be authorized
to enter upon the property in violation and cut and destroy the weeds growing thereon, and the costs of such removal
shall be paid by the owner or agent responsible for the property. If the owner or agent fails to pay the costs of such
removal, said costs shall be a lien on the property.
302.5 Amended as follows: Rodent harborage. All structures and exterior property shall be kept free from rodent
harborage and infestation. Where rodents are found, they shall be promptly exterminated by approved processes which
will not be injurious to human health. After extermination, proper precautions shall be taken to eliminate rodent
harborage and prevent re-infestation.
Upon failure of the owner or agent having charge of a property to exterminate rodents after service of a notice of
violation, they shall be subject to prosecution in accordance with Section 106.3. Upon failure to comply with the notice
of violation, any duly authorized employee of the jurisdiction or contractor hired by the jurisdiction shall be authorized
to enter upon the exterior of the property in violation and remove or exterminate any such rodents thereon, and the costs
of such removal or extermination shall be paid by the owner or agent responsible for the property. If the owner or agent
fails to pay the costs of such removal or extermination, said costs shall be a lien on the property.
302.6 Exhaust vents. Pipes, ducts, conductors, fans or blowers shall not discharge gases, steam, vapor, hot air,
grease, smoke, odors or other gaseous or particulate wastes directly upon abutting or adjacent public or private property
or that of another tenant.
302.7 Accessory structures. Accessory structures, including detached garages, fences and walls, shall be
maintained structurally sound and in good repair.
302.8 Amended as follows: Motor vehicles. Except as provided for in other regulations, no motor vehicle which is
inoperative, unlicensed, or without current registration shall be parked, kept or stored on any premises, and no vehicle
shall at any time be in a state of major disassembly, disrepair, or in the process of being stripped or dismantled. Painting
of vehicles is prohibited unless conducted inside an approved spray booth.
Exception: A vehicle of any type is permitted to undergo major overhaul, including body work, provided that such
work is performed inside a structure or similarly enclosed area designed and approved for such purposes in the proper
zoning district. This is not allowed in residential zoning districts.
Add: 302.8.1 Motor vehicle tarps. Fitted motor vehicle tarps designed to cover the specific vehicle, provided they
are in good condition, may be used to protect a vehicle but not to hide a code violation, and cannot remain in one location
on the exterior of the property for more than thirty (30) days as set forth in Article 12 of the Unified Development
Ordinance.
302.9 Amended as follows: Defacement of property. No person shall willfully or wantonly damage, mutilate or
deface any exterior surface of any structure or building on any private or public property by placing thereon any marking,
carving or graffiti. It shall be the responsibility of the owner to restore said surface to an approved state of maintenance
and repair in accordance with Section 52.75 of the City of DeKalb Municipal Code.
Add: 302.10 Dangerous trees. Maintenance and removal of trees, shrubs, and plantings shall be in accordance with
Section 6.20 of the City of DeKalb Municipal Code.
Add: 302.11 Unapproved surface parking. Parking in all zoning districts shall be in compliance with Chapter 23 of
the City of DeKalb Municipal Code.
Add: 302.12 Declared nuisances. All nuisance violations in Chapter 12 and any other violations that may be declared
a nuisance shall be abated per Sections 12.03, 12.04 and 12.05 of the City of DeKalb Municipal Code.
SECTION 303
SWIMMING POOLS, SPAS AND HOT TUBS
303.1 Swimming pools. Swimming pools shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition, and in good repair.
303.2 Enclosures. Private swimming pools, hot tubs and spas, containing water more than 24 inches (610 mm) in
depth shall be completely surrounded by a fence or barrier not less than 48 inches (1219 mm) in height above the
finished ground level measured on the side of the barrier away from the pool. Gates and doors in such barriers shall be
self- closing and self-latching. Where the self-latching device is not less than 54 inches (1372 mm) above the bottom
of the gate, the release mechanism shall be located on the pool side of the gate. Self-closing and self-latching gates shall
be maintained such that the gate will positively close and latch when released from an open position of 6 inches (152
mm) from the gatepost. No existing pool enclosure shall be removed, replaced or changed in a manner that reduces its
effectiveness as a safety barrier.
Exception: Spas or hot tubs with a safety cover that com- plies with ASTM F 1346 shall be exempt from the provisions
of this section.
SECTION 304
EXTERIOR STRUCTURE
304.1 General. The exterior of a structure shall be maintained in good repair, structurally sound and sanitary so
as not to pose a threat to the public health, safety or welfare.
304.1.1 Unsafe conditions. The following conditions shall be determined as unsafe and shall be repaired or
replaced to comply with the International Building Code or the International Existing Building Code as required for
existing buildings:
1. The nominal strength of any structural member is exceeded by nominal loads, the load effects or the
required strength;
2. The anchorage of the floor or roof to walls or columns, and of walls and columns to foundations is not
capable of resisting all nominal loads or load effects;
3. Structures or components thereof that have reached their limit state;
4. Siding and masonry joints including joints between the building envelope and the perimeter of
windows, doors and skylights are not maintained, weather resistant or water tight;
5. Structural members that have evidence of deterioration or that are not capable of safely supporting all
nominal loads and load effects;
6. Foundation systems that are not firmly supported by footings, are not plumb and free from open cracks
and breaks, are not properly anchored or are not capable of supporting all nominal loads and resisting
all load effects;
7. Exterior walls that are not anchored to supporting and supported elements or are not plumb and free of
holes, cracks or breaks and loose or rotting materials, are not properly anchored or are not capable of
supporting all nominal loads and resisting all load effects;
8. Roofing or roofing components that have defects that admit rain, roof surfaces with inadequate
drainage, or any portion of the roof framing that is not in good repair with signs of deterioration, fatigue
or without proper anchorage and incapable of supporting all nominal loads and resisting all load effects;
9. Flooring and flooring components with defects that affect serviceability or flooring components that
show signs of deterioration or fatigue, are not properly anchored or are incapable of supporting all
nominal loads and resisting all load effects;
10. Veneer, cornices, belt courses, corbels, trim, wall facings and similar decorative features not properly
anchored or that are anchored with connections not capable of supporting all nominal loads and resisting
all load effects;
11. Overhang extensions or projections including, but not limited to, trash chutes, canopies, marquees,
signs, awnings, fire escapes, standpipes and exhaust ducts not properly anchored or that are anchored
with connections not capable of supporting all nominal loads and resisting all load effects;
12. Exterior stairs, decks, porches, balconies and all similar appurtenances attached thereto, including
guards and handrails, are not structurally sound, not properly anchored or that are anchored with
connections not capable of supporting all nominal loads and resisting all load effects; or
13. Chimneys, cooling towers, smokestacks and similar appurtenances not structurally sound or not
properly anchored, or that are anchored with connections not capable of supporting all nominal loads
and resisting all load effects.
Exceptions:
1. Where substantiated otherwise by an approved method.
2. Demolition of unsafe conditions shall be per- mitted where approved by the code official.
304.2 Protective treatment. Exterior surfaces, including but not limited to, doors, door and window frames,
cornices, porches, trim, balconies, decks and fences, shall be maintained in good condition. Exterior wood surfaces,
other than decay-resistant woods, shall be protected from the elements and decay by painting or other protective covering
or treatment. Peeling, flaking and chipped paint shall be eliminated and surfaces repainted. Siding and masonry joints,
as well as those between the building envelope and the perimeter of windows, doors and skylights, shall be maintained
weather resistant and water tight. Metal surfaces subject to rust or cor- rosion shall be coated to inhibit such rust and
corrosion, and surfaces with rust or corrosion shall be stabilized and coated to inhibit future rust and corrosion. Oxidation
stains shall be removed from exterior surfaces. Surfaces designed for stabilization by oxidation are exempt from this
requirement.
304.3 Amended as follows: Premises identification. Buildings shall have approved address numbers placed in a
position to be plainly legible and visible from the street or road fronting the property. These numbers shall contrast
with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numerals or alphabet letters. Numbers shall be a minimum of
4 inches (102mm) high with a minimum stroke width of 0.5 inch (12.7 mm).
