HomeMy WebLinkAboutA001 - Council Action Form dated November 10, 1998 ITEM # 7
DATE: November 10, 1998
SUBJECT: Update the local ordinance by adopting the 1999 National Electrical Code
with two (2) local amendments.
BACKGROUND:
The Electrical Board of Appeals has reviewed the 1999 National Electrical Code and
proposes to adopt it with two (2) local revisions.
1. Add Sec. 7.101
(3) Amend the National Electrical Code, Section 336-4
Type NM, Type NMC and Type NMS cables shall be permitted to be used in
one- and two-family dwelling units, multi-family dwelling units and their
accessory buildings only. All other structures shall be wired using other
methods as allowed by the National Electrical Code.
The Board recommends this change for the following reasons:
• The growing number of home improvements stores has made residential
wiring methods more available to the general public, encouraging its use in
commercial applications without the supervision of a qualified electrician.
• Modern construction methods, such as, concrete, metal framing, I Beams,
and acoustical ceilings used as environmental air space have made it
impractical as a professionally installed wiring method.
• The change would keep our ordinance consistent with other major
jurisdictions throughout the state.
2. Add to Sec. 7.202(1) "in the presence of and":
When a permit has been issued for electrical work, all work done pursuant
to that permit shall be in the presence of and under the direct supervision
of a Journeyman or Master Electrician at all times.
The Board recommends the addition of this clause to clear up any misunderstandings
that a Journeyman or Master Electrician must be on the job any time there is electrical
work being done.
The Board held a public hearing on November 3, 1998. Over 200 letters were sent out
informing electrical contractors and electricians of the proposed changes. Five persons
were present to observe the hearing.
After a short discussion, the changes were unanimously approved by those in
attendance. A few of the participants expressed their concerns about the changes
brought about by state legislation, such as, the increase in municipal fines and the
exemption from licensing for mobile home dealers. They were encouraged to proceed
through their professional organizations if they wished to change the state ruling.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Direct the City Attorney to draft an ordinance adopting the 1999 National Electrical
Code with the two (2) local revisions.
2. Reject the proposal.
MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
It is the recommendation of the City Manager that the City Council approve Alternative #1
directing the City Attorney to draft an ordinance adopting the 1999 National Electrical Code
with the two (2) local amendments proposed by the Electrical Board of Appeals.
COUNCIL ACTION: