HomeMy WebLinkAboutORD 2006-75 - Electrical Code*RDINANCE NO. 4 00t
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF GEORGETOWN, TEXAS, AMENDING
CHAPTER 15.16, OF THE CITY OF GEORGETOWN CODE OF
ORDINANCES ENTITLED " ELECTRICAL CODE" TO PROVIDE FOR THE
ADOPTION OF THE 2005 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE AND TO
MAKE OTHER CORRESPONDING AMENDMENTS RELATING TO
ELECTRICAL LICENSING REGISTRATION AND ELECTRICAL
INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS; INCLUDING PROVISIONS FOR THE
PHASING IN OF THE APPLICATION OF THE 2005 NATIONAL
ELECTRICAL CODE; ESTABLISHING A TRI- ANNUAL REVIEW PERIOD;
REPEALING CONFLICTING ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS;
INCLUDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; INCLUDING A PENALTY
CLAUSE; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, it is the desire of the City Council of Georgetown, Texas to adopt the
2005 National Electrical Code and to require electrical licensing registration relating to
the installation of electrical systems for all types of new building construction and the
repair or replacement of electrical systems in existing buildings; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that the adoption of the 2005
National Electrical Code and electrical licensing registration is necessary to protect the
public for health safety and general welfare of the public within the city limits of
Georgetown and the extra- territorial jurisdiction for those buildings connected to the
City of Georgetown Electrical Utility; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has found that the present 2002 National Electrical
Code have become obsolete and inadequate; and
WHEREAS, the Building Standards Commission, appointed by the City Council,
has (1) reviewed the effects of these regulations; (2) held public hearings related to same;
and (3) made recommendations to the City Council for adoption of same, as reflected in
the attached Exhibit A; and
WHEREAS, the caption of this Ordinance will be/ has been published in the
Williamson County Sun in compliance with the City Charter of the City of Georgetown.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF GEORGETOWN, TEXAS, THAT:
Section 1. The facts and recitations contained in the preamble of this Ordinance are
hereby declared to be true and correct, and are incorporated by reference herein and
made part hereof, as if copied verbatim. The City Council hereby finds that this
Ordinance implements the following Policies of the Century Plan — Policy Plan Element:
Housing Policy 5.0 "All citizens have access to safe and adequate housing opportunities."
Further, as required by Section 2.03 of the Administrative Chapter of the Policy Plan, the
City Council hereby finds that the enactment of this Ordinance is not inconsistent with
or in conflict with any other Century Plan Policies.
Section 2. All projects that are under construction on the Effective Date of this
Ordinance and all complete applications for a building permit accepted by the City of
Georgetown on the Effective Date of this Ordinance shall be allowed to complete
construction under the terms of the prior provisions of Articles I, III, and IV of Chapter
15.16 and shall not be required to meet the requirements of the 2005 National Electrical
Code. All permit applications submitted after the Effective Date of this Ordinance shall
comply with the terms of the Chapter 15.16 as amended by this Ordinance in its entirety.
Section 3. The City Council has directed the Building Official to prepare a review of the
newest updated versions of construction codes three years from the effective date of this
Ordinance.
Section 4. The 2005 National Electrical Code and electrical licensing registration
requirements is hereby adopted by the City of Georgetown by replacing Chapter 15.16
of the Georgetown of the Georgetown Municipal Code of the City of Georgetown, Texas
as provided in Exhibit A.
Section 5. All Ordinances and Resolutions, or parts of Ordinances and Resolutions, in
conflict with this Ordinance are hereby repealed, and no longer of any force and effect.
Section 6. If any provisions of this Ordinance or application thereof to any person or
circumstance shall be held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the other provisions or
application thereof, of this Ordinance which can be given effect without the invalid
provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby
declared to be severable.
Section 7. The Mayor is hereby authorized to sign this Ordinance and the City Secretary
to attest. This Ordinance shall become effective and be in full force and effect in
accordance with the terms of the City Charter of the City of Georgetown.
PASSED AND APPROVED on First Reading on the day of 2006.
PASSED AND APPROVED on Second Reading on the A day ofe 2006.
ATTEST:
City Secretary
APP OVED AS TO FORM:
C
Patricia E. Carls, City Attorney
THE CITY OF GEORGETOWN:
Mayor
Exhibit "A TT
Chapter 15.16 ELECTRICAL CODE
ARTICLE 1. GENERAL
15.16.005 Purpose and Adoption of the 2005 National Electrical Code
The purpose of this Chapter to assist in safeguarding persons and property from hazards
arising from the use of electricity. Except as otherwise specifically provided, all references
to the term "Code" in this Chapter 15.16 shall be to the NFPA 70, 2005 National Electrical
Code, published by the National Fire Protection Association, which is hereby adopted by
reference as if set forth in whole except as otherwise specifically stated herein, and
including the provisions of that Code pertaining to the registration with the City of
Georgetown of the required State of Texas Electrical License for the protection of the
public.