Further, all accessory structures, including, but not limited to, detached garages, sheds and fences, located on an alley
shall have approved contrasting address numbers plainly legible from the alley.
304.4 Structural members. Structural members shall be maintained free from deterioration, and shall be capable of
safely supporting the imposed dead and live loads.
304.5 Foundation walls. Foundation walls shall be maintained plumb and free from open cracks and breaks and shall
be kept in such condition so as to prevent the entry of rodents and other pests.
304.6 Exterior walls. Exterior walls shall be free from holes, breaks, and loose or rotting materials; and maintained
weatherproof and properly surface coated where required to pre- vent deterioration.
304.7 Amended as follows: Roofs and drainage. The roof and flashing shall be sound, tight and not have defects
that admit rain. Roof drainage shall be adequate to prevent dampness or deterioration in the walls or interior portion of
the structure. Roof drains, gutters and downspouts shall be maintained in good repair and free from obstructions. All
gutters and downspouts removed for maintenance of the structure must be reinstalled upon completion of
maintenance. Roof water shall not be discharged in a manner that creates a public and/or private nuisance. (Example -
downspout cannot discharge directly from one property onto public property or private property that is owned by a
neighbor.)
304.8 Decorative features. Cornices, belt courses, corbels, terra cotta trim, wall facings and similar decorative
features shall be maintained in good repair with proper anchorage and in a safe condition.
304.9 Overhang extensions. Overhang extensions including, but not limited to, canopies, marquees, signs, metal
awnings, fire escapes, standpipes and exhaust ducts shall be maintained in good repair and be properly anchored so as
to be kept in a sound condition. Where required, all exposed surfaces of metal or wood shall be protected from the
elements and against decay or rust by periodic application of weather-coating materials, such as paint or similar surface
treatment.
304.10 Stairways, decks, porches and balconies. Every exterior stairway, deck, porch and balcony, and all appurte-
nances attached thereto, shall be maintained structurally sound, in good repair, with proper anchorage and capable of
supporting the imposed loads.
304.11 Chimneys and towers. Chimneys, cooling towers, smoke stacks, and similar appurtenances shall be maintained
structurally safe and sound, and in good repair. Exposed sur- faces of metal or wood shall be protected from the elements
and against decay or rust by periodic application of weather- coating materials, such as paint or similar surface treatment.
304.12 Handrails and guards. Every handrail and guard shall be firmly fastened and capable of supporting normally
imposed loads and shall be maintained in good condition.
304.13 Window, skylight and door frames. Every window, skylight, door and frame shall be kept in sound condition,
good repair and weather tight.
304.13.1 Glazing. Glazing materials shall be maintained free from cracks and holes.
304.13.2 Openable windows. Every window, other than a fixed window, shall be easily openable and capable
of being held in position by window hardware.
304.14 Amended as follows: Insect screens. During the period from March 1st to November 30th every door, window
and other outside opening required for ventilation of habitable rooms, food preparation areas, food service areas or any
areas where products to be included or utilized in food for human consumption are processed, manufactured, packaged
or stored shall be supplied with approved tightly fitting screens of not less than 16 mesh per inch (16 mesh per
25mm),and every screen door used for insect control shall have a self-closing device in good working condition.
Exception: Screens shall not be required where other approved means, such as air curtains or insect repellent fans, are
employed.
304.15 Doors. Exterior doors, door assemblies, operator systems if provided, and hardware shall be maintained in
good condition. Locks at all entrances to dwelling units and sleeping units shall tightly secure the door. Locks on
means of egress doors shall be in accordance with Section 702.3.
304.16 Basement hatchways. Every basement hatchway shall be maintained to prevent the entrance of rodents,
rain and surface drainage water.
304.17 Guards for basement windows. Every basement window that is openable shall be supplied with rodent
shields, storm windows or other approved protection against the entry of rodents.
304.18 Building security. Doors, windows or hatchways for dwelling units, room units or housekeeping units shall
be pro- vided with devices designed to provide security for the occupants and property within.
304.18.1 Doors. Doors providing access to a dwelling unit, rooming unit or housekeeping unit that is rented,
leased or let shall be equipped with a deadbolt lock designed to be readily openable from the side from which egress is
to be made without the need for keys, special knowledge or effort and shall have a minimum lock throw of 1 inch (25
mm). Such deadbolt locks shall be installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications and maintained in good
working order. For the purpose of this section, a sliding bolt shall not be considered an acceptable deadbolt lock.
304.18.2 Amended as follows: Windows. All operable windows that provide access to a dwelling unit, rooming
unit or housekeeping unit that is owner occupied, rented, leased or let shall be equipped with a window sash locking
device.
304.18.3 Amended as follows: Basement hatchways. Basement hatchways that provide access to a dwelling
unit, rooming unit or housekeeping unit that is owner occupied, rented, leased or let shall be equipped with devices that
secure the units from unauthorized entry.
304.19 Gates. Exterior gates, gate assemblies, operator systems if provided, and hardware shall be maintained in
good condition. Latches at all entrances shall tightly secure the gates.
SECTION 305
INTERIOR STRUCTURE
305.1 General. The interior of a structure and equipment therein shall be maintained in good repair, structurally
sound and in a sanitary condition. Occupants shall keep that part of the structure that they occupy or control in a clean
and sanitary condition. Every owner of a structure containing a rooming house, housekeeping units, a hotel, a dormitory,
two or more dwelling units or two or more nonresidential occupancies, shall maintain, in a clean and sanitary condition,
the shared or public areas of the structure and exterior property.
305.1.1 Unsafe conditions. The following conditions shall be determined as unsafe and shall be repaired or
replaced to comply with the International Building Code or the International Existing Building Code as required for
existing buildings:
1. The nominal strength of any structural member is exceeded by nominal loads, the load effects or the required
strength;
2. The anchorage of the floor or roof to walls or columns, and of walls and columns to foundations is not
capable of resisting all nominal loads or load effects;
3. Structures or components thereof that have reached their limit state;
4. Structural members are incapable of supporting nominal loads and load effects;
5. Stairs, landings, balconies and all similar walking surfaces, including guards and handrails, are not
structurally sound, not properly anchored or are anchored with connections not capable of supporting all
nominal loads and resisting all load effects;
2. Foundation systems that are not firmly supported by footings are not plumb and free from open cracks and
breaks, are not properly anchored or are not capable of supporting all nominal loads and resisting all load effects.
Exceptions:
1. Where substantiated otherwise by an approved method.
2. Demolition of unsafe conditions shall be per- mitted when approved by the code official.
305.2 Structural members. Structural members shall be maintained structurally sound, and be capable of supporting
the imposed loads.
305.3 Interior surfaces. Interior surfaces, including windows and doors, shall be maintained in good, clean and
sanitary condition. Peeling, chipping, flaking or abraded paint shall be repaired, removed or covered. Cracked or loose
plaster, decayed wood and other defective surface conditions shall be corrected.
305.4 Stairs and walking surfaces. Every stair, ramp, landing, balcony, porch, deck or other walking surface shall
be maintained in sound condition and good repair.
305.5 Handrails and guards. Every handrail and guard shall be firmly fastened and capable of supporting normally
imposed loads and shall be maintained in good condition.
305.6 Interior doors. Every interior door shall fit reasonably well within its frame and shall be capable of being
opened and closed by being properly and securely attached to jambs, headers or tracks as intended by the manufacturer
of the attachment hardware.
SECTION 306
COMPONENT SERVICEABILITY
306.1 General. The components of a structure and equipment therein shall be maintained in good repair, structurally
sound and in a sanitary condition.
