HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - 2015 Editions of the International Building Code, Residential Code, Fire Code, Existing Building Code, Mechanical Code, Fuel Gas Code, and the Uniform Plumbing Code ORDINANCE NO. 4309
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY
OF AMES, IOWA, BY REPEALING CHAPTER 5 AND ENACTING A
NEW CHAPTER 5 THEREOF,FOR THE PURPOSE OF ADOPTING BY
REFERENCE THE 2015 EDITIONS OF THE INTERNATIONAL
CODES AND 2015 UNIFORM PLUMBING CODE WITH LOCAL
EDITS; REPEALING ANY AND ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS OF
ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT TO THE EXTENT OF SUCH
CONFLICT; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
BE IT ENACTED,by the City Council for the City of Ames,Iowa,that:
Section One. The Municipal Code of the City of Ames,Iowa shall be and the same is hereby amended by
repealing Chapter 5 and enacting a new Chapter 5 as follows:
"CHAPTER 5
Building,Electrical,Mechanical and Plumbing Code
DIVISION I
ADOPTION AND ADMINISTRATION
Sec.5.100. TITLE&ADOPTION.
These regulations shall be known as the Building Code of the City of Ames,hereinafter referred to as"this code."
(1) Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, movement,
enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment,use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of
every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures.
(2) Intent. The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements to safeguard the public
health, safety and general welfare through structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, sanitation,
adequate light and ventilation, energy conservation, and safety to life and property from fire and other hazards
attributed to the built environment and to provide safety to fire fighters and emergency responders during emergency
operations.
(3) Referenced codes. The codes listed in the following Sections and referenced elsewhere in this
code shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference.
Provisions in the appendices of all referenced codes and standards shall not apply unless specifically adopted.
(4) Buildings and Structures. The provisions of the International Building Code (IBC)2015 Edition
published by the International Code Council, Inc., except for the deletion of Chapter 1 Scope and Administration,as
adopted and amended in this municipal code chapter, shall apply to the construction, alteration, movement,
enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment,use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of
every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures.
Exception: Detached one-and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings(townhouses)not
more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures
shall comply with the International Residential Code.
(5) One- and Two-Family Dwellings. The provisions of the International Residential Code for One-
and Two family Dwellings (IRC) 2015 Edition published by the International Code Council, Inc., except for the
deletion of Chapter 1 Scope and Administration; Part VII—Plumbing; Part VIII—Electrical; and with the addition
of Appendix J- Existing Buildings as adopted and amended in this municipal code chapter, shall apply to the
construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location,
removal and demolition of detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories
above-grade in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures.
Exceptions:
1. Live/work units complying with the requirements of Section 419 of the International Building
Code shall be permitted to be built as one-and two-family dwellings or townhouses.Fire
suppression required by Section 419.5 of the International Building Code when constructed under the
International Residential Code for One-and Two-family Dwellings shall conform to Section P2904.
2. Owner-occupied lodging houses with five or fewer guestrooms shall be permitted to be
constructed in accordance with the International Residential Code for One- and Two-family Dwellings
when equipped with a fire sprinkler system in accordance with Section 2904.
(6) Accessibility. The provisions of Chapter 11 of the International Building Code 2015 Edition,
published by the International Code Council, Inc., and by reference, ICC Al17.1-2009 published by the
International Code Council,Inc., entitled Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities,2009 edition, as adopted in
this code, shall apply to the design and construction of all public and private buildings intended for use by the
general public, and multiple-unit dwellings with four or more units,including site elements and features.
Exception:
(a) This standard does not apply to one- and two-family dwellings or apartment buildings with
less than four individual dwelling units.
(b) Any building or facility which is in compliance with the applicable requirements of State of
Iowa Code Chapter 103A.7, and Administrative Rule 661-Chapter 302 shall be considered in compliance with this
code.
(7) Energy. The provisions of the State of Iowa Building Code Section 103A.8A, Energy
Conservation Requirements, and Administrative Rule 661-Chapter 303 shall govern the design and construction of
buildings for energy efficiency.
(8) Existing Buildings.
The provisions of the International Existing Building Code(IEBC)2015 Edition published by the International Code
Council, Inc., except for the deletion of Chapter 1 Scope and Administration, as adopted and amended in this code,
shall be an acceptable code compliance standard for repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition, and relocation
of existing buildings.
(9) Fire prevention. The provisions of the International Fire Code(IFC)2015 Edition published by
the International Code Council, as adopted and amended in Chapter 8 of the Ames Municipal Code,shall apply to
matters affecting or relating to structures,processes and premises from the hazard of fire and explosion arising from
the storage,handling or use of structures,materials or devices;from conditions hazardous to life,property or public
welfare in the occupancy of structures or premises;and from the construction, extension,repair,alteration or
removal of fire suppression and alarm systems or fire hazards in the structure or on the premises from occupancy or
operation.
(10) Electrical. The National Electrical Code,2014 edition, published by the National Fire Protection
Association, One Batterymarch Park, Quincy, Massachusetts, is hereby adopted and amended in this code as the
electrical code of the City of Ames and shall govern electrical work and installations in the City of Ames, except for
such specific, higher standards and requirements as have been or may from time to time be enacted by the City of
Ames.
(Ord No. 4110, 05-08-12; Ord.No. 4210, 3-3-15)
(11) Mechanical. The provisions of the International Mechanical Code(IMC)2015 Edition published
by the International Code Council, Inc., as adopted and amended in this code, shall apply to the installation,
alteration, repair and replacement of mechanical systems, including equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and/or
appurtenances, including ventilating, heating, cooling, air-conditioning and refrigeration systems, incinerators and
other energy-related systems.
Exception: One-and two-family dwellings shall comply with the 2015 International Residential Code.
(12) Plumbing. The provisions of the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) 2015 Edition published by the
International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, with the addition of Appendix A Recommended
Rules for Sizing the Water Supply System, Appendix B Explanatory Notes on Combination Waste and Vent
Systems, Appendix C Alternate Plumbing Systems (at the discretion of the AHJ), and Appendix D Sizing Storm
Water Drainage Systems, are hereby adopted and designated, together with and subject to the additions, deletions,
and modifications hereinafter stated in the amendments to this code, shall apply to the installation, alteration,repair
and replacement of plumbing systems, including equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances, all
aspects of a medical gas system, and fuel gas piping.
(13) Gas. The provisions of the International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) 2015 Edition published by the
International Code Council,Inc., as adopted and amended in this code, shall apply to the installation of gas piping
from the point of delivery, gas appliances and related accessories as covered in this code. These requirements apply
to gas piping systems extending from the point of delivery to the inlet connections of appliances and the installation
and operation of residential and commercial gas appliances and related accessories. Exception: One- and two-
family dwellings shall comply with the 2015 International Residential Code.
(14) Elevators. Design review, construction inspections, and periodic maintenance inspections of
elevators are all within the scope of authority of the Elevator Safety Board, as detailed in State of Iowa Code
Chapter 89A,Elevators, and 875-Chapter 72, and such work shall comply with those standards and procedures.
(15) Factory built structures. The provisions of Iowa Code Section 103A.10 (3) and the
administrative rules of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) shall be acceptable
standards for new units moved into the City. A current HUD label, third party inspection certificate, and proof of
compliance with Iowa Codes Section 103A.59, Certification of Manufactured Home Installers, and Iowa
Administrative Rule 661 - Chapter 372, Licensing of Manufactured Housing Retailers, Manufacturers and
Distributors shall be accepted in lieu of local inspections. Footings, foundations, electrical, mechanical, and
plumbing work performed in conjunction with the placement of such factory built structures are subject to permits
and inspections as provided in this chapter. Building permit fees for factory built structures are subject to permits
and inspections as provided in this chapter. Building permit fees for factory built structures shall be based upon the
same square foot construction cost valuations as similar site built structures.
Sec.5.101. APPLICABILITY.
Where, in any specific case, different sections of this code specify different materials, methods of construction or
other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern. Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a
specific requirement,the specific requirement shall be applicable.
(1) Other laws. The provisions of this code shall not be deemed to nullify any provisions of local,
state or federal law.
(2) Application of references. References to chapter or section numbers, or to provisions not
specifically identified by number, shall be construed to refer to such chapter,section or provision of this code.
(3) Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be
considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference. Where differences
occur between provisions of this code and referenced codes and standards,the provisions of this code shall apply.
(4) Partial invalidity. In the event that any part or provision of this code is held to be illegal or void,
this shall not have the effect of making void or illegal any of the other parts or provisions.
(5) Existing structures. The legal occupancy of any structure existing on the date of adoption of this
code shall be permitted to continue without change, except as is specifically covered in this code, the International
Fire Code, or as is deemed necessary by the Building Official for the general safety and welfare of the occupants and
the public.
Sec.5.102. INSPECTION DIVISION.
The Inspection Division of the Fire Department is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as
the Building Official.The Building Official shall be appointed by the Fire Chief.
(1) Building Official or designees. Where the term Building Official appears in this Code, it shall
also be understood, within context, to include actions performed by inspectors and other members of Inspection
Division staff under the direction and authority of the Building Official.
(2) Inspectors and other staff. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction and
with the concurrence of the appointing authority,the Building Official shall have the authority to appoint the related
technical officers, inspectors, plan examiners and other employees. Such employees shall have powers as delegated
by the Building Official.
(3) Duties and powers of the Building Official. The Building Official is hereby authorized and
directed to enforce the provisions of this code. The Building Official shall have the authority to render
interpretations of this code and to adopt policies and procedures in order to clarify the application of its provisions.
Such interpretations, policies and procedures shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code. Such
policies and procedures shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.
(4) Applications and permits. The Building Official shall receive applications, review construction
documents and issue permits for the erection, and alteration, demolition and moving of buildings and structures,
inspect the premises for which such permits have been issued and enforce compliance with the provisions of this
code.
(5) Notices and orders. The Building Official shall issue all necessary notices or orders to ensure
compliance with this code.
(6) Inspections. The Building Official shall make all of the required inspections, or the Building
Official shall have the authority to accept reports of inspection by approved agencies or individuals.Reports of such
inspections shall be in writing and be certified by a responsible officer of such approved agency or by the
responsible individual. The Building Official is authorized to engage such expert opinion as deemed necessary to
report upon unusual technical issues that arise, subject to the approval of the appointing authority.
(7) Identification. The Building Official shall carry proper identification when inspecting structures
or premises in the performance of duties under this code.
(8) Right of entry. Where it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code,
or where the Building Official has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in a structure or upon a premises a
condition which is contrary to or in violation of this code which makes the structure or premises unsafe, dangerous
or hazardous, the Building Official is authorized to enter the structure or premises at reasonable times to inspect or
to perform the duties imposed by this. code, provided that if such structure or premises be occupied that credentials
be presented to the occupant and entry requested. If such structure or premises is unoccupied, the Building Official
shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or other person having charge or control of the structure or
premises and request entry. If entry is refused, the Building Official shall have recourse to the remedies provided by
law to secure entry.
(9) Inspection Division records. The Building 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 for the period required for retention of public records.
(10) Liability. The Building Official, member of the board of appeals or employee charged with the
enforcement of this code, while acting for the jurisdiction in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the
duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered liable personally and
is hereby relieved from personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of any act or by
reason of an act or omission in the discharge of official duties. Any suit instituted against an officer or employee
because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties and under the provisions of
this code shall be defended by legal representative of the jurisdiction until the final termination of the proceedings.
The Building Official or any subordinate shall not be liable for cost in any action,suit or proceeding that is instituted
in pursuance of the provisions of this code.
(11) Approved materials and equipment.Materials,equipment and devices approved by the Building
Official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.
(12) Used materials and equipment. The use of used materials which meet the requirements of this
code for new materials is permitted. Used equipment and devices shall not be reused unless approved by the
Building Official.
(13) Modifications. Wherever there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of
this code,the Building Official shall have the authority to grant modifications for individual cases, upon application
of the owner or owner's representative, provided the Building Official shall first find that special individual reason
makes the strict letter of this code impractical and the modification is in compliance with the intent and purpose of
this code and that such modification does not lessen health, accessibility, life and fire safety, or structural
requirements. The details of action granting modifications shall be recorded and entered in the files of the Inspection
Division.