15.16.010 Enforcement of Code Provisions
Article 90 of the Code, Introduction, is specifically adopted by the City. The administration
and enforcement of this chapter shall primarily devolve upon the City Building Official or
his/her representative. They shall have the right to inspect and enter upon all premises and
surrounding property and the public as a whole when applying current state law allowing
right of entry. The Police Department, City Electrical Department and the Fire Department
shall also be charged with the enforcement of this chapter and shall, so far as possible, act
to enforce this chapter.
15.16.010 Appeals Board
The Building Standards Commission shall be the appeals board for matters relating to
interpretation and enforcement of the Code and to licensing registration. The Building
Standards Commission will also consider appeals of any decisions made by a City
Inspector in accordance with the By -Laws of the Building Standards Commission. The
Building Standards Commission shall perform its duties in accordance with all applicable
laws, including without limitation those ordinances and bylaws pertaining to the Building
Standards Commission adopted and /or approved by the City Council.
15.15.020 Penalty for Violation of Chapter
Any person who shall violate any of the provisions of this chapter or who shall fail to
comply with the requirements of this chapter shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor.
Each and every day's continuance of any violation of the provisions of this chapter shall
constitute and be deemed a separate offense. In case of any such corporation, the officers
and agents, and person or persons actually performing the work for such corporation shall
be subject to the penalties herein provided. Any person violating any provision of this
chapter or the Code as adopted is subject to punishment as provided in Section 1.08.010
of the City of Georgetown Code of Ordinances.
1
Electrical Code Ord. No.
Chapter 15.16 Revisions
2006 — Adoption of 2005 National Electrical Code
15.16.030 Licenses - Registrations, Permits Required
No person shall enter upon the erecting, construction, alteration or change of any electrical
installation, work, wiring or fitting or electrical machinery covered by this chapter until such
person shall have first secured all necessary State of Texas license registration and
permits as required by this chapter.
15.16.040 Supervision of Placement of Wires. Etc.
The City Electrical Department or a regular franchised utility company, is hereby
authorized, empowered, and directed to have general supervision over the placing,
stringing or attaching of telegraph, telephone, electric light or other wires and cables, and
the placing of all poles and appliances, within their own system, so as to prevent fires,
accident or injury to persons or property; to cause all such wires and electric lights to be so
placed, constructed, and guarded as not to cause fire, accident, or endanger the life or
property of any inhabitant of the city; and all such lights and wires or electrical apparatus
now existing, as well as those hereafter constructed and placed, shall be subject to such
supervision.
15.16.050 When Wire is to be Disconnected
A. In time of fire, severe weather conditions, or other emergency, where in the safety of
lives or property may be endangered by the continued operation of electrical service wires
or apparatus providing electrical current, such may be ordered disconnected by the City
Electrical Department, the Mayor, the City Manager, Fire Chief, Incident Commander,
Emergency Operation Coordinator, the Building Official, the Inspection Services Staff or
the Chief of Police. Any such order shall be binding on every person owning or controlling
such wire or apparatus and such wires or apparatus as may be designated by any of the
above authorized officials shall be promptly disconnected and left disconnected until
authorization from the City Building Official or designee is given to the electrical utility
company for reconnection.
B. The City Utility Department shall request the electrical service to be disconnected from
any building and /or premises, except private residences and /or apartment buildings used
as residences, each time such buildings or premises have a change of occupants and
shall not be reconnected until authorized by the City Building Official or designee.
C. The City Utility Billing Department shall request the electrical service be disconnected
for private residences and /or apartment buildings when the occupant or owner, or the City
Building Official or designee requests such action. The utility company shall not again
supply electricity to such residence and /or apartment building until authorized to do so by
the City Building Official or designee.
D. The owners and /or the new occupants of such disconnected buildings and /or premises
shall make application to the City Building Official or designee for the inspection. The fee
for such inspection shall be set by the City Council. The electrical inspector shall make the
2
Electrical Code Ord. No. '' 7,f
Chapter 15.16 Revisions
2006 — Adoption of 2005 National Electrical Code
15.16.60 Reserved
ARTICLE If. STATE OF TEXAS LICENSE REGISTRATION
15.16.070 Definition
For the purpose of this chapter, the "Commission" shall mean the Building Standards
Commission of the City of Georgetown.
15.16.0$0 Reserved
150162090 Categories of Electricians
The City of Georgetown recognizes the same categories of electricians as the State of
Texas as set forth in Chapter 1305 of the Texas Occupations Code.
15.16.100 Supervision
All work shall be done under the general supervision of a licensed Master Electrician.
15.16.110 Qualifications- Requirements for Registration of State Licenses
Any person meeting the requirements of the State of Texas for a particular category of
license and possessing a valid license issued by the State of Texas shall be qualified to
register that license in the City of Georgetown.
15.16.120 Reserved
15.16.130 Examinations of Electricians
Examinations will be conducted by the State of Texas in accordance with the Texas
Electrical Safety and License Act.
15.16.140 Reserved
15.16.150 Registration and Fees
A. All electricians will register with the City of Georgetown at the Building Office prior to
commencing any work. Every application shall show a valid State of Texas Driver's
License Number, and provide the full name, date of birth, weight, height, color of eyes,
color of hair, gender, residence address, business address, and a photo ID of the applicant
issued by a government agency. The applicant shall be required to have his /her license
and registration in his /her possession at all times while on the job.
B. Registrations to be issued under the provisions of this article shall be issued only
after the payment and collection of the following fees:
3
Electrical Code Ord. No. 7
Chapter 15.16 Revisions
2006 — Adoption of 2005 National Electrical Code
CLASS
ORIGINAL
AND RENEWAL
FEE
ORIGINAL FEE
FROM JUNE -DEC.
Electrical Contractor
$150.00
$75.00
Electrical Sign Contractor
$150.00
Master Electrician
$75.00
Journeyman Electrician
$25.00
Residential Wireman
Restricted
$25.00
Journeyman Sign Electrician
$25.00
Building Maintenance Electrician
$25.00
Apprentice Electrician
$2.50
15.16.160 Reserved
15016.170 Reserved
15.16.180 Renewal of City Registration
A. Each registrant under the provisions of this article shall be entitled to renew his /her
City Registration of his /her State of Texas Electrical License upon the payment of the
renewal fee set forth above, provided such payment is made on or before the expiration
date. Renewals shall be made every 2 years with City License registration expiring on
December the 31St of that 2 -year period.
B. If a registrant permits his /her registration to expire, license registration can be
obtained by paying twice the amount of an original registration fee. The electrician shall
meet the requirements of the Continuing Education requirement in the Texas Electrical,
Safety and Licensing Act and provide proof at renewal. All State License shall be current at
the time of renewal.
15.160190 Transfer
It is unlawful for any person to transfer his /her electrician's State of Texas license or City of
Georgetown registration to allow the use of this license directly or indirectly by another
person for the purpose of obtaining a permit to do electrical work. It is unlawful for any
person not holding a State of Texas license or City of Georgetown registration to use the
same of another, for purpose of doing electrical work or securing a permit to do electrical
work.
15.16.200 Reserved
15816.210 Revocation of Registration
A. An electrical registration of any class issued by the City under the provisions of
this ordinance may be suspended or revoked upon the unanimous decision of the
Commission.
2
Electrical Code Ord. No.
Chapter 15.16 Revisions
2006 — Adoption of 2005 National Electrical Code
B. Registrations may be suspended or revoked should the holder violate any
provisions of the Code as adopted, State Law or City Ordinance or regulation
relating to or governing electrical wiring, repairing or construction. In the event
termination of a suspension or revocation of an electrical license registration should
fall within the next registering year, the electrician shall be required to pay for that
new registration in full.
C. No registration shall be suspended or revoked unless the registrant shall have
been given an opportunity to appear and be heard by the Commission. The
registrant shall have at least ten (10) days written notice specifying the reason(s) for
suspension or revocation.
D. Certain Acts Prohibited. It shall be a violation of this Code for any person:
1. To display, permit to be displayed or to have in one's possession, any
instrument purporting to be a registrant issued pursuant to this Code and the
State of Texas license, knowing such instrument to be fictitious, canceled,
suspended, revoked or altered.
2. To knowingly lend, transfer or permit the use of any registration for the
purpose of performing or obtaining a permit for electrical work, to any person
not entitled thereto under the provisions of this Code or the State of Texas.
3. To fail or refuse to surrender to the City Building Official or designee, on
demand, an electrician's registration, which has been canceled, suspended,
revoked or altered as provided by law.
4. To apply for, or have in one's possession, more than one (1) current
license of the same type provided for in this Code or the State of Texas.