306.1.1 Unsafe conditions. Where any of the following conditions cause the component or system to be beyond
its limit state, the component or system shall be determined as unsafe and shall be repaired or replaced to comply with
the International Building Code or the International Existing Building Code as required for existing buildings:
1. Soils that have been subjected to any of the following conditions:
1.1. Collapse of footing or foundation system;
1.2. Damage to footing, foundation, concrete or other structural element due to soil expansion;
1.3. Adverse effects to the design strength of footing, foundation, concrete or other structural element
due to a chemical reaction from the soil;
1.4. Inadequate soil as determined by a geotechnical investigation;
1.5. Where the allowable bearing capacity of the soil is in doubt; or
1.6. Adverse effects to the footing, foundation, concrete or other structural element due to the ground
water table.
2. Concrete that has been subjected to any of the following conditions:
2.1. Deterioration;
2.2. Ultimate deformation;
2.3. Fractures;
2.4. Fissures;
2.5. Spalling;
2.6. Exposed reinforcement; or
2.7. Detached, dislodged or failing connections.
3. Aluminum that has been subjected to any of the following conditions:
3.1. Deterioration;
3.2. Corrosion;
3.3. Elastic deformation;
3.4. Ultimate deformation;
3.5. Stress or strain cracks;
3.6. Joint fatigue; or
3.7. Detached, dislodged or failing connections.
4. Masonry that has been subjected to any of the following conditions:
4.1. Deterioration;
4.2. Ultimate deformation;
4.3. Fractures in masonry or mortar joints;
4.4. Fissures in masonry or mortar joints;
4.5. Spalling;
4.6. Exposed reinforcement; or
4.7. Detached, dislodged or failing connections.
5. Steel that has been subjected to any of the following conditions:
5.1. Deterioration;
5.2. Elastic deformation;
5.3. Ultimate deformation;
5.4. Metal fatigue; or
5.5. Detached, dislodged or failing connections.
6. Wood that has been subjected to any of the following conditions:
6.1. Ultimate deformation;
6.2. Deterioration;
6.3. Damage from insects, rodents and other ver- min;
6.4. Fire damage beyond charring;
6.5. Significant splits and checks;
6.6. Horizontal shear cracks;
6.7. Vertical shear cracks;
6.8. Inadequate support;
6.9. Detached, dislodged or failing connections; or
6.10. Excessive cutting and notching.
Exceptions:
1. Where substantiated otherwise by an approved method.
2. Demolition of unsafe conditions shall be per- mitted where approved by the code official.
SECTION 307
HANDRAILS AND GUARDRAILS
307.1 General. Every exterior and interior flight of stairs having more than four risers shall have a handrail on one
side of the stair and every open portion of a stair, landing, balcony, porch, deck, ramp or other walking surface that is
more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below shall have guards. Handrails shall be not less than 30
inches (762 mm) in height or more than 42 inches (1067 mm) in height measured vertically above the nosing of the
tread or above the finished floor of the landing or walking surfaces. Guards shall be not less than 30 inches (762 mm)
in height above the floor of the landing, balcony, porch, deck, or ramp or other walking surface.
Exception: Guards shall not be required where exempted by the adopted building code.
Add: 307.3.2.1 Container maintenance. Set out and removal times for all garbage and recycling containers shall
comply with Chapter 15 of the City of DeKalb Municipal Code.
SECTION 308
RUBBISH AND GARBAGE
308.1 Accumulation of rubbish or garbage. Exterior property and premises, and the interior of every structure, shall
be free from any accumulation of rubbish or garbage.
308.2 Disposal of rubbish. Every occupant of a structure shall dispose of all rubbish in a clean and sanitary manner
by placing such rubbish in approved containers.
308.2.1 Rubbish storage facilities. The owner of every occupied premises shall supply approved covered containers
for rubbish, and the owner of the premises shall be responsible for the removal of rubbish.
308.2.2 Refrigerators. Refrigerators and similar equipment not in operation shall not be discarded, abandoned or stored
on premises without first removing the doors.
308.3 Disposal of garbage. Every occupant of a structure shall dispose of garbage in a clean and sanitary manner by
placing such garbage in an approved garbage disposal facility or approved garbage containers.
308.3.1 Garbage facilities. The owner of every dwelling shall supply one of the following: an approved mechanical
food waste grinder in each dwelling unit; an approved incinerator unit in the structure available to the occupants in each
dwelling unit; or an approved leakproof, covered, outside garbage container.
308.3.2 Containers. The operator of every establishment producing garbage shall provide, and at all times cause to be
utilized, approved leakproof containers provided with close-fitting covers for the storage of such materials until removed
from the premises for disposal.
SECTION 309
PEST ELIMINATION
309.1 Infestation. Structures shall be kept free from insect and rodent infestation. Structures in which insects or
rodents are found shall be promptly exterminated by approved processes that will not be injurious to human health.
After pest elimination, proper precautions shall be taken to prevent re-infestation.
309.2 Owner. The owner of any structure shall be responsible for pest elimination within the structure prior to renting
or leasing the structure.
309.3 Single occupant. The occupant of a one-family dwelling or of a single-tenant nonresidential structure shall
be responsible for pest elimination on the premises.
309.4 Multiple occupancy. The owner of a structure containing two o more dwelling units, a multiple occupancy,
a rooming house or a nonresidential structure shall be responsible for pest elimination in the public or shared areas of
the structure and exterior property. If infestation is caused by failure of an occupant to prevent such infestation in the
area occupied, the occupant and owner shall be responsible for pest elimination.
309.5 Occupant. The occupant of any structure shall be responsible for the continued rodent and pest-free condition
of the structure.
Exception: Where the infestations are caused by defects in the structure, the owner shall be responsible for pest
elimination.
CHAPTER 4
LIGHT, VENTILATION AND OCCUPANCY LIMITATIONS
SECTION 401
GENERAL
401.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the minimum conditions and standards for light, ventilation
and space for occupying a structure.
401.2 Responsibility. The owner of the structure shall pro- vide and maintain light, ventilation and space conditions
in compliance with these requirements. A person shall not occupy as owner-occupant, or permit another person to
occupy, any premises that do not comply with the requirements of this chapter.
401.3 Alternative devices. In lieu of the means for natural light and ventilation herein prescribed, artificial light or
mechanical ventilation complying with the International Building Code shall be permitted.
SECTION 402
LIGHT
402.1 Habitable spaces. Every habitable space shall have not less than one window of approved size facing directly
to the outdoors or to a court. The minimum total glazed area for every habitable space shall be 8 percent of the floor
area of such room. Wherever walls or other portions of a structure face a window of any room and such obstructions are
located less than 3 feet (914 mm) from the window and extend to a level above that of the ceiling of the room, such
window shall not be deemed to face directly to the outdoors nor to a court and shall not be included as contributing to
the required mini- mum total window area for the room.
Exception: Where natural light for rooms or spaces with- out exterior glazing areas is provided through an adjoining
room, the unobstructed opening to the adjoining room shall be not less than 8 percent of the floor area of the interior
room or space, but a minimum of 25 square feet (2.33 m2). The exterior glazing area shall be based on the total floor
area being served.
402.2 Common halls and stairways. Every common hall and stairway in residential occupancies, other than in one-
and two-family dwellings, shall be lighted at all times with not less than a 60-watt standard incandescent light bulb for
each 200 square feet (19 m2) of floor area or equivalent illumination, provided that the spacing between lights shall
not be greater than 30 feet (9144 mm). In other than residential occupancies, means of egress, including exterior
means of egress, stairways shall be illuminated at all times the building space served by the means of egress is
occupied with not less than 1 footcandle (11 lux) at floors, landings and treads.
402.3 Other spaces. All other spaces shall be provided with natural or artificial light sufficient to permit the
maintenance of sanitary conditions, and the safe occupancy of the space and utilization of the appliances, equipment
and fixtures.
SECTION 403
VENTILATION
403.1 Habitable spaces. Every habitable space shall have not less than one openable window. The total openable
area of the window in every room shall be equal to not less than 45 percent of the minimum glazed area required in
Section 402.1.
Exception: Where rooms and spaces without openings to the outdoors are ventilated through an adjoining room, the
unobstructed opening to the adjoining room shall be not less than 8 percent of the floor area of the interior room or
space, but not less than 25 square feet (2.33 m2). The venti- lation openings to the outdoors shall be based on a total floor
area being ventilated.
