WSR 06-16-113

PROPOSED RULES

BUILDING CODE COUNCIL


[ Filed August 1, 2006, 11:30 a.m. ]

     Original Notice.

     Preproposal statement of inquiry was filed as WSR 06-07-126 and 06-07-127.

     Title of Rule and Other Identifying Information: Amendment of chapter 51-50 WAC, adoption and amendment of the 2006 Edition of the International Building Code (IBC).

     Hearing Location(s): Spokane City Council Chambers, West 808 Spokane Falls Boulevard, Spokane, WA, on September 8, 2006, at 10:00 a.m.; and at the Holiday Inn Select Renton, One Grady Way South, Renton, WA, on October 13, 2006, at 10:00 a.m.

     Date of Intended Adoption: November 17, 2006.

     Submit Written Comments to: John Neff, Council Chair, P.O. Box 42525, Olympia, WA 98504-2525, e-mail sbcc@cted.wa.gov, fax (360) 586-9383, by October 13, 2006.

     Assistance for Persons with Disabilities: Contact Sue Mathers by August 31, 2006, TTY (360) 586-0772 or (360) 725-2966.

     Purpose of the Proposal and Its Anticipated Effects, Including Any Changes in Existing Rules: The proposed rules adopt the most recently published edition of the IBC and make changes to the state amendments to this code. This proposal also adopts amendments to the 2006 International Existing Buildings Code in an appendix available for local adoption.

     1. WAC 51-50-003 International Building Code: Adopts by reference the 2006 edition of the International Building Code, including Appendix E.

     2. WAC 51-50-007 Exception: References the 2006 International Existing Building Code as Appendix Chapter M.

     3. WAC 51-50-008 Implementation: Sets an effective date of July 1, 2007.

     4. Section 107 Temporary Structures and Uses: Allows unheated tents and yurts under 500 square feet to be used indefinitely.

     5. Section 202 Definitions: Modifies definitions of "story," and "story above grade." Does not adopt definition of "residential care/ assisted living."

     6. Section 308 Institutional Group I: Deletes reference to Group R-4 and LC, and replaces with reference to Group R-2.

     7. Section 310 Residential Group R: Deletes reference to Group LC; adds boarding homes and residential treatment facilities to Group R-2; does not adopt Group R-4 and definition of "residential care/assisted living."

     8. Section 406 Motor vehicle related occupancies: Deletes requirement for a sloped floor in a parking area for automobiles and other vehicles.

     9. Section 407 Group I-2: Clarifies intent for the system controlling locks on exit doors to allow appropriate occupants to exit.

     10. Section 502 Definitions: Modifies definition of "basement" and "story."

     11. Section 503 General height and area limitations: New footnote "e" to Table 503 allows an additional story increase for Group B or Group R, Divisions 1 and 2 Occupancies of Type VA construction, when certain conditions are met.

     12. Section 506 Area modifications: Exempts certain basements from being included in the total allowable area for a building.

     13. Section 509 Special Provisions: Clarifies the methods used to establish the equivalent of separate and distinct buildings.

     14. Section 707 Shaft enclosures: Establishes pressurization method for elevator hoistways for smoke control, as an alternate to enclosed lobbies. New section adopts new provisions in the 2006 IBC, and relocates and revises current state amendment from 909.6.3.

     15. Section 903 Automatic sprinkler systems: Subsections amended:

     a. 903.2.1.2: Group A-2 threshold for requiring sprinklers, deletes state amendment. Threshold in the 2006 IBC is equivalent.

     b. 903.2.2: State law requires sprinklers in Group E educational occupancies. (RCW 19.27.113.) This amendment eliminates most exemptions for Group E occupancies. The change exempts portable classroom clusters up to 5000 square feet and Group E occupancies of less than 50 occupants from sprinkler requirements.

     c. 903.2.7 Group R. Exempts from sprinkler requirements certain Group R occupancies that meet the listed criteria.

     903.2.10.3 Buildings over 75 feet in height. Deletes the amendment requiring sprinklers in buildings over 75 feet in height. Reverts to 2006 IBC requiring sprinklers in buildings 55 feet or more in height.

     16. Section 909 -- Smoke control systems: Removes elevator shaft pressurization requirements from this section; reverts to 2006 IBC section 707.14.

     17. Section 1008.1.2 Door swing: Adds an exception to allow manual sliders in certain low occupancy areas. Removes reference to power operated door, which is covered in amendments to Chapter 11 and ANSI A117.1.

     18. Section 1009.12 Stairways and handrails: Exempts limited areas in dwellings from stairway requirements.

     19. Section 1014.2.2 Exit Access Group I-2 Suites: Clarifies exit access provisions for suites in Group I-2 occupancies (hospitals, nursing homes). Defines intervening rooms and how travel distance is measured.