5. To use a false or fictitious name or address in any registration application,
renewal, or duplicate request, or knowingly make a false statement, conceal
a material fact or otherwise commit fraud in making said application, renewal
or duplicate request.
6. To employ as a Master, Journeyman, or Apprentice Electrician any person
not then licensed as provided in this Code or the State of Texas.
7. To perform any electrical work requiring a State of Texas license or City of
Georgetown registration, without said license /and or City registration or while
said license is suspended or canceled.
8. To perform electrical work in any manner in violation of any restrictions
imposed on a licensee.
9. To perform electrical work as a Journeyman or Apprentice Electrician on a
job while not employed under the supervision of the Master Electrician of
record of said job.
10. To fail to request a final inspection upon completion of all electrical wiring
and installation requiring a permit.
11. To use a Contractors License to secure a permit while not a Master
Electrician or having a Master employed by the person holding the
Contractors License.
5
Electrical Code Ord. No.
Chapter 15.16 Revisions
2006 — Adoption of 2005 National Electrical Code
12. To perform electrical work as a licensed electrician or person for hire on
any job permitted under a home owners permit or to secure a home owners
permit and then allow someone else to perform the work.
15016.220 Reserved
15016.230 Reserved
15.16.240 Suspension /Penalties
A. The registration of any person may be suspended upon determination by the
Commission that said registrant has committed any of the following offenses:
1. Taking out a permit in the name of person authorized to do the electrical work
and thereafter permitting a person not authorized by this Code to perform the
electrical work.
2. Tampering with, diverting from or in any way interfering with the proper action or
registration of any electric meter.
3. Violating any provision of this Code, State law, City Ordinance or regulation
relating to or governing electrical wiring, repairing, or construction while on
probation imposed by the Commission.
4. Violating a term of probation or suspension.
B. Suspension provided for in this Code shall in the first instance be for a period of up to
six (6) months. For subsequent offenses said suspension shall be for a period of up to one
(1) year.
C. The suspension of any registration may be extended for a like period as the original
suspension upon a final determination by the Commission that a registrant has been
performing electrical work while his /her registration is suspended. Said suspension
extension may be in addition to any other penalty assessed, as provided in this Code.
15.16.250 Surrender and Return of Registration
Any registration which has been suspended pursuant to this Code shall be surrendered to
and retained by the City Building Official or designee. At the end of the period of
suspension, the surrendered registration shall be returned to the registrant and be valid
under the provisions in this Chapter, provided:
A. No further violations of this Chapter or the Code are committed by suspension
period; and
B. if the period of suspension extends beyond the normal expiration date of said
registration, the registrant has paid all fees in accordance with this Chapter.
15.16.260 Reserved
0
Electrical Code Ord. No. A 0
Chapter 15.16 Revisions
2006 — Adoption of 2005 National Electrical Code
ARTICLE 111. PERMITS AND INSPECTIONS
15.16.270 Inspection Does Not Relieve Owner Responsibility
This article shall not be construed to relieve from or lessen the responsibilities of any
person who owns, operates, or installs electrical wires, appliances, apparatus construction,
or equipment for the damage to property or persons,
the City or any agent thereof be deemed to assur
inspection authorized herein or the certificate of it
Official or designee.
injured by any defect therein nor shall
e any such liability by reason of the
spection issued by the City Building
15.16.280 Permits Required
A. No person shall commence the erection, construction, alteration or change of any
electrical installation, machinery, apparatus, work or wiring in the City until a permit
has been issued by the City Building Official or designee covering each installation
to be made.
B. When any wiring or apparatus is installed in such a manner that the same could
be used for electric light or power purposes, it shall be deemed that the wiring or
apparatus is used for such purposes and permit shall be required and inspection
made as provided for such purpose.
C. It shall be unlawful for the City Electric Department to do any wiring of any nature
in or on any building, except power houses and substations of electric light, heat
and power companies operating under a franchise granted by the City, for which a
permit has not been issued, or to make any electrical connections to any building or
electrical wiring or apparatus until a certificate of inspection or written statement
authorizing connection has been issued by the City Building Official or designee. All
persons operating under a regular franchise granted by the City shall, upon written
notice by the City Building Official or designee, disconnect any circuit, main service
wires, branch feeder wires, or distribution system, as designated by such notice,
and shall not reconnect such installation except upon written permission from the
City Building Official or designee.
D. No permit shall be required for the installation of wires to operate telephone,
telegraph or district messenger services, or repair or replacement of the same
electrical equipment wiring or apparatus.