403.2 Bathrooms and toilet rooms. Every bathroom and toilet room shall comply with the ventilation requirements
for habitable spaces as required by Section 403.1, except that a window shall not be required in such spaces equipped
with a mechanical ventilation system. Air exhausted by a mechanical ventilation system from a bathroom or toilet room
shall discharge to the outdoors and shall not be recirculated.
403.3 Cooking facilities. Unless approved through the certificate of occupancy, cooking shall not be permitted in any
rooming unit or dormitory unit, and a cooking facility or appliance shall not be permitted to be present in the rooming
unit or dormitory unit.
Exceptions:
1. Where specifically approved in writing by the code official.
2. Devices such as coffee pots and microwave ovens shall not be considered cooking appliances.
403.4 Process ventilation. Where injurious, toxic, irritating or noxious fumes, gases, dusts or mists are generated,
a local exhaust ventilation system shall be provided to remove the contaminating agent at the source. Air shall be
exhausted to the exterior and not be recirculated to any space.
403.5 Clothes dryer exhaust. Clothes dryer exhaust systems shall be independent of all other systems and shall be
exhausted outside the structure in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Exception: Listed and labeled condensing (ductless) clothes dryers.
SECTION 404
OCCUPANCY LIMITATIONS
404.1 Privacy. Dwelling units, hotel units, housekeeping units, rooming units and dormitory units shall be arranged
to provide privacy and be separate from other adjoining spaces.
404.2 Minimum room widths. A habitable room, other than a kitchen, shall be not less than 7 feet (2134 mm)
in any plan dimension. Kitchens shall have a minimum clear passageway of 3 feet (914 mm) between counterfronts and
appliances or counterfronts and walls.
404.3 Minimum ceiling heights. Habitable spaces, hall- ways, corridors, laundry areas, bathrooms, toilet rooms
and habitable basement areas shall have a minimum clear ceiling height of 7 feet (2134 mm).
Exceptions:
1. In one- and two-family dwellings, beams or girders spaced not less than 4 feet (1219 mm) on center and
projecting a maximum of 6 inches (152 mm) below the required ceiling height.
2. Basement rooms in one- and two-family dwellings occupied exclusively for laundry, study or recreation
purposes, having a minimum ceiling height of 6 feet 8 inches (2033 mm) with a minimum clear height of 6
feet 4 inches (1932 mm) under beams, girders, ducts and similar obstructions.
3. Rooms occupied exclusively for sleeping, study or similar purposes and having a sloped ceiling over all or
part of the room, with a minimum clear ceiling height of 7 feet (2134 mm) over not less than one- third of
the required minimum floor area. In calculating the floor area of such rooms, only those portions of the
floor area with a minimum clear ceiling height of 5 feet (1524 mm) shall be included.
404.4 Bedroom and living room requirements. Every bedroom and living room shall comply with the
requirements of Sections 404.4.1 through 404.4.5.
404.4.1 Room area. Every living room shall contain not less than 120 square feet (11.2 m2) and every bedroom shall
contain not less than 70 square feet (6.5 m2) and every bedroom occupied by more than one person shall contain not
less than 50 square feet (4.6 m2) of floor area for each occupant thereof.
404.4.2 Access from bedrooms. Bedrooms shall not constitute the only means of access to other bedrooms or habitable
spaces and shall not serve as the only means of egress from other habitable spaces.
Exception: Units that contain fewer than two bed- rooms.
404.4.3 Water closet accessibility. Every bedroom shall have access to not less than one water closet and one lavatory
without passing through another bedroom. Every bed- room in a dwelling unit shall have access to not less than one
water closet and lavatory located in the same story as the bedroom or an adjacent story.
404.4.4 Prohibited occupancy. Kitchens and nonhabitable spaces shall not be used for sleeping purposes.
404.4.5 Other requirements. Bedrooms shall comply with the applicable provisions of this code including, but not
limited to, the light, ventilation, room area, ceiling height and room width requirements of this chapter; the plumbing
facilities and water-heating facilities requirements of Chapter 5; the heating facilities and electrical receptacle
requirements of Chapter 6; and the smoke detector and emergency escape requirements of Chapter 7.
404.5 Overcrowding. Dwelling units shall not be occupied by more occupants than permitted by the minimum area
requirements of Table 404.5.
TABLE 404.5
MINIMUM AREA REQUIREMENTS
MINIMUM AREA IN
SPACE 1-2 occupants 3-5 6 or more
occupants occupants
Living 120 120 150
rooma, b
Dining No 80 100
rooma, b requirement
Bedrooms Shall comply with Section
404.4.1
For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
a. See Section 404.5.2 for combined living room/dining room spaces.
b. See Section 404.5.1 for limitations on determining the minimum occupancy area for sleeping purposes.
404.5.1 Sleeping area. The minimum occupancy area required by Table 404.5 shall not be included as a sleeping area
in determining the minimum occupancy area for sleeping purposes. Sleeping areas shall comply with Section 404.4.
404.5.2 Combined spaces. Combined living room and dining room spaces shall comply with the requirements of Table
404.5 if the total area is equal to that required for separate rooms and if the space is located so as to function as a
combination living room/dining room.
404.6 Efficiency unit. Nothing in this section shall prohibit an efficiency living unit from meeting the following
requirements:
1. A unit occupied by not more than one occupant shall have a minimum clear floor area of 120 square feet (11.2
m2). A unit occupied by not more than two occupants shall have a minimum clear floor area of 220 square
feet (20.4 m2). A unit occupied by three occupants shall have a minimum clear floor area of 320 square feet
(29.7 m2). These required areas shall be exclusive of the areas required by Items 2 and 3.
2. The unit shall be provided with a kitchen sink, cooking appliance and refrigeration facilities, each having a
minimum clear working space of 30 inches (762 mm) in front. Light and ventilation conforming to this code
shall be provided.
3. The unit shall be provided with a separate bathroom containing a water closet, lavatory and bathtub or shower.
4. The maximum number of occupants shall be three.
404.7 Food preparation. All spaces to be occupied for food preparation purposes shall contain suitable space and
equipment to store, prepare and serve foods in a sanitary manner. There shall be adequate facilities and services for the
sanitary disposal of food wastes and refuse, including facilities for temporary storage.
CHAPTER 5
PLUMBING FACILITIES AND FIXTURE REQUIREMENTS
SECTION 501
GENERAL
501.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the minimum plumbing systems, facilities and
plumbing fixtures to be provided.
501.2 Responsibility. The owner of the structure shall pro- vide and maintain such plumbing facilities and
plumbing fixtures in compliance with these requirements. A person shall not occupy as owner-occupant or permit
another person to occupy any structure or premises that does not comply with the requirements of this chapter.
SECTION 502
REQUIRED FACILITIES
[P] 502.1 Dwelling units. Every dwelling unit shall contain its own bathtub or shower, lavatory, water closet and kitchen
sink that shall be maintained in a sanitary, safe working condition. The lavatory shall be placed in the same room as the
water closet or located in close proximity to the door leading directly into the room in which such water closet is located.
A kitchen sink shall not be used as a substitute for the required lavatory.
[P] 502.2 Rooming houses. Not less than one water closet, lavatory and bathtub or shower shall be supplied for each
four rooming units.
[P] 502.3 Hotels. Where private water closets, lavatories and baths are not provided, one water closet, one lavatory and
one bathtub or shower having access from a public hallway shall be provided for each 10 occupants.
[P] 502.4 Employees’ facilities. Not less than one water closet, one lavatory and one drinking facility shall be avail-
able to employees.
[P] 502.4.1 Drinking facilities. Drinking facilities shall be a drinking fountain, water cooler, bottled water cooler or
disposable cups next to a sink or water dispenser. Drinking facilities shall not be located in toilet rooms or bathrooms.