     20. Section 1015 Exit and exit access doorways: Allows one exit in some dwelling units. Clarifies the number of exit access doorways required from spaces and corrects references for consistency.

     21. Section 1017 Corridor construction, air movement and smoke barriers: For Group R-2 boarding homes or residential treatment facilities licensed by the state, allows "rest areas" in corridors and requires a smoke barrier on floors other than the level of exit discharge. Adds exceptions to use of corridors for air movement to correlate with the state mechanical code.

     22. Section 1019 Number of exits and continuity: Clarifies the number of exit access doorways required from stories, creates an exception allowing one means of egress for dwelling units with a maximum occupant load of 20, and corrects references for consistency.

     23. Section 1101 Accessibility, General: Indicates ANSI A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities is amended by this rule.

     24. Section 1101.2.1 (ICC A117.1 Section 403.7) Walking surface rise and landings: Requires landings for walking surfaces on an accessible route with over 30 inches rise.

     25. Section 1101.2.2 (ICC A117.1 Section 403.5) Clear width of accessible route: Requires exterior accessible routes to be 44 inches wide.

     26. Section 1101.2.3 (ICC A117.1 Section 404.2.8) Door-opening force: Exterior doors must have an opening force of 10 pounds maximum or be automatic doors. Interior doors must have an opening force of 5 pounds maximum or be automatic doors.

     27. Section 1101.2.4 (ICC A117.1 Section 407.4.6.2.2) Arrangement of elevator car buttons: This section of ANSI A117.1 is not adopted, title is amended to indicate section scope.

     28. Section 1101.2.5 (ICC A117.1 Section 603.4) and Section 1101.2.6 (ICC A117.1 Section 604.11) Coat hooks and shelves: Amends maximum reach height for shelves in bathrooms and toilet compartments to 42 inches.

     29. Section 1101.2.7 (ICC A117.1 Section 606.7) Operable parts: Amends the maximum reach height for operable parts on dispensers and equipment in bathrooms to 40 inches.

     30. Section 1101.2.8 (ICC A117.1 Section 604.6) Flush controls: Amends the maximum height for flush controls to 44 inches.

     31. Section 1101.2.9 (ICC A117.1 Section 703.6.3.1) International Symbol of Accessibility. Requires all signs depicting the International Symbol of Accessibility be white on a blue background.

     32. Section 1101.2.11 (ICC A117.1 Section 404.3.5) Control switches: Amends the height of control switches for automatic doors to 32 inches minimum and 40 inches maximum, and centers clear floor space on the control switch.

     33. Section 1106 Parking and passenger loading facilities: Amends the scope of required parking for hospital and rehabilitation facilities. Clarifies the location of the accessible route of travel.

     34. Section 1107 Dwelling units and sleeping units: Requires accessible units be dispersed in proportion to the various types of units in a multi-unit building.

     35. Section 1107.6.2.1.1 Type A Units: Deletes state amendment to this section requiring at least 5% of Group R-2 units on a site with more than 10 units be Type A units. Reverts to the 2006 IBC, requiring at least 2% of Group R-2 units on a site with more than 20 units be Type A units.

     36. Section 1204 Temperature Control: Provides an exception to the space heating requirement for Group R-1 transient hotels, motels and boarding houses not more than 500 square feet in area. Maintains state amendment related to solid fuel burning appliances.

     37. Section 1205 Lighting: Requires every space in Group R occupancies to be provided with natural light except kitchens and one additional room not more than 15% of the area of the dwelling unit.

     38. Section 1405 Installation of wall coverings: Corrects a reference to the standard for anchored masonry veneer.

     39. Section 1602 Definitions and Notations and Section 1607 Live Loads. Definitions of "exterior balcony" and "deck" are not adopted. Amends live load for balconies to be the same as for decks.

     40. Section 1702 Definitions: State amendment to definition of "structural observation" is deleted, reverting to the 2006 IBC. A new definition of "small business" is added.

     41. Section 1714 Preconstruction Load Tests: For exterior doors and windows, provides an exception to the load testing requirement for small business manufacturers.

     42. Section 2106 Seismic Design: Provides an exception for special reinforced masonry shear walls.

     43. Chapter 29 Plumbing Systems: Retains state amended chapter regulating the number and location of plumbing fixtures. Adds a requirement for toilet rooms in Group R-2 boarding homes and residential treatment facilities (2902.1.1). Provides an exception allowing a reduction in the number of fixtures in multiplex movie theaters (Table 2902.1 footnote 9).

     44. Section 3001 Elevators and Conveying Systems: General requirements from the 2006 IBC are referenced.

     45. Section 3004 Hoistway Venting: Requires a damper on elevator hoistway vents.

     46. Section 3006 Machine Rooms: Clarifies the requirement for machine room venting and provides an exception.

     47. Section 3103 Temporary structures: Allows unheated tents and yurts under 500 square feet to be used indefinitely.

     48. Section 3109 Swimming pool enclosures and safety devices: The regulations for public swimming pool barriers are not adopted. Barriers are regulated by the department of health under WAC 246-260-031(4).

