Part I
General Regulations

13VAC5-51-11. Chapter 1, Administration,; Section 101.0. 101 Scope.

A. 101.1. Title:. These regulations shall be known as the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code (SFPC), hereinafter referred to as "this code" or "SFPC." The term "chapter" means a chapter in the SFPC. The SFPC was cooperatively developed by the Virginia Fire Services Board and the Virginia Board of Housing and Community Development.

B. 101.2. Scope:. The SFPC prescribes regulations affecting or relating to maintenance of structures, processes and premises and safeguards to be complied with for the protection of life and property from the hazards of fire or explosion and for the handling, storage and use of fireworks, explosives or blasting agents, and provides for the administration and enforcement of such regulations. The SFPC also establishes regulations for obtaining permits for the manufacturing, storage, handling, use, or sales of explosives. Inspections under the SFPC are a governmental responsibility.

C. 101.3. Purpose:. The purposes of the SFPC are to provide for statewide standards to safeguard life and property from the hazards of fire or explosion arising from the improper maintenance of life safety and fire prevention and protection materials, devices, systems and structures, and the unsafe storage, handling, and use of substances, materials and devices, including explosives and blasting agents, wherever located.

D. 101.4. Validity:. To the extent that any provisions of the SFPC or the referenced codes or standards are not within the scope of this chapter, those provisions are considered to be invalid. When any provision of the SFPC is found to be in conflict with the USBC, OSHA, or statute, that provision of the SFPC shall become invalid.

E. 101.5. Local regulations:. Any local governing body may adopt fire prevention regulations that are more restrictive or more extensive in scope than the SFPC provided such regulations do not affect the manner of construction or materials to be used in the erection, alteration, repair, or use of a building or structure, as provided in the USBC, including the voluntary installation of smoke alarms and regulation and inspections thereof in commercial buildings where such smoke alarms are not required under the provisions of the SFPC.

F. 101.6. Nonresidential farm structures:. Farm structures not used for residential purposes are exempt from the SFPC except when the inspection and enforcement provisions of the code are exercised by a warrant issued under the authority of §§ 27-98.2 through 27-98.5 of the Code of Virginia.

13VAC5-51-21. Section 102.0. 102 Applicability.

A. 102.1. General:. The provisions of the SFPC shall apply to all matters affecting or relating to structures, processes and premises as set forth in Section 101.0. The SFPC shall supersede any fire prevention regulations previously adopted by a local government or other political subdivision.

B. 102.1.1. Changes:. No change shall be made in the use or occupancy of any structure that would place the structure in a different division of the same group of occupancies, unless such structure is made to comply with the requirements of this code and the USBC.

C. 102.2. Application to pre-1973 buildings and structures:. Buildings and structures constructed prior to the USBC (1973) shall comply with the maintenance requirements of the SFPC to the extent that equipment, systems, devices, and safeguards which were provided and approved when constructed shall be maintained. Such buildings and structures, if subject to the state fire and public building regulations (Virginia Public Building Safety Regulations, VR 394-01-05) in effect prior to March 31, 1986, shall also be maintained in accordance with those regulations.

D. 102.3. Application to post-1973 buildings and structures:. Buildings and structures constructed under any edition of the USBC shall comply with the maintenance requirements of the SFPC to the extent that equipment, systems, devices, and safeguards which were provided and approved when constructed shall be maintained.

E. 102.4. Referenced codes and standards:. The codes and standards referenced in the IFC shall be those listed in Chapter 80 and considered part of the requirements of the SFPC to the prescribed extent of each such reference. Where differences occur between the provisions of this code and the referenced standards, the provisions of this code shall apply.

F. 102.5. State-owned buildings and structures:. The SFPC shall be applicable to all state-owned buildings and structures in the manner and extent described in § 27-99 of the Code of Virginia and the State Fire Marshal shall have the authority to enforce this code in state-owned buildings and structures as is prescribed in §§ 27-98 and 27-99 of the Code of Virginia.

G. 102.6. Relationship to USBC:. In accordance with §§ 27-34.4, 36-105.1 and 36-119.1 of the Code of Virginia, the USBC does not supersede the provisions of this code that prescribe standards to be complied with in existing buildings and structures, provided that this code shall not impose requirements that are more restrictive than those of the USBC under which the buildings or structures were constructed. Subsequent alteration, enlargement, rehabilitation, repair or conversion of the occupancy classification of such buildings and structures shall be subject to the construction and rehabilitation provisions of the USBC. Inspection of buildings other than state-owned buildings under construction and the review and approval of building plans for these structures for enforcement of the USBC shall be the sole responsibility of the appropriate local building inspectors.

Upon completion of such structures, responsibility for fire safety protection shall pass to the local fire marshal or official designated by the locality to enforce this code in those localities that enforce the SFPC or to the State Fire Marshal in those localities that do not enforce this code.

H. 102.7. Inspections for USBC requirements:. The fire official shall require that existing structures subject to the requirements of the applicable retrofitting provisions relating to the fire protection equipment and system requirements of the USBC, Part I, Construction, Section 103.7, comply with the provisions located therein.

13VAC5-51-31. Section 103.0. 103 Incorporation by reference.

A. 103.1. General:. The following document is adopted and incorporated by reference to be an enforceable part of the SFPC:

The International Fire Code -- 2012 2015 Edition, hereinafter referred to as "IFC," published by the International Code Council, Inc., 500 New Jersey Avenue, NW, 6th Floor, Washington, DC 20001-2070, 1-888 422-7233.

B. 103.1.1. Deletion:. Delete IFC Chapter 1.

C. 103.1.2. Appendices:. The appendices in the IFC are not considered part of the IFC for the purposes of Section 103.1.

Note: Section 101.5 references authority contained in the Code of Virginia for local fire prevention regulations that may be evaluated by localities to determine whether provisions in the IFC appendices may be considered for local fire prevention regulations.

D. 103.2. Amendments:. All requirements of the referenced codes and standards that relate to fees, non-operational permits not specifically required by Section 107.2, unsafe notices, disputes, condemnation, inspections, scope of enforcement and all other procedural, and administrative matters are deleted and replaced by the provisions of Chapter 1 of the SFPC.

Exception: The scope of referenced codes and standards referenced by the SFPC that relate to the maintenance, testing and inspection requirements or limitations shall be enforceable.

E. 103.2.1. Other amendments:. The SFPC contains provisions adopted by the Virginia Board of Housing and Community Development (BHCD), some of which delete, change or amend provisions of the IFC and referenced standards. Where conflicts occur between such changed provisions and the unchanged provisions of the IFC and referenced standards, the provisions changed by the BHCD shall govern.

Note: The IFC and its referenced standards contain some areas of regulation outside of the scope of the SFPC, as established by the BHCD and under state law. Where conflicts have been readily noted, changes have been made to the IFC and its referenced standards to bring it within the scope of authority; however, in some areas, judgment will have to be made as to whether the provisions of the IFC and its referenced standards are fully applicable.

F. 103.3. International Fire Code. Retroactive fire protection system requirements contained in the IFC shall not be enforced unless specified by the USBC.

13VAC5-51-41. Section 104.0. 104 Enforcement.

A. 104.1. Local enforcement:. Any local government may enforce the SFPC following official action by such body. The official action shall (i) require compliance with the provisions of the SFPC in its entirety or with respect only to those provisions of the SFPC relating to open burning, fire lanes, fireworks, and hazardous materials and (ii) assign enforcement responsibility to the local agency or agencies of its choice. Any local governing body may establish such procedures or requirements as may be necessary for the administration and enforcement of this code. If a local governing body elects to enforce only those provisions of the SFPC relating to open burning, it may do so in all or in any designated geographic areas of its jurisdiction. The terms "enforcing agency" and "fire official" are intended to apply to the agency or agencies to which responsibility for enforcement of the SFPC has been assigned. The terms "building official" or "building department" are intended to apply only to the local building official or local building department.

B. 104.1.1. Enforcement of fireworks provisions by law-enforcement officers:. In accordance with § 27-100.1 of the Code of Virginia, law-enforcement officers who are otherwise authorized to enforce certain provisions of this code shall not be subject to the certification requirements of Section 105.2 or 105.3.2.

C. 104.2. State enforcement:. In accordance with § 27-98 of the Code of Virginia, the State Fire Marshal shall also have the authority, in cooperation with any local governing body, to enforce the SFPC. The State Fire Marshal shall also have authority to enforce the SFPC in those jurisdictions in which the local governments do not enforce the SFPC and may establish such procedures or requirements as may be necessary for the administration and enforcement of the SFPC in such jurisdictions.

D. 104.3. State structures:. Every agency, commission or institution of this Commonwealth, including all institutions of higher education, shall permit, at all reasonable hours, the fire official reasonable access to existing structures or a structure under construction or renovation, for the purpose of performing an informational and advisory fire safety inspection. The fire official is permitted to submit, subsequent to performing such inspection, his findings and recommendations, including a list of corrective actions necessary to ensure that such structure is reasonably safe from the hazards of fire, to the appropriate official of such agency, commission, or institution and the State Fire Marshal. Such agency, commission or institution shall notify, within 60 days of receipt of such findings and recommendations, the State Fire Marshal and the fire official of the corrective measures taken to eliminate the hazards reported by the fire official. The State Fire Marshal shall have the same power in the enforcement of this section as is provided for in § 27-98 of the Code of Virginia. The State Fire Marshal may enter into an agreement as is provided for in § 9.1-208 of the Code of Virginia with any local enforcement agency that enforces the SFPC to enforce this section and to take immediate enforcement action upon verification of a complaint of an imminent hazard such as a chained or blocked exit door, improper storage of flammable liquids, use of decorative materials, and overcrowding.

13VAC5-51-51. Section 105.0. 105 Enforcing agency.

A. 105.1. Fire official:. Each enforcing agency shall have an executive official in charge, hereinafter referred to as the "fire official."

Note: Fire officials are subject to sanctions in accordance with the Virginia Certification Standards (13VAC5-21).

B. 105.1.1. Appointment:. The fire official shall be appointed in a manner selected by the local government having jurisdiction. After permanent appointment, the fire official shall not be removed from office except for cause after having been afforded a full opportunity to be heard on specific and relevant charges by and before the appointing authority.

C. 105.1.2. Notification of appointment:. The appointing authority of the local governing body shall notify the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) and the State Fire Marshal's Office (SFMO) within 30 days of the appointment or release of the permanent or acting fire official.

D. 105.1.3. Qualifications:. The fire official shall have at least five years of fire-related experience as a firefighter, fire officer, licensed professional engineer or architect, fire or building inspector, contractor or superintendent of fire protection-related or building construction or at least five years of fire-related experience after obtaining a degree in architecture or engineering, with at least three years in responsible charge of work. Any combination of education and experience that would confer equivalent knowledge and ability shall be deemed to satisfy this requirement. The fire official shall have general knowledge of sound engineering practice with respect to the design and construction of structures, the basic principles of fire prevention and protection, the accepted requirements for means of egress and the installation of elevators and other service equipment necessary for the health, safety and general welfare of the occupants and the public. The local governing body may establish additional qualification requirements.

E. 105.2. Certification:. The permanent or acting fire official shall obtain certification from the BHCD in accordance with the Virginia Certification Standards (13VAC5-21) within one year after permanent or acting appointment.

Exception: A fire official appointed prior to April 1, 1994, continuously employed by the same local governing body as the fire official shall comply with required DHCD training under the Virginia Certification Standards (13VAC5-21).

F. 105.2.1. Noncertified fire official:. Except for a fire official exempt from certification under the exception to Section 105.2, any acting or permanent fire official who is not certified as a fire official in accordance with the Virginia Certification Standards (13VAC5-21) shall attend the core module of the Virginia Building Code Academy or an equivalent course in an individual or regional code academy accredited by DHCD within 180 days of appointment. This requirement is in addition to meeting the certification requirement in Section 105.2.

G. 105.3. Technical assistant:. The local governing body or its designee may utilize one or more technical assistants who, in the absence of the fire official, shall have the powers and perform the duties of the fire official.

Note: Technical assistants are subject to sanctions in accordance with the Virginia Certification Standards (13VAC5-21).

H. 105.3.1. Notification:. The fire official shall notify the DHCD within 60 days of the employment, contract or termination of all technical assistants for enforcement of the SFPC.

I. 105.3.2. Qualifications:. A technical assistant shall have at least three years of experience and general knowledge in at least one of the following areas: fire protection, firefighting, electrical, building, plumbing or mechanical trades. Any combination of education and experience that would confer equivalent knowledge and ability shall be deemed to satisfy this requirement. The locality may establish additional qualification requirements.

J. 105.3.3. Certification:. All technical assistants employed by or under contract to an enforcing agency for enforcing the SFPC shall be certified in the appropriate subject area in accordance with the Virginia Certification Standards (13VAC5-21) within one and one-half years after permanent or acting appointment. When required by a locality to have two or more certifications, the remaining certifications shall be obtained within three years from the date of such requirement.

Exception: Any technical assistant continuously employed by or continuously under contract to the same enforcing agency for enforcing the SFPC since before April 1, 1994, shall be exempt from the provisions of this section; however, such exempt technical assistant shall comply with required DHCD training under Virginia Certification Standards (13VAC5-21).

Note: Continuing education and periodic training requirements for DHCD certifications are set out in the Virginia Certification Standards (13VAC5-21).

K. 105.4. Continuing education: Fire officials and technical assistants enforcing the SFPC shall attend periodic training courses as designated by the DHCD.

L. 105.5. K. 105.4 Control of conflict of interest:. The standards of conduct for officials and employees of the enforcing agency shall be in accordance with the provisions of the State and Local Government Conflict of Interests Act, Chapter 31 (§ 2.2-3100 et seq.) of Title 2.2 of the Code of Virginia.

13VAC5-51-61. Section 106.0. 106 Duties and powers of the fire official.

A. 106.1. General:. The fire official shall enforce the provisions of the SFPC as provided herein and as interpreted by the State Building Code Technical Review Board (TRB) in accordance with § 36-118 of the Code of Virginia.

B. 106.2. Delegation of duties and powers:. The fire official may delegate duties and powers subject to any limitations imposed by the local governing body. The fire official shall be responsible that any powers and duties delegated are carried out in accordance with this code.

C. 106.3. Inspections:. The fire official is authorized to conduct such inspections as are deemed necessary to determine the extent of compliance with the provisions of this code and to approve reports of inspection by approved agencies or individuals in accordance with the fire official's written policy. All reports of such inspections by approved agencies or individuals shall be prepared and submitted in writing for review and approval. Inspection reports shall be certified by a responsible officer of such approved agency or by the responsible individual. The fire official is authorized to engage such expert opinion as deemed necessary to report upon unusual, detailed or complex technical issues in accordance with local policies.

D. 106.3.1. Observations:. When, during an inspection, the fire official or an authorized representative observes an apparent or actual violation of another law, ordinance or code not within the official's authority to enforce, such official shall report the findings to the official having jurisdiction in order that such official may institute the necessary measures.

E. 106.4. Alternatives:. The SFPC provisions are not intended to prevent the use of any safeguards used to protect life and property from the hazards of fire or explosion that are not specifically prescribed by the SFPC, provided that such alternative safeguards comply with the intent of the SFPC. The alternative safeguard offered shall be, for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this code in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and safety.

F. 106.5. Modifications:. The fire official may grant modifications to any provision of the SFPC upon application by the owner or the owner's agent provided the spirit and intent of the SFPC are observed and public health, welfare, and safety are assured.

Note: The current editions of many nationally recognized model codes and standards are referenced by the SFPC. Future amendments to such codes and standards do not automatically become part of the SFPC; however, the fire official should consider such amendments in deciding whether a modification request should be granted.

G. 106.5.1. Supporting data:. The fire official shall require that sufficient technical data be submitted to substantiate the proposed use of any alternative. If it is determined that the evidence presented is satisfactory proof of performance for the use intended, the fire official shall approve the use of such alternative subject to the requirements of this code. The fire official may require and consider a statement from a professional engineer, architect or other competent person as to the equivalency of the proposed modification.

H. 106.5.2. Decision:. The application for modification and the final decision of the fire official shall be in writing and shall be recorded in the permanent records of the local enforcing agency.

I. 106.6. Notices and orders:. The fire official shall issue all necessary notices or orders to ensure compliance with the SFPC.

J. 106.7. Department records:. The fire official shall keep official records of applications received, permits and certificates issued, fees collected, reports of inspections, and notices and orders issued. Such records shall be retained in the official records or disposed of in accordance with General Schedule Number Ten available from The Library of Virginia.

13VAC5-51-81. Section 107.0. 107 Permits and fees.

A. 107.1. Prior notification:. The fire official may require notification prior to (i) activities involving the handling, storage or use of substances, materials or devices regulated by the SFPC; (ii) conducting processes which produce conditions hazardous to life or property; or (iii) establishing a place of assembly.

B. 107.2. Permits required:. Operational permits may be required by the fire official as permitted under the SFPC in accordance with Table 107.2, except that the fire official shall require permits for the manufacturing, storage, handling, use, and sale of explosives. In accordance with Section 5601.2.3.1, an application for a permit to manufacture, store, handle, use, or sell explosives shall only be made by a designated individual.