[P] 502.5 Public toilet facilities. Public toilet facilities shall be maintained in a safe, sanitary and working condition in
accordance with the International Plumbing Code. Except for periodic maintenance or cleaning, public access and use
shall be provided to the toilet facilities at all times during occupancy of the premises.
SECTION 503
TOILET ROOMS
[P] 503.1 Privacy. Toilet rooms and bathrooms shall provide privacy and shall not constitute the only passageway to
a hall or other space, or to the exterior. A door and interior locking device shall be provided for all common or shared
bathrooms and toilet rooms in a multiple dwelling.
[P] 503.2 Location. Toilet rooms and bathrooms serving hotel units, rooming units or dormitory units or housekeeping
units, shall have access by traversing not more than one flight of stairs and shall have access from a common hall or
passageway.
[P] 503.3 Location of employee toilet facilities. Toilet facilities shall have access from within the employees’
working area. The required toilet facilities shall be located not more than one story above or below the employees’
working area and the path of travel to such facilities shall not exceed a distance of 500 feet (152 m). Employee
facilities shall either be separate facilities or combined employee and public facilities.
Exception: Facilities that are required for employees in storage structures or kiosks, which are located in adjacent
structures under the same ownership, lease or control, shall not exceed a travel distance of 500 feet (152 m) from the
employees’ regular working area to the facilities.
[P] 503.4 Floor surface. In other than dwelling units, every toilet room floor shall be maintained to be a smooth, hard,
nonabsorbent surface to permit such floor to be easily kept in a clean and sanitary condition.
SECTION 504
PLUMBING SYSTEMS AND FIXTURES
[P] 504.1 General. Plumbing fixtures shall be properly installed and maintained in working order, and shall be kept
free from obstructions, leaks and defects and be capable of performing the function for which such plumbing fixtures
are designed. Plumbing fixtures shall be maintained in a safe, sanitary and functional condition.
[P] 504.2 Fixture clearances. Plumbing fixtures shall have adequate clearances for usage and cleaning.
[P] 504.3 Plumbing system hazards. Where it is found that a plumbing system in a structure constitutes a hazard to
the occupants or the structure by reason of inadequate service, inadequate venting, cross connection, back-siphonage,
improper installation, deterioration or damage or for similar reasons, the code official shall require the defects to be
corrected to eliminate the hazard.
SECTION 505
WATER SYSTEM
505.1 General. Every sink, lavatory, bathtub or shower, drinking fountain, water closet or other plumbing fixture shall
be properly connected to either a public water system or to an approved private water system. Kitchen sinks, lavatories,
laundry facilities, bathtubs and showers shall be supplied with hot or tempered and cold running water in accordance
with the International Plumbing Code.
[P] 505.2 Contamination. The water supply shall be maintained free from contamination, and all water inlets for
plumbing fixtures shall be located above the flood-level rim of the fixture. Shampoo basin faucets, janitor sink faucets
and other hose bibs or faucets to which hoses are attached and left in place, shall be protected by an approved
atmospheric-type vacuum breaker or an approved permanently attached hose connection vacuum breaker.
505.3 Supply. The water supply system shall be installed and maintained to provide a supply of water to plumbing
fixtures, devices and appurtenances in sufficient volume and at pressures adequate to enable the fixtures to function
properly, safely, and free from defects and leaks.
505.4 Water heating facilities. Water heating facilities shall be properly installed, maintained and capable of providing
an adequate amount of water to be drawn at every required sink, lavatory, bathtub, shower and laundry facility at a
minimum temperature of 110°F (43°C). A gas-burning water heater shall not be located in any bathroom, toilet room,
bedroom or other occupied room normally kept closed, unless adequate combustion air is provided. An approved
combination temperature and pressure-relief valve and relief valve discharge pipe shall be properly installed and
maintained on water heaters.
SECTION 506
SANITARY DRAINAGE SYSTEM
[P] 506.1 General. Plumbing fixtures shall be properly connected to either a public sewer system or to an approved
private sewage disposal system.
[P] 506.2 Maintenance. Every plumbing stack, vent, waste and sewer line shall function properly and be kept free
from obstructions, leaks and defects.
[P] 506.3 Grease interceptors. Grease interceptors and automatic grease removal devices shall be maintained in
accordance with this code and the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Grease interceptors and automatic grease
removal devices shall be regularly serviced and cleaned to prevent the discharge of oil, grease, and other substances
harmful or hazardous to the building drainage system, the public sewer, the private sewage disposal system or the
sew- age treatment plant or processes. Records of maintenance, cleaning and repairs shall be available for inspection
by the code official.
SECTION 507
STORM DRAINAGE
[P] 507.1 General. Drainage of roofs and paved areas, yards and courts, and other open areas on the premises shall not
be discharged in a manner that creates a public nuisance.
CHAPTER 6
MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS
SECTION 601
GENERAL
601.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the minimum mechanical and electrical facilities
and equipment to be provided.
601.2 Responsibility. The owner of the structure shall provide and maintain mechanical and electrical
facilities and equipment in compliance with these requirements. A person shall not occupy as owner-occupant or permit
another person to occupy any premises that does not comply with the requirements of this chapter.
SECTION 602
HEATING FACILITIES
602.1 Facilities required. Heating facilities shall be provided in structures as required by this section.
602.2 Residential occupancies. Dwellings shall be provided with heating facilities capable of maintaining a room
temperature of 68°F (20°C) in all habitable rooms, bathrooms and toilet rooms based on the winter outdoor design
temperature for the locality indicated in Appendix D of the International Plumbing Code. Cooking appliances shall not
be used, nor shall portable unvented fuel-burning space heaters be used, as a means to provide required heating.
Exception: In areas where the average monthly temperature is above 30°F (-1°C), a minimum temperature of 65°F
(18°C) shall be maintained.
602.3 Amended as follows: Heat supply. Every owner and operator of any building who rents, leases or lets one or
more dwelling units or sleeping units on terms, either expressed or implied, to furnish heat to the occupants thereof
shall supply heat during the period from September 15 to May 15 to maintain a temperature of not less than 65°F
(20°C) in all habitable rooms, bathrooms, and toilet rooms during the hours between 6:30 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. of each
day and not less than 60 degrees F. (18 degrees C.) during other hours. Failure to provide will require immediate
repair and/or the living unit declared uninhabitable. Displacement of tenants will be at the owner’s expense.
Exceptions:
1. When the outdoor temperature is below the winter outdoor design temperature for the locality, maintenance of the
minimum room temperature shall not be required provided that the heating system is operating at its full design
capacity. The winter outdoor design temperature for the locality shall be as indicated in Appendix D of the
International Plumbing Code.
2. In areas where the average monthly temperature is above 30°F (-1°C) a minimum temperature of 65°F (18°C) shall
be maintained.
602.4 Amended as follows: Occupiable work spaces. Indoor occupiable work spaces shall be supplied with heat
during the period from September 15 to May 15 to maintain a temperature of not less than 65°F (18°C) during the
period the spaces are occupied.
Exceptions:
1. Processing, storage and operation areas that require cooling or special temperature conditions.
2. Areas in which persons are primarily engaged in vigorous physical activities.
602.5 Room temperature measurement. The required room temperatures shall be measured 3 feet (914 mm)
above the floor near the center of the room and 2 feet (610 mm) inward from the center of each exterior wall.
SECTION 603
MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT
603.1 Mechanical appliances. Mechanical appliances, fireplaces, solid fuel-burning appliances, cooking appliances
and water heating appliances shall be properly installed and maintained in a safe working condition, and shall be capable
of performing the intended function.
603.2 Removal of combustion products. Fuel-burning equipment and appliances shall be connected to an
approved chimney or vent.
Exception: Fuel-burning equipment and appliances that are labeled for unvented operation.
603.3 Clearances. Required clearances to combustible materials shall be maintained.
603.4 Safety controls. Safety controls for fuel-burning equipment shall be maintained in effective operation.
603.5 Combustion air. A supply of air for complete combustion of the fuel and for ventilation of the space
containing the fuel-burning equipment shall be provided for the fuel-burning equipment.