     49. Section 3409 Accessibility for existing buildings: Reverts to 2006 IBC for alterations, elevators and platform lifts, and notification devices for dwelling and sleeping units. Retains state amendments requiring telephones on an accessible route and allowing the number of toilet facilities to be reduced in order to provide accessibility.

     50. Section 480000 Appendix Chapter M: Creates a new appendix containing the 2006 International Existing Building Code with state amendments.

     Reasons Supporting Proposal: RCW 19.27A.031 and 19.27A.074.

     Statutory Authority for Adoption: RCW 19.27A.031, 19.27A.074.

     Statute Being Implemented: Chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW.

     Rule is not necessitated by federal law, federal or state court decision.

     Agency Comments or Recommendations, if any, as to Statutory Language, Implementation, Enforcement, and Fiscal Matters: The council is seeking comments on the issues proposed in the following rules.

     Name of Proponent: Washington state building code council, governmental.

     Name of Agency Personnel Responsible for Drafting and Implementation: Tim Nogler, P.O. Box 42525, Olympia, WA 98504-2525, (360) 725-2969; and Enforcement: Local jurisdictions.

     No small business economic impact statement has been prepared under chapter 19.85 RCW. This rule will update the adoption of model codes to stay current with national standards for the benefit of industry and Washington state interests. New state amendments clarify and simplify the code. Where disproportionate economic impact on small business was identified, proposed amendments mitigate the impact by providing an exemption for small business.

     A cost-benefit analysis is not required under RCW 34.05.328. The state building code council is not listed in this section as one of the agencies required to comply with this statute.

August 1, 2006

John P. Neff

Council Chair

OTS-8997.3

Chapter 51-50 WAC

STATE BUILDING CODE ADOPTION AND AMENDMENT OF THE ((2003)) 2006 EDITION OF THE INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 05-01-014, filed 12/2/04, effective 7/1/05)

WAC 51-50-003   International Building Code.   The ((2003)) 2006 edition of the International Building Code, including (([107])) Appendix E, published by the International Code Council is hereby adopted by reference with the exceptions noted in this chapter of the Washington Administrative Code.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.020, 19.27.031, 19.27.074 and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 05-01-014, § 51-50-003, filed 12/2/04, effective 7/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.190, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 04-18-033, § 51-50-003, filed 8/25/04, effective 9/25/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-108, § 51-50-003, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 05-01-014, filed 12/2/04, effective 7/1/05)

WAC 51-50-005   International Building Code requirements for barrier-free accessibility.   Chapter 11 and other International Building Code requirements for barrier-free access, including ICC A117.1-2003 and Appendix E (([107])), are adopted pursuant to chapters 70.92 and 19.27 RCW.

     Pursuant to RCW 19.27.040, Chapter 11 and requirements affecting barrier-free access shall not be amended by local governments.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.020, 19.27.031, 19.27.074 and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 05-01-014, § 51-50-005, filed 12/2/04, effective 7/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.190, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 04-18-033, § 51-50-005, filed 8/25/04, effective 9/25/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-108, § 51-50-005, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 04-01-108, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04)

WAC 51-50-007   Exceptions.   The exceptions and amendments to the International Building Code contained in the provisions of chapter 19.27 RCW shall apply in case of conflict with any of the provisions of these rules.

     The provisions of this code do not apply to temporary growing structures used solely for the commercial production of horticultural plants including ornamental plants, flowers, vegetables, and fruits. "Temporary growing structure" means a structure that has the sides and roof covered with polyethylene, polyvinyl, or similar flexible synthetic material and is used to provide plants with either frost protection or increased heat retention. A temporary growing structure is not considered a building for purposes of this code.

     The provisions of this code do not apply to the construction, alteration, or repair of temporary worker housing except as provided by rule adopted under chapter 70.114A RCW or chapter 37, Laws of 1998 (SB 6168). "Temporary worker housing" means a place, area, or piece of land where sleeping places or housing sites are provided by an employer for his or her employees or by another person, including a temporary worker housing operator, who is providing such accommodations for employees, for temporary, seasonal occupancy, and includes "labor camps" under RCW 70.54.110.

     Codes referenced which are not adopted through RCW 19.27.031 or chapter 19.27A RCW shall not apply unless specifically adopted by the authority having jurisdiction. The 2006 International Existing Building Code is referenced in this code as Appendix Chapter M and may be adopted by the authority having jurisdiction in accordance with Section 101.2.1.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-108, § 51-50-007, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 04-01-108, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04)

WAC 51-50-008   Implementation.   The International Building Code adopted under chapter 51-50 WAC shall become effective in all counties and cities of this state on July 1, ((2004)) 2007.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-108, § 51-50-008, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]


NEW SECTION
WAC 51-50-0107   Temporary structures and uses.  