15.16.290 To Whom Permits Shall Be Issued
Permits required by the provisions of this article shall be issued only to those persons who
have secured a State of Texas Electrical Contractor's and Electrical Sign Contractor's
License and have registered with the City or his /her representative under the provisions of
this ordinance or to a person whose home is owned and occupied by him /her.
7
Electrical Code Ord. No. c206& ° 7
Chapter 15.16 Revisions
2006 — Adoption of 2005 National Electrical Code
15.16.300 Permit Fees
A. Permit fees for Electrical work shall be set forth by the City Building Official or designee
and adopted by the City Council.
B. In case any work, for which a permit is required by this chapter, is started prior to
obtaining said permit, the fee above specified shall be doubled. The payment of such
doubled fee shall not relieve any person from fully complying with the requirements of this
chapter in the execution of work nor from other penalties prescribed herein.
15.16310 Issuance --- Electrical Permit
The City Building Official or designee shall issue an electrical permit showing the permit
number, the building or house number, a description of the work to be conducted, and the
name of the contractor.
15016.320 Construction Power Service. General
Construction power services shall be authorized for a period of time necessary for
completion, final inspection, and testing of the building or structure's electrical system. This
service is not to exceed six months for dwelling unit or one year for commercial or
institutional occupancies. An extension may be granted by the City Building Official or
designee for up to three months on dwelling unit construction sites and six months on
commercial or industrial sites. Construction power service can be ordered disconnected at
any time by the City Building Official or designee when the installation is declared unsafe
or construction work ceases for a period of one month. Reconnection of construction
service thus ordered shall not be reconnected until approved by the City Building Official or
designee and a renewal fee is paid to the City utility department.
A. Temporary Construction Power Poles. A temporary construction power pole
shall be authorized to service not more than one construction site and only when
the following requirements are met:
1. The responsible contractor applies for service at the City Utility Office;
furnishes the assigned address for the site involved; certifies that a
temporary metered construction power pole meeting city standards has been
erected on the site within 60 feet of utility pole which is capable of providing
the service; and the site has been marked with an address -sign clearly
visible from the street.
2. The temporary power pole shall be long enough in length to be a minimum
of 12 to 14 feet above grade after installation. Pole shall be set in the earth
and shall be guyed to withstand lateral pressures of the service under normal
weather and wind conditions and will provide a 12' clearance over driveways
and an 18' clearance over public streets.
3. The temporary power pole shall be grounded as per City of Georgetown
requirements and have a metered service of sufficient size to meet the
construction needs. All receptacle outlets shall be protected by G.F.C.I's as
required per Article 590.6 of the Code
Electrical Code Ord. No. 7
Chapter 15.16 Revisions
2006 — Adoption of 2005 National Electrical Code
B. Permanent Construction Service. Permanent construction service may be
authorized for a building or structure under construction provided that:
1. The permanent service equipment has been installed and the building is
dried -in.
2. The service disconnect and service grounding system has been
completed.
3. All construction feeders and branch circuits to be activated are installed
and properly safe - guarded from electrical shock and overload.
4. A notice is posted on the main disconnect and all activated main and sub -
panels indicating they are in- service and are not to be opened except by the
responsible electrical contractor.
5. The system has been inspected and approved by the City Building Official
or designee.
6. The fuses in the main disconnect switch or the breaker shall be in place
when the City Building Official or designee performs the permanent power
inspection of the electrical work.
Permanent construction service will be required on the building or structure prior to final
inspection and certification by the City Building Official or designee.
15016330 Inspections
Inspections by the City Building Official or designee shall be requested by the person
performing electrical work for which a permit has been issued. The electrical inspector
shall make the inspection as soon as practicable exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays, and
holidays. The electrical contractor, electrical sign contractor or the Master Electrician
responsible may be required to be present at the construction site during the final
inspection.
15.16340 Work Not to be Concealed
Work will not be concealed until inspected and approval given of such work by the City
Building Official or designee.
15.16.350 Reserved
15016360 Approval Tag
After inspecting any electrical wiring, the City Building Official or designee shall leave
notice in the form of a tag or label attached to the service entrance switch; which such
notice shall clearly state whether the wiring is approved or is to be kept open for correction.
15.16.370 Defective Workmanship
Any person engaged in the business of electrical construction or the installation of wiring or
apparatus for electric light or power in the City who shall fail to correct any defect(s) in any
work done by him after having been notified of such defect(s) by the City Building Official
or designee and given a specified period of time within which to make such correction and
fails or refuses within such time to correct such defect(s) in conformity with this ordinance
or the lawful orders of the City Building Official or designee, shall not be issued any further
0
Electrical Code Ord. No. ° 7
Chapter 15.16 Revisions
2006 — Adoption of 2005 National Electrical Code
permits until such defect(s) have been corrected. On any case in which any person shall
continue to or persistently violate the provisions of this ordinance or the orders of the City
Building Official or designee in relation to the same, the license of such person may be
suspended or revoked upon recommendation by the Commission.