(14) Alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment. The provisions of
this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or to prohibit any design or method of
construction not specifically prescribed by this code, provided that any such alternative has been approved. An
alternative material, design or method of construction shall be approved where the Building Official finds that the
proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code, and that the material,
method or work offered is, for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this code in quality,
strength,effectiveness,fire resistance, durability and safety.
(15) Research reports. Supporting data, where necessary to assist in the approval of materials or
assemblies not specifically provided for in this code, shall consist of valid research reports from approved sources.
(16) Tests. Whenever there is insufficient evidence of compliance with the provisions of this code, or
evidence that a material or method does not conform to the requirements of this code, or in order to substantiate
claims for alternative materials or methods,the Building Official shall have the authority to require tests as evidence
of compliance to be made at no expense to the jurisdiction. Test methods shall be as specified in this code or by
other recognized test standards. In the absence of recognized and accepted test methods, the Building Official shall
approve the testing procedures. Tests shall be performed by an approved agency. Reports of such tests shall be
retained by the Building Official for the period required for retention of public records.
Sec. 5.103. PERMITS REQUIRED.
Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the
occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any
electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any
such work to be done, shall first make application to the Building Official and obtain the required permit. It is a
violation to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or
to erect, install, enlarge, alter,repair,remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas,mechanical or plumbing system,
without having first obtained the required permit.
(1) Contractor registration required. Each person, firm, or corporation performing work that
requires a building, electrical, mechanical, or plumbing permit must possess a valid State Division of Labor
registration number when required,and provide proof of same to the Inspection Division prior to permit issuance.
Exceptions:
(a)A homeowner performing work on his/her primary place of residence.
(b)A building owner or tenant performing work on his/her building/place of business.
(2) Contractor insurance required.Each person, firm, or corporation performing work that requires
a building, electrical, mechanical, or plumbing permit must possess current Contractor's Commercial General
Liability Insurance in an amount not less that$500,000 combined single limit, and shall provide proof of coverage
to the Inspection Division prior to permit issuance. For electrical,plumbing, and HVAC contractors,possession of a
State of Iowa contractor license shall serve as evidence of adequate insurance coverage.
Exceptions:
(a)A homeowner performing work on his/her primary place of residence.
(b)A building owner or tenant performing work on his/her building/place of business.
(3) Contractor licenses and registration required. Permits shall not be issued to persons or
companies who are not licensed by the State of Iowa and registered with the City of Ames, except as specifically
exempted in this code. Permitted electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work must be performed by licensed persons,
except as specifically exempted in other sections of this code.
(4) Homeowner permit required. Contractor license and registration is not required for alteration or
repair work performed on a single family dwelling or accessory structure when the person performing the alteration
or repair work is the owner of record and occupies the dwelling as his/her primary residence. An owner-occupant is
required to obtain a homeowner building, electrical, mechanical, or plumbing permit for all such work performed,
and the work must be inspected for compliance with this code. The scope of work authorized by a homeowner
permit is limited by specific provisions in the electrical,mechanical, and plumbing licensing sections of this code.
(5) Compliance with other codes.
Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be
done in violation of this code. All work requires separate building, electrical, mechanical or plumbing permits,
unless specifically exempted elsewhere in this code. Each building owner, contractor, or project manager is
responsible to request clarification of permit requirements from the Inspection Division before doing any work on
any building.
(6) Emergency Repairs. Where equipment replacements or repairs must be performed in an
emergency situation, and a permit is required for the work,the permit application shall be submitted to the Building
Official within the next business day.
(7) Application for permit. To obtain a permit, the applicant shall first file an application in writing
on a form furnished by the Inspection Division for that purpose. Such application shall:
(a) Identify and describe the work to be covered by the permit.
(b) Describe the land on which the proposed work is to be done by street address or
similar description that will identify and locate the proposed building or work.
(c) Indicate the proposed use of the building.
(d) Be accompanied by construction plans and documents as required in Section 5.110.
(e) State the total construction cost of the proposed work for building permits - including
labor and materials.
(f) Be signed by the building owner, applicant, or the applicant's authorized agent.
(g) Provide other information as required by the Building Official.
(8) Action on application. The Building Official shall examine permit applications within a
reasonable time after filing. The Building Official may reject applications if the form or other submitted documents
do not comply with this code. If rejected,the Building Official will inform the applicant of the reason. If approved,
the permit shall be promptly issued.
(9) Time limitation of application.
If no work occurs on a permitted project within 365 days after issuance, the project shall be viewed as abandoned,
and a new permit must be issued to restart the project. Except, the Building Official may grant one or more 90 day
extensions for unusual circumstances,upon receipt of a written request.
(10) Validity of permit. The issuance or granting of a 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.
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 construction documents and other data shall not
prevent the Building Official from requiring the correction of errors in the construction documents and other data.
The Building Official is authorized to prevent occupancy or use of a structure where in violation of this code.
(11) Expiration. Every permit issued shall expire unless the work authorized is completed within 365
days after issuance. If the work is not completed within 365 days,the building official may issue a permit extension.
A permit extension fee, in an amount equal to one half the original permit fee, or$25.00,whichever is greater, may
be invoiced to the permit holder. The permit holder shall be given a minimum 30 day advance written notice of
impending permit expiration and imposition of extension fee.
Exception: Permit extension fees may be waived for major commercial, industrial, and other projects subject to
approval of the Building Official.
(12) Suspension or revocation. The Building Official is authorized to suspend or revoke a permit
issued under the provisions of this code wherever the permit is issued in error or on the basis of incorrect, inaccurate
or incomplete information,or in violation of any provisions of this code.
Sec.5.104. BUILDING PERMITS NOT REQUIRED.No building permit is required for:
(1) Residential single family kitchen and bath and basement remodels when no sheetrock or lath and
plaster is removed from a single contiguous area greater than 32 square feet, and when no new plumbing or
electrical fixtures are installed in different locations than those replaced, and when no new walls, wall framing,
openings,structural alterations or wall furring on the interior face of exterior walls occurs.
(2) Residential or commercial door and window replacements when rough openings are not enlarged
in width.
(3) One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar
uses,provided the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet.
(4) Fences.
(5) Retaining walls that are not more than 4 feet in height above the lowest adjacent grade, unless
supporting a surcharge or impounding Class I,II or IIIA liquids.
(6) Sidewalks and driveways.
(7) Painting,papering,tiling, carpeting,cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.
(8) Temporary motion picture,television and theater stage sets and scenery.
(9) Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy that are less than 24 inches
deep, do not exceed 5,000 gallons and are installed entirely above ground.
(10) Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, not including service
systems.
(11) Swings and other playground equipment.
(12) Awnings.
(13) Nonfixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches in
height.
(14) Repairs.Application or notice to the Building Official is not required for ordinary minor
repairs to structures. Except that such repairs shall not include the cutting away of any wall, partition or portion
thereof, the removal or cutting of any structural beam or load-bearing support, or the removal or change of any
required means of egress, or rearrangement of parts of a structure affecting the egress requirements; nor shall
ordinary repairs include addition to, alteration of, replacement or relocation of any standpipe, water supply, sewer,
drainage, drain leader, gas, soil, waste, vent or similar piping, electric wiring or mechanical or other work affecting
public health or general safety.
(15) Replacement of siding.
(16) Replacement of shingles or other roof covering.
Sec. 5.105. ELECTRICAL PERMITS NOT REQUIRED. No electrical permit is required for:
(1) Repairs and maintenance: Minor repair work, including the replacement of lamps and fuses, or
the connection of approved portable electrical equipment to approved permanently installed receptacles, or for
simple replacement of electrical fixtures such as wall plugs, and light fixtures.
(2) Radio and television transmitting stations: The provisions of this code shall not apply to
electrical equipment used for radio and television transmissions, but do apply to equipment and wiring for a power
supply and the installations of towers and antennas.
(3) Temporary testing systems: A permit shall not be required for the installation of any temporary
system required for the testing or servicing of electrical equipment or apparatus.
(4) Electric utilities: The installation, alteration or repair of electrical equipment installed by or for
the City of Ames Electric Department, or other licensed or franchised electric utility company in the generation,
transmission,distribution,or metering of electricity.
(5) Manufacturing processes: Moveable process equipment which is independent of the building
structure, is subject to being moved, rearranged, and replaced by equipment manufacturers and staff maintenance
personnel. In such instances, permits and inspections are required only for the alteration of the building's electrical
supply wiring to the point of connection to the equipment.
(6) Electrical manufacturing: Work involved in the manufacturing, testing, servicing, altering or
repairing of electrical equipment.
(7) Elevators: Work involved in the installation, repairing, remodeling or maintenance of elevators,
dumbwaiters or escalators. Except: electrical equipment for supplying current to the control panel of elevators,
dumbwaiters or escalators does require permits and inspections.
Sec. 5.106. GAS SYSTEM PERMITS NOT REQUIRED.No gas system plumbing or mechanical permit
is required:
(1) Portable heating appliances.
(2) Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such equipment
unsafe.
Sec. 5.107. MECHANICAL PERMITS NOT REQUIRED. No mechanical permit is required:
(1) Portable heating appliances.
(2) Portable ventilation equipment.
(3) Portable cooling unit.
(4) Steam,hot or chilled water piping within any heating or cooling equipment regulated by this code.
(5) Repair or replacement of any part that does not alter its approval or make it unsafe.
(6) Portable evaporative coolers.
Sec. 5.108. PLUMBING PERMITS NOT REQUIRED. No plumbing permit is required:
(1) For the stopping of leaks in drains, water, soil, waste or vent pipe, provided however, that if any
concealed trap, drain pipe, water, soil, waste or vent pipe becomes defective and it becomes necessary to remove
and replace the same with new material, such work shall be considered as new work and a permit shall be obtained
and inspection made as provided in this code.
(2) For the clearing of stoppages or the repairing of leaks in pipes, valves or fixtures and the removal
and reinstallation of water closets,provided such repairs do not involve or require the replacement or rearrangement
of valves,pipes or fixtures.
Sec.5.109. PUBLIC SERVICE AGENCIES EXEMPT FROM SOME PERMITS.
A permit shall not be required for the installation, alteration or repair of generation, transmission, distribution or
metering or other related equipment that is under the ownership and control of public service agencies by established
right. Such agencies include Ames Electric Utility; Alliant Natural Gas Utility; Ames Water Department; Ames
Public Works Department; franchised telecommunications companies. Such exemption includes all equipment,
lines, and facilities specific to the energy or product produced, processed, conveyed or conducted. Such exemption
does not include permanent buildings that house or contain such systems. All buildings constructed, altered,
repaired, or removed are subject to the typical plan review, permit, inspection and approval process as described
elsewhere in this code.
Sec. 5.110. SUBMITTAL DOCUMENTS.
Construction documents, shall be submitted in one or more sets with each building permit application. Construction
documents shall be prepared by a registered design professional where required by the statutes of the State of Iowa.
Where special conditions exist, the Building Official is authorized to require additional construction documents to
be prepared by a registered design professional.
Exception: The Building Official is authorized to waive the submission of construction documents and other data
not required to be prepared by a registered design professional, if it is found that the nature of the proposed work is
such that submittal and review of such construction documents is not necessary to obtain code compliance.
(1) Information on construction documents. Construction documents shall be dimensioned and
drawn to scale upon suitable material. Construction documents shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location,
nature and extent of the work proposed and show in detail that it will conform to the provisions of this code and
relevant laws, ordinances,rules and regulations,as determined by the Building Official.
(2) Fire protection system shop drawings. Shop drawings for the fire protection system(s) shall be
submitted to indicate conformance with this code and the project construction documents and shall be approved
prior to the start of system installation. Shop drawings shall contain all information as required by the referenced
installation standards in the 2012 IBC Chapter 9,Fire Protection Systems.
(3) Means of egress. The construction documents shall show in sufficient detail that the location,
construction, size and arrangement of all portions of the means of egress are in compliance with the provisions of
this code.
(4) Exterior wall envelope. Construction documents for all buildings shall describe the exterior wall
envelope in sufficient detail to demonstrate compliance with this code.