107.1 General. The building official is authorized to issue a permit for temporary structures and temporary uses. Such permits shall be limited as to time of service, but shall not be permitted for more than 180 days. The building official is authorized to grant extensions for demonstrated cause.


EXCEPTION: The building official may authorize unheated tents and yurts under 500 square feet accommodating an R-1 Occupancy for recreational use as a temporary structure and be allowed to be used indefinitely.

[]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 05-24-070, filed 12/5/05, effective 7/1/06)

WAC 51-50-0200   Chapter 2 -- Definitions.  


SECTION 202 -- DEFINITIONS.


ADULT FAMILY HOME. See Section 310.2.


CHILD DAY CARE. See Section 310.2.


CHILD DAY CARE HOME, FAMILY. See Section 310.2.


NIGHTCLUB. An establishment, other than a theater with fixed seating, which includes all of the following:

     1. Provides live entertainment by paid performing artists or by way of recorded music conducted by a person employed or engaged to do so;

     2. Has as its primary source of revenue the sale of beverages of any kind for consumption on the premises and/or cover charges;

     3. Has an occupant load of 100 or more as determined by the fire code official; and

     4. Includes assembly space without fixed seats considered concentrated or standing space per Table 1004.1.2.

     Paid performing artists are those entertainers engaged to perform in a for-profit business establishment.


PORTABLE SCHOOL CLASSROOM. See Section 902.1.


RESIDENTIAL CARE/ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES. See Section 310.2. This definition is not adopted.


STORY. That portion of a building included between the upper surface of a floor and the upper surface of the floor or roof next above, including basements (also see "Mezzanine" and Section 502.1). It is measured as the vertical distance from top to top of two successive tiers of beams or finished floor surfaces and, for the topmost story, from the top of the floor finish to the top of the ceiling joists or, where there is not a ceiling, to the top of the roof rafters.


     STORY ABOVE GRADE PLANE. Any story having its finished floor surface entirely above grade plane, except that a basement shall be considered as a story above grade plane where the finished surface of the floor or roof next above the basement is:

     1. More than 6 feet (1829 mm) above grade plane; or

     2. More than 12 feet (3658 mm) above the finished ground level at any point.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.020, 19.27.031, 19.27.074, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 05-24-070, § 51-50-0200, filed 12/5/05, effective 7/1/06. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-108, § 51-50-0200, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 04-01-108, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04)

WAC 51-50-0308   Section 308 -- Institutional Group I.  


308.2 Group I-1. This occupancy shall include buildings, structures or parts thereof housing more than 16 persons, on a 24-hour basis, who because of age, mental disability or other reasons, live in a supervised residential environment that provides personal care services. The occupants are capable of responding to an emergency situation without physical assistance from staff. This group shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

     Residential board and care facilities

     Assisted living facilities

     Halfway houses

     Group homes

     Congregate care facilities

     Social rehabilitation facilities

     Alcohol and drug centers

     Convalescent facilities

     A facility such as the above with five or fewer persons and adult family homes licensed by the Washington state department of social and health services shall be classified as a Group R-3 or shall comply with the International Residential Code in accordance with Section 101.2. ((A facility such as above, housing at least six and not more than 16 persons, shall be classified as Group R-4.))

     A facility such as the above providing licensed care to clients in one of the categories listed in Section ((313.1)) 310.1 regulated by either the Washington department of health or the department of social and health services shall be classified as ((Licensed Care Group LC)) Group R-2.


308.3 Group I-2. This occupancy shall include buildings and structures used for medical, surgical, psychiatric, nursing or custodial care on a 24-hour basis of more than five persons who are not capable of self-preservation. This group shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

     Hospitals

     Nursing homes (both intermediate-care facilities and skilled nursing facilities)

     Mental hospitals

     Detoxification facilities

     A facility such as the above with five or fewer persons shall be classified as Group R-3 or shall comply with the International Residential Code in accordance with Section 101.2.

     A facility such as the above providing licensed care to clients in one of the categories listed in Section ((313.1)) 310.1 regulated by either the Washington department of health or the department of social and health services shall be classified as ((Licensed Care Group LC)) Group R-2.


308.5.2 Child care facility. A facility that provides supervision and personal care on a less than 24-hour basis for more than five children 2 1/2 years of age or less shall be classified as Group I-4.


EXCEPTIONS: 1. A child day care facility that provides care for more than five but no more than 100 children 2 1/2 years or less of age, when the rooms where such children are cared for are located on the level of exit discharge and each of these child care rooms has an exit door directly to the exterior, shall be classified as Group E.
2. Family child day care homes licensed by the Washington state department of social and health services for the care of twelve or fewer children shall be classified as Group R-3.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-108, § 51-50-0308, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 04-01-108, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04)

WAC 51-50-0310   Section 310 -- Residential Group R.  