Exception: Such permits shall not be required for the storage of explosives or blasting agents by the Virginia Department of State Police provided notification to the fire official is made annually by the Chief Arson Investigator listing all storage locations.

C. Add Table 107.2 as follows:

D. 107.3. Application for permit:. Application for a permit shall be made on forms prescribed by the fire official.

E. 107.4. Issuance of permits:. Before a permit is issued, the fire official shall make such inspections or tests as are necessary to assure that the use and activities for which application is made comply with the provisions of this code.

F. 107.5. Conditions of permit:. A permit shall constitute permission to store or handle materials or to conduct processes in accordance with the SFPC, and shall not be construed as authority to omit or amend any of the provisions of this code. Permits shall remain in effect until revoked or for such period as specified on the permit. Permits are not transferable.

G. 107.6. Annual:. The enforcing agency may issue annual permits for the manufacturing, storage, handling, use, or sales of explosives to any state regulated public utility.

H. 107.7. Approved plans:. Plans approved by the fire official are approved with the intent that they comply in all respects to this code. Any omissions or errors on the plans do not relieve the applicant of complying with all applicable requirements of this code.

I. 107.8. Posting:. Issued permits shall be kept on the premises designated therein at all times and shall be readily available for inspection by the fire official.

J. 107.9. Suspension of permit:. A permit shall become invalid if the authorized activity is not commenced within six months after issuance of the permit, or if the authorized activity is suspended or abandoned for a period of six months after the time of commencement.

K. 107.10. Local fees:. In accordance with § 27-97 27-98 of the Code of Virginia, fees may be levied by the local governing body in order to defray the cost of enforcement and appeals under the SFPC. However, for the city of Chesapeake no fee charged for the inspection of any place of religious worship designated as Assembly Group A-3 shall exceed $50. For purposes of this section, "defray the cost" may include the fair and reasonable costs incurred for such enforcement during normal business hours but shall not include overtime costs, unless conducted outside of the normal working hours established by the locality. A schedule of such costs shall be adopted by the local governing body in a local ordinance. A locality shall not charge an overtime rate for inspections conducted during the normal business hours established by the locality. Nothing herein shall be construed to prohibit a private entity from conducting such inspections, provided the private entity has been approved to perform such inspections in accordance with the written policy of the fire official for the locality.

L. 107.11. State Fire Marshal's office permit fees for explosives, blasting agents, theatrical flame effects, and fireworks:. Except as modified herein, applications for firework or pyrotechnic displays shall be submitted to and received by the State Fire Marshal's office not less than 15 days prior to the planned event. State Fire Marshal's Office permit fees shall be as follows:

1. $150 per year per magazine to store explosives and blasting agents.

2. $250 per year per city or county to use explosives and blasting agents.

3. $200 per year to sell explosives and blasting agents.

4. $250 per year to manufacture explosives, blasting agents and fireworks.

5. $350 the first day of fireworks, pyrotechnics or proximate audience displays conducted in any state-owned building and $150 per day for each consecutive day for identical multi-day events. If an application is received by the State Fire Marshal's office less than 15 days prior to the planned event, the permit fee shall be $550 the first day and $150 per day for each consecutive day for identical multi-day events. If an application is received by the State Fire Marshal's office less than seven days prior to the planned event, the permit fee shall be $650 the first day and $150 per day for each consecutive day for identical multi-day events.

6. $250 the first day of fireworks, pyrotechnics or proximate audience displays conducted out-of-doors on any state-owned property and $150 per day for each consecutive day for identical multi-day events. If an application is received by the State Fire Marshal's office less than 15 days prior to the planned event, the permit fee shall be $550 the first day and $150 per day for each consecutive day for identical multi-day events. If an application is received by the State Fire Marshal's office less than seven days prior to the planned event, the permit fee shall be $650 the first day and $150 per day for each consecutive day for identical multi-day events.

7. $100 per nonrenewable permit, valid for one week from the date of issuance, for the use of explosives in special operations or emergency conditions.

8. $300 the first day for flame effects conducted in accordance with Section 308.3.2 indoors of any state-owned building or outdoors on state-owned property and $200 per day for each consecutive day for identical multi-day events, or, if conducted as part of a firework (pyrotechnic) display, $150 the first day and $125 per day for each consecutive day for identical multi-day events. If an application for flame effects is received by the State Fire Marshal's office less than 15 days prior to the planned event, the permit fee shall be $550 the first day and $200 per day for each consecutive day for identical multi-day events or, if conducted as part of a firework (pyrotechnic) display, $200 the first day and $100 per day for each consecutive day for identical multi-day events. If an application is received by the State Fire Marshal's office less than seven days prior to the planned event, the permit fee shall be $650 the first day and $150 per day for each consecutive day for identical multi-day events or, if conducted as part of a firework (pyrotechnic) display, $300 the first day and $125 per day for each consecutive day for identical multi-day events.

Exception: Permits shall not be required for the storage of explosives or blasting agents by the Virginia Department of State Police provided notification to the State Fire Marshal is made annually by the Chief Arson Investigator listing all storage locations within areas where enforcement is provided by the State Fire Marshal's office.

M. 107.12. State annual compliance inspection fees:. Fees for compliance inspections performed by the State Fire Marshal's office shall be as follows:

1. Nightclubs.

1.1. $350 for occupant load of 100 or less.

1.2. $450 for occupant load of 101 to 200.

1.3. $500 for occupant load of 201 to 300.

1.4. $500 plus $50 for each 100 occupants where occupant loads exceed 300.

2. Private college dormitories with or without assembly areas. If containing assembly areas, such assembly areas are not included in the computation of square footage.

2.1. $150 for 3500 square feet or less.

2.2. $200 for greater than 3500 square feet up to 7000 square feet.

2.3. $250 for greater than 7000 square feet up to 10,000 square feet.

2.4. $250 plus $50 for each additional 3000 square feet where square footage exceeds 10,000.

3. Assembly areas that are part of private college dormitories.

3.1. $50 for 10,000 square feet or less provided the assembly area is within or attached to a dormitory building.

3.2. $100 for greater than 10,000 square feet up to 25,000 square feet provided the assembly area is within or attached to a dormitory building, such as gymnasiums, auditoriums or cafeterias.

3.3. $100 for up to 25,000 square feet provided the assembly area is in a separate or separate buildings such as gymnasiums, auditoriums or cafeterias.

3.4. $150 for greater than 25,000 square feet for assembly areas within or attached to a dormitory building or in a separate or separate buildings such as gymnasiums, auditoriums or cafeterias.

4. Hospitals.

4.1. $300 for 1 to 50 beds.

4.2. $400 for 51 to 100 beds.

4.3. $500 for 101 to 150 beds.

4.4. $600 for 151 to 200 beds.

4.5. $600 plus $100 for each additional 100 beds where the number of beds exceeds 200.

5. Facilities licensed by the Virginia Department of Social Services based on licensed capacity as follows:

5.1. $50 for 1 to 8.

5.2. $75 for 9 to 20.

5.3. $100 for 21 to 50.

5.4. $200 for 51 to 100.

5.5. $300 for 101 to 150.

5.6. $400 for 151 to 200.

5.7. $500 for 201 or more.

Exception: Annual compliance inspection fees for any building or groups of buildings on the same site may not exceed $2500.

6. Registered complaints.

6.1. No charge for first visit (initial complaint), and if violations are found.

6.2. $51 per hour for each State Fire Marshal's office staff for all subsequent visits.

7. Bonfires (small and large) on state-owned property.

7.1. For a small bonfire pile with a total fuel area more than 3 feet in diameter and more than 2 feet in height, but not more than 9 feet in diameter and not more than 6 feet in height, the permit fee is $50. If an application for a bonfire permit is received by the State Fire Marshal's office less than 15 days prior to the planned event, the permit fee shall be $100. If an application for a bonfire permit is received by the State Fire Marshal's office less than seven days prior to the planned event, the permit fee shall be $150.

7.2. For a large bonfire pile with a total fuel area more than 9 feet in diameter and more than 6 feet in height, the permit fee is $150. If an application for a bonfire permit is received by the State Fire Marshal's office less than 15 days prior to the planned event, the permit fee shall be $300. If an application for a bonfire permit is received by the State Fire Marshal's office less than seven days prior to the planned event, the permit fee shall be $450.

N. 107.13. Fee schedule:. The local governing body may establish a fee schedule. The schedule shall incorporate unit rates, which may be based on square footage, cubic footage, estimated cost of inspection or other appropriate criteria.

O. 107.14. Payment of fees:. A permit shall not be issued until the designated fees have been paid.

Exception: The fire official may authorize delayed payment of fees.

P. 107.14.1. State Fire Marshal's office certification and permit fees not refundable:. No refund of any part of the amount paid as a permit or certification fee will be made where the applicant, permit or certification holder, for any reason, discontinued an activity, changed conditions, or changed circumstances for which the permit or certification was issued. However, the permit or certification fee submitted with an application will be refunded if the permit or certification is canceled, revoked, or suspended subsequent to having been issued through administrative error, or if a permit being applied for is to be obtained from a locally appointed fire official.

13VAC5-51-85. Section 108.0. 108 Operational permits.

A. 108.1. General. Operational permits shall be in accordance with Section 108. The fire official may require notification prior to (i) activities involving the handling, storage or use of substances, materials or devices regulated by the SFPC; (ii) conducting processes which produce conditions hazardous to life or property; or (iii) establishing a place of assembly.

B. 108.1.1. Permits required. Operational permits may be required by the fire official in accordance with Table 107.2. The fire official shall require operational permits for the manufacturing, storage, handling, use and sale of explosives. Issued permits shall be kept on the premises designated therein at all times and shall be readily available for inspection by the fire official.

Exceptions:

1. Operational permits will not be required by the State Fire Marshal except for the manufacturing, storage, handling, use and sale of explosives in localities not enforcing the SFPC.

2. Operational permits will not be required for the manufacturing, storage, handling or use of explosives or blasting agents by the Virginia Department of State Police provided notification to the fire official is made annually by the Chief Arson Investigator listing all storage locations.

C. 108.1.2. Duration of operational permits.

An operational permit allows the applicant to conduct an operation or a business for which a permit is required by Section 108.1.1 for either:

1. A prescribed period.

2. Until renewed, suspended, or revoked.

D. 108.1.3. Operational permits for the same location. When more than one operational permit is required for the same location, the fire official is authorized to consolidate such permits into a single permit provided that each provision is listed in the permit.

E. 108.2. Application. Application for an operational permit required by this code shall be made to the fire official in such form and detail as prescribed by the fire official. Applications for permits shall be accompanied by such plans as prescribed by the fire official.

F. 108.2.1. Refusal to issue permit. If the application for an operational permit describes a use that does not conform to the requirements of this code and other pertinent laws and ordinances, the fire official shall not issue a permit, but shall return the application to the applicant with the refusal to issue such permit. Such refusal shall, when requested, be in writing and shall contain the reasons for refusal.

G. 108.2.2. Inspection authorized. Before a new operational permit is approved, the fire official is authorized to inspect the receptacles, vehicles, buildings, devices, premises, storage spaces or areas to be used to determine compliance with this code or any operational constraints required.

H. 108.2.3. Time limitation of application. An application for an operational permit for any proposed work or operation shall be deemed to have been abandoned six months after the date of filing, unless such application has been diligently prosecuted or a permit shall have been issued; except that the fire official is authorized to grant one or more extensions of time for additional periods not exceeding 90 days each if there is reasonable cause.

I. 108.2.4. Action on application. The fire official shall examine or cause to be examined applications for operational permits and amendments thereto within a reasonable time after filing. If the application does not conform to the requirements of pertinent laws, the fire official shall reject such application in writing, stating the reasons. If the fire official is satisfied that the proposed work or operation conforms to the requirements of this code and laws and ordinances applicable thereto, the fire official shall issue a permit as soon as practicable.

J. 108.3. Conditions of a permit. An operational permit shall constitute permission to maintain, store or handle materials; or to conduct processes in accordance with the SFPC, and shall not be construed as authority to omit or amend any of the provisions of this code.

Note: The building official issues permits to install equipment utilized in connection with such activities or to install or modify any fire protection system or equipment or any other construction, equipment installation or modification.

K. 108.3.1. Expiration. An operational permit shall remain in effect until reissued, renewed, or revoked for such a period of time as specified in the permit. Permits are not transferable and any change in occupancy, operation, tenancy or ownership shall require that a new permit be issued.

L. 108.3.2. Extensions. A permittee holding an unexpired permit shall have the right to apply for an extension of the time within which the permittee will commence work under that permit when work is unable to be commenced within the time required by this section for good and satisfactory reasons. The fire official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of the time period of a permit for periods of not more than 90 days each. Such extensions shall be requested by the permit holder in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated.

M. 108.3.3. Annual. The enforcing agency may issue annual operational permits for the manufacturing, storage, handling, use, or sales of explosives to any state regulated public utility.

N. 108.3.4. Suspension of permit. An operational permit shall become invalid if the authorized activity is not commenced within six months after issuance of the permit, or if the authorized activity is suspended or abandoned for a period of six months after the time of commencement.

O. 108.3.5. Posting. Issued operational permits shall be kept on the premises designated therein at all times and shall be readily available for inspection by the fire official.

P. 108.3.6. Compliance with code. The issuance or granting of an operational permit shall not be construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, any violation of any of the provisions of this code or of any other ordinance of the jurisdiction. Operational permits presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid. The issuance of a permit based on other data shall not prevent the fire official from requiring the correction of errors in the provided documents and other data. Any addition to or alteration of approved provided documents shall be approved in advance by the fire official, as evidenced by the issuance of a new or amended permit.

Q. 108.3.7. Information on the permit. The fire official shall issue all operational permits required by this code on an approved form furnished for that purpose. The operational permit shall contain a general description of the operation or occupancy and its location and any other information required by the fire official. Issued permits shall bear the original or electronic signature of the fire official or other designee approved by the fire official.

R. 108.4. Revocation. The fire official is authorized to revoke an operational permit issued under the provisions of this code when it is found by inspection or otherwise that there has been a false statement or misrepresentation as to the material facts in the application or documents on which the permit or approval was based including, but not limited to, any one of the following:

1. The permit is used for a location or establishment other than that for which it was issued.

2. The permit is used for a condition or activity other than that listed in the permit.

3. Conditions and limitations set forth in the permit have been violated.

4. Inclusion of any false statements or misrepresentations as to a material fact in the application for permit or plans submitted or a condition of the permit.

5. The permit is used by a different person or firm than the person or firm for which it was issued.

6. The permittee failed, refused or neglected to comply with orders or notices duly served in accordance with the provisions of this code within the time provided therein.

7. The permit was issued in error or in violation of an ordinance, a regulation, or this code.

13VAC5-51-91. Section 109.0. 109 Inspection.

A. 109.1. Inspection:. The fire official may inspect all structures and premises for the purposes of ascertaining and causing to be corrected any conditions liable to cause fire, contribute to the spread of fire, interfere with firefighting operations, endanger life, or any violations of the provisions or intent of the SFPC.

Exception: Single family dwellings and dwelling units in two family and multiple family dwellings and farm structures shall be exempt from routine inspections. This exemption shall not preclude the fire official from conducting routine inspections in Group R-3 or Group R-5 occupancies operating as a commercial bed and breakfast as outlined in Section 310.3 of the USBC or inspecting under § 27-98.2 of the Code of Virginia for hazardous conditions relating to explosives, flammable and combustible conditions, and hazardous materials.

B. 109.1.1. Right to entry:. The fire official may enter any structure or premises at any reasonable time to inspect subject to constitutional restrictions on unreasonable searches and seizures. If entry is refused or not obtained, the fire official may pursue recourse as provided by law.

Note: Specific authorization and procedures for inspections and issuing warrants are set out in §§ 27-98.1 through 27-98.5 of the Code of Virginia and shall be taken into consideration.

C. 109.1.2. Credentials:. The fire official and technical assistants shall carry proper credentials of office when inspecting in the performance of their duties under the SFPC.

D. 109.2. Coordinated inspections:. The fire official shall coordinate inspections and administrative orders with any other state and local agencies having related inspection authority, and shall coordinate those inspections required by the USBC for new construction when involving provisions of the amended IFC, so that the owners and occupants will not be subjected to numerous inspections or conflicting orders.

Note: The USBC requires the building official to coordinate such inspections with the fire official.

E. 109.3. Other inspections:. In accordance with § 9.1-207 of the Code of Virginia, the State Fire Marshal, upon presenting proper credentials, shall make annual inspections for hazards incident to fire in all (i) residential care facilities operated by any state agency, (ii) assisted living facilities licensed or subject to licensure pursuant to Chapter 18 (§ 63.2-1800 et seq.) of Title 63.2 of the Code of Virginia which are not inspected by a local fire marshal, (iii) student-residence facilities owned or operated by the public institutions of higher education in the Commonwealth, and (iv) public schools in the Commonwealth which are not inspected by a local fire marshal. In the event that any such facility or residence is found to be nonconforming to the SFPC, the State Fire Marshal or local fire marshal may petition any court of competent jurisdiction for the issuance of an injunction.

13VAC5-51-101. Section 110.0. 110 Unsafe conditions.

A. 110.1. General:. The fire official shall order the following dangerous or hazardous conditions or materials to be removed or remedied in accordance with the SFPC:

1. Dangerous conditions which are liable to cause or contribute to the spread of fire in or on said premises, building or structure, or to endanger the occupants thereof.

2. Conditions which would interfere with the efficiency and use of any fire protection equipment.

3. Obstructions to or on fire escapes, stairs, passageways, doors or windows, which are liable to interfere with the egress of occupants or the operation of the fire department in case of fire.

4. Accumulations of dust or waste material in air conditioning or ventilating systems or grease in kitchen or other exhaust ducts.

5. Accumulations of grease on kitchen cooking equipment, or oil, grease or dirt upon, under or around any mechanical equipment.

6. Accumulations of rubbish, waste, paper, boxes, shavings, or other combustible materials, or excessive storage of any combustible material.

7. Hazardous conditions arising from defective or improperly used or installed electrical wiring, equipment or appliances.

8. Hazardous conditions arising from defective or improperly used or installed equipment for handling or using combustible, explosive or otherwise hazardous materials.

9. Dangerous or unlawful amounts of combustible, explosive or otherwise hazardous materials.

10. All equipment, materials, processes or operations which are in violation of the provisions and intent of this code.

B. 110.2. Maintenance:. The owner shall be responsible for the safe and proper maintenance of any structure, premises or lot. In all structures, the fire protection equipment, means of egress, alarms, devices and safeguards shall be maintained in a safe and proper operating condition as required by the SFPC and applicable referenced standards.

C. 110.3. Occupant responsibility:. If a building occupant creates conditions in violation of this code, by virtue of storage, handling and use of substances, materials, devices and appliances, such occupant shall be held responsible for the abatement of said hazardous conditions.

D. 110.4. Unsafe structures:. All structures that are or shall hereafter become unsafe or deficient in adequate exit facilities or which constitute a fire hazard, or are otherwise dangerous to human life or the public welfare, or by reason of illegal or improper use, occupancy or maintenance or which have sustained structural damage by reason of fire, explosion, or natural disaster shall be deemed unsafe structures. A vacant structure, or portion of a structure, unguarded or open at door or window shall be deemed a fire hazard and unsafe within the meaning of this code. Unsafe structures shall be reported to the building official or building maintenance official who shall take appropriate action under the provisions of the USBC to secure abatement. Subsequently, the fire official may request the legal counsel of the local governing body to institute the appropriate proceedings for an injunction against the continued use and occupancy of the structure until such time as conditions have been remedied.

E. 110.5. Evacuation:. When, in the fire official's opinion, there is actual and potential danger to the occupants or those in the proximity of any structure or premises because of unsafe structural conditions, or inadequacy of any means of egress, the presence of explosives, explosive fumes or vapors, or the presence of toxic fumes, gases or materials, the fire official may order the immediate evacuation of the structure or premises. All notified occupants shall immediately leave the structure or premises and no person shall enter until authorized by the fire official.

F. 110.6. Unlawful continuance:. Any person who refuses to leave, interferes with the evacuation of other occupants or continues any operation after having been given an evacuation order shall be in violation of this code.

Exception: Any person performing work directed by the fire official to be performed to remove an alleged violation or unsafe condition.

13VAC5-51-111. Section 111.0. 111 Violations.

A. 111.1. Notice:. When the fire official discovers an alleged violation of a provision of the SFPC or other codes or ordinances under the fire official's jurisdiction, the fire official shall prepare a written notice citing the section allegedly violated, describing the condition deemed unsafe and specifying time limitations for the required abatements to be made to render the structure or premises safe and secure.

B. 111.1.1. Right of appeal:. Notices of violation issued under Section 111.1 shall indicate the right of appeal by referencing the appeals section of this code.

Exceptions:

1. Summons issued in lieu of a notice of violation in accordance with Section 111.5 of this code.

2. Documents reflecting uncorrected violations in subsequent inspections to verify compliance.

C. 111.2. Service:. The written notice of violation of this code shall be served upon the owner, a duly authorized agent or upon the occupant or other person responsible for the conditions under violation. Such notice shall be served either by delivering a copy of same to such persons by mail to the last known post office address, by delivering in person or by delivering it to and leaving it in the possession of any person in charge of the premises, or, in the case such person is not found upon the premises, by affixing a copy thereof in a conspicuous place at the entrance door or avenue of access. Such procedure shall be deemed the equivalent of personal notice.

D. 111.3. Failure to correct violations:. If the notice of violation is not complied with within the time specified, the fire official shall request the legal counsel of the local governing body to institute the appropriate legal proceedings to restrain, correct, or abate such alleged violation.

E. 111.4. Penalty:. Penalties upon conviction of violating the SFPC shall be as set out in § 27-100 of the Code of Virginia.

F. 111.5. Summons:. When authorized and certified in accordance with § 27-34.2 of the Code of Virginia, the fire official may, subject to any limitations imposed by the local governing body, issue a summons in lieu of a notice of violation. Fire officials not certified in accordance with § 27-34.2 of the Code of Virginia may request the law-enforcement agency of the local governing body to make arrests for any alleged violations of the SFPC or orders affecting the immediate public safety.

 13VAC5-51-121. Section 112.0. 112 Appeals.

A. 112.1. Local Board of Fire Prevention Code Appeals (BFPCA): (LBFPCA). Each local governing body which enforces the SFPC shall have a BFPCA LBFPCA to hear appeals as authorized herein or it shall enter into an agreement with the governing body of another county or municipality, with some other agency, or with a state agency approved by the DHCD to act on appeals. An appeal case decided by some other approved agency shall constitute an appeal in accordance with this section and shall be final unless appealed to the State Building Code Technical Review Board (TRB).

B. 112.2. Membership:. The BFPCA LBFPCA shall consist of at least five members appointed by the local governing body and having terms of office established by written policy. Alternate members may be appointed to serve in the absence of any regular members and, as such, shall have the full power and authority of the regular members. Regular and alternate members may be reappointed. Written records of current membership, including a record of the current chairman and secretary shall be maintained in the office of the local governing body. In order to provide continuity, the terms of the members may be of different length so that less than half will expire in any one-year period. The BFPCA LBFPCA shall meet at least once annually as necessary to assure a duly constituted board, appoint officers as necessary and receive such training on the code as may be appropriate or necessary from staff of the locality.

C. 112.2.1. Chairman:. The BFPCA LBFPCA shall annually select one of its regular members to serve as chairman. In case of the absence of the chairman at a hearing, the members present shall select an acting chairman.

D. 112.2.2. Secretary:. The local governing body shall appoint a secretary to the BFPCA LBFPCA to maintain a detailed record of all proceedings.

E. 112.3. Qualifications of members: BFPCA LBFPCA. members shall be selected by the local governing body on the basis of their ability to render fair and competent decisions regarding application of the SFPC and shall, to the extent possible, represent different occupational or professional fields relating to building construction or fire prevention. At least one member should be an experienced builder and one member a licensed professional engineer or architect. Employees or officials of the local governing body shall not serve as members of the BFPCA LBFPCA.

F. 112.4. Disqualification of member:. A member shall not hear an appeal in which that member has conflict of interest in accordance with the State and Local Government Conflict of Interests Act, Chapter 31 (§ 2.2-3100 et seq.) of Title 2.2 of the Code of Virginia.

G. 112.5. Application for appeal:. The owner of a structure, the owner's agent or any other person involved in the design, construction or maintenance of the structure may appeal a decision of the fire official concerning the application of the SFPC or the fire official's refusal to grant modification under Section 106.5 to the provisions of the SFPC. The appeal shall first lie to the local board of fire prevention code appeals (BFPCA) LBFPCA and then to the TRB State Review Board except that appeals concerning the application of the SFPC or refusal to grant modifications by the State Fire Marshal shall be made directly to the TRB State Review Board. The appeal shall be submitted to the BFPCA LBFPCA within 14 calendar days of the application of the SFPC. The application shall contain the name and address of the owner of the structure and the person appealing if not the owner. A copy of the written decision of the fire official shall be submitted along with the application for appeal and maintained as part of the record. The application shall be stamped or otherwise marked by the BFPCA LBFPCA to indicate the date received. Failure to submit an application for appeal within the time limit established by this section shall constitute acceptance of the fire official's decision.

Note: In accordance with § 27-98 of the Code of Virginia, any local fire code may provide for an appeal to a local board of appeals. If no local board of appeals exists, the TRB State Review Board shall hear appeals of any local fire code violation.

H. 112.6. Notice of meeting:. The BFPCA LBFPCA shall meet within 30 calendar days after the date of receipt of the application for appeal. Notice indicating the time and place of the hearing shall be sent to the parties in writing to the addresses listed on the application at least 14 calendar days prior to the date of the hearing. Less notice may be given if agreed upon by the applicant.

I. 112.7. Hearing procedures:. All hearings before the BFPCA LBFPCA shall be open to the public. The appellant, the appellant's representative, the local governing body's representative and any person whose interests are affected shall be given an opportunity to be heard. The chairman shall have the power and duty to direct the hearing, rule upon the acceptance of evidence and oversee the record of all proceedings.

J. 112.7.1. Postponement:. When a quorum of the BFPCA LBFPCA is not present to hear an appeal, either the appellant or the appellant's representative shall have the right to request a postponement of the hearing. The BFPCA LBFPCA shall reschedule the appeal within 30 calendar days of the postponement.

K. 112.8. Decision:. The BFPCA LBFPCA shall have the power to uphold, reverse or modify the decision of the fire official by a concurring vote of a majority of those present. Decisions of the BFPCA LBFPCA shall be final if no appeal is made therefrom and the appellant and the fire official shall act accordingly.

L. 112.8.1. Resolution:. The BFPCA's LBFPCA's decision shall be by resolution signed by the chairman and retained as part of the record by the BFPCA LBFPCA. The following wording shall be part of the resolution: "Any person who was a party to the appeal may appeal to the State Building Code Technical Review Board (TRB) (State Review Board) by submitting an application to the TRB State Review Board within 21 calendar days upon receipt by certified mail of this resolution. Application forms are available from the Office of the TRB State Review Board, 600 East Main Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, (804) 371-7150." Copies of the resolution shall be furnished to all parties.

M. 112.9. Appeal to the TRB: State Review Board. After final determination by the BFPCA LBFPCA, any person who was a party to the local appeal may appeal to the TRB State Review Board. Application shall be made to the TRB State Review Board within 21 calendar days of receipt of the decision to be appealed. Application for appeal to the TRB State Review Board arising from the SFMO's enforcement of the code or from any local fire code violation if no local board of appeals exists shall be made to the TRB State Review Board within 14 calendar days of receipt of the decision to be appealed and shall be accompanied by copies of the inspection reports and other relevant information. Failure to submit an application for appeal within the time limit established by this section shall constitute an acceptance of the BFPCA's LBFPCA's resolution or fire official's decision.

N. 112.9.1. Information to be submitted:. Copies of the fire official's decision and the resolution of the BFPCA LBFPCA shall be submitted with the application for appeal. Upon request by the office of the TRB State Review Board, the BFPCA LBFPCA shall submit a copy of all inspection reports and all pertinent information from the record of the BFPCA LBFPCA.

O. 112.9.2. Decision of TRB: State Review Board. Procedures of the TRB State Review Board are in accordance with Article 2 (§ 36-108 et seq.) of Chapter 6 of Title 36 of the Code of Virginia. Decisions of the TRB State Review Board shall be final if no appeal is made therefrom and the appellant and the code official shall act accordingly.

13VAC5-51-130. IFC Section 202.0. 202 Definitions.

A. Add the following definitions to read:

Background clearance card or BCC:. An identification card issued to an individual who is not a certified blaster or pyrotechnician and is responsible management or an employee of a company, corporation, firm, or other entity, solely for the purpose of submitting an application to the fire official for a permit to manufacture, use, handle, store, or sell explosive materials; or conduct a fireworks display. A person to whom a BCC has been issued can fulfill the role of a designated individual on an application for a permit to manufacture, use, handle, store, or sell explosive materials; or on an application for a permit to design, setup, and conduct a fireworks display.

Blaster, restricted:. Any person engaging in the use of explosives or blasting agents utilizing five pounds (2.25 kg) or less per blasting operation and using instantaneous detonators. A certified restricted blaster can fulfill the role of a designated individual on an application for permit to manufacture, use, handle, store, or sell explosive materials.

Blaster, unrestricted:. Any person engaging in the use of explosives or blasting agents without the limit to the amount of explosives or blasting agents or type of detonator. A certified unrestricted blaster can fulfill the role of a designated individual on an application for permit to manufacture, use, handle, store, or sell explosive materials.

Chemical fume hood. A ventilated enclosure designed to contain and exhaust fumes, gases, vapors, mists, and particulate matter generated within the hood.

Design:. For the purposes of a fireworks display, either inside a building or structure or outdoors, it shall mean the pyrotechnician who will be in attendance and makes the final artistic determination for the placement of fireworks and ground display pieces suitable for the display site.

Designated individual:. A person who is in possession of a BCC issued by the SFMO, certified by the SFMO as a pyrotechnician, or a restricted or unrestricted blaster, any of whom are responsible for ensuring compliance with state law and regulations relating to blasting agents and explosives and applying for explosives or firework permits; is at least 21 years of age; and demonstrates the capability to effectively communicate safety messages verbally and in writing in the English language.

DHCD:. The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development.

Laboratory suite. A fire-rated enclosed laboratory area that will provide one or more laboratory spaces, within a Group B educational occupancy, that are permitted to include ancillary uses such as offices, bathrooms, and corridors that are contiguous with the laboratory area and are constructed in accordance with Section 430.3 of the USBC, Part I, Construction.

LBFPCA. Local Board of Fire Prevention Code Appeals.

Local government, local governing body or locality:. The governing body of any county, city, or town, other political subdivision and state agency in this Commonwealth charged with the enforcement of the SFPC under state law.

Night club:. Any building or portion thereof in which the main use is a place of public assembly that provides exhibition, performance or other forms or entertainment; serves alcoholic beverages; and provides music and space for dancing.

Permissible fireworks:. Any sparklers, fountains, Pharaoh's serpents, caps for pistols, or pinwheels commonly known as whirligigs or spinning jennies.

Pyrotechnician (firework operator):. Any person supervising or engaged in the design, setup, or conducting of any fireworks display, either inside a building or outdoors. A certified pyrotechnician can fulfill the role of a designated individual on an application for a permit for a fireworks display.

Pyrotechnician, aerial:. A person supervising or engaged in the design, setup, or conducting of an outdoor aerial fireworks display performed in accordance with the regulations as set forth in this code and NFPA 1123, a referenced standard for fireworks displays.

Pyrotechnician, proximate:. A person supervising or engaged in the design, setup, or conducting of a fireworks display, either inside a building or outdoors, performed in accordance with the regulations as set forth in this code and NFPA 1126, a referenced standard for the use of pyrotechnics before a proximate audience.

Responsible management:. A person who is any of the following:

1. The sole proprietor of a sole proprietorship.

2. The partners of a general partnership.

3. The managing partners of a limited partnership.

4. The officers or directors of a corporation.

5. The managers or members of a limited liability company.

6. The managers, officers or directors of an association.

7. Individuals in other business entities recognized under the laws of the Commonwealth as having a fiduciary responsibility to the firm.

Sky lantern: An unmanned device with a fuel source that incorporates an open flame in order to make the device airborne.

Sole proprietor:. A person or individual, not a corporation, who is trading under his own name or under an assumed or fictitious name pursuant to the provisions of §§ 59.1-69 through 59.1-76 of the Code of Virginia.

Special expert. An individual who has demonstrated qualifications in a specific area, outside the practice of architecture or engineering, through education, training, and experience.

State Fire Marshal:. The State Fire Marshal as provided for by § 9.1-206 of the Code of Virginia.

State Regulated Care Facility (SRCF):. A building with an occupancy in Group R-2, R-3, R-4, or R-5 occupied by persons in the care of others where program oversight is provided by the Virginia Department of Social Services, the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services, the Virginia Department of Education or the Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice.

State Review Board. The Virginia State Building Code Technical Review Board as established under § 36-108 of the Code of Virginia.

Teaching and research laboratory. A building or portion of a building where hazardous materials are stored, used, and handled for the purpose of testing, analysis, teaching, research, or developmental activities on a nonproduction basis rather than in a manufacturing process.

Technical Assistant:. Any person employed by or under an extended contract to a local enforcing agency for enforcing the SFPC. For the purposes of this definition, an extended contract shall be a contract with an aggregate term of 18 months or longer.

TRB: The Virginia State Building Code Technical Review Board.

USBC:. The Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (13VAC5-63).

B. Add the following definition under the term "Occupancy Classification--Residential Group R" to read:

Residential Group R-5. Detached one and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three stories high with separate means of egress and their accessory structures. The terms "R-5" and "one and two-family dwelling" where used in this code shall be interchangeable.

C. Change the following definitions to read:

Automatic fire-extinguishing system:. An approved system of devices and equipment that automatically detects a fire and discharges an approved fire-extinguishing agent onto or in the area of a fire. Such system shall include an automatic sprinkler system, unless otherwise expressly stated.

Fire code official:. The officer or other designated authority charged with administration and enforcement of this code, or a duly authorized representative. For the purpose of this code, the terms "code official" and "fire official" shall have the same meaning as the term "fire code official" and, in addition, such official shall have the powers outlined in § 27-98.1 of the Code of Virginia.

Fireworks:. Any firecracker, torpedo, skyrocket, or other substance or object, of whatever form or construction, that contains any explosive or inflammable compound or substance, and is intended, or commonly known, as fireworks and that explodes, rises into the air or travels laterally, or fires projectiles into the air. Fireworks shall not include automobile flares, paper caps containing not more than the average of 0.25 grain (16 mg) of explosive content per cap or toy pistols, toy canes, toy guns, or other devices utilizing such caps and items commonly known as party poppers, pop rocks, and snap-n-pops. Fireworks may be further delineated and referred to as:

Fireworks, 1.4G (formerly known as Class C, Common Fireworks):. Small fireworks devices containing restricted amounts of pyrotechnic composition designed primarily to produce visible or audible effects by combustion. Such 1.4G fireworks that comply with the construction, chemical composition, and labeling regulations of the DOTn for Fireworks, UN0336, and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission as set forth in CPSC 16 CFR Parts 1500 and 1507, are not explosive materials for the purpose of this code.

Fireworks, 1.3G (formerly Class B, Special Fireworks):. Large fireworks devices, which are explosive materials, intended for the use in fireworks displays and designed to produce audible or visible effects by combustion, deflagration, or detonation. Such 1.3G fireworks include, but are not limited to, firecrackers containing more than 130 milligrams (2 grains) of explosive composition, aerial shells containing more than 40 grams of pyrotechnic composition, and other display pieces that exceed the limits for classification as 1.4G fireworks. Such 1.3G fireworks are also described as Fireworks, UN0335 by the DOTn.

Smokeless propellants:. Solid propellants, commonly referred to as smokeless powders or any propellant classified by DOTn as a smokeless propellant in accordance with NA3178, Smokeless Powder for Small Arms, used in small arms ammunition, firearms, cannons, rockets, propellant-actuated devices, and similar articles.

13VAC5-51-131. IFC Chapter 3. General Requirements.

A. Change Section 301.2 to read:

301.2. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2 for the activities or uses regulated by Sections 306, 307, 308, and 315.

B. Add Section 301.3 to read:

301.3. Occupancy. The occupancy of a structure shall be continued as originally permitted under and in full compliance with the codes in force at the time of construction or alteration. The occupancy of a structure shall not change to another occupancy that will subject the structure to any special provisions of this code or the USBC without the approval of the building official.

C. Add the following to the list of definitions in Section 302.1:

Sky lantern.

D. C. Change Section 304.3.2 to read:

304.3.2. Capacity exceeding 5.88 cubic feet. Containers with a capacity exceeding 5.88 cubic feet (44 gallons) (0.17 m³) shall be provided with lids. Containers and lids shall be constructed of noncombustible materials or approved combustible materials.

E. D. Add an exception to Section 307.1 to read:

Exception: Approved outdoor live fire training using equipment or appliances accessible or available to the general public, and that complies with Section 307.4.

F. E. Change Section 307.2 to read:

307.2. Permit required. A permit shall be obtained from the fire code official in accordance with Section 107.2 prior to kindling a fire for recognized silvicultural or range or wildlife management practices, prevention or control of disease or pests, or a bonfire. Application for such approval shall only be presented by and permits issued to the owner of the land upon which the fire is to be kindled.

G. Add Section 308.1.6.3 to read:

308.1.6.3. Sky lanterns. No person shall release or cause to be released an untethered sky lantern.

H. F. Change Section 308.2 to read:

308.2. Permits required. Permits shall be obtained from the fire code official in accordance with Section 107.2 prior to engaging in the following activities involving open flame, fire, and burning:

1. Use of a torch or flame-producing device to remove paint from a structure.

2. Use of open flame, fire, or burning in connection with Group A or E occupancies.

3. Use or operation of torches and other devices, machines, or processes liable to start or cause fire in or upon wildfire risk areas.

I. G. Change Section 311.1 to read:

311.1. General. Temporarily unoccupied buildings, structures, premises, or portions thereof, including tenant spaces, shall be safeguarded and maintained in accordance with Sections 311.1.1 through 311.5.6 311.6.

J. H. Add Section 311.5.6 to read:

311.5.6. Removal. Removal of placards posted in accordance with this section without the approval of the fire official shall be a violation of this code.

K. Add Section 311.6 to read:

311.6. Unoccupied tenant spaces in mall buildings. Unoccupied tenant spaces in covered and open mall buildings shall be:

1. Kept free from the storage of any materials.

2. Separated from the remainder of the building by partitions of at least 0.5-inch-thick (12.7 mm) gypsum board or an approved equivalent to the underside of the ceiling of the adjoining tenant spaces.

3. Without doors or other access openings other than one door that shall be kept key locked in the closed position except during that time when opened for inspection.

4. Kept free from combustible waste and be broom swept clean.

L. I. Change Section 314.1 to read:

314.1. General. Indoor displays constructed within any building or structure shall comply with Sections 314.2 through 314.5.

M. J. Add Section 314.5 to read:

314.5. Smokeless powder and small arms primers. Venders shall not store, display, or sell smokeless powder or small arms primers during trade shows inside exhibition halls except as follows:

1. The amount of smokeless powder displayed by each vender is limited to the amount established in Section 5606.5.1.1.

2. The amount of smokeless powder each vender may store is limited to the storage arrangements and storage amounts established in Section 5606.5.2.1. Smokeless powder shall remain in the manufacturer's original sealed container, and the container shall remain sealed while inside the building. The repackaging of smokeless powder shall not be performed inside the building. Damaged containers shall not be repackaged inside the building and shall be immediately removed from the building in such manner to avoid spilling any powder.

3. There shall be at least 50 feet separation between venders and 20 feet from any exit.

4. Small arms primers shall be displayed and stored in the manufacturer's original packaging and in accordance with the requirements of Section 5606.5.2.3.

N. K. Change Section 315.2 to read:

315.2. Permit required. A permit for miscellaneous combustible storage shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

O. L. Change Section 315.4 to read:

315.4. Outside storage. Outside storage of combustible materials shall not be located within 10 feet (3048 mm) of a property line or other building on the site.

Exceptions:

1. The separation distance is allowed to be reduced to 3 feet (914 mm) for storage not exceeding 6 feet (1829 mm) in height.

2. The separation distance is allowed to be reduced when the fire official determines that no hazard to the adjoining property exists.

P. M. Change Section 315.4.1 to read:

315.4.1. Storage beneath overhead projections from buildings. To the extent required by the code the building was constructed under, when buildings are required to be protected by automatic sprinklers, the outdoor storage, display, and handling of combustible materials under eaves, canopies, or other projections or overhangs is prohibited except where automatic sprinklers are installed under such eaves, canopies, or other projections or overhangs.

13VAC5-51-132. IFC Chapter 4. Emergency Planning and Preparedness.

A. Add Section 401.1.1 to read:

401.1.1. State Regulated Care Facilities. When a state license is required by the Virginia Department of Social Services; Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services; Virginia Department of Education; or Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice to operate, SRCF shall comply with this section and the provisions of Section 404.0 404.

B. Change Add Section 403 403.1.1 to read:

Section 403.
Emergency Preparedness Requirements.

403.1. General. In addition to the requirements of Section 401, occupancies, uses and outdoor locations shall comply with the emergency preparedness requirements set forth in Sections 403.2 through 403.11. Where a fire safety and evacuation plan is required by Sections 403.2 through 403.11, evacuation drills shall be in accordance with Section 405 and employee training shall be in accordance with Section 406.

403.1.1. Maintaining occupant load posting. Occupant load postings required by the building code are required to be maintained.

403.2. Group A occupancies. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for Group A occupancies, other than those occupancies used exclusively for purposes of religious worship with an occupant load less than 2,000, and for buildings containing both a Group A occupancy and an atrium. Group A occupancies shall also comply with Sections 403.2.1 through 403.2.4.

403.2.1. Seating plan. In addition to the requirements of Section 404.2, the fire safety and evacuation plans for assembly occupancies shall include a detailed seating plan, occupant load and occupant load limit. Deviations from the approved plans shall be allowed provided the occupant load limit for the occupancy is not exceeded and the aisles and exit accessways remain unobstructed.

403.2.2. Announcements. In theaters, motion picture theaters, auditoriums and similar assembly occupancies in Group A used for noncontinuous programs, an audible announcement shall be made not more than 10 minutes prior to the start of each program to notify the occupants of the location of the exits to be used in the event of a fire or other emergency.

Exception: In motion picture theaters, the announcement is allowed to be projected upon the screen in a manner approved by the fire code official.

C. Add Sections 403.2.2.1, 403.2.2.1.1, and 403.2.2.1.2 to read:

403.2.2.1. Night clubs. Night clubs shall comply with Sections 403.2.2.1.1 and 403.2.2.1.2.

403.2.2.1.1. Audible announcements. Audible announcements shall be made to the occupants no longer than 10 minutes prior to the start of the entertainment and at each intermission to notify the occupants of the location of the exits to be used in the event of a fire or other emergency.

403.2.2.1.2. Occupant load count. Upon request of the fire code official, the owner or operator, or both, will be required to keep a running count of the occupant load to provide to the fire code official during performance hours of operation, entertainment hours of operation, or both.

403.2.3. Fire watch personnel. Fire watch personnel shall be provided where required by Section 403.11.1.

403.2.4. Crowd managers. Crowd managers shall be provided where required by Section 403.11.3.

403.3. Group B occupancies. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for buildings containing a Group B occupancy where the Group B occupancy has an occupant load of 500 or more persons or more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.

403.4. Group E occupancies. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for Group E occupancies and for buildings containing both a Group E occupancy and an atrium. Group E occupancies shall also comply with Section 403.4.1.

403.4.1. Group E occupancies. Group E occupancies shall comply with 403.4.1.1 through 403.4.1.3.

403.4.1.1. First emergency evacuation drill. The first emergency evacuation drill of each school year shall be conducted within 10 days of the beginning of classes.

403.4.1.2. Time of day. Emergency evacuation drills shall be conducted at different hours of the day or evening, during the changing of classes, when the school is at assembly, during the recess or gymnastic periods, or during other times to avoid distinction between drills and actual fires.

403.4.1.3. Assembly points. Outdoor assembly areas shall be designated and shall be located a safe distance from the building being evacuated so as to avoid interference with fire department operations. The assembly areas shall be arranged to keep each class separate to provide accountability of all individuals.

403.5. Group F occupancies. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for buildings containing a Group F occupancy where the Group F occupancy has an occupant load of 500 or more persons or more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.

403.6. Group H occupancies. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for Group H occupancies. Group H-5 occupancies shall also comply with Section 403.6.1.

403.6.1. Group H-5 occupancies. Group H-5 occupancies shall comply with Sections 403.6.1.1 through 403.6.1.4.

403.6.1.1. Plans and diagrams. In addition to the requirements of Section 404 and Section 407.6, plans and diagrams shall be maintained in approved locations indicating the approximate plan for each area; the amount and type of HPM stored, handled and used; locations of shutoff valves for HPM supply piping; emergency telephone locations; and locations of exits.

403.6.1.2. Plan updating. The plans and diagrams required by Section 404, 403.6.1.1 and 407.6 shall be maintained up to date and the fire code official and fire department shall be informed of major changes.

403.6.1.3. Emergency response team. Responsible persons shall be designated as an on-site emergency response team and trained to be liaison personnel for the fire department. These persons shall aid the fire department in preplanning emergency responses; identifying locations where HPM is stored, handled and used; and be familiar with the chemical nature of such material. An adequate number of personnel for each work shift shall be designated.

403.6.1.4. Emergency drills. Emergency drills of the on-site emergency response team shall be conducted on a regular basis but not less than once every three months. Records of drills conducted shall be maintained.

403.7. Group I occupancies. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for Group I occupancies. Group I occupancies shall also comply with Sections 403.7.1 through 403.7.3.

403.7.1. Group I-1 occupancies. Group I-1 occupancies shall comply with Sections 403.7.1.1 through 403.7.1.6.

403.7.1.1. Fire safety and evacuation plan. The fire safety and evacuation plan required by Section 404 shall include special employee actions, including fire protection procedures necessary for residents, and shall be amended or revised upon admission of any resident with unusual needs.

403.7.1.2. Employee training. Employees shall be periodically instructed and kept informed of their duties and responsibilities under the plan. Such instruction shall be reviewed by employees at intervals not exceeding two months. A copy of the plan shall be readily available at all times within the facility.

403.7.1.3. Resident training. Residents capable of assisting in their own evacuation shall be trained in the proper actions to take in the event of a fire. The training shall include actions to take if the primary escape route is blocked. Where the resident is given rehabilitation or habilitation training, training in fire prevention and actions to take in the event of a fire shall be a part of the rehabilitation training program. Residents shall be trained to assist each other in case of fire to the extent their physical and mental abilities permit them to do so without additional personal risk.

403.7.1.4. Drill frequency. Emergency evacuation drills shall be conducted at least six times per year, two times per year on each shift. Twelve drills shall be conducted in the first year of operation.

403.7.1.5. Drill times. Drills times are not required to comply with Section 405.4.

403.7.1.6. Resident participation in drills. Emergency evacuation drills shall involve the actual evacuation of residents to a selected assembly point.

403.7.2. Group I-2 occupancies. Group I-2 occupancies shall comply with Sections 403.7.2.1 through 403.7.2.3.

403.7.2.1. Drill times. Drill times are not required to comply with Section 405.4.

403.7.2.2. Evacuation not required. During emergency evacuation drills, the movement of patients to safe areas or to the exterior of the building is not required.

403.7.2.3. Coded alarm signal. When emergency evacuation drills are conducted after visiting hours or when patients or residents are expected to be asleep, a coded announcement is allowed instead of audible alarms.

403.7.3. Group I-3 occupancies. Group I-3 occupancies shall comply with Sections 403.7.3.1 through 403.7.3.4.

403.7.3.1. Employee training. Employees shall be instructed in the proper use of portable fire extinguishers and other manual fire suppression equipment. Training of new employees shall be provided promptly upon entrance on duty. Refresher training shall be provided at least annually.

403.7.3.2. Employee staffing. Group I-3 occupancies shall be provided with 24-hour staffing. An employee shall be within three floors or 300 feet (91 440 mm) horizontal distance of the access door of each resident housing area. In Conditions 3, 4 and 5, as defined in "Occupancy Classification – Institutional Group I-3" in Chapter 2, the arrangement shall be such that the employee involved can start release of locks necessary for emergency evacuation or rescue and initiate other necessary emergency actions within 2 minutes of an alarm.

Exception: An employee shall not be required to be within three floors or 300 feet (9144 mm) in areas in which all locks are unlocked remotely and automatically in accordance with Section 408.4 of the International Building Code.

403.7.3.3. Notification. Provisions shall be made for residents in Conditions 3, 4 and 5, as defined in "Occupancy Classification – Institutional Group I-3" in Chapter 2, to readily notify an employee of an emergency.

403.7.3.4. Keys. Keys necessary for unlocking doors installed in a means of egress shall be individually identifiable by both touch and sight.

403.8. Group M occupancies. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for buildings containing a Group M occupancy, where the Group M occupancy has an occupant load of 500 or more persons or more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge, and for buildings containing both a Group M occupancy and an atrium.

D. Change Section 403.10 to read:

403.9. 403.10 Group R occupancies. Group R occupancies shall comply with the provisions of this section applicable to the type of Group R occupancy Sections 403.10.1 through 403.10.4.

403.9.1. Group R-1 occupancies. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for Group R-1 occupancies. Group R-1 occupancies shall also comply with Sections 403.9.1.1 through 403.9.1.3.

403.9.1.1. Evacuation diagrams. A diagram depicting two evacuation routes shall be posted on or immediately adjacent to every required egress door from each hotel or motel sleeping unit.

403.9.1.2. Emergency duties. Upon discovery of a fire or suspected fire, hotel and motel employees shall perform the following duties:

1. Activate the fire alarm system, where provided.

2. Notify the public fire department.

3. Take other action as previously instructed.

403.9.1.3. Fire safety and evacuation instructions. Information shall be provided in the fire safety and evacuation plan required by Section 404 to allow guests to decide whether to evacuate to the outside, evacuate to an area of refuge, remain in place, or any combination of the three.