603.6 Energy conservation devices. Devices intended to reduce fuel consumption by attachment to a fuel-burning
appliance, to the fuel supply line thereto, or to the vent outlet or vent piping therefrom, shall not be installed unless
labeled for such purpose and the installation is specifically approved.
SECTION 604
ELECTRICAL FACILITIES
604.1 Facilities required. Every occupied building shall be provided with an electrical system in compliance with
the requirements of this section and Section 605.
604.2 Service. The size and usage of appliances and equipment shall serve as a basis for determining the need
for
additional facilities in accordance with NFPA 70. Dwelling units shall be served by a three-wire, 120/240 volt, single-
phase electrical service having a minimum rating of 60 amperes.
604.3 Electrical system hazards. Where it is found that the electrical system in a structure constitutes a hazard
to the occupants or the structure by reason of inadequate service, improper fusing, insufficient receptacle and lighting
outlets, improper wiring or installation, deterioration or damage, or for similar reasons, the code official shall require
the defects to be corrected to eliminate the hazard.
604.3.1 Abatement of electrical hazards associated with water exposure. The provisions of this section shall
govern the repair and replacement of electrical systems and equipment that have been exposed to water.
604.3.1.1 Electrical equipment. Electrical distribution equipment, motor circuits, power equipment,
trans- formers, wire, cable, flexible cords, wiring devices, ground fault circuit interrupters, surge protectors, molded
case circuit breakers, low-voltage fuses, luminaires, ballasts, motors and electronic control, signaling and
communication equipment that have been exposed to water shall be replaced in accordance with the provisions of the
International Building Code.
Exception: The following equipment shall be allowed to be repaired where an inspection report from the equipment
manufacturer or approved manufacturer’s representative indicates that the equipment has not sustained damage that
requires replacement:
1. Enclosed switches, rated a maximum of 600 volts or less;
2. Busway, rated a maximum of 600 volts;
3. Panelboards, rated a maximum of 600 volts;
4. Switchboards, rated a maximum of 600 volts;
5. Fire pump controllers, rated a maximum of 600 volts;
6. Manual and magnetic motor controllers;
7. Motor control centers;
8. Alternating current high-voltage circuit breakers;
9. Low-voltage power circuit breakers;
10. Protective relays, meters and current trans- formers;
11. Low- and medium-voltage switchgear;
12. Liquid-filled transformers;
13. Cast-resin transformers;
14. Wire or cable that is suitable for wet locations and whose ends have not been exposed to water;
15. Wire or cable, not containing fillers, that is suitable for wet locations and whose ends have not
been exposed to water;
16. Luminaires that are listed as submersible;
17. Motors;
18. Electronic control, signaling and communication equipment.
604.3.2 Abatement of electrical hazards associated with fire exposure. The provisions of this section shall
govern the repair and replacement of electrical systems and equipment that have been exposed to fire.
604.3.2.1 Electrical equipment. Electrical switches, receptacles and fixtures, including furnace, water
heating, security system and power distribution circuits, that have been exposed to fire, shall be replaced in accordance
with the provisions of the International Building Code.
Exception: Electrical switches, receptacles and fixtures that shall be allowed to be repaired where an inspection report
from the equipment manufacturer or approved manufacturer’s representative indicates that the equipment has not
sustained damage that requires replacement.
SECTION 605
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
605.1 Installation. Electrical equipment, wiring and appliances shall be properly installed and maintained in a safe
and approved manner.
605.2 Receptacles. Every habitable space in a dwelling shall contain not less than two separate and remote
receptacle out- lets. Every laundry area shall contain not less than one grounding-type receptacle or a receptacle with a
ground fault circuit interrupter. Every bathroom shall contain not less than one receptacle. Any new bathroom receptacle
outlet shall have ground fault circuit interrupter protection. All receptacle outlets shall have the appropriate faceplate
cover for the location.
605.3 Luminaires. Every public hall, interior stairway, toilet room, kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, boiler room
and furnace room shall contain not less than one electric luminaire. Pool and spa luminaires over 15 V shall have ground
fault circuit interrupter protection.
605.4 Wiring. Flexible cords shall not be used for permanent wiring, or for running through doors, windows, or
cabinets, or concealed within walls, floors, or ceilings.
SECTION 606
ELEVATORS, ESCALATORS AND DUMBWAITERS
606.1 General. Elevators, dumbwaiters and escalators shall be maintained in compliance with ASME A17.1. The
most current certificate of inspection shall be on display at all times within the elevator or attached to the escalator or
dumb-waiter, be available for public inspection in the office of the building operator or be posted in a publicly
conspicuous location approved by the code official. The inspection and tests shall be performed at not less than the
periodic intervals listed in ASME A17.1, Appendix N, except where otherwise specified by the authority having
jurisdiction.
606.2 Elevators. In buildings equipped with passenger elevators, not less than one elevator shall be
maintained in
operation at all times when the building is occupied.
Exception: Buildings equipped with only one elevator shall be permitted to have the elevator temporarily out of service
for testing or servicing.
SECTION 607
DUCT SYSTEMS
607.1 General. Duct systems shall be maintained free of obstructions and shall be capable of performing the required
function.
CHAPTER 7
FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
SECTION 701
GENERAL
701.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the minimum conditions and standards for fire safety
relating to structures and exterior premises, including fire safety facilities and equipment to be provided.
701.2 Responsibility. The owner of the premises shall pro- vide and maintain such fire safety facilities and
equipment in compliance with these requirements. A person shall not occupy as owner-occupant or permit another
person to occupy any premises that do not comply with the requirements of this chapter.
SECTION 702
MEANS OF EGRESS
[F] 702.1 General. A safe, continuous and unobstructed path of travel shall be provided from any point in a building or structure
to the public way. Means of egress shall comply with the International Fire Code.
[F] 702.2 Aisles. The required width of aisles in accordance with the International Fire Code shall be unobstructed.
[F] 702.3 Locked doors. Means of egress doors shall be readily openable from the side from which egress is to be made
without the need for keys, special knowledge or effort, except where the door hardware conforms to that permitted by
the International Building Code.
702.4 Amended as follows: Emergency escape openings. Required emergency escape openings shall be maintained
in accordance with the code in effect at the time of construction, and the following. Required emergency escape and
rescue openings shall be operational from the inside of the room without the use of keys or tools. Bars, grilles, grates or
similar devices are permitted to be placed over emergency escape and rescue openings provided the minimum net clear
opening size complies with the code that was in effect at the time of construction and such devices shall be releasable
or removable from the inside without the use of a key, tool or force greater than that which is required for normal
operation of the escape and rescue opening. Any alteration to an existing structure will require compliance of all
currently adopted applicable emergency escape opening code requirements.
SECTION 703
FIRE-RESISTANCE RATINGS
[F] 703.1 Fire-resistance-rated assemblies. The required fire-resistance rating of fire-resistance-rated walls, fire stops,
shaft enclosures, partitions and floors shall be maintained.
[F] 703.2 Opening protectives. Required opening protectives shall be maintained in an operative condition. Fire and
smokestop doors shall be maintained in operable condition. Fire doors and smoke barrier doors shall not be blocked or
obstructed or otherwise made inoperable.
SECTION 704
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
[F] 704.1 General. Systems, devices and equipment to detect a fire, actuate an alarm, or suppress or control a fire or
any combination thereof shall be maintained in an operable condition at all times in accordance with the International
Fire Code.
[F] 704.1.1 Automatic sprinkler systems. Inspection, testing and maintenance of automatic sprinkler systems shall be
in accordance with NFPA 25.
[F] 704.1.2 Fire department connection. Where the fire department connection is not visible to approaching fire
apparatus, the fire department connection shall be indicated by an approved sign mounted on the street front or on the
side of the building. Such sign shall have the letters “FDC” not less than 6 inches (152 mm) high and words in letters
not less than 2 inches (51 mm) high or an arrow to indicate the location. Such signs shall be subject to the approval of
the fire code official.
[F] 704.2 Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in
existing Group I-1 and R occupancies in accordance with Sections 704.2.1 through 704.2.3.