310.1 Residential Group R. Residential Group R includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or a portion thereof, for sleeping purposes when not classified as an Institutional Group I or ((Licensed Care Group LC)) when not regulated by the International Residential Code in accordance with Section 101.2. Residential occupancies shall include the following:


R-1 Residential occupancies where the occupants are primarily transient in nature, including:

     Boarding houses (transient)

     Hotels (transient)

     Motels (transient)


R-2 Residential occupancies containing sleeping units or more than two dwelling units where the occupants are primarily permanent in nature, including:

     Apartment houses

     Boarding houses (not transient)

     Boarding homes as licensed by department of social and health services under chapter 388-78A WAC

     Convents

     Dormitories

     Fraternities and sororities

     Hotels (nontransient)

     Monasteries

     Motels (nontransient)

     Residential treatment facilities as licensed by department of health under chapter 246-337 WAC

     Vacation timeshare properties

     ((Hotels (nontransient)

     Motels (nontransient)))


R-3 Residential occupancies where the occupants are primarily permanent in nature and not classified as R-1, R-2, R-4 or I and where buildings do not contain more than two dwelling units as applicable in Section 101.2, including adult family homes and family child day care homes for the care of twelve or fewer children, licensed by the Washington state department of social and health services, or adult and child care facilities that provide accommodations for five or fewer persons of any age for less than 24 hours. Adult family homes and family child day care homes, or adult and child care facilities that are within a single-family home are permitted to comply with the International Residential Code in accordance with Section 101.2.


     Foster family care homes licensed by the Washington state department of social and health services shall be permitted, as an accessory use to a dwelling, for six or fewer children including those of the resident family.


((R-4 Residential occupancies shall include buildings arranged for occupancy as residential care/assisted living facilities including more than five but not more than 16 occupants, excluding staff.


EXCEPTIONS: 1. A facility such as the above providing licensed care to clients in one of the categories listed in Section 313.1 regulated by either the Washington department of health or the department of social and health services shall be classified as Licensed Care Group LC.
2. Adult family homes, family child day care homes and foster family care homes shall be classified as Group R-3.

     Group R-4 Occupancies shall meet the requirements for construction as defined for Group R-3 except as otherwise provided for in this code or shall comply with the International Residential Code in accordance with Section 101.2.)) R-4 classification is not adopted. Any reference in this code to R-4 does not apply.



310.2 Definitions.


ADULT FAMILY HOME means a dwelling in which a person or persons provide personal care, special care, room and board to more than one but not more than six adults who are not related by blood or marriage to the person or persons providing the services.


CHILD DAY CARE, shall, for the purposes of these regulations, mean the care of children during any period of a 24-hour day.


CHILD DAY CARE HOME, FAMILY is a child day care facility, licensed by the state, located in the dwelling of the person or persons under whose direct care and supervision the child is placed, for the care of twelve or fewer children, including children who reside at the home.


RESIDENTIAL CARE/ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES. A building or part thereof housing persons, on a 24-hour basis, who because of age, mental disability or other reasons, live in a supervised residential environment which provides personal care services that is not classified as Licensed Care Group LC. The occupants are capable of responding to an emergency situation without physical assistance from staff. This classification shall include, but not be limited to, the following: Residential board and care facilities, assisted living facilities, halfway houses, group homes, congregate care facilities, social rehabilitation facilities, alcohol and drug abuse centers and convalescent facilities. This definition is not adopted.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-108, § 51-50-0310, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]


NEW SECTION
WAC 51-50-0406   Section 406 -- Motor-vehicle-related occupancies.  


406.2.6 Floor surface. Parking surfaces shall be of concrete or similar noncombustible and nonabsorbent materials.


EXCEPTION: Asphalt parking surfaces are permitted at ground level.

[]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 05-01-014, filed 12/2/04, effective 7/1/05)

WAC 51-50-0407   Section 407 -- Group I-2.  


407.8 Locks on exit doors. Approved, listed locks without delayed egress shall be permitted in nursing homes or portions of nursing homes, provided that:

     1. The clinical needs of one or more patients require specialized security measures for their safety.

     2. The doors unlock upon actuation of the automatic sprinkler system or automatic fire detection system.

     3. The doors unlock upon loss of electrical power controlling the lock or lock mechanism.

     4. The lock shall be capable of being deactivated by a signal from a switch located in an approved location.

     5. There is a system, such as a keypad and code, in place ((to inform)) that allows visitors, staff persons and appropriate residents ((how they can)) to exit. Instructions for exiting shall be posted within six feet of the door.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.020, 19.27.031, 19.27.074 and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 05-01-014, § 51-50-0407, filed 12/2/04, effective 7/1/05.]


NEW SECTION
WAC 51-50-0502   Section 502 -- Definitions.  


502.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code, have the meanings shown herein.