403.9.2. Group R-2 occupancies. Group R-2 occupancies shall comply with Sections 403.9.2.1 through 403.9.2.3.

403.9.2.1. College and university buildings. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for Group R-2 college and university buildings. Group R-2 college and university buildings shall also comply with Sections 403.9.2.1.1 and 403.9.2.1.2.

403.9.2.1.1. First emergency evacuation drill. The first emergency evacuation drill of each school year shall be conducted within 10 days of the beginning of classes.

403.9.2.1.2. Time of day. Emergency evacuation drills shall be conducted at different hours of the day or evening, during the changing of classes, when the school is at assembly, during the recess or gymnastic periods, or during other times to avoid distinction between drills and actual fires. One required drill shall be held during hours after sunset or before sunrise.

403.9.2.2. Emergency guide. Fire emergency guides shall be provided for Group R-2 occupancies. Guide contents, maintenance and distribution shall comply with Sections 403.9.2.2.1 through 403.9.2.2.3.

403.9.2.2.1. Guide contents. Fire emergency guides shall describe the location, function and use of fire protection equipment and appliances accessible to residents, including fire alarm systems, smoke alarms, and portable fire extinguishers. Guides shall also include an emergency evacuation plan for each dwelling unit.

403.9.2.2.2. Emergency guide maintenance. Emergency guides shall be reviewed and approved by the fire code official.

403.9.2.2.3. Emergency guide distribution. A copy of the emergency guide shall be given to each tenant prior to initial occupancy.

403.9.2.3. Evacuation diagrams for dormitories. A diagram depicting two evacuation routes shall be posted on or immediately adjacent to every required egress door from each dormitory sleeping unit. Evacuation diagrams shall be reviewed and updated as needed to maintain accuracy.

403.9.3. Group R-4 occupancies. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for Group R-4 occupancies. Group R-4 occupancies shall also comply with Sections 403.9.3.1 through 403.9.3.6.

403.9.3.1. Fire safety and evacuation plan. The fire safety and evacuation plan required by Section 404 shall include special employee actions, including fire protection procedures necessary for residents, and shall be amended or revised upon admission of a resident with unusual needs.

403.9.3.2. Employee training. Employees shall be periodically instructed and kept informed of their duties and responsibilities under the plan. Such instruction shall be reviewed by employees at intervals not exceeding two months. A copy of the plan shall be readily available at all times within the facility.

403.9.3.3. Resident training. Residents capable of assisting in their own evacuation shall be trained in the proper actions to take in the event of a fire. The training shall include actions to take if the primary escape route is blocked. Where the resident is given rehabilitation or habilitation training, training in fire prevention and actions to take in the event of a fire shall be a part of the rehabilitation training program. Residents shall be trained to assist each other in case of fire to the extent their physical and mental abilities permit them to do so without additional personal risk.

403.9.3.4. Drill frequency. Emergency evacuation drills shall be conducted at least six times per year, two times per year on each shift. Twelve drills shall be conducted in the first year of operation.

403.9.3.5. Drill times. Drills are not required to comply with Section 405.4.

403.9.3.6. Resident participation in drills. Emergency evacuation drills shall involve the actual evacuation of residents to a selected assembly point and shall provide residents with experience in exiting through all required exits. All required exits shall be used during emergency evacuation drills.

Exception: Actual exiting from windows shall not be required. Opening the window and signaling for help shall be an acceptable alternative.

E. Add Section 403.10.4 to read:

403.9.4. 403.10.4 Group R-3 and R-5 lodging facilities. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for Group R-3 and R-5 bed and breakfast and other transient boarding facilities that are either proprietor or non-proprietor occupied.

F. Change Section 403.11 to read:

403.10. 403.11 Special uses. Special uses shall comply with the provisions of this section applicable to the type of special use be in accordance with Sections 403.11.1 through 403.11.5.

403.10.1. Covered and open mall buildings. Covered and open mall buildings shall comply with the requirements of Sections 403.10.1.1 through 403.10.1.6.

403.10.1.1. Malls and mall buildings exceeding 50,000 square feet. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for covered malls exceeding 50,000 square feet (4645 m²) in aggregate floor area and for open mall buildings exceeding 50,000 square feet (4645 m²) in aggregate area within perimeter line.

403.10.1.2. Lease plan. In addition to the requirements of Section 404.2.2, a lease plan that includes the following information shall be prepared for each covered and open mall building:

1. Each occupancy, including identification of tenant.

2. Exits from each tenant space.

3. Fire protection features, including the following:

3.1. Fire department connections.

3.2. Fire command center.

3.3. Smoke management system controls.

3.4. Elevators, elevator machine rooms and controls.

3.5. Hose valve outlets.

3.6. Sprinkler and standpipe control valves.

3.7. Automatic fire-extinguishing system areas.

3.8. Automatic fire detector zones.

3.9. Fire barriers.

403.10.1.3. Lease plan approval. The lease plan shall be submitted to the fire code official for approval, and shall be maintained on site for immediate reference by responding fire service personnel.

403.10.1.4. Lease plan revisions. The lease plans shall be revised annually or as often as necessary to keep them current. Modifications or changes in tenants or occupancies shall not be made without prior approval of the fire code official and building official.

403.10.1.5. Tenant identification. Tenant identification shall be provided for secondary exits from occupied tenant spaces that lead to an exit corridor or directly to the exterior of the building. Tenant identification shall be posted on the exterior side of the exit or exit access door and shall identify the business name or address, or both, using plainly legible letters and numbers that contrast with their background.

Exception: Tenant identification is not required for anchor stores.

403.10.1.6. Unoccupied tenant spaces. The fire safety and evacuation plan shall provide for compliance with the requirements for unoccupied tenant spaces in Section 311.

403.10.2. High-rise buildings. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for high-rise buildings.

403.10.3. Underground buildings. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for underground buildings.

G. Add Section 403.11.5 to read:

403.10.4. 403.11.5 SRCF. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for SRCFs.

403.11. Special requirements for public safety. Special requirements for public safety shall be as required in this section.

403.11.1. Fire watch personnel. When, in the opinion of the fire code official, it is essential for public safety in a place of assembly or any other place where people congregate, because of the number of persons or the nature of the performance, exhibition, display, contest or activity, the owner, agent or lessee shall provide one or more fire watch personnel, as required and approved. Fire watch personnel shall comply with Sections 403.11.1.1 and 403.11.1.2.

403.11.1.1. Duty times. Fire watch personnel shall remain on duty during the times places requiring a fire watch are open to the public, or when an activity requiring a fire watch is being conducted.

403.11.1.2. Duties. On-duty fire watch personnel shall have the following duties:

1. Keep diligent watch for fires, obstructions to means of egress and other hazards.

2. Take prompt measures for remediation of hazards and extinguishment of fires that occur.

3. Take prompt measures to assist in the evacuation of the public from the structures.

403.11.2. Public safety plan for gatherings. In other than Group A or E occupancies, where the fire code official determines that an indoor or outdoor gathering of persons has an adverse impact on public safety through diminished access to buildings, structures, fire hydrants and fire apparatus access roads or where such gatherings adversely affect public safety services of any kind, the fire code official shall have the authority to order the development of or prescribe a public safety plan that provides an approved level of public safety and addresses the following items:

1. Emergency vehicle ingress and egress.

2. Fire protection.

3. Emergency egress or escape routes.

4. Emergency medical services.

5. Public assembly areas.

6. The directing of both attendees and vehicles, including the parking of vehicles.

7. Vendor and food concession distribution.

8. The need for the presence of law enforcement.

9. The need for fire and emergency medical services personnel.

403.11.3. Crowd managers for gatherings exceeding 1,000 people. Where facilities or events involve a gathering of more than 1,000 people, crowd managers shall be provided in accordance with Section 403.11.3.1.

403.11.3.1. Number of crowd managers. The minimum number of crowd managers shall be established at a ratio of one crowd manager for every 250 persons.

Exception: Where approved by the fire code official, the number of crowd managers shall be permitted to be reduced where the facility is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system or based upon the nature of the event.

403.11.3.2. Duties. The duties of crowd managers shall include, but not be limited to:

1. Conduct an inspection of the area of responsibility and identify and address any egress barriers.

2. Conduct an inspection of the area of responsibility and identify and mitigate any fire hazards.

3. Verify compliance with all permit conditions, including those governing pyrotechnics and other special effects.

4. Direct and assist the event attendees in evacuation during an emergency.

5. Assist emergency response personnel where requested.

6. Other duties required by the fire code official.

7. Other duties as specified in the fire safety plan.

403.11.3.3. Training. Training for crowd managers shall be approved.

C. Change Section 404 to read:

Section 404.
Fire Safety, Evacuation and Lockdown Plans.

404.1. General. Where required by Section 403, fire safety, evacuation and lockdown plans shall comply with Sections 404.2 through 404.4.1.

404.2. Contents. Fire safety and evacuation plan contents shall be in accordance with Sections 404.2.1 and 404.2.2.

404.2.1. Fire evacuation plans. Fire evacuation plans shall include the following:

1. Emergency egress or escape routes and whether evacuation of the building is to be complete or, where approved, by selected floors or areas only.

2. Procedures for employees who must remain to operate critical equipment before evacuating.

3. Procedures for assisted rescue for persons unable to use the general means of egress unassisted.

4. Procedures for accounting for employees and occupants after evacuation has been completed.

5. Identification and assignment of personnel responsible for rescue or emergency medical aid.

6. The preferred and any alternative means of notifying occupants of a fire or emergency.

7. The preferred and any alternative means of reporting fires and other emergencies to the fire department or designated emergency response organization.

8. Identification and assignment of personnel who can be contacted for further information or explanation of duties under the plan.

9. A description of the emergency voice/alarm communication system alert tone and preprogrammed voice messages, where provided.

404.2.2. Fire safety plans. Fire safety plans shall include the following:

1. The procedure for reporting a fire or other emergency.

2. The life safety strategy and procedures for notifying, relocating or evacuating occupants, including occupants who need assistance.

3. Site plans indicating the following:

3.1. The occupancy assembly point.

3.2. The locations of fire hydrants.

3.3. The normal routes of fire department vehicle access.

4. Floor plans identifying the locations of the following:

4.1. Exits.

4.2. Primary evacuation routes.

4.3. Secondary evacuation routes.

4.4. Accessible egress routes.

4.5. Areas of refuge.

4.6. Exterior areas for assisted rescue.

4.7. Manual fire alarm boxes.

4.8. Portable fire extinguishers.

4.9. Occupant-use hose stations.

4.10. Fire alarm annunciators and controls.

5. A list of major fire hazards associated with the normal use and occupancy of the premises, including maintenance and housekeeping procedures.

6. Identification and assignment of personnel responsible for maintenance of systems and equipment installed to prevent or control fires.

7. Identification and assignment of personnel responsible for maintenance, housekeeping and controlling fuel hazard sources.

404.2.3. Lockdown plans. Where facilities develop a lockdown plan, the lockdown plan shall be in accordance with Sections 404.2.3.1 through 404.2.3.3.

404.2.3.1. Lockdown plan contents. Lockdown plans shall be approved by the fire code official and shall include the following:

1. Initiation. The plan shall include instructions for reporting an emergency that requires a lockdown.

2. Accountability. The plan shall include accountability procedures for staff to report the presence or absence of occupants.

3. Recall. The plan shall include a prearranged signal for returning to normal activity.

4. Communication and coordination. The plan shall include an approved means of two-way communication between a central location and each secured area.

404.2.3.2. Training frequency. The training frequency shall be included in the lockdown plan. The lockdown drills shall not substitute for any of the fire and evacuation drills required in Section 405.2.

404.2.3.3. Lockdown notification. The method of notifying building occupants of a lockdown shall be included in the plan. The method of notification shall be separate and distinct from the fire alarm signal.

404.3. Maintenance. Fire safety and evacuation plans shall be reviewed or updated annually or as necessitated by changes in staff assignments, occupancy or the physical arrangement of the building.

404.4. Availability. Fire safety and evacuation plans shall be available in the workplace for reference and review by employees, and copies shall be furnished to the fire code official for review upon request.

H. Change Section 404.4.1 to read:

404.4.1. Distribution. The fire safety and evacuation plans shall be distributed to the tenants and building service employees by the owner or owner's agent. Tenants shall distribute to their employees applicable parts of the fire safety plan affecting the employees' actions in the event of a fire or other emergency. Fire safety and evacuation plans shall be made available by the proprietor of Group R-3 and R-5 bed and breakfast and other transient boarding facilities to transient guests upon their arrival or are present in each transient guest room.

D. I. Change Section 405.1 to read:

405.1. General. Emergency evacuation drills complying with Sections 405.2 through 405.9 shall be conducted at least annually where fire safety and evacuation plans are required by Section 403 or when required by the fire code official. Drills shall be designed in cooperation with the local authorities.

Exception: Emergency evacuation drills shall not be conducted in school buildings during periods of mandatory testing required by the Virginia Board of Education.

E. Delete the "High-rise buildings" row in Table 405.2; add J. Add the following row to Table 405.2; and change footnotes "a," "b," and "d" of Table 405.2 to read:

F. K. Add Section 405.2.1 to read:

405.2.1. High-rise buildings. Fire exit drills shall be conducted annually by building staff personnel or the owner of the building in accordance with the fire safety plan and shall not affect other current occupants.

G. Change Item 4 of Section 405.5 to read:

4. Employees on duty and participating.

H. Change Section 406.1 to read:

406.1. General. Where fire safety and evacuation plans are required by Section 403, employees shall be trained in fire emergency procedures based on plans prepared in accordance with Section 404.

I. Change Section 406.3.3 to read:

406.3.3. Fire safety training. Employees assigned firefighting duties shall be trained to know the locations and proper use of portable fire extinguishers or other manual firefighting equipment and the protective clothing or equipment required for its safe and proper use.

J. Delete Section 406.3.4.

K. Add Section 406.4 to read:

406.4. Emergency lockdown training. Where a facility has a lockdown plan, employees shall be trained on their assigned duties and procedures in the event of an emergency lockdown.

L. Delete Section 408 in its entirety.

13VAC5-51-133. IFC Chapter 5. Fire Service Features.

A. Change Section 501.2 to read:

501.2. Permits. A permit shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

B. Delete Section 501.4.

C. Add exceptions to Section 503.1 to read:

Exceptions:

1. Fire apparatus access roads shall be permitted to be provided and maintained in accordance with written policy that establish fire apparatus access road requirements and such requirements shall be identified to the owner or his agent prior to the building official's approval of the building permit.

2. On construction and demolition sites fire apparatus access roads shall be permitted to be provided and maintained in accordance with Section 3310.1.

D. Add exception to Section 503.2.1 to read:

Exception: Fire apparatus access roads exclusively serving single family dwelling or townhouse developments that are fully sprinklered as provided for in Sections R313.1 or R313.2 of the International Residential Code shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 18 feet (5486 mm), exclusive of shoulders.

E. Add Section 503.7 to read:

503.7. Fire lanes for existing buildings. The fire code official is authorized to designate public and private fire lanes as deemed necessary for the efficient and effective operation of fire apparatus. Fire lanes shall comply with Sections 503.2 through 503.6.

F. Add Sections Section 507.3.1 and 507.3.2 to read:

507.3.1. Fire flow requirements for fully sprinklered residential developments. Notwithstanding Section 103.1.2, the fire flow requirements in Table B105.1 B105.1(1) of Appendix B of the IFC, as modified by Section 507.3.2, shall be permitted to be used for determining fire flow in single family dwelling and townhouse developments which are fully sprinklered as provided for in Sections R313.1 or R313.2 of the International Residential Code.

507.3.2. Modifications to Table B105.1. The first six rows of columns five and six of Table B105.1 of Appendix B of the IFC shall be modified as shown below for the use of Table B105.1 in Section 507.3.1.

G. Change Section 507.5.1 to read:

507.5.1. Where required. Fire hydrant systems shall be located and installed as directed by the fire department. Fire hydrant systems shall conform to the written standards of the jurisdiction and the fire department.

H. Add Section 507.5.1.2 to read:

507.5.1.2. Fire hydrant requirements for fully sprinklered residential developments. Notwithstanding Section 103.1.2, the number and distribution of fire hydrants in Table C105.1 C102.1 of Appendix C of the IFC shall be permitted to be used in single family dwelling and townhouse developments which are fully sprinklered as provided for in Sections R313.1 or R313.2 of the International Residential Code, with the spacing and distances of fire hydrants indicated in Table C105.1 C102.1 increased by 100%.

I. Change Section 510 to read:

Section 510.
Maintenance of In-Building Emergency Communication Equipment.

510.1. General. In-building emergency communication equipment shall be maintained in accordance with USBC and the provisions of this section.

510.2. Additional in-building emergency communications installations. If it is determined by the locality that increased amplification of their emergency communication system is needed, the building owner shall allow the locality access as well as provide appropriate space within the building to install and maintain necessary additional communication equipment by the locality. If the building owner denies the locality access or appropriate space, or both, the building owner shall be responsible for the installation and maintenance of these additional systems.

510.3. Field tests. After providing reasonable notice to the owner or their the owner's representative, the fire official, police chief, or their agents shall have the right during normal business hours, or other mutually agreed upon time, to enter onto the property to conduct field tests to verify that the required level of radio coverage is present at no cost to the owner.

13VAC5-51-133.5. IFC Chapter 6. Building Services and Systems.

A. Change Section 601.2 to read:

601.2. Permits. Permits shall be obtained for refrigeration systems, battery systems and solar photovoltaic power systems as set forth in Section 107.2.

B. Add a note to Section 603.7 to read:

Note: The fire code official may request a copy of the latest certificate of inspection from the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry for boilers and pressure vessels subject to such requirements. When the certificate is not available, the fire code official shall notify the Department of Labor and Industry to ensure that the required maintenance and testing is performed in accordance the Virginia Boiler and Pressure Vessel Regulations (16VAC25-50).

C. Add Section 604.7 604.8 to read:

604.7. 604.8 Testing of battery powered emergency lights and exit signs. Required emergency lighting utilizing battery powered emergency lights or exit signs, or both, shall be tested annually. The emergency lights and exit signs shall be tested for proper operation for the time period established in the building code in effect when the equipment was installed. Written records of tests shall be retained by the owner of the building for a minimum of two years after the test is conducted and shall be made available to the fire code official upon request.

D. Change Section 605.10.1 to read:

605.10.1. Listed and labeled. Only portable electric space heaters listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1278 shall be used.

E. Change Section 607.1 to read:

607.1. Operation. Existing elevators with a travel distance of 25 feet (7620 mm) or more shall comply with the requirements of Section 607.5 and the USBC, Part III, Maintenance.

F. Change Section 609.3.3.3 and add Section 609.3.3.3.1 to read:

609.3.3.3. Records. Records for inspections shall state the individual and company performing the inspection, a description of the inspection, and when the inspection took place. Records for cleanings shall state the individual and company performing the cleaning and when the cleaning took place. Such records shall be completed after each inspection or cleaning and maintained for a minimum of three years and be copied to the fire code official upon request.

609.3.3.3.1. Tags. Where a commercial kitchen hood or duct system is cleaned, a tag containing the service provider name, address, telephone number, and date of service shall be provided in a conspicuous location. Prior tags shall be covered or removed.

G. Add an exception to Section 609.3.3.3.1 to read:

Exception: Where records required by Section 609.3.3.3 are maintained on the premises.

13VAC5-51-133.8. IFC Chapter 7. Fire-Resistance-Rated Construction Fire and Smoke Protection Features.

Change Section 704.1 to read:

704.1. Enclosure. New floor openings in existing buildings shall comply with the International Building Code.

13VAC5-51-134. IFC Chapter 8. Interior Finish, Decorative Materials and Furnishings.

A. Add exception 3 to Section 806.1.1 to read:

3. Trees shall be permitted in places of worship in Group A occupancies.

B. Change exception 2 in Section 807.1 807.3 to read:

807.1. General requirements. In occupancies in Groups A, E, I and R-1 and dormitories in Group R-2, curtains, draperies, hangings and other decorative materials suspended from walls or ceilings shall meet the flame propagation performance criteria of NFPA 701 in accordance with Section 806.2 or be noncombustible.

Exception:

2. In dwelling units or sleeping rooms in Group R-2 dormitories, the permissible amount of decorative material suspended from or attached to the walls shall not exceed 50% of the aggregate area of the walls where the building has an approved automatic sprinkler system or 20% of the aggregate area of the walls where approved smoke alarms are provided and in the corridors of such buildings, the permissible amount of decorative material suspended from or attached to the walls shall not exceed 10% of the aggregate area of the walls.

In Groups I-1 and I-2, combustible decorative materials shall meet the flame propagation criteria of NFPA 701 unless the decorative materials, including, but not limited to, photographs and paintings, are of such limited quantities that a hazard of fire development or spread is not present. In Group I-3, combustible decorative materials are prohibited.

Fixed or movable walls and partitions, paneling, wall pads and crash pads, applied structurally or for decoration, acoustical correction, surface insulation or other purposes, shall be considered interior finish if they cover 10% or more of the wall or of the ceiling area, and shall not be considered decorative materials or furnishings.

In Group B and M occupancies, fabric partitions suspended from the ceiling and not supported by the floor shall meet the flame propagation performance criteria in accordance with Section 807.2 and NFPA 701 or shall be noncombustible.

13VAC5-51-135. IFC Chapter 9. Fire Protection Systems.

A. Change Section 901.3 to read:

901.3. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

B. Change Section 901.4.2 to read:

901.4.2. Nonrequired fire protection systems. Nonrequired fire protection systems shall be maintained to function as originally installed. If any such systems are to be reduced in function or discontinued, approval shall be obtained from the building official in accordance with Section 103.8.1 of Part I of the USBC.

C. Delete Section 901.4.4.

D. Change Section 901.6 to read:

901.6. Inspection, testing and maintenance. To the extent that equipment, systems, devices, and safeguards, such as fire detection, alarm and extinguishing systems, which were provided and approved by the building official when constructed, shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times. And where such equipment, systems, devices, and safeguards are found not to be in an operative condition, the fire official shall order all such equipment to be rendered safe in accordance with the USBC.

E. Add Section 901.11 to read:

901.11. Defective equipment. When the fire official determines through investigation or testing or reports by a nationally recognized testing agency that specific, required water sprinkler or water-spray extinguishing equipment has been identified as failing to perform or operate through not less than 30 randomly selected sprinkler heads at four or more building sites anywhere in the nation, the fire official shall order all such equipment to be rendered safe.

F. Change Section 903.6 to read:

903.6. Where required in existing buildings and structures. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in existing buildings and structures in accordance with Section 102.7 of this code.

G. Delete Section 905.11.

H. Change Item 1 in Section 906.1 to read:

1. In Group A, B, E, F, H, I, M, R-1, R-4 and S occupancies.

Exceptions:

1. In Groups A, B, and E occupancies equipped throughout with quick response sprinklers, portable fire extinguishers shall be required only in locations specified in Items 2 through 6.

2. In Group I-3 occupancies, portable fire extinguishers shall be permitted to be located at staff locations and the access to such extinguishers shall be permitted to be locked.

I. Add a note to Section 906.1 to read:

Note: In existing buildings, whether fire extinguishers are needed is determined by the USBC or other code in effect when such buildings were constructed.

J. Change Section 907.1 to read:

907.1. General. This section covers the application, installation, performance and maintenance of fire alarm systems and their components in new and existing buildings and structures. The requirements of Section 907.2 are applicable to new buildings and structures.

K. Change Section 907.8.2 to read:

907.8.2. Testing. Testing shall be performed in accordance with the schedules in Chapter 10 of NFPA 72 or more frequently where required by the fire code official. Where automatic testing is performed at least weekly by a remotely monitored fire alarm control unit specifically listed for the application, the manual testing frequency shall be permitted to be extended to annual. In Group R-1 occupancies, battery-powered single station smoke detectors shall be tested and inspected at one-month intervals.

Exception: Devices or equipment that are inaccessible for safety considerations shall be tested during scheduled shutdowns where approved by the fire code official, but not less than every 18 months.

L. Change Section 907.8.5 to read:

907.8.5. Maintenance, inspection and testing. The building owner shall be responsible for maintaining the fire and life safety systems in an operable condition at all times. Service personnel shall meet the qualification requirements of NFPA 72 for maintaining, inspecting and testing such systems. A written record shall be maintained and shall be made available to the fire code official. In addition to all applicable information contained in Figure 14.6.2.2 of NFPA 72, the written record of inspections, testing and maintenance shall contain the following minimum information:

1. Date, name and address of property.

2. Name of person performing inspection, maintenance and tests, or combination thereof, and affiliation, business address and telephone number.

3. Name, address and representative of approving agency or agencies.

4. Test frequency.

5. Designation of the detector or detectors tested (for example, "Test performed in accordance with Section _______.").

6. Physical location (for example, "Heat detector in main kitchen; horn-strobe in Room 115.") and a list of all initiating and notification devices and appliances tested.

7. Functional list of detectors and required sequence of operations.

8. Check of all smoke detectors.

9. Loop resistance for all fixed-temperature, line-type detectors.

10. Other tests as required by either the equipment manufacturer's published instructions or the authority having jurisdiction.

11. Signature of tester and approved authority representative.

12. Disposition of problems identified during test (examples, "Owner notified," "Problem corrected or successfully retested, or both," "Device abandoned in place.").

M. Delete Section 907.9.

N. Change Section 908.7 to read:

908.7. Carbon monoxide alarms. Carbon monoxide alarms shall be maintained as approved.

O. Delete Section 908.7.1.

 13VAC5-51-135.5. IFC Chapter 10. Means of Egress.

A. Add Section 1001.3 to read:

1001.3. Overcrowding. Overcrowding, admittance of any person beyond the approved occupant load established by the USBC or other building code under which the building was constructed, or obstructing aisles, passageways, or any part of the means of egress shall not be allowed. The fire code official, upon finding any condition that constitutes a life safety hazard, shall be authorized to cause the event to be stopped until such condition or obstruction is corrected.

B. Change Section 1029.4 1030.4 to read:

1029.4. 1030.4 Operational constraints. 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 (i) the minimum net clear opening size complies with Section 1029.2 1030.2, (ii) 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, and (iii) where smoke alarms are installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11 and approved by the building official regardless of the valuation of the alteration.

13VAC5-51-138. IFC Chapter 11. Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings.

Delete Chapter 11 in its entirety.

13VAC5-51-138.4. IFC Chapter 20. Aviation Facilities.

Change Section 2001.3 to read:

2001.3. Permits. For permits to operate aircraft-refueling vehicles, application of flammable or combustible finishes and hot work, see Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-138.8. IFC Chapter 21. Dry Cleaning.

Change Section 2101.2 to read:

2101.2. Permit required. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-139. IFC Chapter 22. Combustible Dust-Producing Operations.

Change Section 2201.2 to read:

2201.2. Permits. Permits shall be required for combustible dust-producing operations as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-140. IFC Chapter 23. Motor Fuel-Dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages.

A. Change Section 2301.2 to read:

2301.2. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

B. Change Section 2305.4 to read:

2305.4. Sources of ignition. Smoking and open flames shall be prohibited within 20 feet (6096 mm) of a fuel dispensing device. The engines of vehicles being fueled shall be shut off during fueling. Electrical equipment shall be in accordance with NFPA 70.

C. Change Section 2306.2.1.1 to read:

2306.2.1.1. Inventory control and leak detection for underground tanks. Accurate inventory records shall be maintained on underground fuel storage tanks for indication of possible leakage from tanks and piping. The records shall be kept at the premises or made available for inspection by the fire official within 24 hours of a written or verbal request and shall include records for each tank. Where there is more than one system consisting of tanks serving separate pumps or dispensers for a product, the inventory record shall be maintained separately for each tank system.

Owners and operators of underground fuel storage tanks shall provide release detection for tanks and piping that routinely contain flammable and combustible liquids in accordance with one of the following methods:

1. Monthly inventory control to detect a release of at least 1.0% of flow-through plus 130 gallons.

2. Manual tank gauging for tanks with 2,000 gallon capacity or less when measurements are taken at the beginning and ending of a 36-hour to 58-hour period during which no liquid is added to or removed from the tank.

3. Tank tightness testing capable of detecting a 0.1 gallon per hour leak rate.

4. Automatic tank gauging that tests for loss of liquid.

5. Vapor monitoring for vapors within the soil of the tank field.

6. Groundwater monitoring when the groundwater is never more than 20 feet from the ground surface.

7. Interstitial monitoring between the underground tank and a secondary barrier immediately around or beneath the tank.

8. Other approved methods that have been demonstrated to be as effective in detecting a leak as the methods listed above.

A consistent or accidental loss of product shall be immediately reported to the fire official.

D. Change Section 2306.8.1 to read:

2306.8.1. Listed. Dispensers shall be listed in accordance with UL 87A. Hoses, nozzles, breakaway fittings, swivels, flexible connectors or dispenser emergency shutoff valves, vapor recovery systems, leak detection devices, and pumps used in alcohol-blended fuel-dispensing systems shall be listed for the specific purpose.

E. Add Section 2306.8.6 to read:

2306.8.6. Compatibility. Dispensers shall only be used with the fuels for which they have been listed, which are marked on the product. Field installed components including hose assemblies, breakaway couplings, swivel connectors, and hose nozzle valves shall be provided in accordance with the listing and the marking on the unit.

13VAC5-51-140.5. IFC Chapter 24. Flammable Finishes.

Change Section 2401.3 to read:

2401.3. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-141. IFC Chapter 25. Fruit and Crop Ripening.

Change Section 2501.2 to read:

2501.2. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-141.5. IFC Chapter 26. Fumigation and Insecticidal Fogging.

Change Section 2601.2 to read:

2601.2. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-142. IFC Chapter 27. Semiconductor Fabrication Facilities.

Change Section 2701.5 to read:

2701.5. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-142.5. IFC Chapter 28. Lumber Yards and Agro-Industrial, Solid Biomass, and Woodworking Facilities.

Change Section 2801.2 to read:

2801.2. Permit. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-143.5. IFC Chapter 29. Manufacture of Organic Coatings.

Change Section 2901.2 to read:

2901.2. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-144. IFC Chapter 30. Industrial Ovens.

Change Section 3001.2 to read:

3001.2. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-144.2. IFC Chapter 31. Tents and Other Membrane Structures.

Change Section 3103.4 to read:

3103.4. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-144.4. IFC Chapter 32. High-Piled Combustible Storage.

Change Section 3201.2 to read:

3201.2. Permits. A permit shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-144.6. IFC Chapter 34. Tire Rebuilding and Tire Storage.

A. Change Section 3401.2 to read:

3401.2. Permit required. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

B. Change Section 3406.1 to read:

3406.1. Required access. New and existing tire storage yards shall be provided with fire apparatus access roads in accordance with Section 503 and Section 3406.2.

13VAC5-51-144.8. IFC Chapter 37 Combustible Fibers.

Change Section 3701.3 to read:

3701.3 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-145. IFC Chapter 50. Hazardous Materials - General Provisions.

A. Change Section 5001.5 to read:

5001.5. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

B. Add the following language to the end of Section 5001.5.1 to read:

The HMMP shall be maintained onsite for use by emergency responders, and shall be updated not less than annually.

C. Add the following language to the end of Section 5001.5.2 to read:

The HMIS shall be maintained onsite or readily available through another means where approved by the fire code official for use by temporary responders, and shall be updated not less than annually.

D. Add Sections 5001.5.3, 5001.5.3.1, and 5001.5.3.2 to read:

5001.5.3. Repository container. When a HMMP or HMIS is required, the owner or operator shall provide a repository container (lock box) or other approved means for the storage of items required in Sections 5001.5.1 and 5001.5.2 so as to be readily available to emergency response personnel.

5001.5.3.1. Location and identification. The repository container (lock box) shall be located, installed and identified in an approved manner.

5001.5.3.2. Keying. All repository containers (lock boxes) shall be keyed as required by the fire code official.

E. Change the "Consumer fireworks" row in and add Add a new "Permissible fireworks" row to Table 5003.1.1(1) to read:

F. Add Section 5001.7, including subsections, to read:

5001.7 Operational requirements for Group B teaching and research laboratories. Teaching and research laboratories in Group B educational occupancies above the 12th grade utilizing Section 430 of the USBC, Part I, Construction, or Section 302.6 of the USBC, Part II, Existing Buildings, shall comply with this section and other applicable requirements of this code. In the case of conflicts between the requirements of Section 430 of the USBC, Part I, Construction, or Section 302.6 of the USBC, Part II, Existing Buildings, and provisions of this code other than those set out in this section, Section 430 of the USBC, Part I, Construction, or Section 302.6 of the USBC, Part II, Existing Buildings, as applicable, shall govern.

5001.7.1 Chemical safety reviews. Operating and emergency procedures planning and documentation shall be as set out in Sections 5001.3.3.11 through 5001.3.3.17. Such documentation shall be prepared by laboratory safety personnel or special experts and shall be made available in the workplace for reference and review by employees. Copies of such documentation shall be furnished to the fire code official for review upon request.

5001.7.2 Hazardous materials handling. Receiving, transporting on site, unpacking, and dispensing of hazardous materials shall be carried out by persons trained in proper handling of such materials and shall be performed in accordance with Chapters 50 through 67, as applicable.

5001.7.3 Hazard identification signage. Warning signs for other than building components shall be provided in accordance with Section 5003.5.

5001.7.4 Maintenance of equipment, machinery, and processes. Maintenance of equipment, machinery, and processes used with hazardous materials shall comply with Section 5003.2.6.

5001.7.5 Time sensitive materials. Containers of materials that have the potential to become hazardous during prolonged storage shall be dated when first opened and shall be managed in accordance with NFPA 45, Section 8.2.4.4.1.

5001.7.6 Maintenance of storage, dispensing, use, and handling requirements. Storage, dispensing, use, and handling requirements in the USBC, Part I, Construction, or the USBC, Part II, Existing Buildings, shall be maintained. Operational requirements not affecting the manner of construction shall comply with this chapter and Chapters 51 through 67, as applicable.