15.16380 Certificates of Inspection
On the satisfactory completion of the work covered by a permit in accordance with all
ordinances and laws, the City Building Official or designee shall issue a certificate of
inspection. The certificate of inspection shall certify that the work is in accordance with the
rules governing the respective class to which it belongs.
15.16.390 Effect of Nonconforming Existing Work on Issuance of Certificate of
Inspection
Where a permit is issued for an addition to existing work, wherein the new work is
satisfactorily completed, but the existing work to which it is connected does not conform to
the rules laid down by this ordinance, the City Building Official or designee shall issue a
written statement to the effect that the new work complies with the rules, but that the
existing work may not comply with the provisions of this ordinance. This statement shall
constitute notice to the owner or other interested party that the entire installation may not
comply with the provisions of this ordinance and may not prevent the issuance of a
completion certificate for the new work.
15616.400 Refusal of Certificate of Inspection
The City Building Official or designee is hereby given the authority to refuse to issue a
certificate of inspection for any addition, or extension to any electrical wiring in or on any
building wherein it is determined that the wiring is in an unsafe condition. The City Building
Official or designee shall refuse to issue a Certificate of Inspection and no electric light and
power company shall connect electrical current to the same if any violations of this
ordinance exist.
152160410 Routine Inspection
It shall be the duty of the City Building Official or designee to inspect all electrical wiring
and apparatus in the city at any time in order to ascertain whether such electrical wiring or
apparatus is in any respect dangerous to life or property; and, if any part of such electrical
wiring or apparatus is found to be in a defective or dangerous condition, the City Building
Official or designee shall have the authority to take whatever action is necessary for safety
of life and property. City Building Official or designee shall notify the property owner or
tenant within a reasonable time of any defect and /or action taken. If the owner of such
defective wiring or equipment shall refuse or fail to comply with this requirement, he /she
shall be held to be in direct violation of this ordinance.
150164420 Commercial Buildings -- Raceways
A. All commercial buildings shall be wired in raceways;
B. All existing commercial buildings and those buildings used as residential -use buildings
and thereafter converted to commercial usage, the requirement for the installation of
10
Electrical Code Ord. No. ® 7
Chapter 15.16 Revisions
2006 — Adoption of 2005 National Electrical Code
raceway will be determined on a case by case basis by the City Building Official or
designee and /or Building Standards Commission.
ARTICLE IV, TECHNICAL PROVISIONS
15160430 2005 National Electrical Code
A. The governing edition of the 2005 National Electrical Code shall be that edition
accepted by an adopting Ordinance approved by the Commission and enacted by the City
Council for the City of Georgetown.
B. In the installation, construction, erection, repair, and maintenance of all electrical
wiring and apparatus, the rules and the requirements of the 2005 National Electric Code,
as published by the National Fire Protection Association, together with such requirements
and rules as are provided herein, shall be complied with and become a part of this Code.
C. In the event of any conflict between the provisions of this ordinance and the
National Electrical Code, the more stringent of the two Codes, as interpreted by the City
Building Official or designee, shall prevail.
15.16.440 Services -- Location
All service entrance wires into a building shall be located at a point on the building
specified by the City Electrical Department. Where practical, all service conduits shall be
extended through the outside building wall on a street or alley side at such point as will
avoid open service wires being placed over roofs or through courts, light and ventilating
shafts, and over adjoining property.
15.16.450 Service -- Support
A. Where service wires enter a building through stucco, tiles, brick or other masonry
walls, substantial support for the service wires must be provided, such support to be able
to withstand the strain and weight of service drop and shall be installed by the contractor
during the construction of the supporting wall and the location of same shall be designated
by the City Electrical Department.
B. Where service wires enter a building through other type walls, substantial support
for the service must be provided, such support to consist of an approved one point terminal
insulator of sufficient size to support the service for the distance and size wire involved,
bolted through a major structural member of the building or structure and installed prior to
the electrical rough -in inspection by the contractor.
15416.460 Service -- Entrance
All service entrance wires making overhead entrances into buildings shall be carried in
metal conduit with weatherproof service head, and the conduit shall be brought from the
entrance to the fuse switch or breaker. The service entrance to the service switch cabinet
shall be as short as possible, but in no case greater than three feet within the building
11
Electrical Code Ord. No.
Chapter 15.16 Revisions
2006 — Adoption of 2005 National Electrical Code
without the special permission from the City Building Official or designee. Length of outside
service wire extension beyond service head shall not be less than two feet.
15.16.470 Service - -Mast
A service mast is a service which penetrates a roof or supports a service drop. A mast
shall be used anytime proper clearance cannot be achieved without penetrating the roof.
A mast shall conform to the following specifications:
A. Minimum 2" IMC or galvanized rigid conduit;
B. No coupling above the roofline;
C. Mast must penetrate a minimum of 18 above roof measured on the high side of
conduit;
D. Any mast over 3' in length (measured from high side of conduit) must be properly
guyed so as to relieve the strain of the service drop; and
E. Properly installed fleshings and fittings must be installed to prevent leakage.
15.16.480 Service Lateral
A. Underground secondary service conductors shall be run in 2 inch schedule 40 PVC
conduit or better;
B. Conduit trenches shall be left open until they are inspected and approved by the City
Building Inspection Department or the City Electrical Department;
C. Greater than 200 amp services for Laterals shall be installed in a minimum 3"
Raceway.
15.16.490 Service Disconnects
A. Single Family residences shall have a single curr
located or adjacent to its primary service equipment. This
the building and not be a part of city distribution equipment;
=nt limiting service disconnect
disconnect must be located on
15.16.500 Meters- -Types
City Electric Department shall determine the type of metering and its location.
15.16.510 Meters -- Installation
A. The meter shall be installed outside the building unless special permission
is granted by the City Electrical Department.
B. Under no circumstances shall any meter be moved or relocated unless
authorization is given by employees of the City Electrical Department.
C. For 1 & 2 Family Dwelling and Commercial applications- meters shall be placed
between (4) four feet and (6) six feet above the finished grade measured to center
of meter can. The City Electrical Department will furnish the meter can, but the
contractor shall install them. If the height exceeds six feet special permission is
required by the City Electrical Department.
12
Electrical Code Ord. No. 00 d7
Chapter 15.16 Revisions
2006 — Adoption of 2005 National Electrical Code
D. For three or more meters installed in anyone location, meters shall be installed
not less than four feet from finished grade and no more than six feet from finish
grade. Special installation shall be approved by the City Inspection Department or
City Electrical Building Official.
15.16.520 Circuit Wire Sizes --- Copper
A. Wire of size not smaller than No.12 AWG shall be used for lighting distribution circuits
from panels to outlets.
B. Exceptions are in residential installations wherein No.14 AWG wire may be used for
switch legs serving not more than 600 watts. All utility outlets shall be minimum No.12
AWG.
C. Control wiring maybe a No.14 AWG conductor and must be fused by not more than 15
amperes.
D. Electrical Conductors of No.14 AWG for branch circuits shall not be allowed,
15.16.530 Aluminum Conductors
A. Aluminum and copper -clad aluminum conductors of sizes smaller than No. 6 AWG
shall not be used.
B. Aluminum and copper -clad aluminum conductors of sizes No.6 AWG and larger may
be used with approved devices and terminals provided suitable oxidation inhibitors are
used on all terminals, and splices are made as specified in a UL listing for the device
being used.
15.16.540 Installation of outlets. Switches Receptacle Boxes, Smoke detectors
A. All lighting outlets, switches, and receptacle boxes shall be attached to the wood,
steel, drywall or masonry framing of the building in accordance with the manufacturer's
written instruction.
B. All switch and receptacle devices will be U.L. approved. No "quick wire" devices are
allowed. Wiring must be attached to the device with factory screws or factory screw and
pressure plates. No push in pressure devices shall be allowed; All Smoke Detectors shall
be connected to dedicated circuits and not on Arch Fault Circuits;
C. GFCI's installed in the kitchens and bathrooms shall be provided with a re -set type
of receptacle outlets in the kitchen and bathroom areas and not at one point of re -set such
as the main disconnect panel.
15.16.550 Outlets - Residential
A. For general wiring of dwellings restricted to residential use, including apartments, hotels
and motels, not more than twelve (12) outlets shall be permitted on anyone (1) branch
circuit.
B. Refrigerator shall be on a dedicated circuit.
13
Electrical Code Ord. No. A&W °7
Chapter 15.16 Revisions
2006 — Adoption of 2005 National Electrical Code
C. Microwave ovens shall be on a dedicated circuit.
D. In the kitchen, pantry, breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling unit, the
two or more 20 ampere small appliance branch circuits shall consist of no more than 6
outlets on each circuit.