     BASEMENT. A story that is partly or completely below grade plane (see "Story above grade plane" in Section 202). A basement shall be considered as a story above grade plane where the finished surface of the floor or roof next above the basement is:

     1. More than 6 feet (1829 mm) above grade plane; or

     2. More than 12 feet (3658 mm) above the finished ground level at any point.


     STORY. That portion of a building included between the upper surface of a floor and the upper surface of the floor or roof next above, including basements (also see "Basement" and "Mezzanine").

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 51-50-0503   Section 503 -- General height and area limitations.  


TABLE 503
ALLOWABLE HEIGHT AND BUILDING AREASa

Height limitations shown as stories and feet above grade plane.

     Area limitations as determined by the definition of "Area, building," per story.

TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION
TYPE I TYPE II TYPE III TYPE IV TYPE V
A B A B A B HT A B
Group Hgt (feet)

Hgt (S)

UL 160 65 55 65 55 65 50 40
S UL 5 3 2 3 2 3 2 1
A-1 A UL UL 15,500 8,500 14,000 8,500 15,000 11,500 5,500
S UL 11 3 2 3 2 3 2 1
A-2 A UL UL 15,500 9,500 14,000 9,500 15,000 11,500 6,000
S UL 11 3 2 3 2 3 2 1
A-3 A UL UL 15,500 9,500 14,000 9,500 15,000 11,500 6,000
S UL 11 3 2 3 2 3 2 1
A-4 A UL UL 15,500 9,500 14,000 9,500 15,000 11,500 6,000
S UL UL UL UL UL UL UL UL UL
A-5 A UL UL UL UL UL UL UL UL UL
S UL 11 5 4 5 4 5 3e 2
B A UL UL 37,500 23,000 28,500 19,000 36,000 18,000 9,000
S UL 5 3 2 3 2 3 1 1
E A UL UL 26,500 14,500 23,500 14,500 25,500 18,500 9,500
S UL 11 4 2 3 2 4 2 1
F-1 A UL UL 25,000 15,500 19,000 12,000 33,500 14,000 8,500
S UL 11 5 3 4 3 5 3 2
F-2 A UL UL 37,500 23,000 28,500 18,000 50,500 21,000 13,000
S 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 NP
H-1 A 21,000 16,500 11,000 7,000 9,500 7,000 10,500 7,500 NP
S UL 3 2 1 2 1 2 1 1
H-2d A 21,000 16,500 11,000 7,000 9,500 7,000 10,500 7,500 3,000
S UL 6 4 2 4 2 4 2 1
H-3d A UL 60,000 26,500 14,000 17,500 13,000 25,500 10,000 5,000
S UL 7 5 3 5 3 5 3 2
H-4 A UL UL 37,500 17,500 28,500 17,500 36,000 18,000 6,500
S 4 3 4 3 3 3 3 3 2
H-5 A UL UL 37,500 23,000 28,500 19,000 36,000 18,000 9,000
S UL 9 4 3 4 3 4 3 2
I-1 A UL 55,000 19,000 10,000 16,500 10,000 18,000 10,500 4,500
S UL 4 2 1 1 NP 1 1 NP
I-2 A UL UL 15,000 11,000 12,000 NP 12,000 9,500 NP
S UL 4 2 1 2 1 2 2 1
I-3 A UL UL 15,000 11,000 10,500 7,500 12,000 7,500 5,000
S UL 5 3 2 3 2 3 1 1
I-4 A UL 60,500 26,500 13,000 23,500 13,000 25,500 18,500 9,000
S UL 11 4 4 4 4 4 3 1
M A UL UL 21,500 12,500 18,500 12,500 20,500 14,000 9,000
S UL 11 4 4 4 4 4 3e 2
R-1 A UL UL 24,000 16,000 24,000 16,000 20,500 12,000 7,000
S UL 11 4 4 4 4 4 3e 2
R-2 A UL UL 24,000 16,000 24,000 16,000 20,500 12,000 7,000
S UL 11 4 4 4 4 4 3 2
R-3 A UL UL UL UL UL UL UL UL UL
S UL 11 4 4 4 4 4 3 2
R-4 A UL UL 24,000 16,000 24,000 16,000 20,500 12,000 7,000
S UL 11 4 3 3 3 4 3 1
S-1 A UL 48,000 26,000 17,500 26,000 17,500 25,500 14,000 9,000
S UL 11 5 4 4 4 5 4 2
S-2b,c A UL 79,000 39,000 26,000 39,000 26,000 38,500 21,000 13,500
S UL 5 4 2 3 2 4 2 1
Uc A UL 35,500 19,000 8,500 14,000 8,500 18,000 9,000 5,500