(5) Site plan. The construction documents submitted with the permit application shall be
accompanied by a site plan showing to scale the size and location of new construction and existing structures on the
site, distances from lot lines and, as applicable, flood hazard areas, floodways, and design flood elevations; and it
shall be drawn in accordance with an accurate boundary line survey. The Building Official is authorized to waive or
modify the requirement for a site plan when the application for permit is for interior alteration or repair or when
otherwise warranted.
(6) Examination of documents. The Building Official shall examine or cause to be examined the
construction plans and documents to determine whether the construction indicated and described is in accordance
with the requirements of this code.
(7) Previous approvals. This code shall not require changes in the approved construction documents,
methods, materials, or designated occupancy of a structure for which a permit has been issued, and construction of
which has been commenced within 365 days after the effective date of this code and has not been abandoned.
(8) Phased approval. The Building Official is authorized to issue a permit for the construction of
foundations or any other part of a building or structure before the construction documents for the entire building or
structure have been submitted, provided that adequate information and detailed statements have been filed
complying with pertinent requirements of this code. The holder of such permit for the foundation or other parts of a
building or structure may proceed with construction at the holder's risk. The City can provide no assurance that a
permit for the remainder of the structure will be granted,unless the balance of the plans submitted are determined in
compliance with this Code.
(9) Design professional in responsible charge. When it is required that documents be prepared by a
registered design professional,the owner shall engage a registered design professional for the project.The registered
design professional shall be responsible for reviewing and coordinating submittal documents prepared by others,
including phased and deferred submittal items, for compatibility with the design of the building. Where structural
observation is required by IBC Chapter 17, Structural Tests and Special Inspections, the individual or firms
performing the structural observations and reporting shall be identified.
(10) Deferred submittals. For the purposes of this section, deferred submittals are defined as those
portions of the design that are not submitted at the time of the application and that are to be submitted to the
Building Official within a specified period. Deferral of any submittal items shall have the prior approval of the
Building Official. The deferred submittal items shall not be installed until the design and submittal documents have
been approved by the Building Official.
(11) Amended construction documents. Work shall be installed in accordance with the approved
construction documents. Any changes made during construction must be reviewed, inspected and approved by the
Building Official.
(12) Retention of construction documents. One set of approved construction documents shall be
retained by the Building Official in accord with the City of Ames Record Retention Policy.
Sec.5.111. TEMPORARY STRUCTURES AND USES
(1) General. The Building Official is authorized to issue a permit for temporary structures. Such
permits shall be limited as to time of service, but shall not be permitted for more than 180 days. The Building
Official is authorized to grant extensions for demonstrated cause.
(2) Conformance. Temporary structures shall conform to the structural strength, fire safety,means of
egress, accessibility, light, ventilation and sanitary requirements of this code as necessary to ensure public health,
safety and general welfare.
(3) Temporary power. The Building Official is authorized to approve temporary power in part of an
electric installation before such installation has been fully completed and approved. The part approved shall comply
with the applicable requirements for temporary lighting,heat or power of this code.
(4) Termination of approval. The Building Official is authorized to terminate such permit for a
temporary structure and to order the temporary structure or use to be discontinued for due cause.
See. 5.112. FEES
(1) Payment of fees. A permit shall not be valid until the required fees have been paid. Exception:
the City may invoice permit applicants for permit and inspection fees, as a customer convenience. In such instances,
permits shall be considered valid immediately following permit application review and approval. This customer
courtesy may be revoked if payment for billed permit fees is not received within 60 days of receipt of notice to the
customer. In such instance, cash payments will be subsequently required in accord with this section.
(2) Schedule of permit fees. Fees for each permit type shall be paid as required, in accordance with
the schedules as established by the City Council in the following referenced Ames Municipal Code Sections:
Building permit fees.
Appendix L,Ames Municipal Code
Electrical permit fees.
Appendix U,Ames Municipal Code
Mechanical permit fees.
Appendix U,Ames Municipal Code
Plumbing permit fees.
Appendix U,Ames Municipal Code
(3) Building permit valuations.The applicant for a building permit shall provide an estimated permit
value at time of application. The term `permit value' or `permit valuation' means the actual cost of construction,
including all materials and labor for all building, electrical, gas, mechanical, and plumbing equipment and
permanent building systems. If, in the opinion of the Building Official, the valuation is underestimated on the
application, the submitted permit valuation shall not be accepted unless the applicant can show verifiable project
documents, estimates, or signed contracts to substantiate the submittal. Final building permit valuation shall be
determined by the Building Official.
(4) City assessor valuations to be used.The Building Official shall use average square foot building
construction costs as provided by the Ames City Assessor when calculating building permit fees for new residential
and commercial buildings, additions, and extensive interior renovations, in absence of more specific data. Such
average square foot costs are base valuations for typical buildings of good quality. Buildings of higher quality will
be valued at appropriately higher valuations. Square foot costs are adjusted periodically to reflect changes in
material and labor costs,as reported by the Ames City Assessor.
(5) Appeal of building permit valuation. A request to appeal the Building Official's determination
of building permit valuation may be filed with the Building Official for cause. Such request must be in writing, and
contain a factual basis for review. Such appeals will be reviewed by the Building Official and may also include
review by the City Assessor to assure consistency, accuracy,and fairness. If it is found the Building Official erred in
the determination of building permit valuation, appropriate adjustment will be made to the permit valuation and the
permit fee.
(6) Work commencing before permit issuance - penalty fees. Any person who commences any
work on a building, structure, electrical, gas,mechanical or plumbing system before obtaining the necessary permits
may be subject to a fee established by the Building Official that shall be in addition to the required permit fees. A
penalty fee equal to the amount of the permit fee may be added for any work that commences prior to permit
approval, i.e.,the permit fee may be doubled for such building, electrical, mechanical, or plumbing work that occurs
prior to permit issuance. Additional fees may also be charged for actual costs of inspections, project research, site
visits, and meetings required to obtain code compliance prior to the point of actual permit approval. Such penalties
do not prevent the Division from also issuing separate municipal infraction citations for each violation of this
section.
(7) Related fees. The payment of permit fees for construction, alteration,removal or demolition work
done in connection with the work authorized the permit shall not relieve the applicant or holder of the permit from
the payment of other fees that are prescribed elsewhere in this Code.
(8) Refunds. The Building Official is authorized to establish a refund policy. Deductions from
approved refunds shall be made for the actual costs of services rendered in association with the project up to the date
of refund request. Actual costs include, but may not be limited to, plan reviews performed, permits issued, and
inspections made by the Inspection Division.
Sec. 5.113. BUILDING INSPECTIONS
(1) Building inspections. Work for which a permit is required shall be subject to inspection by the
Building Official and such construction or work shall remain accessible and exposed for inspection purposes until
approved. Approval as a result of an inspection shall not be construed to be an approval of a violation of the
provisions of this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction. Inspections presuming to give authority to violate
or cancel the provisions of this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid. It shall be the duty
of the permit applicant to cause the work to remain accessible and exposed for inspection purposes. Neither the
Building Official nor the jurisdiction shall be liable for expense entailed in the removal or replacement of any
material required to allow inspection.
(2) Preliminary inspection.Before issuing a permit,the Building Official is authorized to examine or
cause to be examined buildings, structures and sites for which an application has been filed.
(3) Required inspections. The Building Official shall make inspections of the following as necessary
to assure compliance with this Code.
(4) Footing and foundation inspection. Footing and foundation inspections shall be made after
excavations for footings are complete and any required reinforcing steel is in place, and before concrete is poured.
For concrete foundations, required forms shall be in place prior to inspection. Concrete shall be on the job, except
where concrete is ready mixed in accordance with ASTM C 94.,
(5) Concrete slab, under-floor, and groundwork inspection. Concrete slab and under-floor
inspections shall be made after in-slab or under-floor reinforcing steel and building service equipment, conduit,
piping accessories and other ancillary equipment items are in place, but before any concrete is placed or floor
sheathing installed, including the subfloor.
(6) Lowest floor elevation. In flood hazard areas, upon placement of the lowest floor, including the
basement, and prior to further vertical construction, the finish floor elevation certificate shall be submitted to the
Building Official.
(7) Framing and rough-in inspection. Framing and rough-in electrical, mechanical, and plumbing
inspections shall be made after the roof deck, all framing, fireblocking and bracing are in place and all work which
is to be concealed is in place.
(8) Lath and gypsum board inspection. Inspection of lath and gypsum board that is part of a fire-
resistance rated or shear assembly shall be made after lath and gypsum board, interior and exterior, is in place, but
before any plastering is applied or gypsum board joints and fasteners are taped and finished.
(9) Fire-resistant penetrations. Protection 6f joints and penetrations in fire-resistance-rated
assemblies shall not be concealed from view until inspected and approved.
(10) Energy efficiency. Inspections shall be made to determine compliance with the State of Iowa
Energy Code.
(11) Other inspections. In addition to the inspections specified above, the Building Official is
authorized to make or require other inspections of any construction work to obtain compliance with this code.
(12) Special inspections. For special inspections, see IBC Chapter 17.
(13) Final inspection.The final inspection shall be made after all work required by the building permit
is completed.
(14) Inspection agencies. The Building Official is authorized to accept reports of approved inspection
agencies.
(15) Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the building permit holder or designee to notify the
Building Official when work is ready for inspection. It shall be the duty of the permit holder or designee to provide
access and means for inspection of such work. Regardless of notification by the permit holder or designee, the
Building Official is authorized to make any inspection required by this code at any time during normal business
hours throughout the duration of the project.
(16) Approval required. Work shall not be done beyond the point indicated in each inspection without
first obtaining the approval of the Building Official. Any work that does not comply shall be corrected and such
work shall not be covered or concealed until approved by the Building Official,
Sec.5.114. ELECTRICAL INSPECTIONS.
(1) Electrical inspections. The Building Official shall make inspections of the following as necessary
to assure compliance with this Code.
(2) Underground inspection. Underground inspection shall be made after trenches or ditches are
excavated and before any backfill is put in place.
(3) Rough-in inspection. Rough-in inspection shall be made after the roof, framing, fireblocking,
firestopping, draftstopping and bracing is in place and all electrical distribution conductors are roughed-in, and prior
to the installation of wall or ceiling membranes.
(4) Final inspection. Final inspection shall be made after the building is complete, all electrical
fixtures are in place and properly connected, and the structure is ready for occupancy.
(5) Other inspections. In addition to the inspections specified above, the Building Official is
authorized to make or require other inspections of any construction work to obtain compliance with this code.
(6) Inspection agencies. The Building Official is authorized to accept reports of approved inspection
agencies.
(7) Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the electrical permit holder or designee to notify the
Building Official when work is ready for inspection. It shall be the duty of the permit holder or designee to provide
access and means for inspection of such work. Regardless of notification by the permit holder or designee, the
Building Official is authorized to make any inspection required by this code at any time during normal business
hours throughout the duration of the project.
(8) Approval required. Work shall not be done beyond the point indicated in each inspection without
first obtaining the approval of the Building Official. Any work that does not comply shall be corrected and such
work shall not be covered or concealed until approved by the Building Official.
Sec.5.115. MECHANICAL INSPECTIONS.
(1) Mechanical inspections. The Building Official shall make inspections of the following as
necessary to assure compliance with this Code.
(2) Underground inspection. Underground inspection shall be made after trenches or ditches are
excavated and bedded, piping installed, and before backfill is put in place. When excavated soil contains rocks,
broken concrete, frozen chunks and other rubble that would damage or break the piping or cause corrosive action,
clean backfill shall be on the job site.
(3) Rough-in inspection. Rough-in inspection shall be made after the roof, framing, fireblocking and
bracing are in place and all ducting and other components to be concealed are complete, and prior to the installation
of wall or ceiling membranes.
(4) Final inspection. Final inspection shall be made upon completion of the mechanical system.
Exception: Ground-source heat pump loop systems tested in accordance with Section IMC 1208.1.1 shall be
permitted to be backfilled prior to inspection.
(5) Other inspections. In addition to the inspections specified above, the Building Official is
authorized to make or require other inspections of any construction work to obtain compliance with this code.
(6) Inspection agencies. The Building Official is authorized to accept reports of approved inspection
agencies.
(7) Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the mechanical permit holder or designee to notify the
Building Official when work is ready for inspection. It shall be the duty of the permit holder or designee to provide
access and means for inspection of such work. Regardless of notification by the permit holder or designee, the
Building Official is authorized to make any inspection required by this code at any time during normal business
hours throughout the duration of the project.
(8) Approval required. Work shall not be done beyond the point indicated in each inspection
without first obtaining the approval of the Building Official. Any work that does not comply shall be corrected and
such work shall not be covered or concealed until approved by the Building Official.
Sec. 5.116. PLUMBING INSPECTIONS.
(1) Plumbing inspections. The Building Official shall make inspections of the following as necessary
to assure compliance with this Code.
(2) Underground inspection. Underground inspection shall be made after trenches or ditches are
excavated and bedded,piping installed, and before any backfill is put in place.
(3) Rough-in inspection. Rough-in inspection shall be made after the roof, framing, fireblocking,
firestopping, draftstopping and bracing is in place and all sanitary, storm and water distribution piping is roughed-in,
and prior to the installation of wall or ceiling membranes.
(4) Final inspection. Final inspection shall be made after the building is complete, all plumbing
fixtures are in place and properly connected, and the structure is ready for occupancy.
(5) Other inspections. In addition to the inspections specified above, the Building Official is
authorized to make or require other inspections of any construction work to obtain compliance with this code.
(6) Inspection agencies. The Building Official is authorized to accept reports of approved inspection
agencies.
(7) Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the plumbing permit holder or designee to notify the
Building Official when work is ready for inspection. It shall be the duty of the permit holder or designee to provide
access and means for inspection of such work. Regardless of notification by the permit holder or designee, the
Building Official is authorized to make any inspection required by this code at any time during normal business
hours throughout the duration of the project.
(8) Approval required. Work shall not be done beyond the point indicated in each inspection without
first obtaining the approval of the Building Official. Any work that does not comply shall be corrected and such
work shall not be covered or concealed until approved by the Building Official.
Sec. 5.117. CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY
(1) Use and occupancy. No building or structure shall be used or occupied, and no change in the
existing occupancy classification of a building or structure or portion thereof shall be made until the Building
Official has issued a Certificate of Occupancy(C.O.),or until final inspection and approval has been given for minor
projects. Issuance of a C.O. or other final approval shall not be construed as approval of a violation of this code.
(2) Certificate issued. After the Building Official inspects the building or structure and finds no
violations of this code,a C.O. shall be issued that contains the following:
(a) The building permit number.
(b) The address of the structure.
(c) The name and address of the owner.
(d) A description of that portion of the structure for which the certificate is issued.
(e) A statement that the described portion of the structure has received final
inspections and may be occupied.
(f) The signature of the Building Official.
(g) The occupancy type as defined in the IBC.
(h) The type of construction as defined in the IBC.
(i) The occupant load,
0) If an automatic sprinkler system is provided,whether the sprinkler system is required.
(k) Any special stipulations or conditions.
(3) Temporary occupancy. The Building Official is authorized to issue a temporary certificate of
occupancy (T.C.O.) before the completion of all work, if it is concluded the incomplete work items present no
hazard to occupants or the general public.A fee may be charged for issuance of a T.C.O.
(4) Revocation. The Building Official is authorized to suspend or revoke a C.O. or other approval
wherever it is found the C.O. or other approval is issued in error,or on the basis of incorrect information received, or
where it is determined the project,or portion thereof,is in violation of this code.
(5) Connection of service utilities. No person shall make connections from a utility, source of
energy, fuel or power to any building or system for which a permit is required, unless approved by the Building
Official.
(6) Temporary connection. The Building Official shall have the authority to authorize temporary
connection of the building or system to the utility source of energy,fuel or power.
(7) Authority to disconnect service utilities. The Building Official shall have the authority to
authorize disconnection of utility service to the building, structure or system regulated by this code in case of
emergency where necessary to eliminate an immediate hazard to life or property. The Building Official shall notify
the serving utility, and wherever possible the owner and occupant of the building, structure or service system of the
decision to disconnect prior to taking such action.If not notified prior to disconnecting,the owner or occupant of the
building, structure or service system shall be notified in writing,as soon as practical thereafter.
(Ord. 4044, 9-28-10)
DIVISION II
AMENDMENTS TO ADOPTED CODES
Sec.5.200. BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES.
The provisions of the 2015 International Building Code (IBC), are amended with the revision of the following text
as stated:
(1) The IBC is amended by adding Climatic and Geographical Design Criteria to include the
following local values in conjunction with Chapter 16 Structural Design:
Ground Snow Load(lbs) 25
Wind Speed(mph) 115
Topographic Effects No
Special Wind Region No
Wind Borne Debris Zone No
Seismic Design Category A
Weathering Severe
Frost Line Depth(inches) 42
Termite Moderate to Heavy
Winter Design Temp(F,) -5
Ice Shield Underlayment Required Yes
Flood Hazards See FEMA Maps
Air Freezing Index 1896
Mean Annual Temperature(F.) 48.2
(2) Section 717.6.2 Membrane Penetrations is amended by adding the following exception:
Exception; Duct systems constructed entirely of minimum 0.0187 inch thick steel (No. 26 gauge) shall be allowed
without installation of radiation dampers.
(3) Section 903.4, Sprinkler system supervision and alarms, is amended by adding the following
exception: Water supply valves that are locked in the open position.
(4) Section 903.4.2,Alarms is amended by deleting the existing text and inserting the following text:
An approved audible/visual device, located on the exterior of the building in an approved location, shall be
connected to every automatic sprinkler system. Additional notification devices may be required on the interior of
the building. Such sprinkler water-flow alarm devices shall be activated by water flow equivalent to the flow of a
single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Where a fire alarm system is installed, actuation
of the automatic sprinkler system shall actuate the building fire alarm system.
(5) Section 907.2.9,Group R-2, is amended by adding the following text at the end of the subsection:
Notwithstanding the exceptions noted herein, an automatic fire alarm system shall be installed throughout all interior
corridors serving sleeping units.
(6) Section 1009.2 Continuity and components. The first sentence is amended to read: Each
required accessible means of egress shall be continuous to a public way, shall be hard-surfaced, and shall consist of
one or more of the following components.
(7) Section 1011.12 Stairway to roof is amended by deleting the Exception and inserting the
following in lieu thereof:
Exception: Other than where required by Section 1011.12.1, in buildings without an occupied roof access
to the roof from the top story shall be permitted to be by a ships ladder of a permanent ladder.
(8) Section 1011.14 Alternating Tread Devices is amended by removing "and for access to
unoccupied roofs" from the text.
(9) Section 1028.5 Access to a public way is amended to read: The exit discharge shall provide a
direct,hard-surfaced,and unobstructed access to a public way.
(10) Section 1704.2.3 Statement of special inspections. Delete the first paragraph and replace with
the following: The applicant shall submit verification of a signed agreement with an approve agency stating the
required special inspections to be performed and the frequency of said inspections as a condition for permit
approval.
(11) Section 1801.3 Foundations—Concrete encased electrode. Concrete footing for new buildings
and additions shall have a minimum of a #4 reinforcing bar or bare copper conductor sized per the City of Ames
currently adopted National Electrical Code as a grounding electrode conductor encased in concrete for 20 feet
minimum with a minimum of 2 tie wires for use as a concrete encased electrode.
(12) Section 1809.5 Frost Protection. The first sentence is amended to read as follows: Except where
otherwise protected from frost,foundations,permanent supports of buildings and structures,and all exterior landings
shall be protected from frost by one or more of the following methods:
(13) Section 1809.5 Frost Protection is further amended by deleting Exception 2 and inserting the
following in lieu thereof: Area of 900 square feet or less for light-frame construction or 400 square feet or less for
other than light-frame construction: and
(14) Section 1809.14 Demolition of shallow foundations. Where a structure has been demolished or
removed, all shallow foundations shall be removed in their entirety and the excavation shall be filled and maintained
with clean fill material to the existing grade. Removal shall include, but is not limited to the removal of the entire
basement including walls,floors,footings, and foundations.
(15) Chapter 18 of the IBC is amended by deleting Table 1809.7 and inserting the following table
with footnotes in lieu of:
Number of Floors Supported by the Foundations* 1 2 3
Thickness of Foundation Walls(inches)Concrete 8 8 10
Thickness of Foundation Walls(inches)Concrete Block 8 8 12
Width of Footing(inches) 16 16 18
Thickness of Footing(inches) 8 8 12
Minimum Depth of Foundation Below Grade 42 42 42
*Foundations may support a roof in addition to the stipulated number of floors. Foundations supporting roofs only
shall be as required for supporting one floor.
*Spread footings shall have a minimum of 2-#4 continuous horizontal reinforcement bars.
*Foundation walls shall have a minimum of#4 reinforcement bars 18"on center each way.
*All buildings shall have perimeter footings to 42"below finished grade.
*Trench footings are allowed as a continuous 8" pass trench for single story wood frame structures with spans not
exceeding 16 feet. The trench must be 42"below finished grade and have at least two#4 horizon reinforcement bars.
Bars must tie into abutting adjacent structures.
(16) Section 2308.3.1 Foundation plates or sills is amended by replacing"and not spaced more than 6
feet apart"with"and spaced not more than 4 feet apart"
Sec.5.201. ONE-AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS.
The provisions of the 2015 International Residential Code for One- and Two-family Dwellings (IRC), are amended
by revising the following text as stated:
(1) Table R301.2(1), Climatic and Geographical Design Criteria is amended to include the following
local values:
Ground Snow Load(lbs) 25
Wind Speed(mph) 115
Topographic Effects No
Special Wind Region No
Wind Borne Debris Zone No
Seismic Design Category A
Weathering Severe
Frost Line Depth(inches) 42
Termite Moderate to Heavy
Winter Design Temp(F.) -5
Ice Shield Underlayment Required Yes
Flood Hazards See FEMA Maps
Air Freezing Index 1896
Mean Annual Temperature(F.) 48.2
(2) Section R302.1 Exterior Walls, Fire-Resistant Construction. Add exception#6: Walls of detached
garages and accessory structures greater than or equal to 3 feet from a property line.
(3) Section R302.13 Fire protection of floors is deleted in its entirety.
(4) Section R311.3.2 Floor elevations for other exterior doors is amended by deleting the exception and
inserting the following in lieu thereof:
Exception: A top landing is not required where a stairway of not more than three risers is located on the exterior
side of the door,provided the door does not swing over the stairway.
(5) Section R311.7.8.2 Continuity is amended by adding Exception 3:
(3) Handrails may be interrupted at the point of transition from handrail to guardrail on stairways
open on both sides at the bottom of a flight of stairs.
(6) Section R313.1 Townhouse automatic fire sprinkler systems is amended by deleting the text of that
section and inserting the following in lieu thereof: Automatic residential sprinkler systems shall not be required in
townhouses.
(7) Section R313.2 One- and Two-family dwellings automatic fire systems is amended by deleting the
text of that section and inserting the following in lieu thereof: Automatic residential fire sprinkler systems shall not
be required in one-and two-family dwellings.
(8) Section R314.2.2 Alterations, repairs and additions is amended by deleting "When alterations,
repairs or additions requiring a permit occur,or".
(9) Section R314.6 Power source is amended by deleting Exceptions I and 2 and adding Battery operated
smoke alarms installed in accordance with Section 314.2.2 shall be allowed for existing sleeping areas.
(10)Section R315.2.2 Alterations, repairs and additions. The first sentence is amended to read: When
one or more sleeping rooms are added or created in an existing dwelling that has an attached garage or within which
a fuel-burning appliance exists, carbon monoxide alarms shall be required outside each separate sleeping area and in
the immediate vicinity of bedrooms, and on every story of the dwelling. Carbon monoxide alarms shall be hard-
wired, interconnected, and shall have battery backup.
(11)Section R315.5 Power source is amended by deleting Exceptions 1 and 2.
(12) Section R401.2 Requirements is amended by adding the following: Footings of buildings with
Type V wood framed construction of three stories or less shall be allowed to be designed to meet, at a minimum,the
prescriptive standards of the following table.
Number of floors supported by foundations* 1 2 3
Thickness of foundation walls(inches)concrete 8 8 10
Thickness of foundation walls(inches)concrete block 8 8 12
Width of footing(inches) 16 16 18
Thickness of footing(inches) 8 8 12
Minimum depth of footing below grade 42 42 42
*Foundations may support a roof in addition to the stipulated number of floors. Foundations supporting
roofs only shall be as required for supporting one floor. All other structures shall have footings and foundations
engineered to meet the requirements of Chapter 4 of the IRC. All buildings shall have perimeter footings to 42"
below grade, and such footings shall be designed to withstand all forces placed upon them as per Chapter 4 of the
IRC or engineering to show equivalency.
*Trench footings are allowed as a continuous 8" single pass trench for a single story wood frame structure
with spans not exceeding 16 feet. The trench must be 42" deep and have at least two (2) horizontal rods fixed in
place and tied into the existing structure. Soil bearing capacity shall be a minimum of 2000 psf.
*Spread Footings shall have two evenly spaced #4 continuous reinforcing rods. For alterations and
additions,reinforcing rods shall be tied into the existing footings.
*Concrete foundation walls shall be reinforced with a minimum of#4 bars at 18 inches on center each way
(13) Section R403.1 General is amended by adding the following text to the end of the section: Where
concrete footings are used in new one- and two-family dwellings, an approved concrete encased electrode shall be
provided in the vicinity of the panel for each residential electrical service. The electrode shall be accessible and
connected to at least twenty feet of#4 reinforcing rod by a minimum of two wire ties.
(14) Section R403.1 General is amended by adding the following text: An Iowa licensed architect or
engineer shall determine footing size and structural design for residential structures supported by post and beam
construction and having a common roof with the house.
(15) Section R403.1.3.6 Isolated concrete footings. Delete this section in its entirety.
(16) Section R401.4.3 Demolition of foundations. Where a structure has been demolished or
removed, all foundations shall be removed in their entirety and the excavation shall be filled and maintained with
clean fill material to the existing grade. Removal shall include, but is not limited to the removal of the entire
basement including walls, floors, footings, and foundations.
(17) Section R403.1.4.1 Frost Protection is amended by deleting Exception 1 and inserting the
following in lieu thereof:
1. Protection of freestanding accessory structures with an area of 900 square feet or less, of light-
framed construction,with an eave height of 10 feet or less shall not be required.
(18) Section R403.1.6 Foundation Anchorage is amended by deleting "maximum of 6 feet" and
inserting in lieu thereof "maximum of 4 feet".
(19) Section R404.1.3.2 Reinforcement for foundation walls is amended by adding the following to
the end of the section: Minimum reinforcement for concrete foundation walls shall be#4 bars at 18"on center, each
way or approved design by the registered design professional in responsible charge.
(20) Section R326.1 General is amended by replacing General with BARRIER REQUIREMENTS
FOR SWIMMING POOLS, SPAS, AND HOT TUBS FOR ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS,
removing the text of that section and inserting the following in lieu thereof:
(a) The provisions of this section shall apply to the design of barriers for residential swimming pools,spas, and
hot tubs (collectively referred to as a pool) for one- and two- family dwellings. These design controls are
intended to provide protection against potential drownings and near-drownings by restricting access to
swimming pools.
Exceptions:
1. Spas and hot tubs with a lockable safety cover that complies with ASTM F 1346.
2. Swimming pools with a powered safety cover that complies with ASTM F 1346.
(b)Outdoor pools. An outdoor pool, including an in-ground, above-ground or on-
ground pool shall be surrounded by a barrier which shall comply with the following items
1-15:
1. The top of the barrier shall be at least 48 inches (1219 mm) above grade measured on the side of the
barrier which faces away from the pool. Such height shall exist around the entire perimeter of the
barrier and for a distance of 3 feet measured horizontally from the outside of the barrier. The
maximum vertical clearance between grade and the bottom of the barrier shall be 2 inches measured on
the side of the barrier which faces away from the pool for surface that are not solid, such as grass or
gravel. For surfaces that are solid, such as concrete, the distance shall be 4 inches maximum. Where
the top of the pool structure is above grade the barrier may be installed on grade or shall be mounted on
top of the swimming pool. Where the barrier is mounted on top of the pool, the maximum vertical
clearance between the top of the pool structure and the bottom of the barrier shall be 4 inches.
2. Openings in the barrier shall not allow the passage of a 4-inch-diameter(102 mm)sphere.
3. Solid barriers which do not have openings shall not contain indentations or protrusions, except for
normal construction tolerances and tooled masonry joints.
4. Mesh fences, other than chain link fences, in compliance with the following number 7, shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and comply with the following:
(i) The bottom of the mesh fence shall be not more than 1 inch above the deck or installed surface or
grade.
(ii) The maximum vertical clearance from the bottom of the mesh fence and the solid surface shall not
permit the fence to be lifted more than 4 inches from grade or decking.
(iii) The fence shall be designed and constructed so that it does not allow passage of a 4-inch sphere
under any mesh panel. The maximum vertical clearance from the bottom of the mesh fence and
the solid surface shall not be more than 4 inches from grade or decking.
(iv) An attachment device shall attach each barrier section at a height not lower than 45 inches above
grade.
(v) Where a hinged gate is used with a mesh fence,the gate shall comply with the following items 11,
12,and 13.
(vi) Patio deck sleeves such as vertical post receptacles that are places inside the patio surface shall be
of a nonconductive material.
(vii) Mesh fences shall not be installed on top of onground pools.
5. Where the barrier is composed of horizontal and vertical members, and the distance between the
tops of the horizontal members is less than 45 inches, the horizontal members shall be located on the
pool side of the fence. Spacing between vertical members shall not exceed 1 3/4 inches in width.
Where there are decorative cutouts within vertical members, spacing within the cutouts shall not exceed
1 3/4 inches in width.
6. Where the barrier is composed of horizontal and vertical members, and the distance between the
tops of the horizontal members is 45 inches or more, spacing between vertical members shall not exceed
4 inches. Where there are decorative cutouts within vertical members, spacing within the cutouts shall
not exceed 1 3/4 inches in width.
7. The maximum opening formed by a chain link fence shall be a 1 3/4 inches, unless the fence has
slats fastened at the top or the bottom which reduce the openings to not more than 1 3/4 inches.
8. Where the barrier is composed of diagonal members, such as a lattice fence, the maximum
opening formed by the diagonal members shall not be more than 1 3/4 inches. The angle of diagonal
members shall not be greater than 45 degrees from vertical.
9. There shall be a clear zone of not less than 36 inches between the exterior of the barrier and any
permanent structures or equipment such as pumps, filters and heaters that can be used to climb the
barrier.
10. The pool side of the required barrier shall not be less than 20 inches from the water's edge.
11. Access gates shall comply with the requirements of items (b) 12 and (b) 13 and shall be equipped
to accommodate a locking device. Pedestrian access gates shall open outward away from the pool, and
shall be self-closing and have a self-latching device. Gates other than pedestrian access gates, such as
utility or service gates,shall remain locked when not in use.
12. Double gates or multiple gates shall have at least one leaf secures in place and the adjacent leaf
shall be secured with a self-latching device. The gate and barrier shall not have openings larger than 1/2
inch within 18 inches of the latch release mechanism. The self-latching device shall comply with item
(b) 13.
13. Where the release mechanism of the self-latching device is located less than 54 inches from grade,
the release mechanism shall be located on the pool side of the gate at least 3 inches below the top of the
gate, and the gate and barrier shall have no opening larger than 1/2 inch within 18 inches of the release
mechanism.
14. Where a wall of a dwelling or structure serves as part of the barrier and where doors or windows
provide direct access to the pool through that wall, one of the following conditions shall be met:
(i) The pool shall be equipped with a safety cover in accordance with ASTM F 1346;
(ii) Doors, and operable windows having a sill height of less than 48 inches above the indoor finished
floor shall have an alarm that produces an audible warning when the door, window or their
screens are opened. The alarm shall be listed and labeled as a water hazard entrance alarm in
accordance with UL 2017. The operable parts of the alarm deactivation switches shall be
located at least 54 inches above the finished floor.
(iii) Other approved means of protection,such as self-closing doors with self-latching devices, shall be
acceptable as long as the degree of protection afforded is not less than the protection afforded
by item(i)or(ii).
15. An onground pool wall structure or a barrier mounted on top of an onground pool wall structure
shall serve as a barrier where all of the following conditions are present:
(i) Where only the pool wall serves as the barrier, the bottom of the wall is on grade, the top of the
wall is not less than 48 inches above grade for the entire perimeter of the pool, the wall
complies with the requirements of items (b) 1-10 above and the pool manufacturer allows the
wall to serve as a barrier.
(ii) Where a barrier is mounted on top of the pool wall,the top of the barrier is not less than 48 inches
above grade for the entire perimeter of the pool,the wall complies with the requirements of(b)
1-10 and the pool manufacturer allows the wall to serve as a barrier.
(iii) Ladders or steps used as means of access to the pool are capable of being secured, locked or
removed to prevent access except where the ladder or steps are surrounded by a barrier that
meets the requirements of(18)above.
(iv) Openings created by the securing, locking or removal of ladders and steps do not allow the
passage of a 4-inch sphere.
(v) Barriers that are mounted on top of onground pool walls are installed in accordance with the pool
manufacturer's instructions.
(c) Indoor pools shall be surrounded by a barrier that complies with Sec. 5.201 (18)
(21) Appendix J is amended by deleting Section AJ102.5 Flood Hazard areas.
(22) Appendix J is amended by deleting Section AJ301.2 Water Closets.
(23) Appendix J is amended by deleting Section AJ301.3 Electrical including the Exceptions.
(24) Appendix J is amended by deleting Section AJ501.5 Electrical equipment and wiring and
associated subsections.
Sec.5.202. ACCESSIBILITY.Reserved.
See.5.203. ENERGY.Reserved.
Sec. 5.204. EXISTING BUILDINGS.Reserved.
Sec. 5.205. ELECTRICAL.
The provisions of the National Electrical Code(NEC),2014 edition,are hereby amended as follows:
(1) Section 334.10,Nonmetallic-Sheathed Cable, Uses Permitted, is amended by deleting Subsection
(3) therefrom and inserting in lieu thereof a new Subsection (3): All other structures shall be wired using other
methods as allowed by the NEC.
(2) Add the following exceptions to Article 210.8(A)(2), Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection
for Personnel,Dwelling Units:
(a)Exception No. 1: Receptacles that are not readily accessible.
(b) Exception No. 2: A single receptacle or a duplex receptacle for two appliances located within
dedicated space for each appliance that, in normal use, is not easily moved from one place to another and that is
cord-and-plug connected in accordance with 400.7(A)(6),(A)(7), or(A)(8).
(c) Receptacles installed under the exceptions to 210.8(A)(2) shall not be considered as meeting
the requirements of 210.52(G).
(3) Add the following exceptions to Article 210.8(A)(5),Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection
for Personnel, Dwelling Units:
(a)Exception No.2: Receptacles that are not readily accessible.
(b) Exception No. 3: A single receptacle or a duplex receptacle for two appliances located within
dedicated space for each appliance that, in normal use, is not easily moved from one place to another and that is
cord-and-plug connected in accordance with 400.7(A)(6),(A)(7), or(A)(8).
(c) Receptacles installed under the exceptions to 210.8(A)(5) shall not be considered as meeting
the requirements of 210.52(G).
(4) Delete section 210.12(B), Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection, Branch Circuit Extensions or
Modifications—Dwelling Units.
(5) Delete the exception to section 220.12,Lighting Load for Specified Occupancies, and insert in lieu
thereof the following exception:
Exception: Where the building is designed and constructed to comply with an energy code
adopted by the local authority, the lighting load shall be permitted to be calculated at the values specified in the
energy code.
(6) Delete section 406.4(D)(4), General Installation Requirements, Replacements, Arc-Fault Circuit
Interrupter Protection.
(Ord. No. 4210, 3-3-15)
Sec.5.206. MECHANICAL.
The provisions of the 2015 International Mechanical Code(IMC), are amended as follows:
(1) Section 103 Department of Mechanical Inspections and associated subsections is deleted.
(2) Section 106.4.1 Approved construction documents is deleted.
(3) Section 106.4.3 Expiration is deleted.
(4) Section 106.4.4 Extensions is deleted.
(5) Section 106.4.8 Posting of permit is deleted.
(6) Section 106.5 Fees is deleted.
(7) Section 106.5.1 Work commencing before permit issuance is amended to read "Any person
who commences work on a mechanical system before obtaining the necessary permits may be subject to 100 percent
of the usual permit fee in addition to the required permit fees."
(8) Section 106.5.2 Fee schedule is amended to read "The fees for mechanical work shall be
indicated in Appendix U of the Ames Municipal Code."
(9) Section 106.5.3 Fee refunds is deleted.
(10) Section 108.4 Violation penalties is deleted.
(11) Section 108.5 Stop work orders is deleted.
(12) Section 109 Means Of Appeal and associated subsections is deleted.
(13) Section 607.6.2 Membrane Penetrations is amended by adding the following exception:
Exception; Duct systems constructed entirely of minimum 0.0187 inch thick steel (No. 26 gauge) shall be allowed
without installation of radiation dampers.
Sec. 5.207. GAS.
The provisions of the 2015 International Fuel Gas Code(IFGC),are amended as follows:
(1) Section 106 Permits and associated subsections is deleted.
(2) Section 108 Violations and associated subsections is deleted.
(3) Section 109 Means Of Appeal and associated subsections is deleted.
Sec. 5.208. PLUMBING.
The provisions of the 2015 Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), are amended with the addition of Appendix A
Recommended Rules for Sizing the Water Supply System, Appendix B Explanatory Notes on Combination Waste
and Vent Systems, Appendix C Alternate Plumbing Systems (at the discretion of the AHJ), and Appendix D Sizing
Storm Water Drainage Systems,and the revision of the following text as stated:
(1) Section 102.4.1.1 Building Demolition stating:
Whenever a structure or building is to be demolished,before demolition begins the following must be completed:
(a)Building sewer capped at curb line with a manufactured plug.
(b)Foundation line capped at curb line with a manufactured plug.
(c)Water service capped or plugged at main.
(d) Plumbing inspector sign-off on demolition sheet given to contractor before demolition permit
is issued.
(2) Section 102.9 Annexed Building stating:
When a structure or building is on land that has been or is being annexed into the City of Ames and connection to
the public water or sewer system is requested for that building or structure, the City may require that its plumbing
system be inspected to determine whether the system has adequate sewer venting and backflow prevention to protect
the public water system, and to determine if it is otherwise free from hazards to those exposed or potentially exposed
to that system. Based on that inspection, if it is determined that a cross connection or other hazard exists, then the
Building Official shall determine what corrective action is needed to eliminate the hazard(s) and the owner shall
complete the corrective action before connection to City services is allowed.
(3) Section 104.4 Permit Issuance is amended to delete the reference to Section 104.5.
(4) Section 104.4.1 Approved Plans or Construction Documents is deleted.
(5) Section 104.4.3 Expiration is deleted.
(6) Section 104.4.6 Retention of Plans is deleted.
(7) Section 104.5 Fees is amended to replace reference to Table 104.5 with Appendix U of the City of
Ames Municipal Code.
(8) Section 105.2.6 Reinspections is amended by deleting the last two paragraphs of the section.
(9) Section 106.3 Penalties is deleted.
(10) Section 107.0 Board of Appeals and both subsections is deleted.
(11) Section 411.1 Water Closet Bowls is amended to state:
All water closet bowls shall be of the elongated type with open front seats except in dwelling units and motel and
hotel rooms. In nurseries, schools and other similar places where plumbing fixtures are provided for the use of
children under six (6) years of age, water closets shall be of a size and height suitable for children's use. All water
closets shall be equipped with seats as required below.
(12) Section 418.3 Location of Floor Drains is amended by adding subsection 418.3(5)as follows:
In all buildings, a three-inch (3") floor drain shall be located on the lowest floor level and where the water meter is
located. A three-inch (Y) or larger floor drain shall be located in same room where a reduced pressure principle
backflow prevention assembly is installed that discharges water.A two-inch(2")or larger floor drain shall
be provided in the same room the water heater is located on the lowest floor level.
Exception: Existing water heaters and water meters unless relocated.
(13) Table 422.1 Minimum Plumbing Facilities is amended by adding the following:
With prior approval, Authority Having Jurisdiction may allow use of Chapter 29 of the 2015 International
Building Code.
(14) Section 422.3 Fixture Requirements for Special Occupancies is amended by replacing the last
sentence and inserting the following in lieu thereof:
In food establishments the fixture requirements may be determined by the statutes and regulations of the State of
Iowa. The following requirements apply to food establishments,bars and night clubs:
(a)Bars,taverns and nightclubs shall be provided with a three(3)compartment glass washing sink
and a drain board with hot and cold running water. The sink shall have an indirect waste with an air gap to a floor
sink with a 3"trap.
(b)A restaurant shall have either a three(3) compartment ware washing sink or an automatic dish
washing machine of commercial type, including a booster heater along with a two-compartment sink.
(c) A hand-washing sink with hot and cold running water shall be installed in each food
preparation area in restaurants and behind each bar area of bars,taverns and nightclubs.
(d) A mop/utility sink shall be required with hot and cold running water in each restaurant, bar,
tavern or nightclub, for mop and waste water.The mop/utility sink shall not be used as a hand-washing sink.
(15) Section 603 Cross-Connection Control is amended as follows:
(a) Section 603.2 Approval of Devices or Assemblies is amended by deleting the last sentence
and inserting the following in lieu thereof: "Testing or maintenance shall be performed by a registered backflow
assembly tester approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction".
(b) Section 603.4.2 Testing is amended by deleting the text and inserting the following in lieu
thereof:
(i) The premise owner or responsible party shall have the backflow prevention
assembly tested by a registered tester at the time of installation, repair, or relocation
and not less than on an annual schedule thereafter, or more often when required by
the Authority Having Jurisdiction. The periodic testing shall be performed in
accordance with procedures approved by the Administrative Authority. The
Authority Having Jurisdiction may establish the annual schedule.
(ii) Backflow prevention assemblies which are in place,but have been out of service
for more than three months,shall be tested before being put back into service.
Backflow prevention assemblies used in seasonal applications shall be tested before
being put into operation each season.
(iii) The Authority Having Jurisdiction may periodically verify test procedures and
results.
(iv) When warranted, the Authority Having Jurisdiction may require backflow
prevention assemblies to be tested at any time in addition to the annual testing
requirement. Examples of this include, but are not limited to, assemblies with a
history of repeated failures or assemblies that have been subjected to fire, flood, or
other unusual environmental conditions.
(v) The tester shall report the results of all inspections and tests of a backflow
prevention assembly to the customer and to the Authority Having Jurisdiction on a
form approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction within ten working days. The
tester shall immediately report to the Authority Having Jurisdiction when and where
a test indicates that an assembly fails to meet standards and no immediate repair is
done to make the assembly meet standards.
(vi) Before being placed back into service, any backflow prevention assembly which
fails a test shall be repaired or replaced. In the case when a reported value is less
than the minimum, the Director of the City of Ames Water and Pollution Control
Department may approve temporary restoration of service."
(b) Section 603.4.8 Drain Lines is amended inserting at the start of the section the
following: "Provisions shall be made to convey the discharge of water from any reduced-pressure principle
backflow prevention assembly(RP)to a suitable drain."
(c) Section 603.4.9 Prohibited Locations is amended by adding at the end of the section the
following: "Backflow prevention devices with atmospheric vents or ports shall be protected from flooding. No
backflow prevention device shall be installed in a place where it would create a safety hazard such as, but not
limited to,over an electrical panel or above ceiling level."
(d) Section 603.4 General Requirements is amended by adding a new Section 603.4.10 Repairs
as follows:
(i) All repairs to backflow prevention assemblies shall be performed by registered
backflow prevention assembly testers.
(ii) The tester shall not change the design,material, or operational characteristics of
a backflow prevention assembly during repair or maintenance. The tester shall use
only original manufacturer replacement parts or equivalent parts approved by the
University of Southern California — Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and
Hydraulic Research.
(iii) The tester shall report the repair of a backflow prevention assembly to the
customer and to the Authority Having Jurisdiction within ten working days. The
report shall include the list of materials or replacement parts used and subsequent
tests."
(e) Section 603.0 Cross-Connection Control is further amended by adding after the last
numbered section a new section 603.10 as follows:
(i)Purpose.The purpose of these containment regulations is:
a. to protect the City of Ames Public Water Supply(PWS)from
the possibility of contamination or pollution by containing within the customer's internal distribution system(s) or
the customer's private water system(s)such contaminants or pollutants that could backflow into the PWS; and
b. to provide for the maintenance of a continuing program of containment
that will systematically and effectively prevent the contamination or pollution of the PWS.
(ii) Definitions.As used in this section:
a. Approved Backflow Prevention Assembly For Containment means: A
backflow prevention assembly which is approved by the University of Southern California -Foundation for Cross-
Connection Control and Hydraulic Research. The backflow prevention assembly must also be listed by the
International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, or by the American Society of Sanitary
Engineering. The approval and listing requirements do not apply to an air gap used as an approved backflow
prevention assembly for containment.
b. Auxiliary Water Supply means: Any source of water that is available to
the customer over which the City of Ames water utility does not have sanitary control to reduce pollution,
contamination, or other conditions that make that source of water unacceptable as a potable water supply, such as,
but not limited to
1, a public or private water supply other than the City of Ames
water utility,
2. public or private wells,or
3. lakes, naturally-fed ponds, storm water basins, and flowing
waters(rivers, creeks, etc.)from which water is drawn.
C. Available to the Customer means: The water utility customer has
authority to use, or direct the use of, the auxiliary water supply by virtue of ownership, contract, or other
arrangement for control.
d. Backflow means: The undesirable reversal of flow into the public water
distribution system.
e. Backflow Prevention Assembly means: An assembly or means to
prevent backflow.
1. Air Gap means: This is a physical break between the PWS and
the customer's water system. The air gap is to create an unobstructed vertical distance between the opening of any
pipe or faucet conveying water to a tank, plumbing fixture, receptor, or other assembly and the flood level of the
receptacle. The air gap shall conform to the requirements of UPC Table 603.3.1 Minimum Airgaps for Water
Distribution..
2. Reduced-Pressure Principle Backflow Prevention Assembly
(RP) means: The RP consists of two independently acting check valves together with a hydraulically operating,
mechanically independent pressure differential relief valve located between the check valves. These units are located
between two tightly closing resilient-seated valves as an assembly, and equipped with properly located resilient-
seated test shutoffs.
3. Double Check Valve Assembly(DC)means: The DC consists
of two internally loaded check valves, either spring loaded or internally weighted, installed as a unit between two
tightly closing resilient-seated shutoff valves with properly located resilient-seated test shutoffs.
f. Commercial/Industrial Fluid means: Any liquid, gas, or solution that is
a chemical,biological, or other substance in a form, quantity, or concentration that would constitute a hazard(health
or non-health)if introduced into the public water supply,such as,but not limited to
1. polluted or contaminated waters;
2. all types of process and used waters (waters which originated
from the public water supply but may have deteriorated in sanitary quality);
3. chemicals in fluid form;
4. plating acids and alkalis;
5. circulated cooling waters (except for those solely used for air
conditioning);
6. oils,gases, caustic and acid solutions;
7. other liquid and gaseous fluids used industrially,
agriculturally,commercially, or for other non-domestic purposes.
g. Commercial/Industrial Fluid System means: Any system used by the
water utility customer to store or utilize any commercial/industrial fluid in a manner that may constitute a hazard
(health or non-health)to the public water supply, such as,but not limited to
1. car washes,
2. microbreweries,
3. chlorinators,
4. clean-in-place systems,
5. bulk fluid storage with remote dispensing (motor oil,
antifreeze, etc.), and
6. injection molding with integral heating and cooling. However,
commercial/industrial fluid systems do not include:
1. fuel gas(propane or natural gas)systems;
2. air conditioning, cooling, refrigeration, and similar systems
using only Freon or similar refrigerants;
3. sanitary sewer,rainwater, or storm sewer lines;and
4. boilers.
h. Containment means: A method of backflow prevention which requires
the installation of a backflow prevention assembly at the water service connection.
i. Contamination means: An impairment of a potable water supply by the
introduction or admission of any foreign substance that degrades the quality of the water and creates a health
hazard.
j. Cross-Connection means: An actual or potential connection between
any part of a potable water system and any other environment containing other substances in a manner that, under
any circumstances,would allow such substances to enter the potable water system.
k. Hazard, Degree of means: The rating of a cross-connection or service
connection which indicates if it has the potential to cause contamination or pollution. The term is derived from an
evaluation of the potential risk to public health and the adverse effect of the hazard upon the potable water system.