[F] 704.2.1 Where required. Existing Group I-1 and R occupancies shall be provided with single-station smoke
alarms in accordance with Sections 704.2.1.1 through 704.2.1.4 Interconnection and power sources shall be in
accordance with Sections 704.2.2 and 704.2.3.
Exceptions:
1. Where the code that was in effect at the time of construction required smoke alarms and smoke alarms
complying with those requirements are already provided.
2. Where smoke alarms have been installed in occupancies and dwellings that were not required to have them at
the time of construction, additional smoke alarms shall not be required provided that the existing smoke alarms
comply with requirements that were in effect at the time of installation.
3. Where smoke detectors connected to a fire alarm system have been installed as a substitute for smoke alarms.
[F] 704.2.1.1 Group R-1. Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in all of the following locations in
Group R-1:
1. In sleeping areas.
2. In every room in the path of the means of egress from the sleeping area to the door leading from the sleeping
unit.
3. In each story within the sleeping unit, including basements. For sleeping units with split levels and without an
intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the
adjacent lower level provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level.
[F] 704.2.1.2 Groups R-2, R-3, R-4 and I-1. Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed and maintained
in Groups R-2, R-3, R-4 and I-1 regardless of occupant load at all of the following locations:
1. On the ceiling or wall outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of bed- rooms.
2. In each room used for sleeping purposes.
3. In each story within a dwelling unit, including basements but not including crawl spaces and uninhabitable
attics. In dwellings or dwelling units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent
levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that the
lower level is less than one full story below the upper level.
[F] 704.2.1.3 Installation near cooking appliances. Smoke alarms shall not be installed in the following locations
unless this would prevent placement of a smoke alarm in a location required by Section 704.2.1.1 or 704.2.1.2.
1. Ionization smoke alarms shall not be installed less than 20 feet (6096 m) horizontally from a permanently
installed cooking appliance.
2. Ionization smoke alarms with an alarm-silencing switch shall not be installed less than 10 feet (3048 mm)
horizontally from a permanently installed cooking appliance.
3. Photoelectric smoke alarms shall not be installed less than 6 feet (1829 mm) horizontally from a permanently
installed cooking appliance.
[F] 704.2.1.4 Installation near bathrooms. Smoke alarms shall be installed not less than 3 feet (914 mm) horizontally
from the door or opening of a bathroom that contains a bathtub or shower unless this would pre- vent placement of a
smoke alarm required by Section 704.2.1.1 or 704.2.1.2.
[F] 704.2.2 Interconnection. Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be installed within an individual dwelling
or sleeping unit, the smoke alarms shall be inter- connected in such a manner that the activation of one alarm will
activate all of the alarms in the individual unit. Physical interconnection of smoke alarms shall not be required where
listed wireless alarms are installed and all alarms sound upon activation of one alarm. The alarm shall be clearly audible
in all bedrooms over background noise levels with all intervening doors closed.
Exceptions:
1. Interconnection is not required in buildings that are not undergoing alterations, repairs or construction of any
kind.
2. Smoke alarms in existing areas are not required to be interconnected where alterations or repairs do not result
in the removal of interior wall or ceiling finishes exposing the structure, unless there is an attic, crawl space or
basement avail- able that could provide access for interconnection without the removal of interior finishes.
[F] 704.2.3 Power source. Single-station smoke alarms shall receive their primary power from the building wiring
provided that such wiring is served from a commercial source and shall be equipped with a battery backup. Smoke
alarms with integral strobes that are not equipped with battery backup shall be connected to an emergency electrical
system. Smoke alarms shall emit a signal when the batteries are low. Wiring shall be permanent and with- out a
disconnecting switch other than as required for over- current protection.
Exceptions:
1. Smoke alarms are permitted to be solely battery operated in existing buildings where no construction is taking
place.
2. Smoke alarms are permitted to be solely battery operated in buildings that are not served from a commercial
power source.
3. Smoke alarms are permitted to be solely battery operated in existing areas of buildings undergoing alterations
or repairs that do not result in the removal of interior walls or ceiling finishes exposing the structure, unless
there is an attic, crawl space or basement available that could pro- vide access for building wiring without the
removal of interior finishes.
[F] 704.2.4 Smoke detection system. Smoke detectors listed in accordance with UL 268 and provided as part of the
building’s fire alarm system shall be an acceptable alternative to single- and multiple-station smoke alarms and shall
comply with the following:
1. The fire alarm system shall comply with all applicable requirements in Section 907 of the International Fire
Code.
2. Activation of a smoke detector in a dwelling or sleeping unit shall initiate alarm notification in the dwelling or
sleeping unit in accordance with Section 907.5.2 of the International Fire Code.
3. Activation of a smoke detector in a dwelling or sleeping unit shall not activate alarm notification appliances
outside of the dwelling or sleeping unit, provided that a supervisory signal is generated and monitored in
accordance with Section 907.6.5 of the International Fire Code.
Add: 705 Carbon monoxide detector requirements for existing dwellings, single family dwellings, multiple use
dwellings, multiple family dwellings and rooming houses.
Add: 705.1 Definition. “Approved carbon monoxide alarm” means a carbon monoxide alarm that complies with all
the requirements of the rules and regulations of the Illinois State Fire Marshal, bears the label of a nationally
recognized testing laboratory, and complies with the most recent standards of the Underwriters Laboratories.
Add: 705.2 Standards. The following installation and maintenance standards shall apply for all residential dwelling
units and rooming houses in the City of DeKalb.
a) Dwelling units
1. Every unit shall be equipped with at least one (1) approved carbon monoxide detector in an operating
condition within fifteen (15) feet of every room used for sleeping purposes.
2. It shall be the responsibility of the owner of a structure to supply and install all required detectors. The
owner shall be responsible for making reasonable efforts to test and maintain detectors in common hallways.
It shall be the responsibility of an occupant to test and provide general maintenance for the detectors within
the occupant’s dwelling unit, and to notify the owner or the authorized agent of the owner in writing of any
deficiencies which the occupant cannot correct. The owner shall be responsible for providing one (1) occupant
per dwelling unit with written information regarding detector testing and maintenance.
3. The occupant shall be responsible for replacement of any required batteries in the carbon monoxide
detectors in the occupant’s dwelling unit, except that the owner shall ensure that such batteries are in
operating condition at the time the occupant takes possession of the dwelling unit. The occupant shall provide
the owner or the authorized agent of the owner with access to the dwelling unit to correct any deficiencies in
the carbon monoxide detector which have been reported in writing to the owner or the authorized agent of the
owner.
4. Alterations, repairs and additions. When interior alterations, repairs or additions requiring a permit occur, or
when one or more sleeping rooms are added or created in existing dwellings, the individual dwelling unit shall
be provided with carbon monoxide alarms located as required for new dwellings; the carbon monoxide alarms
shall be hard wired.
Exceptions:
i. Carbon monoxide alarms in existing areas shall not be required to be interconnected and hard wired where the
alterations or repairs do not result in the removal of interior wall or ceiling finishes exposing the structure, unless there
is an attic, crawl space, or basement available which could provide access for hard wiring without the removal of
interior finishes.
ii. Repairs to the exterior surfaces of dwellings are exempt from the requirements of this Section.
8. All signaling circuits shall comply with the provisions defined in the 2014 National Electrical Code.
6. Exemptions are subject to provisions of Section 106 of the 2015 International Building and Residential Code as
determined by the Chief Building Official. Submittals by an approved Illinois Registered Design Professional for
exemption shall include a cover letter with an opinion of carbon monoxide risk and a complete building fuel systems
risk analysis.
Inspection fees required for exemption are included under Chapter 24 Schedule D. The following residential units
shall not require carbon monoxide detectors:
A) A residential unit in a building that:
i. Does not rely on combustion of fossil fuel for heat, ventilation, or hot water; and
ii. Is not connected in any way to a garage; and
iii. Is not sufficiently close to any ventilated source of carbon monoxide, subject to review and approval by the
Chief Building Official, to receive carbon monoxide from that source.