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
UL = Unlimited, NP = Not permitted.
a. See the following sections for general exceptions to Table 503:
1. Section 504.2, Allowable height increase due to automatic sprinkler system installation.
2. Section 506.2, Allowable area increase due to street frontage.
3. Section 506.3, Allowable area increase due to automatic sprinkler system installation.
4. Section 507, Unlimited area buildings.
b. For open parking structures, see Section 406.3.
c. For private garages, see Section 406.1.
d. See Section 415.5 for limitations.
e. For Group B or Group R, Divisions 1 and 2 Occupancies, the permitted increase of one story allowed by Section 504.2 may be increased to two stories when all of the following conditions are met:
1. An automatic fire sprinkler system complying with Section 903.3.1.1 is installed throughout with the installation of quick response sprinkler heads in all areas where the use of these heads is allowed.
2. Vertical exit enclosures are constructed as smokeproof enclosures or pressurized stair enclosures in accordance with Section 909.20.
3. Standby power is supplied for light, emergency, and any exit enclosure pressurization systems used, as provided in Sections 403.10 and 909.20.6.2, and the adopted edition of the National Electrical Code. Connection ahead of service disconnect means shall be permitted for standby power.
4. Walls separating dwelling units or sleeping units, and corridor walls in Group R, Divisions 1 and 2 Occupancies shall be constructed as 1 hr. fire partitions as provided in IBC Section 708. Reduction of the fire-resistance rating is not permitted.
5. All exterior walls, including those with a fire separation distance of more than 5 feet, shall be of not less than 1 hr. fire-resistance rated construction on the interior and the exterior of the wall.
6. Structural observation is provided during construction in accordance with Sections 1702 and 1709.1.

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NEW SECTION
WAC 51-50-0506   Area modifications.  


506.1.1 Basements. A single basement that is not a story above grade plane need not be included in the total allowable area provided such basement does not exceed the area permitted for a building with no more than one story above grade plane.


EXCEPTION: In buildings of Type I, IIA, IIIA, IV or VA construction, the basements below the first story above grade plane need not be included in the total allowable area provided each such basement does not exceed the area permitted for a building with no more than one story above grade plane.

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NEW SECTION
WAC 51-50-0509   Section 509 -- Special provisions.  


509.2 Group S-2 enclosed or open parking garage with Group A, B, M, R or S above. A building shall be considered as two separate and distinct buildings for the purpose of determining area limitations, continuity of fire walls, limitation of number of stories and type of construction, where all of the following conditions are met:

     1. The buildings are separated with a horizontal assembly having a minimum 3-hour fire-resistance rating.

     2. The building below the horizontal assembly is no more than one story above grade plane.

     3. The building below the horizontal assembly is of Type IA construction.

     4. Shaft, stairway, ramp and escalator enclosures through the horizontal assembly shall have not less than a 2-hour fire-resistance rating with opening protectives in accordance with Table 715.4.


EXCEPTION: Where the enclosure walls below the horizontal assembly have not less than a 3-hour fire-resistance rating with opening protectives in accordance with Table 715.3, the enclosure walls extending above the horizontal assembly shall be permitted to have a 1-hour fire-resistance rating provided:
1. The building above the horizontal assembly is not required to be of Type I construction,
2. The enclosure connects less than four stories, and
3. The enclosure opening protectives above the horizontal assembly have a minimum 1-hour fire-protection rating.

     5. The building above the horizontal assembly shall be permitted to have multiple Group A uses each with an occupant load of less than 300, or Group B, M, R or S uses;

     6. The building below the horizontal assembly is a Group S-2 enclosed or open parking garage, used for the parking and storage of private motor vehicles.


EXCEPTIONS: 1. Entry lobbies, mechanical rooms and similar uses incidental to the operation of the building shall be permitted.
2. Multiple Group A uses, each with an occupant load of less than 300, or Group B or M uses shall be permitted in addition to those uses incidental to the operation of the building (including storage areas), provided that the entire structure below the horizontal assembly is protected throughout by an approved automatic sprinkler system.

     7. The maximum building height in feet shall not exceed the limits set forth in Section 503 for the building having the smaller allowable height as measured from grade plane.


509.3 Group S-2 enclosed parking garage with Group S-2 open parking garage above. A Group S-2 enclosed parking garage with no more than one story above grade plane and located below a Group S-2 open parking garage shall be classified as a separate and distinct building for the purpose of determining the type of construction where the following conditions are met:

     1. The allowable area of the building shall be such that the sum of the ratios of the actual area divided by the allowable area for each separate occupancy shall not exceed 1.0.

     2. The Group S-2 enclosed parking garage is of Type I or II construction and is at least equal to the fire-resistance requirements of the Group S-2 open parking garage.

     3. The height and number of tiers of the Group S-2 open parking garage shall be limited as specified in Table 406.3.5.

     4. The floor assembly separating the Group S-2 enclosed parking garage and Group S-2 open parking garage shall be protected as required for the floor assembly of the Group S-2 enclosed parking garage. Openings between the Group S-2 enclosed parking garage and Group S-2 open parking garage, except exit openings, shall not be required to be protected.