1. Hazard-Health means: A hazard upon the PWS involving any
substance that, if introduced in the potable water supply, could cause death, illness, spread disease, or have a high
probability of causing such effects.
2. Hazard - Non-health means: A hazard upon the PWS
involving any substance that generally would not be a health hazard but, if introduced into the PWS, could cause a
nuisance by introducing color, taste or odor, or would alter the quality of the PWS physically, chemically, or
biologically.
1. Permanent Swimming Pool means: A pool or tub with a capacity of
1,000 gallons or more of chemically treated water that has a filtration system with a pump and rigidly supported
walls/sides. Above-ground movable pools and tubs that meet the above criteria shall be deemed "permanent
swimming pools."
in. Pollution means: The presence of any foreign substance in water that
impairs,alters, or degrades its quality but does not constitute a health hazard.
n. Registered Backflow Prevention Assembly Technician (Technician)
means: A person who is registered by the State of Iowa to test or repair backflow prevention assemblies and report
on the condition of those assemblies.
o. Service Connection means: The terminal end of the pipe connected to,
directly or indirectly,the City of Ames water main;that is, the point of delivery to the customer's water system. If a
meter is installed at the end of the service connection,then the service connection shall mean the downstream end of
the meter. Service connections shall also include,but not be limited to, a temporary water service connection from a
fire hydrant and all other temporary or emergency water service connections from the public water system.
P. Thermal Expansion means: Volumetric increase of water due to heating
resulting in increased pressure in a closed system.
(iii) Administrative Authority
a. The Administrative Authority is the Ames City Council acting
through such persons or departments as the City Council shall designate.
b. The Administrative Authority shall have the right to enter,
with the consent of the customer or upon the basis of a suitable warrant issued by a court of appropriate jurisdiction,
any property to determine if the conditions for a partial or total exemption have been satisfied or if a backflow
prevention assembly has been properly installed for containment.
1. All backflow prevention assemblies shall be available
for City inspection within a short notice by the Administrative Authority. Short notice is considered to be less than
24 hours.
2. The entrance to the property to determine if the
conditions for a partial or total exemption have been satisfied will not be necessary if the customer has properly
installed, tested, and maintained an approved RP or air gap on every and all service connections serving the
customer's premises.
C. The Administrative Authority may collect fees for the
administration of this program.
d. The Administrative Authority shall maintain records of
containment hazard surveys, and of the installation, testing, and repair of all backflow prevention assemblies
installed for containment purposes
(iv) Where Containment Is Required
a. An RP or air gap is required for containment for every direct
or indirect service connection unless such connection:
1. qualifies for a total or partial exemption; or
2, supplies a fire protection system.
b. A DC may be installed for containment in place of an RP or
air gap when a partial exemption is granted.
C. A partial exemption shall be granted only if all of the
following conditions precedent are met.
1. The entire facilities are within the scope and
applicability of the plumbing regulations of the City of Ames, Iowa.
2. All water uses are protected by the "isolation"
provisions of Chapter 6 of the Uniform Plumbing Code.
3. There are no auxiliary water supplies.
4. There are no solar heating systems.
5. There are no permanent swimming pools.
6. There are no commercial/industrial fluid systems.
7. The entire facilities and all pertinent circumstances
and conditions are fully accessible for inspection by representatives of the City's Water and Pollution Control
Department.
d. No backflow prevention assembly is required for containment
when a total exemption is granted.
e. A total exemption shall be granted when a partial exemption
has been granted and all of the following conditions precedent are met.
1. There is only one service connection, not including services
for fire protection systems.
2. The facility is less than four stories above grade.
f. Failure of the Administrative Authority to notify a customer
that they do not qualify for an exemption and that they shall install backflow prevention assemblies for containment
shall in no way relieve a customer of the responsibility to comply with all requirements of these regulations.
g. The Director of the City of Ames Water and Pollution Control
Department may require installation of an air gap, by and at the customer's sole expense, at the service connection
where records indicate a history of threat to the public water supply system because of inappropriate handling of
health hazard substances or actual backflow into the PWS.
(v) New Service Connections
a. Plans shall be submitted to the Administrative Authority for
review on all new service connections in order to determine if a partial or total exemption shall be granted.
b. The Administrative Authority shall require the installation of
the appropriate backflow prevention assembly for containment before the initiation of water service.
(vi) Fire Protection Systems
a. A backflow prevention assembly to be used in a fire protection
system shall meet the requirements of Factory Mutual Research Corporation (FM) and Underwriters Laboratory
(UL) and the requirements of the fire code and the building code of the City of Ames, in addition to the
requirements of paragraph (ii)a. Assemblies sized smaller than 2-1/2 inches which have not been tested by FM and
listed by UL may be allowed if approved by the City of Ames Fire Department Chief.
b. An RP shall be installed on all new and existing fire protection
systems which the Administrative Authority determines to have any of the following:
1. Interconnections with auxiliary supplies such as
reservoirs,rivers,ponds,wells,mills, or other industrial water systems; or
2. Use of antifreeze or other additives in the fire
protection system unless an RP is used to isolate the loop or branch containing antifreeze or other additives when a
DC is installed at the service connection;or
3. Any other facility, connection, or condition which
may cause contamination
C. A DC will be required for all other fire protection systems.
The DC shall be required on all new systems at the time of installation and on existing systems at the time that they
are modified.
(vii) Portable Tanks. Portable tanks and vessels shall be filled through a
properly installed and maintained backflow prevention assembly or vacuum breaker.
(viii) Installation of Backflow Prevention Assemblies
a. All backflow prevention assemblies for containment shall be
installed so that they are accessible for testing as stated in the UPC at Section 603.4.3 thereof. The installation shall
also provide the same clearances as called for the water meter in the City of Ames Municipal Code, Section
28.205.(5).
b. The required backflow prevention assemblies for containment
shall be installed in horizontal plumbing immediately following the meter or as close to that location as deemed
practical by the Administrative Authority unless approved in writing by the Administrative Authority. In any case, it
shall be located upstream of any branch piping. Installation at this point does not eliminate the responsibility of the
customer to protect the water supply system from contamination or pollution between the backflow prevention
assembly and the water main, and to protect the water supply system from contamination or pollution within the
premises.
C. If hot water is used within the water system, thermal
expansion shall be provided for when installing a backflow prevention assembly for containment.
d. If interruption of water service during testing and repair of
backflow assemblies for containment is unacceptable to the customer, another backflow prevention assembly for
containment, sized to handle the temporary water flow needed during the time of test or repair, shall be installed in
parallel piping.
(ix) Removal of Backflow Prevention Assemblies
a. The use of an assembly may be discontinued and the assembly
removed from service upon presentation of sufficient evidence that the customer qualifies for an exemption.
(x) Testing of Backflow Prevention Assemblies
a. When water service has been terminated for non-compliance,
the backflow prevention assembly for containment shall be repaired or replaced and then tested prior to the
resumption of water service.
(xi) Backflow Incidents
a. The customer shall immediately notify the Administrative
Authority when the customer becomes aware that backflow has occurred in the building, property, or private water
system receiving water service.
b. The Administrative Authority may order that water service be
temporarily shut off when backflow occurs in a customer's building,property, or private water system. Such shut off
is to protect the system from further contamination or pollution and to allow time for locating and mitigating the
cause and extent of the contamination or pollution.
(xii) Existing Backflow Prevention Assemblies For Containment
a. All backflow prevention assemblies for containment installed
prior to November 1, 1996, that do not meet the requirements of these regulations but were approved testable
assemblies for the purpose described herein at the time of installation and that have been properly installed and
maintained, shall, except for the testing, inspection, and maintenance requirements under Section (x) and Section
(xi), be excluded from the requirements of these rules so long as the Administrative Authority is assured that they
will satisfactorily protect the PWS. Whenever the existing assembly for containment is moved from the present
location, requires replacement, or when the use of the service area protected by the assembly changes so that the
Administrative Authority determines that the customer no longer qualifies for a partial exemption, the unit shall be
replaced by an approved backflow prevention assembly for containment meeting the requirements of these
regulations.
(xiv) Customer Non-compliance
a. In case of non-compliance with these regulations, the
Administrative Authority shall notify the customer to comply within ten working days. In the event of failure or
upon refusal of the customer to comply as ordered, the Administrative Authority may, after notice and reasonable
opportunity for hearing,terminate water service.Non-compliance includes,but is not limited to,the following:
1. Refusal to allow the Administrative Authority access
to the property to determine if the conditions for a partial or total exemption have been satisfied, except when an RP
or air gap is properly installed for containment and properly maintained
2. Providing inadequate backflow prevention
3. Failure to install a backflow prevention assembly for
containment which has been required by the Administrative Authority
4. Failure to test, maintain, or properly repair a
backflow prevention assembly for containment as required by the Administrative Authority
5. Failure to comply with the requirements of these
regulations
6. Refusal to replace a faulty backflow prevention
assembly
7. Removal of a backflow prevention assembly for
containment which has been required by the Administrative Authority except for seasonal removal as in Section
(viii)f
8. Bypassing of a backflow prevention assembly for
containment which has been required by the Administrative Authority
9. Failure to report a backflow incident
10. Direct connection between the PWS and a sewer line
11. A situation which presents an immediate health
hazard to the PWS
b. For conditions 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11, the Administrative
Authority will take the following steps.
1. Make a reasonable effort to advise the customer of
intent to terminate water service.
2. Terminate water service and lock service valve. The
water service will remain inactive until correction of the violation has been approved by the Administrative
Authority.
(xv) COMMITTEE OF ADJUSTMENT There is hereby established the
Containment Committee of Adjustment.
a. The Committee shall consist of three members as follows: the
Building Official of the City or that official's designee;the Director of Water and Pollution Control or the Director's
designee;and a representative of the Building Board of Appeals,selected from among the members of that Board by
majority vote of the Board's members.
b.The said Committee of Adjustment shall have the following powers.
1. To hear and decide appeals that allege an error in any
decision or determination made in the administration and enforcement of Section 5.208(8)(c) of the Municipal Code
of the City of Ames, Iowa
2. To authorize, in specific cases, such exemption from
the requirements of Section 5.208(8)(c) of the Municipal Code of the City of Ames, Iowa, as will not be contrary to
the laws of the State of Iowa, when due to special circumstances not of the property owner's own creation, a strict
literal interpretation of Section 5.208(8)(c) would result in undue expenses to the property owner in view of an
alternative measure agreed to by the property owner that will not be contrary to the public interest
(xvi) Presumptive Exemptions The following water uses shall generally be
presumed exempt from the containment requirements of Section 5.208(8)(c): water closets, lavatories, bath tubs,
showers, water softeners, single-faucet water treatment units, boilers, sinks, irrigation systems, clothes washers,
dishwashers, pre-rinse stations, garden hose connections, drinking fountains, urinals, carbonators/beverage
dispensers, garbage disposals, ice makers, cleaning chemical dispensers, and private fire hydrants. However, when
warranted by the facts and circumstances of a particular situation, the Administrative Authority, with notice and
opportunity to be heard extended to the property owners, may apply to the Containment Committee of Adjustment
for a determination that containment measures are required under such facts and circumstances.
(16) Section 603.5.8 Water-Cooled Equipment is amended to read:
Water-cooled compressors, degreasers, or any other water-cooled equipment shall be protected by an approved
reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assembly.
(17) Section 603.5.10 Steam or Hot Water Boilers is amended to read:
Potable water make up connections to boilers, sterilizers, chillers, commercial clothes washers, or water heaters for
radiant heat, shall have a reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assembly.