5001.7.7 Hazardous wastes. Storage, dispensing, use, and handling of hazardous waste shall comply with this chapter and Chapters 51 through 67, as applicable.

5001.7.8 Container size. The maximum container size for all hazardous materials shall be 5.3 gallons (20 L) for liquids, 50 pounds (23 kg) for solids, 100 cubic feet (2.8. m³) for health hazard gases per Table 5003.1.1(2), and 500 cubic feet (14 m³) for all other gases in accordance with Table 5003.1.1(1).

Exception: Hazardous waste collection containers, for other than Class I and Class II flammable liquids, are permitted to exceed 5.3 gallons (20 L) where approved.

5001.7.9 Density. Quantities of Class I, II, and IIIA combustible or flammable liquids in storage and use within control areas or laboratory suites shall not exceed 8 gallons per 100 square feet (30 L/9.3 m²) of floor area, with not more than 4 gallons per 100 square feet (15 L/9.3 m²) being in use. Quantities of Class I flammable liquids in storage and use shall not exceed 4 gallons per 100 square feet (15 L/9.3 m²) of floor area with not more than 2 gallons (7.5 L) being in use. The maximum in use in open systems is limited to 10% of these quantities. Densities shall be reduced by 25% on the 4th-floor through 6th-floor levels above grade plane of the building and 50% above the 6th-floor level. The density is to be reduced to 50% of these values for buildings that are not protected throughout with an approved automatic fire sprinkler system. Regardless of the density, the maximum allowable quantity per control area or laboratory suite shall not be exceeded.

Exception: Density limits may be exceeded in designated hazardous waste collection areas or rooms within a control area or laboratory suite, but stored quantities shall not exceed the maximum allowable quantity per laboratory suite or control area.

5001.7.10 Restricted materials in storage. Storage of pyrophorics and Class 4 oxidizers prohibited by Table 5003.1.1(1) in existing buildings not equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 of the USBC, Part I, Construction, shall be allowed within a control area at 25% of the limits in Table 5003.1.1(1) for a building equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system, with no additional increases allowed, provided that such materials are stored in accordance with all of the following:

1. Containers shall be completely sealed and stored according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

2. Storage shall be within approved hazardous materials storage cabinets in accordance with Section 5003.8.7 or shall be located in an inert atmosphere glove box in accordance with NFPA 45, Section 7.11.

3. The storage cabinet or glove box shall not contain any storage of incompatible materials.

5001.7.11 Restricted materials in use. Use of pyrophorics and Class 4 oxidizers prohibited by Table 5003.1.1(1) in existing buildings not equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 of the USBC, Part I, Construction, shall be allowed within a control area at 25% of the limits in Table 5003.1.1(1) for buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system, with no additional increases allowed, provided that such materials are used in accordance with all of the following:

1. Use shall be within an approved chemical fume hood listed in accordance with UL 1805, or in an inert atmosphere glove box in accordance with NFPA 45, Section 7.11, or other approved equipment designed for the specific hazard of the material.

2. Combustible materials shall be kept at least 2 feet (610 mm) away from the work area, except for those items directly related to the research.

3. A portable fire extinguisher appropriate for the specific material shall be provided within 20 feet (6096 mm) of the use in accordance with Section 906.

G. Change Section 5003.3.1.4 to read:

5003.3.1.4. Responsibility for cleanup. The person, firm, or corporation responsible for an unauthorized discharge shall institute and complete all actions necessary to remedy the effects of such unauthorized discharge, whether sudden or gradual, at no cost to the jurisdiction. The fire code official may require records and receipts to verify cleanup and proper disposal of unauthorized discharges. When deemed necessary by the fire code official, cleanup may be initiated by the fire department or by an authorized individual or firm. Costs associated with such cleanup shall be borne by the responsibility of the owner, operator, or other person responsible for the unauthorized discharge.

Note: Owners and operators of certain underground and aboveground petroleum storage tanks may have access to the Virginia Petroleum Storage Tank Fund for reimbursement of some cleanup costs associated with petroleum discharges from these tanks. See Article 10 (§ 62.1-44.34:10 et seq.) of Title 62.1of the Code of Virginia.

 13VAC5-51-145.5. IFC Chapter 51. Aerosols.

Change Section 5101.2 to read:

5101.2. Permit required. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-146. IFC Chapter 52. Combustible Fibers. (Repealed.)

Change Section 5201.3 to read:

5201.3. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-146.5. IFC Chapter 53. Compressed Gases.

Change Section 5301.2 to read:

5301.2. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-147. IFC Chapter 54. Corrosive Materials.

Change Section 5401.2 to read:

5401.2. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-147.5. IFC Chapter 55. Cryogenic Fluids.

Change Section 5501.2 to read:

5501.2. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-150. IFC Chapter 56. Explosives and Fireworks.

A. Change exception 4 in Section 5601.1 to read:

4. The possession, storage, and use of not more than 15 pounds (6.81 kg) of commercially manufactured sporting black powder, 20 pounds (9 kg) of smokeless powder and any amount of small arms primers for hand loading of small arms ammunition for personal consumption.

B. Add exceptions 10, 11 and 12 to Section 5601.1 to read:

10. The storage, handling, or use of explosives or blasting agents pursuant to the provisions of Title 45.1 of the Code of Virginia.

11. The display of small arms primers in Group M when in the original manufacturer's packaging.

12. The possession, storage and use of not more than 50 pounds (23 kg) of commercially manufactured sporting black powder, 100 pounds (45 kg) of smokeless powder, and small arms primers for hand loading of small arms ammunition for personal consumption in Group R-3 or R-5, or 200 pounds (91 kg) of smokeless powder when stored in the manufacturer's original containers in detached Group U structures at least 10 feet (3048 mm) from inhabited buildings and are accessory to Group R-3 or R-5.

C. Change exception 4 in Section 5601.1.3 to read:

4. The possession, storage, sale, handling and use of permissible fireworks where allowed by applicable local or state laws, ordinances and regulations provided such fireworks comply with CPSC 16 CFR, Parts 1500-1507, and DOTn 49 CFR, Parts 100-178, for consumer fireworks.

D. Add exception 5 to Section 5601.1.3 to read:

5. The sale or use of materials or equipment when such materials or equipment is used or to be used by any person for signaling or other emergency use in the operation of any boat, railroad train or other vehicle for the transportation of persons or property.

E. Change entire Section 5601.2 to read:

5601.2. Permit required. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2 and regulated in accordance with this section. The manufacture, storage, possession, sale and use of fireworks or explosives shall not take place without first applying for and obtaining a permit.

5601.2.1. Residential uses. No person shall keep or store, nor shall any permit be issued to keep, possess or store, any fireworks or explosives at any place of habitation, or within 100 feet (30,480 mm) thereof.

Exception: Storage of smokeless propellant, black powder, and small arms primers for personal use and not for resale in accordance with Section 5606.

5601.2.2. Sale and retail display. Except for the Armed Forces of the United States, Coast Guard, National Guard, federal, state and local regulatory, law enforcement and fire agencies acting in their official capacities, explosives shall not be sold, given, delivered or transferred to any person or company not in possession of a valid permit. The holder of a permit to sell explosives shall make a record of all transactions involving explosives in conformance with Section 5603.2 and include the signature of any receiver of the explosives. No person shall construct a retail display nor offer for sale explosives, explosive materials, or fireworks upon highways, sidewalks, public property, or in assembly or educational occupancies.

5601.2.3. Permit restrictions. The fire official is authorized to limit the quantity of explosives, explosive materials, or fireworks permitted at a given location. No person, possessing a permit for storage of explosives at any place, shall keep or store an amount greater than authorized in such permit. Only the kind of explosive specified in such a permit shall be kept or stored.

5601.2.3.1. Permit applicants. As a condition of a permit as provided for in Section 107.5, the fire official shall not issue a permit to manufacture, store, handle, use or sell explosives or blasting agents to any applicant who has not provided on the permit application the name and signature of a designated individual as representing the applicant. When, as provided for in Section 107.2 or 107.6, a permit is required to conduct a fireworks display, as a condition of permit as provided for in Section 107.5, the fire official shall not issue a permit to design, setup or conduct a fireworks display to any applicant who has not provided on the permit application the name and signature of a designated individual as representing the applicant.

If the applicant's designated individual changes or becomes no longer qualified to represent the applicant as responsible management or designated individual, the applicant shall notify the fire official who issued the permit on the change of status of the designated individual. The notice is to be made prior to the use of any explosives or conducting a fireworks display but in no case shall the notification occur more than seven days after the change of status and shall provide the name of another designated individual. The fire official may revoke or require the reissuance of a permit based on a change of permit conditions or status or inability to provide another designated individual.

5601.2.3.1.1. BCC:. The SFMO shall process all applications for a BCC for compliance with § 27-97.2 of the Code of Virginia and will be the sole provider of a BCC. Using forms provided by the SFMO, a BCC may be applied for and issued to any person who submits to the completion of a background investigation by providing fingerprints and personal descriptive information to the SFMO. The SFMO shall forward the fingerprints and personal descriptive information to the Central Criminal Records Exchange for submission to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the purpose of obtaining a national criminal history records check regarding such applicant.

5601.2.3.1.2. Issuance of a BCC:. The issuance of a BCC shall be denied if the applicant or designated person representing an applicant has been convicted of any felony, whether such conviction occurred under the laws of the Commonwealth, or any other state, the District of Columbia, the United States or any territory thereof, unless his civil rights have been restored by the Governor or other appropriate authority.

5601.2.3.1.3. Fee for BCC:. The fee for obtaining or renewing a BCC from the SFMO shall be $150 plus any additional fees charged by other agencies for fingerprinting and for obtaining a national criminal history record check through the Central Criminal Records Exchange to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

5601.2.3.1.4. Revocation of a BCC:. After issuance of a BCC, subsequent conviction of a felony will be grounds for immediate revocation of a BCC, whether such conviction occurred under the laws of the Commonwealth, or any other state, the District of Columbia, the United States or any territory thereof. The BCC shall be returned to the SFMO immediately. An individual may reapply for his BCC if his civil rights have been restored by the Governor or other appropriate authority.

5601.2.4. Financial responsibility. Before a permit is issued, as required by Section 5601.2, the applicant shall file with the jurisdiction a corporate surety bond in the principal sum of $500,000 or a public liability insurance policy for the same amount, for the purpose of the payment of all damages to persons or property which arise from, or are caused by, the conduct of any act authorized by the permit upon which any judicial judgment results. The legal department of the jurisdiction may specify a greater amount when conditions at the location of use indicate a greater amount is required. Government entities shall be exempt from this bond requirement.

5601.2.4.1. Blasting. Before approval to do blasting is issued, the applicant for approval shall file a bond or submit a certificate of insurance in such form, amount, and coverage as determined by the legal department of the jurisdiction to be adequate in each case to indemnify the jurisdiction against any and all damages arising from permitted blasting but in no case shall the value of the coverage be less than $1,000,000.

Exception: Filing a bond or submitting a certificate of liability insurance is not required for blasting on real estate parcels of five or more acres conforming to the definition of "real estate devoted to agricultural use" or "real estate devoted to horticultural use" in § 58.1-3230 of the Code of Virginia and conducted by the owner of such real estate.

5601.2.4.2. Fireworks display. The permit holder shall furnish a bond or certificate of insurance in an amount deemed adequate by the legal department of the jurisdiction for the payment of all potential damages to a person or persons or to property by reason of the permitted display, and arising from any acts of the permit holder, the agent, employees or subcontractors, but in no case shall the value of the coverage be less than $1,000,000.

F. Change entire Section 5601.4 to read:

5601.4. Qualifications. Persons in charge of magazines, blasting, fireworks display, or pyrotechnic special effect operations shall not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs which impair sensory or motor skills, shall be at least 21 years of age and possess knowledge of all safety precautions related to the storage, handling or use of explosives, explosive materials or fireworks.

5601.4.1. Certification of blasters and pyrotechnicians. Certificates as a restricted blaster, unrestricted blaster or pyrotechnician will be issued upon proof of successful completion of an examination approved by the SFMO commensurate to the certification sought and completion of a background investigation for compliance with § 27-97.2 of the Code of Virginia. The applicant for certification shall submit proof to the SFMO of the following experience:

1. For certification as a restricted blaster, at least one year under direct supervision by a certified unrestricted blaster, certified restricted blaster or other person(s) approved by the SFMO.

2. For certification as an unrestricted blaster, at least one year under direct supervision by a certified unrestricted blaster or other person or persons approved by the SFMO.

3. For certification as a pyrotechnician, aerial, or pyrotechnician, proximate, applicant was in responsible charge of or has assisted in the documented design, setup and conducting of a fireworks display on at least six occasions within the 24 months immediately preceding the application for certification.

The SFMO shall process all certification applicants for compliance with § 27-97.2 of the Code of Virginia and will be the sole provider of blaster and pyrotechnician certifications.

Exception: The use of explosives by the owner of real estate parcels of five or more acres conforming to the definition of "real estate devoted to agricultural use" or "real estate devoted to horticultural use" in § 58.1-3230 of the Code of Virginia when blasting on such real estate.

5601.4.2. Certification issuance. The issuance of a certification as a blaster or pyrotechnician shall be denied if the applicant has (i) been convicted of any felony, whether such conviction occurred under the laws of the Commonwealth, or any other state, the District of Columbia, the United States or any territory thereof, unless his civil rights have been restored by the Governor or other appropriate authority, (ii) has not provided acceptable proof or evidence of the experience required in Section 5601.4.1, or (iii) has not provided acceptable proof or evidence of the continued training or education required in Section 5601.4.5.

5601.4.3. Fee for certification. The fee for obtaining or renewing a blaster or pyrotechnician certificate from the SFMO shall be $150 plus any additional fees charged by other agencies for fingerprinting and for obtaining a national criminal history record check through the Central Criminal Records Exchange to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

5601.4.3.1. Fee for replacement certificate. A written request for a replacement blaster or pyrotechnician certificate shall be accompanied by the payment of an administrative fee in the amount of $20 made payable to the Treasurer of Virginia. Verbal requests shall not be accepted.

5601.4.4. Revocation of a blaster or pyrotechnician certification. After issuance of a blaster or pyrotechnician certification, subsequent conviction of a felony will be grounds for immediate revocation of a blaster or pyrotechnician certification, whether such conviction occurred under the laws of the Commonwealth, or any other state, the District of Columbia, the United States or any territory thereof. The certification shall be returned to the SFMO immediately. An individual may subsequently reapply for his blaster or pyrotechnician certification if his civil rights have been restored by the Governor or other appropriate authority.

5601.4.5. Expiration and renewal of a BCC, or blaster or pyrotechnician certification. A certificate for an unrestricted blaster, restricted blaster or pyrotechnician shall be valid for three years from the date of issuance. A BCC shall be valid for three years from the date of issuance. Renewal of the unrestricted blaster certificate will be issued upon proof of at least 16 accumulated hours of continued training or education in the use of explosives within three consecutive years and a background investigation for compliance with § 27-97.2 of the Code of Virginia. Renewal of the restricted blaster certificate will be issued upon proof of at least eight accumulated hours of continued training or education in the use of explosives within three consecutive years and a background investigation for compliance with § 27-97.2 of the Code of Virginia. Renewal of the pyrotechnician certificate will be issued upon proof of at least 12 accumulated hours of continued training or education in the subject areas of explosives storage; the design, setup or conduct of a fireworks display within three consecutive years; and a background investigation for compliance with § 27-97.2 of the Code of Virginia. The continued training or education required for renewal of a blaster or pyrotechnician certificate shall be obtained during the three years immediately prior to the certificate's published expiration date. Failure to renew a blaster or pyrotechnician certificate in accordance with this section shall cause an individual to obtain another blaster or pyrotechnician certificate upon compliance with Section 5601.4.1 to continue engaging in the unsupervised use of explosives or conducting a fireworks display.

5601.4.6. Denial, suspension or revocation of a certificate. If issuance or renewal of a blaster or pyrotechnician certificate is denied, or upon the filing of a complaint against an applicant or certificate holder for non-performance, or performance in violation of the SFPC and the appropriate referenced NFPA 495, 1123 or 1126 standards, the State Fire Marshal may convene a three-member panel to hear the particulars of the complaint or denial. The three-member panel will be comprised of the following persons:

1. A Virginia certified fire official, excluding any person certified as a blaster or pyrotechnician, or who is on the staff of the SFMO.

2. A Virginia certified blaster or pyrotechnician whose certification is the same as that of the person to whom a complaint is lodged, and who is not associated in any way with the person against whom a complaint is lodged and whose work or employer is geographically remote, as much as practically possible, from the person to whom a complaint is lodged.

3. A member of the general public who does not have a vested financial interest in conducting a fireworks display, or the manufacture, sale, storage, or use of explosives.