     5. The Group S-2 enclosed parking garage is used exclusively for the parking or storage of private motor vehicles, but shall be permitted to contain an office, waiting room and toilet room having a total area of not more than 1,000 square feet (93 m2), and mechanical equipment rooms incidental to the operation of the building.

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AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 04-01-108, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04)

WAC 51-50-0707   Section 707 -- Shaft enclosures.  


((707.14.1 Elevator lobby. Elevators opening into a fire-resistance-rated corridor as required by Section 1016.1 shall be provided with an elevator lobby at each floor containing such a corridor. The lobby shall separate the elevators from the corridor by fire partitions and the required opening protection. Elevator lobbies shall have at least one means of egress complying with Chapter 10 and other provisions within this code.


EXCEPTIONS: 1. In office buildings, separations are not required from a street-floor elevator lobby provided the entire street floor is equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
2. Elevators not required to be located in a shaft in accordance with Section 707.2.
3. Where additional doors are provided in accordance with Section 3002.6. Such doors shall be tested in accordance with UL 1784 without an artificial bottom seal.
4. In other than Group I-3, and buildings more than four stories above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, lobby separation is not required where the building, including the lobby and corridors leading to the lobby, is protected by an automatic sprinkler system installed throughout in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
5. In fully sprinklered buildings where elevator and stair shafts are pressurized in accordance with Section 909, elevator lobbies need not be provided. The pressurized stair shafts shall comply with the standards for elevator shaft pressurization in Section 909.6.3.))

707.14.2 Enclosed elevator lobby pressurization alternative. Where elevator hoistway pressurization is provided in lieu of required enclosed elevator lobbies, the pressurization system shall comply with this section.


707.14.2.1 Pressurization requirements. Elevator hoistways shall be pressurized to maintain a minimum positive pressure of 0.04 inches of water column and a maximum positive pressure of 0.06 inches of water column with respect to adjacent occupied space on all floors, as well as accounting for the stack and wind effect expected on the mean low temperature January day. This pressure shall be measured at the midpoint of each hoistway door, with all hoistway doors open at the designated primary recall level and all other hoistway doors closed. The supply air intake shall be from an outside, uncontaminated source located a minimum distance of 20 feet from any air exhaust system or outlet.


707.14.2.2 Ducts for system. Any duct system that is part of the pressurization system shall be protected with the same fire-resistance rating as required for the elevator shaft enclosure.


707.14.2.3 Fan system. The fan system provided for the pressurization system shall be as required by this section.


707.14.2.3.1 Fire resistance. When located within the building, the fan system that provides the pressurization shall be protected with the same fire-resistance rating required for the elevator shaft enclosure.


707.14.2.3.2 Smoke detection. The fan system shall be equipped with a smoke detector that will automatically shut down the fan system when smoke is detected within the system.


707.14.2.3.3 Separate systems. A separate fan system shall be used for each bank of elevators.


707.14.2.3.4 Fan capacity. The supply fan shall either be adjustable with a capacity of at least 1000-cfm (.4719 m3/s) per door, or that specified by a registered design professional to meet the requirements of a designed pressurization system.


707.14.2.4 Standby power. The pressurization system shall be provided with standby power from the same source as other required emergency systems for the building.


707.14.2.5 Activation of pressurization system. The elevator pressurization system shall be activated upon activation of the building fire alarm system or upon activation of the elevator lobby smoke detectors.


707.14.2.6 Elevator doors. Each elevator door shall operate properly when hoistway pressurization is in effect.


707.14.2.7 Hoistway venting. Hoistway venting required by Section 3004 need not be provided for pressurized elevator shafts.


707.14.2.8 Machine rooms. Elevator machine rooms shall be pressurized in accordance with this section unless separated from the hoistway shaft by construction in accordance with Section 707.


707.14.2.9 Special inspection. Special inspection for performance shall be required in accordance with Section 909.18.8. System acceptance shall be in accordance with Section 909.19.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-108, § 51-50-0707, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 05-24-070, filed 12/5/05, effective 7/1/06)

WAC 51-50-0903   Section 903 -- Automatic sprinkler systems.  


((903.2.1.2 Group A-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-2 Occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:

     1. The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464.5 m2).

     2. The fire area has an occupant load of 100 or more.

     3. The fire area is located on a floor other than the level of exit discharge.))


903.2.1.6 Nightclub. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout an occupancy with a nightclub. Existing nightclubs constructed prior to July 1, 2006, shall be provided with automatic sprinklers not later than December 1, 2007. The fire code official, for the application of this rule, may establish an occupant load based on the observed use of the occupancy in accordance with Table 1004.1.2.


903.2.2 Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group E Occupancies ((as follows:

     1. Throughout all Group E fire areas greater than 20,000 square feet (1858 m2) in area.

     2. Throughout every portion of educa