15.16.560 Grounding
The grounding and bonding methods shall comply with 2005 National Electrical Code as
adopted and as specified by this section for each service installed, including but not limited
to:
A. An underground metallic water pipe shall not be used as the only grounding
electrode for a service;
B. Primary Electrode: Due to the amount of rock in the Georgetown area, Article
250 -52 (A) 3, "Concrete- Encased Electrode" shall apply to that of all new
construction within the corporate city limits and the ETJ areas where the City of
Georgetown supplies and inspects for Electrical service installations;
C. The grounding and bonding systems for the new construction of Commercial and
metal or steel structures shall meet the requirements of the 2005 National Electrical
Code and those as specified herein;
D. Bonding and/ or grounding conductors shall be installed so as to prevent contact
between dissimilar metal(s);
E. No gas piping shall be permitted to be used for grounding purposes;
F. For that of existing structures where the encasement of the primary electrode in
concrete is not feasible for a service up- grade, change out, repair, or addition of
Services, at least one (1) grounding electrode of the type specified in Article's 250-
50 of the 2005 National Electrical Code as adopted shall apply;
G. The interior metal water piping system shall be bonded to the service grounding
system with a conductor as per the 2005 National Electrical Code as adopted, the
point of attachment shall be accessible. This requirement shall apply to both new
construction and up- grade, change out, repair, or addition of services of existing
structures;
H. All water softener systems shall have a bonding jumper, #6 or larger, between
incoming water supply piping and outgoing treated water piping; and shall be
installed with an approved bonding clamp inside the wall with accessibility to the
clamps;
I. Two Concrete Encased Electrodes shall be installed when the water piping is a
non - metallic material; and
14
Electrical Code Ord. No.
Chapter 15.16 Revisions
2006 — Adoption of 2005 National Electrical Code
J. Concrete Encased Electrodes shall be used for the grounding for light poles.
154168570 Safeguards
A. Color coding of conductors:
1. Single Phase 120/240 Volt System
Phase:
A
K
3
C]
5
B
Neutral
Three Phase
Phase:
A
Black
Red
White
120/240 Volt center tap Delta System.
B
C
Neutral
Three Phase 480 Volt Delta System
Phase:
A
B
C
Three Phase 120/208 Volt WYE System
Phase:
A
B
C
Neutral
Three Phase 277/480 Volt WYE System
Phase:
A
B
C
Neutral
Black
Orange (high leg)
Red
White
Brown
Yellow
Purple
Black
Red
Blue
White
Brown
Yellow
Purple
Natural Gray
B. Terminal Blocks are to be used in the connection of conductors within gutters.
C. On gutters serving new multiple services the electrical contractor will furnish terminal
blocks with the capacity to serve the maximum number of available services (tenants).
D. When adding a meter (tenant) to an existing gutter service, the electrical contractor
will be responsible for setting all meter cans and related equipment and furnishing tails
long enough to access the existing terminal blocks. Community Owned Utilities will
make connections after the service has passed inspection and meter is set. Under no
circumstances is the electrical contractor to tie in the service before it is inspected.
15
Electrical Code Ord. No. A00&15
Chapter 15.16 Revisions
2006 — Adoption of 2005 National Electrical Code
E. All gutters shall be marked on the exterior with available voltage, amperage and
phases.
15.16.580 Installation of Cabinets and Panel Requirements
A. All main and branch circuit panels shall be attached to wall or panel mountings
with screws, studs, or toggle bolts.
B. All panels installed for electrical disconnecting means shall be installed with spare
spaces and raceways for future use:
1. For each panel in residential buildings, a minimum of one (1) spare one -inch
raceway shall be installed from the panel to an accessible location in the attic or
crawlspace for recessed panels only. All disconnect panels installed in residential
occupancies must be large enough to accommodate the present load requirements
and have at least three (3) spare circuits for future use.
2. For each panel installed in commercial buildings, the requirements for that of
paragraph (1) of this section shall apply; except that all disconnect panels installed
in commercial occupancies shall provide at least four (4) spare circuits for future
use.
15.16.590 Engineers Seal Required
In accordance with the Texas Engineering Practice Act, all drawings pertaining to non -
dwelling construction projects of five thousand (5,000) square feet or more shall bear the
seal of an engineer licensed in the State of Texas. The Building Official is hereby
authorized to require at his /her discretion, said seal to be placed upon drawings for non -
dwelling construction projects of lessor square footage.
16
Electrical Code Ord. No. ADO&o75.
Chapter 15.16 Revisions
2006 — Adoption of 2005 National Electrical Code