Upon the State Fire Marshal convening such panel, the hearing is to commence within 60 calendar days of the filing of the complaint or denial. The three-member panel is to hear the complaint and render a written recommendation to the State Fire Marshal for certificate issuance, no action, revocation, or suspension of a certificate for a period not to exceed six months. Notwithstanding the discretionary decision and action to convene such panel, the State Fire Marshal reserves the authority to choose an action that may be contrary to the panel's recommendation. A written decision of the State Fire Marshal is to be delivered to the party within 14 days of the hearing's conclusion. If the certificate is denied, revoked, or suspended by the SFMO, in accordance with Section 112.9, the party may file an appeal with the TRB State Review Board. The party's appeal to TRB State Review Board must be filed within 14 calendar days of the receipt of the State Fire Marshal's written decision to deny, revoke, or suspend. The denial, revocation, or suspension of a license is independent of any criminal proceedings that may be initiated by any state or local authority.

5601.4.6.1. Replacement of revoked certificate. Any person whose certificate as a pyrotechnician or blaster was revoked upon cause may apply for certification as a pyrotechnician or blaster six months or more from the date of the revocation and upon compliance with Section 5601.4.1. All elements of Section 5601.4.1 are required to be obtained and dated after the date of revocation.

5601.4.6.2. Return of suspended certificate. Any certificate that was suspended upon cause will be reinstated at the end of the suspension period without change to its expiration date.

G. Change Section 5601.7 to read:

5601.7. Seizure. The fire official is authorized to remove or cause to be removed or disposed of in an approved manner, at the expense of the owner, fireworks offered or exposed for sale, stored, possessed or used in violation of this chapter.

H. Add the following to the list of definitions in Section 5602.1:

Background clearance card (BCC).

Blaster, restricted.

Blaster, unrestricted.

Design.

Designated individual.

Fireworks.

Fireworks, 1.4G.

Fireworks, 1.3G.

Permissible fireworks.

Pyrotechnician (fireworks operator).

Pyrotechnician, aerial.

Pyrotechnician, proximate.

Responsible management.

Smokeless propellants.

Sole proprietor.

I. Change Section 5603.4 to read:

5603.4. Accidents. Accidents involving the use of explosives, explosive materials, and fireworks, which result in injuries or property damage, shall be immediately reported by the permit holder to the fire code official and State Fire Marshal.

J. Change Section 5605.1 to read:

5605.1. General. The manufacture, assembly and testing of explosives, ammunition, blasting agents and fireworks shall comply with the requirements of this section, Title 59.1, Chapter 11 of the Code of Virginia, and NFPA 495 or NFPA 1124.

Exceptions:

1. The hand loading of small arms ammunition prepared for personal use and not offered for resale.

2. The mixing and loading of blasting agents at blasting sites in accordance with NFPA 495.

3. The use of binary explosives or plosophoric materials in blasting or pyrotechnic special effects applications in accordance with NFPA 495 or NFPA 1126.

K. Add Section 5605.1.1 to read:

5605.1.1. Permits. Permits for the manufacture, assembly and testing of explosives, ammunition, blasting agents and fireworks shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2 and regulated in accordance with this section. A permit to manufacture any explosive material in any quantity shall be prohibited unless such manufacture is authorized by a federal license and conducted in accordance with recognized safety practices.

L. Change Section 5606.4 to read:

5606.4. Storage in residences. Propellants for personal use in quantities not exceeding 50 pounds (23 kg) of black powder or 100 pounds (45 kg) of smokeless powder shall be stored in original containers in occupancies limited to Groups R-3 and R-5, or 200 pounds (91 kg) of smokeless powder when stored in the manufacturer's original containers in detached Group U structures that are at least 10 feet from inhabited buildings and are accessory to Group R-3 or R-5. In other than Group R-3 or R-5, smokeless powder in quantities exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg) but not exceeding 50 pounds (23 kg) shall be kept in a wooden box or cabinet having walls of at least one inch (25 mm) nominal thickness or equivalent.

M. Delete Sections 5606.4.1, 5606.4.2, and 5606.4.3.

N. Change Section 5606.5.1.1 to read:

5606.5.1.1. Smokeless propellant. No more than 100 pounds (45 kg) of smokeless propellants, in containers of 8 pounds (3.6 kg) or less capacity, shall be displayed in Group M occupancies.

O. Delete Section 5606.5.1.3.

P. Change Section 5606.5.2.1 to read:

5606.5.2.1. Smokeless propellant. Commercial stocks of smokeless propellants shall be stored as follows:

1. Quantities exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg), but not exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg) shall be stored in portable wooden boxes having walls of at least one inch (25 mm) nominal thickness or equivalent.

2. Quantities exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg), but not exceeding 800 pounds (363 kg), shall be stored in storage cabinets having walls at least one inch (25 mm) nominal thickness or equivalent. Not more than 400 pounds (182 kg) shall be stored in any one cabinet, and cabinets shall be separated by a distance of at least 25 feet (7620 mm) or by a fire partition having a fire-resistance rating of at least one hour.

3. Storage of quantities exceeding 800 pounds (363 kg), but not exceeding 5,000 pounds (2270 kg) in a building shall comply with all of the following:

3.1. The storage is inaccessible to unauthorized personnel.

3.2. Smokeless propellant shall be stored in nonportable storage cabinets having wood walls at least one inch (25 mm) nominal thickness or equivalent and having shelves with no more than three feet (914 mm) of vertical separation between shelves.

3.3. No more than 400 pounds (182 kg) is stored in any one cabinet.

3.4. Cabinets shall be located against walls with at least 40 feet (12 192 mm) between cabinets. The minimum required separation between cabinets may be reduced to 20 feet (6096 mm) provided that barricades twice the height of the cabinets are attached to the wall, midway between each cabinet. The barricades must extend a minimum of 10 feet (3048 mm) outward, be firmly attached to the wall, and be constructed of steel not less than 0.25 inch thick (6.4 mm), two-inch (51 mm) nominal thickness wood, brick, or concrete block.

3.5. Smokeless propellant shall be separated from materials classified as combustible liquids, flammable liquids, flammable solids, or oxidizing materials by a distance of 25 feet (7620 mm) or by a fire partition having a fire-resistance rating of one hour.

3.6. The building shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.

4. Smokeless propellants not stored according to Item 1, 2, or 3 above shall be stored in a Type 2 or 4 magazine in accordance with Section 5604 and NFPA 495.

Q. Change Section 5607.1 to read:

5607.1. General. Blasting operations shall be conducted only by persons certified by the SFMO as a restricted or unrestricted blaster or shall be supervised on-site by a person properly certified by the SFMO as a restricted or unrestricted blaster.

R. Add Section 5607.16 to read:

5607.16. Blast records. A record of each blast shall be kept and retained for at least five years and shall be readily available for inspection by the code official. The record shall be in a format selected by the blaster and shall contain the minimum data and information indicated in Form 5607.16.

S. Change Section 5608.2 to read:

5608.2. Permit application. Prior to issuing permits for a fireworks display, plans for the fireworks display, inspections of the display site and demonstrations of the display operations shall be approved. A plan establishing procedures to follow and actions to be taken in the event that a shell fails to ignite in, or discharge from, a mortar or fails to function over the fallout area or other malfunctions shall be provided to the fire code official.

In addition to the requirements of Section 5601.2.3.1, a permit to conduct a fireworks display shall not be issued to any applicant without the applicant identifying on the application the pyrotechnician who will be in responsible charge of the fireworks display and who is appropriately certified as a pyrotechnician in accordance with Section 5601.4.1.

Exception: Permits are not required for the use or display of permissible fireworks on private property with the consent of the owner of such property.

T. Change Section 5608.3 to read:

5608.3. Approved fireworks displays. Approved fireworks displays shall include only the approved fireworks 1.3G, fireworks 1.4G, fireworks 1.4S and pyrotechnic articles 1.4G. The design, setup, conducting or direct on-site supervision of the design, setup and conducting of any fireworks display, either inside a building or outdoors, shall be performed only by persons certified by the SFMO in accordance with Section 5601.4.1 as a pyrotechnician (firework operator) and at least one person properly certified by the SFMO as a pyrotechnician shall be present at the site where the fireworks display is being conducted. The approved fireworks shall be arranged, located, discharged and fired in a manner that will not pose a hazard to property or endanger any person.

Exception: Certification as a pyrotechnician is not required for the use or display of permissible fireworks when conducted on private property with the consent of the owner of such property.

U. Change Section 5608.4 to read:

5608.4 Clearance. Spectators, spectator parking areas, and dwellings, buildings or structures shall not be located within the display site. The site for the outdoor land or water display shall have at least 100-ft/in. (31-m/2.4mm) radius of internal mortar diameter of the largest shell to be fired as shown in Table 5608.4.

Exceptions:

1. This provision shall not apply to pyrotechnic special effects and fireworks displays using Division 1.4G materials before a proximate audience in accordance with NFPA 1126.

2. This provision shall not apply to unoccupied dwellings, buildings and structures with the approval of the building owner and the fire code official.

V. Add Table 5608.4 to read:

W. Add Sections 5608.4.1 and 5608.4.2 to read:

5608.4.1. Non-splitting, non-bursting comets and mines. For non-splitting or non-bursting comets and mines containing only stars or non-splitting or non-bursting comets, the minimum required radius of the display site shall be 50 feet per inch (15.24 m per 25.4 mm) of the internal mortar diameter of the largest comet or mine to be fired, one-half that shown in Table 5608.4.

5608.4.2. Special distance requirements. The minimum distance requirements of Table 5608.4 shall be adjusted as follows:

1. For chain-fused aerial shells and comets and mines to be fired from mortars, racks, or other holders that are sufficiently strong to prevent their being repositioned in the event of an explosive malfunction of the aerial shells, comets, or mines, the minimum required radius shall be the same as that required in Sections 5608.4 and 5608.4.1. For chain-fused aerial shells and comets and mines to be fired from mortars, racks, or other holders that are not sufficiently strong to prevent their being repositioned in the event of an explosive malfunction of the aerial shells, comets, or mines, or if there is doubt concerning the strength of racks holding chain-fused mortars, based upon the largest mortar in the sequence, the minimum required radius shall be double that required in Sections 5608.4 and 5608.4.1.

2. Distances from the point of discharge of any firework to a health care or detention and correctional facility, or the bulk storage of materials that have flammability, explosive, or toxic hazard shall be at least twice the distances specified in Table 5608.4.

3. The minimum required spectator separation distance for roman candles and cakes that produce aerial shells, comets, or mine effects shall be the same as the minimum required radius specified in Table 5608.4.

4. Aerial shells, comets and mines, and roman candles and cakes shall be permitted to be angled if the dud shells or components are carried away from the main spectator area and either of the following requirements is satisfied:

4.1. The offset specified in Table 5608.4 is followed.

4.2. The separation distance is correspondingly increased in the direction of the angle.

If the offset provided in Table 5608.4 is followed, the mortars or tubes shall be angled so that any dud shells or components fall at a point approximately equal to the offset of the mortars or tubes from the otherwise required discharge point but in the opposite direction.

 13VAC5-51-151. IFC Chapter 57. Flammable and Combustible Liquids.

A. Add Section 5701.1.1 to read:

5701.1.1. Other regulations. Provisions of the Virginia State Water Control Board regulations 9VAC25-91 and 9VAC25-580 addressing the maintenance and operational aspects of underground and aboveground storage tanks subject to those regulations are hereby incorporated by reference to be an enforceable part of this code. Where differences occur between the provisions of this code and the incorporated provisions of the State Water Control Board regulations, the provisions of the State Water Control Board regulations shall apply.

Note: For requirements for the installation, repair, upgrade and closure of such tanks, see Section 414.6.2 of the USBC, Part I, Construction.

B. Change Section 5701.4 to read:

5701.4. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

C. Add the following exception to Section 5704.2.13.1.3 to read:

Exception: Underground storage tanks subject to the Virginia State Water Control Board regulation 9VAC25-580.

13VAC5-51-151.5. IFC Chapter 58. Flammable Gases and Flammable Cryogenic Fluids.

Change Section 5801.2 to read:

5801.2. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-152.5. IFC Chapter 59. Flammable Solids.

Change Section 5901.2 to read:

5901.2. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-153. IFC Chapter 60. Highly Toxic and Toxic Materials.

Change Section 6001.2 to read:

6001.2. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-154. IFC Chapter 61. Liquefied Petroleum Gases.

A. Change Section 6101.2 to read:

6101.2. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2. Distributors shall not fill an LP-gas container for which a permit is required unless a permit for installation has been issued for that location by the fire code official, except when the container is for temporary use on construction sites.

B. Add Section 6106.4 to read:

6106.4. DOTn cylinders filled on site. DOTn cylinders in stationary service that are filled on site and therefore are not under the jurisdiction of DOTn either shall be requalified in accordance with DOTn requirements or shall be visually inspected within 12 years of the date of manufacture or within five years from May 1, 2008, whichever is later, and within every five years thereafter, in accordance with the following:

1. Any cylinder that fails one or more of the criteria in Item 3 shall not be refilled or continued in service until the condition is corrected.

2. Personnel shall be trained and qualified to perform inspections.

3. Visual inspection shall be performed in accordance with the following:

3.1. The cylinder is checked for exposure to fire, dents, cuts, digs, gouges, and corrosion according to CGA C-6, Standards for Visual Inspection of Steel Compressed Gas Cylinders, except that paragraph 4.2.1(1) of that standard (which requires tare weight certification), shall not be part of the required inspection criteria.

3.2. The cylinder protective collar (where utilized) and the foot ring are intact and are firmly attached.

3.3. The cylinder is painted or coated to retard corrosion.

3.4. The cylinder pressure relief valve indicates no visible damage, corrosion of operating components, or obstructions.

3.5. There is no leakage from the cylinder or its appurtenances that is detectable without the use of instruments.

3.6. The cylinder is installed on a firm foundation and is not in contact with the soil.

3.7. A cylinder that passed the visual inspection shall be marked with the month and year of the examination followed by the letter "E" (example: 10-01E, indicating requalification in October 2001 by the external inspection method).

3.8. The results of the visual inspection shall be documented, and a record of the inspection shall be retained for a five-year period.

Exception: Any inspection procedure outlined in Items 3.1 through 3.8 that would require a cylinder be moved in such a manner that disconnection from the piping system would be necessary shall be omitted, provided the other inspection results do not indicate further inspection is warranted.

C. Change Section 6111.2 to read:

6111.2. Unattended parking. The unattended parking of LP-gas tank vehicles shall be in accordance with Sections 6111.2.1 and 6111.2.2.

Exception: The unattended outdoor parking of LP-gas tank vehicles may also be in accordance with Section 9.7.2 of NFPA 58.

 13VAC5-51-154.2. IFC Chapter 62. Organic Peroxides.

Change Section 6201.2 to read:

6201.2. Permits. Permits shall be required for organic peroxides as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-154.4. IFC Chapter 63. Oxidizers, Oxidizing Gases and Oxidizing Cryogenic Fluids.

Change Section 6301.2 to read:

6301.2. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

 13VAC5-51-154.6. IFC Chapter 64. Pyrophoric Materials.

Change Section 6401.2 to read:

6401.2. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-154.7. IFC Chapter 65. Pyroxylin (Cellulose Nitrate) Plastics.

Change Section 6501.2 to read:

6501.2. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-154.8. IFC Chapter 66. Unstable (Reactive) Materials.

Change Section 6601.2 to read:

6601.2. Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 107.2.

13VAC5-51-155. IFC Chapter 80. Referenced Standards.

Change the referenced standards as follows (standards not shown remain the same):

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (13VAC5-51)

The International Fire Code – 2012 Edition, International Code Council, Inc., 500 New Jersey Avenue, NW, 6th Floor, Washington, DC 20001-2070 (http://www.iccsafe.org):

International Fire Code - 2015 Edition

International Residential Code - 2015 Edition

CGA C-6 – 2001, Standards for Visual Inspection of Steel Compressed Gas Cylinders, Eighth Edition, Compressed Gas Association, 1725 Jefferson Davis Highway, 5th Floor, Arlington, VA 22202-4102

National Fire Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471 (http://www.nfpa.org):

NFPA 45‑15, Standard on Fire Protection for Laboratories Using Chemicals

NFPA 58‑11, Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code

NFPA 70‑11 70‑14, National Electrical Code

NFPA 72‑10 72‑13, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code

NFPA 495‑10 495‑13, Explosives Materials Code

NFPA 701‑10, Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Flame - Propagation of Textiles and Films

NFPA 1123‑10 1123‑14, Code for Fireworks Display

NFPA 1124‑06, Code for the Manufacture, Transportation, Storage, and Retail Sales of Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles

NFPA 1126‑11, Standard for the Use of Pyrotechnics Before a Proximate Audience

Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., 333 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, IL 60062 (http://www.ul.com):

UL 87A‑12, Outline of Investigation for Power-Operated Dispensing Devices for Gasoline and Gasoline/ethanol Blends with Nominal Ethanol Concentrations up to 85 Percent

UL 1278–00, Standard for Movable and Wall- or Ceiling-Hung Electric Room Heaters, Third Edition, June 21, 2000

UL 1805‑2002, Standard for Laboratory Hoods and Cabinets