B) A residential unit that is not sufficiently close to any source of carbon monoxide so as to be at risk of receiving
carbon monoxide from that source, subject to review and approval by the Chief Building Official.
b) Rooming Houses.
1. One (1) carbon monoxide detector shall be located within fifteen (15) feet of each sleeping room.
2. It shall be the responsibility of the owner of a rooming house to supply and install all required detectors.
The owner shall be responsible for making reasonable efforts to test and maintain detectors in common
stairwells and hallways. It shall be the responsibility of a tenant to test and provide general maintenance
for the detectors within the tenant’s rooming unit, and to notify the owner or the authorized agent of the
owner in writing of any deficiencies which the tenant cannot correct. The owner shall be responsible for
providing one (1) tenant per structure with written information regarding detector testing and
maintenance.
3. The tenant shall be responsible for replacement of any required batteries in the carbon monoxide
detectors in the tenant’s dwelling unit, except that the owner shall ensure that such batteries are in
operating condition at the time the tenant takes possession of the dwelling unit. The tenant shall provide
the owner or the authorized agent of the owner with access to the dwelling unit to correct any other
deficiencies in the smoke detector which have been reported in writing to the owner of the authorized
agent of the owner.
4. Alterations, repairs and additions. When interior alterations, repairs or additions requiring a permit occur,
or when one or more sleeping rooms are added or created in existing dwellings, the individual dwelling
unit shall be provided with carbon monoxide alarms located as required for new dwellings; the carbon
monoxide alarms shall be hard wired.
Exceptions:
i. Carbon monoxide alarms in existing areas shall not be required to be interconnected and hard wired where
the alterations or repairs do not result in the removal of interior wall or ceiling finishes exposing the structure,
unless there is an attic, crawl space, or basement available which could provide access for hard wiring and
interconnection without the removal of interior finishes.
ii. Repairs to the exterior surfaces of dwellings are exempt from the requirements of this section.
5. All signaling circuits shall comply with the provisions defined in the 2014 National Electrical Code.
6. Exemptions are subject to provisions of Section 106 of the 2015 International Building and Residential Code as
determined by the Chief Building Official. Submittals by an approved Illinois Registered Design Professional for
exemption shall include a cover letter with an opinion of carbon monoxide risk and a complete building fuel systems
risk analysis.
Inspection fees required for exemption are included under Schedule D in Chapter 24 of the City of DeKalb Municipal
Code. The following residential units shall not require carbon monoxide detectors:
A) A residential unit in a building that:
i. Does not rely on combustion of fossil fuel for heat, ventilation, or hot water; and
ii. Is not connected in any way to a garage.
iii. Is not sufficiently close to any ventilated source of carbon monoxide, subject to review and approval by the
Chief Building Official, to receive carbon monoxide from that source.
B) A residential unit that is not sufficiently close to any source of carbon monoxide so as to be at risk of receiving
carbon monoxide from that source, subject to review and approval by the Chief Building Official.
Add: 705.3 Violations. The following shall be violations of this Code and subject to the penalties set forth in Section
24.01 of Chapter 24 of the City of DeKalb Municipal Code:
1. Willful failure to install or maintain in operating condition any carbon monoxide alarm.
2. Tampering with, removing, destroying, disconnecting, or removing the batteries from any installed carbon
monoxide alarm, except in the course of inspection, maintenance, or replacement of the alarm.
CHAPTER 8
REFERENCED STANDARDS
Amended as follows: REFERENCED STANDARDS. This Chapter lists the standards that are referenced in
various sections of this Code. The standards are listed herein by the promulgating agency of the standard, the standard
identification, the effective date and title and the section or sections of this Code that reference the standard. The
application of the referenced standards shall be as specified in Section 102.7.
This chapter lists the standards that are referenced in various sections of this document. The standards are listed herein
by the promulgating agency of the standard, the standard identification, the effective date and title and the section or
sections of this document that reference the standard. The application of the referenced standards shall be as specified
in Section 102.7.
“ASME,” American Society of Mechanical Engineers - Three Park Avenue New York, NY 10016-5990
Standard Reference Number Title Referenced In Code Section number
A17.1—2013 Safety Code for Elevators and 606.1
Escalators with A17.1 2013
Addenda
ASTM International – 100 Barr Harbor Drive West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959
Standard Reference Number Title Referenced In Code Section number
F1346-91 (2010) Performance Specifications 303.2
for Safety Covers and labeling
Requirements for All covers
for Swimming Pools, Spas
and Hot Tubs
ICC
500 New Jersey Avenue, NW 6th Floor
Washington, DC 20001
Standard
Referenced
reference
in code
number Title
section number
IBC—15 International Building Code® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102.3, 201.3,
401.3, 702.3
IEBC—15 International Existing Building Code®. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 305.1.1,
306.1.1
IFC—15 International Fire Code®. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201.3, 604.3.1.1, 604.3.2.1, 702.1, 702.2,
704.1, 704.2 IFGC—15 International Fuel Gas Code® ....................................................................................................... 102.3
IMC—15 International Mechanical Code® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
102.3, 201.3
IPC—15 International Plumbing Code® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201.3, 505.1,
602.2, 602.3
IRC—15 International Residential Code® ..................................................................................................... 201.3
IZC—15 International Zoning Code® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
102.3, 201.3
NFPA
National Fire Protection Association 1 Batterymarch Park
Quincy, MA 02269
Standard
Referenced
reference
in code
number Title
section number
25—14 Standard for the Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection
Systems 704.1.1
70—14 National Electrical Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
……….102.4, 201.3
APPENDIX A
BOARDING STANDARD
The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting
ordinance.
A101 GENERAL
A101.1 General. Windows and doors shall be boarded in an approved manner to prevent entry by unauthorized persons
and shall be painted to correspond to the color of the existing structure.
A102 MATERIALS
A102.1 Boarding sheet material. Boarding sheet material shall be minimum 1/2 -inch-thick (12.7 mm) wood structural
panels complying with2 the International Building Code.
A102.2 Boarding framing material. Boarding framing material shall be minimum nominal 2-inch by 4-inch (51 mm
by 102 mm) solid sawn lumber complying with the International Building Code.
A102.3 Boarding fasteners. Boarding fasteners shall be minimum 3/8 -inch-diameter (9.5 mm) carriage bolts of such
a length as 8
required to penetrate the assembly and as required to adequately attach the washers and nuts. Washers and
nuts shall comply with the International Building Code.
A103 INSTALLATION
A103.1 Boarding installation. The boarding installation shall be in accordance with Figures A103.1(1) and A103.1(2)
and Sections A103.2 through A103.5.
A103.2 Boarding sheet material. The boarding sheet material shall be cut to fit the door or window opening neatly or
shall be cut to provide an equal overlap at the perimeter of the door or window.
A103.3 Windows. The window shall be opened to allow the carriage bolt to pass through or the window sash shall be
removed and stored. The 2-inch by 4-inch (51 mm by 102 mm) strong back framing material shall be cut minimum 2
inches (51 mm) wider than the window opening and shall be placed on the inside of the window opening 6 inches (152
mm) minimum above the bottom and below the top of the window opening. The framing and boarding shall be pre-
drilled. The assembly shall be aligned and the bolts, washers and nuts shall be installed and secured.
A103.4 Door walls. The door opening shall be framed with minimum 2-inch by 4-inch (51 mm by 102 mm) framing
material secured at the entire perimeter and vertical members at a maximum of 24 inches (610 mm) on center.
Blocking shall also be secured at a maximum of 48 inches (1219 mm) on center vertically. Boarding sheet material
shall be secured with screws and nails alternating every 6 inches (152 mm) on center.
A103.5 Doors. Doors shall be secured by the same method as for windows or door openings. One door to the structure
shall be available for authorized entry and shall be secured and locked in an approved manner.
A104 REFERENCED STANDARD
IBC—12 International Building Code A102.1, A102.2, A102.3
APPENDIX A
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