(18) Section 604.1 Pipe,Tube,and Fittings is amended by adding the following:
The following type of pipe and fittings are allowed in the interior/exterior of a building or structure:
Interior
Above concrete floor(lowest level)
(a) soft copper(Type K,L, M)
(b) rigid copper(Type K,L, M)
(c) brass
(d) cross linked polyethylene (PEX) (as approved by Chapter 17 of the Uniform Plumbing
Code),
(e) ductile iron(four(4)inch or larger).
(f) CPVC
Below concrete floor(lowest level)
(a) soft copper(type K)(approved flared or compression fittings only)
(b) PEX(as approved byChapterl4 of the Uniform Plumbing Code)
(c) Polyethylene,IPS 200 p.s.i. SLDR-7,PE3408
(d) ductile iron(four(4) inch or larger)with flanged mechanical joints.
(e) C-900 PVC DR 14(fire line).
Exterior
(a) PEX(as approved by Chapter-14 17 of the Uniform Plumbing Code),and which meets
manufacturer's specifications.
(b) Soft copper(Type K)(approved flared or compression fittings only)
(c) Brass
(d) Ductile iron(mechanical joint)(bolts shall be teflon coated)
(e) PVC meeting AWWA C-900 standards,DR14 for fire lines and Dr18 for non-fire lines.
(f) Polyethylene, IPS 200 p.s.i. SLDR-7,PE3408
Note: Polyethylene, PEX and PVC C-900 shall be installed with a 14-gauge solid copper tracer wire in a blue jacket
affixed to the pipe at appropriate intervals.The tracer wire will start with a 5 foot electrical ground stake at the water
main, continue to the water meter, and be terminated at a weatherproof junction box at an approved location on the
building exterior. An appropriate splice may be used at the water meter. The junction box shall be accessible and
be labeled to identify it as a tracer-wire termination.
(19) Section 604.6 Cast-Iron Fittings is deleted.
(20) Section 604.7Malleable Iron Fittings is deleted.
(21) Section 605.0 Joints and Connections is amended by adding new subsections 605.0.1 through
605.0.13 as follows:
Sec. 605.0.1. Curb Stops shall be of the quarter turn ball valve type with the grip joint ends.
Sec. 605.0.3. All threaded taps on the main shall be at least 24 inches apart and shall be at least 3/4 inch in
size. If more than one tap is made for a service line, the taps will be staggered on the pipe. No more than three (3)
threaded taps shall be made for a service connected to a 4-inch or larger main. Maximum threaded tap size for a 4
inch main is 3/4 inch. All taps will be made in the top half of the water main, but not more than 45" above the
horizontal plane. All services having two (2) taps or more shall be combined through a brass wye pipe connection.
The maximum length of service from the main to the wye shall be four(4)feet. The following table lists appropriate
number of taps for different service sizes.
Service Size Taps
I inch=two%inch or one 1 inch
1'/4 inch=two 1 inch
1'/z inch=two 1 inch
Sec. 605.0.4. Service saddles allowed on four(4)inch or larger water mains when water service is 3/4", 1
1'/4", and 1'/2" shall be a Smith-Blair, or equivalent, #317, #357, #372, #393 or #397. The saddles shall have a
stainless steel strap with two bolts wide minimum. The bolts or nuts shall be either stainless steel or blue coated.
When tapping a four(4) inch or larger main for water services for a two (2) inch or larger water service,the Smith-
Blair, or equivalent stainless steel full wrap around saddle, #238, #239, #264, or#265 shall be used. The bolts and
nuts shall be either stainless steel or blue coated. Any water service that is larger than a two(2) inch shall require a
tapping valve and sleeve at the main or private main. The Post Indicator Valve(PIV)for fire line shall not serve as
the water service valve after the main. All tapping valve sleeves shall meet the Urban Standard Specifications as
follows:
(1)Valve: Tapping valve conforming to ANSI/AWWA C509.
(2)Sleeve:
(a)Minimum 14 gauge
(b)Stainless steel,ASTM A240,Type 304
(c)Working pressure 200 psi.
(d)Must fully surround pipe
(e)Approved sleeves
(i)Cascade Water Works Manufacturing Company, Style CST-EX
(ii)PowerSeal Pipeline Products Corporation,Model 3490AS
(iii)JCM Industries, Inc.Model JCM 432
(iv)Approved equal
(3)Gasket:
(a)To completely surround pipe
(b)Minimum thickness 0.125 inch
(c)Material:nitrile rubber.
(4)Outlet Flange:
(a) Stainless steel,ASTM A240,Type 304
(b)ANSI B 16.1, 125 pound pattern
(5)Bolts: Stainless steel,ASTM A240,Type 304
Sec. 605.0.5. In the event a curb box is set in any location where a concrete or asphalt surface is to be
placed, a sleeve shall be placed around the cap to allow for expansion and contraction.
Sec. 605.0.6. In a new subdivision the water service line shall be installed at the center of the property
unless otherwise approved by the Administrative Authority.
Sec. 605.0.7. There shall be a curb cock in every service connection to the main. It shall be located on the
property line or as close as possible thereto and in alleys within one foot of the alley line, except two (2) inch and
larger, which shall have a street valve box over the valve at the water main. The curb cock to be used for services
from three-fourths(1/4)inch to two(2) inches shall be the style known as Mueller Mark II Oriseal or Ford Ball Valve
with 90' curb cock, or equal, provided with T handle and extension rod keyed and locked to curb cock and shall be
the same diameter as the pipe served.The curb cock shall be kept in an operative condition at all times.
Sec. 605.0.8. The curb cock shall be covered by a curb box of the Western pattern No. 100, or equal,
extending to the curb grade. In cases where the surface of the ground is higher than the curb grade to the extent that
the curb box will not extend sufficiently to be in plain view, then the curb box shall be extended to the ground
surface. Whenever a water service is renewed the curb box shall be brought to the curb grade or present natural
ground level and moved to the property line. In placing the curb cock in position, care must be exercised to provide
against settlement of the curb box, by providing a base of brick, stone or concrete block set on solid earth for
support. A support shall be placed across the ditch and wired to the curb box near the top to keep it in a vertical
position while filling the ditch.
Sec. 605.0.9. A corporation cock of either a Mueller or Ford make, or its equivalent, shall be inserted in
every tap one and one half inch or less in diameter made in the water main. The connection to the main shall be
made by a regulation corporation cock and copper service with a compression joint if the pipe is plastic SIDR-7 200
P 3408.All connections to the water main shall be adequately looped to prevent breakage from ditch settlement.
Sec. 605.0.10. A service valve shall be installed immediately following a two (2) inch or larger tap on all
take offs from the water main or private main.
Sec. 605.0.11. Where a single water service fine provides service to a new duplex or is split for any other
reason, the service line shall be at least one inch in diameter. Where an existing structure is to be converted to a
duplex a I" equivalent service may be provided by a separate tap. The new service lines shall be divided by a wye at
the property line. Existing 1" services may be split inside the building so long as shut-offs are available in a common
area. Separate curb boxes shall be installed, and separate%inch service lines shall be run to the individual customer
units.
Sec. 605.0.12. Sprinkler systems used for fire protection may be permitted to be attached to the water
mains by registered plumbing contractors by direct connection without meters under the direction and supervision of
the City. No open connection can be incorporated in the system, and there shall be no valves except the service
valve at the main unless a post indicator valve (PIV) is required by the Fire Inspector.. One and two family
residential sprinkler lines shall be metered through the single meter. The property owner or tenant shall promptly
report to the City any seal which has been broken for the closing of the system. A detailed drawing of the sprinkler
system shall be filed with the City and free access to the building shall be granted the City for inspection purposes.
No charge will be made for water used for fire purposes through a sprinkler system. The fire line shall be a
minimum four (4) inch diameter with a shut-off valve installed after the tap into the main. When required, the PIV
shall be a minimum of forty(40)feet from the building or at a location determined by the fire inspector.
Exception: The fire line may be smaller than 4" in size if hydraulic calculations by the fire sprinkler company show
that a 4"would not be required.
See. 605.0.13. Where required, a post indicator valve (PIV) must be set at 36" above final grade. The
termination flange, inside the building, shall not be more than twelve (12) inches above finished floor level and be
set at a true vertical position. When entering through a wall, the termination flange shall not be more than twelve
(12) inches from the wall and set in a true horizontal position. The fire line shall have a two hundred (200) pound
pressure test done for a minimum of two(2)hours without losing any pressure. The fire line shall be tested from the
tap at the main to the termination flange with the PIV open and the curb box closed.No fire line static pressure test
shall be started after 1:30 p.m.,Monday through Friday.
A certified fire sprinkler installer may install the backflow device to the sprinkler system for containment. The
termination flange, inside the building, from horizontal to the vertical position or from horizontal to the horizontal
position traveling through an exterior wall or floor, shall have no smaller than 1/4 inch galvanized or equivalent all-
thread rod used between said flanges to keep fire line termination stable. The fire line located in the trench may use
mega-lug type supports, however, a concrete thrust block shall be in front of fire line traveling from horizontal to
vertical prior to the termination flange. Only PVC C-900 DR 14 and ductile iron shall be used for the fire line
service. The fittings shall be mechanical joint type. The tapping valve, PIV, and all other fittings and pipe shall be
marked to withstand 200 p.s.i. Before requesting a Bac-T test, the fire line shall be flushed thoroughly by the
plumbing contractor. The contractor shall request, from the Inspection Division, a Bac-T test form, complete the
form and return it to the Inspection Division. Utility Maintenance Division will collect the sample for testing. If the
fire line passes Bac-T test,the Inspection Division will contact the plumbing contractor.The termination flange shall
have a two(2) inch ball valve to properly flush the fire line.
(a)If the fire line and water service are on one line,the domestic water service shall have the take
off so that the domestic service will have a curb stop and stop box at the property line. If a PIV is required,
the domestic service will branch off prior to the PIV and have a curb stop and stop box adjacent to the PIV.
The take off for the water service shall be either brass, ductile iron, C-900 PVC DR14, or copper to the
curb box.
(b) The curb stop and stop box may be installed at another location with prior approval of the
Inspections Division and the Water and Pollution Control Department.
(22) Section 608.5 Drains is amended by deleting and replacing "the outside of the building" with "a
properly drained surface".
(23) Section 609.1 Installation is amended by deleting the last two sentences in the section and inserting
the following in lieu thereof:
All water service lines shall be installed at least five feet below finish grade. If the water service cannot be buried
below frost depth at any point, the trench shall be lined with 1 ''/z" thick "Blue Board" insulation or equivalent as
approved by the Administrative Authority. Sand backfill material shall then be placed to a depth of one foot above
the top of pipe, then 1 '/z" "Blue Board" or equivalent will be installed so that the entire trench width and length in
the area needing protection against freezing is insulated and then backfilled. The insulation shall be at least five(5)
feet in depth.
(24) Section 609.5 Unions is amended by adding the following to the end of the section:
Exception: water heaters and boilers.
(25) Section 609.10 Water Hammer is amended by adding:
Exception: Single family dwelling units.
(26) Section 610.1 Size,Size of Potable Water Piping, is amended by deleting the words"each water
meter and" from the first sentence and adding "Water meter sizing shall be determined by the Water Meter
Division"to the end of the section.
(27) Section 610.8(6) Size of Meter and Building Supply Pipe Using Table 610.4 is amended by
deleting the last sentence and inserting the following in lieu thereof:
No building water service line shall be less than one(1) inch diameter.
(28) Amend Table 610.4 Fixture Unit Table for Determining Water Pipe and Meter Sizes is
amended by deleting the language in footnote 2 and inserting the following in lieu thereof:
Replace "Building supply, three-quarter(3/4) inch nominal size minimum." With "Building supply, one (1) inch
nominal size minimum."
(29) Section 701.2 Drainage Piping is amended to read as follows:
Drainage pipe and fittings used inside a new building or an existing building for underground shall be copper(type
L),brass,ABS (schedule 40),PVC(schedule 40)or cast iron.
Exception: Galvanized may be used on a sewage ejector system when the discharge line is three (3) inch or larger.
The galvanized shall only be piped no more than four(4)feet out of pit.
Above ground piping shall be the same as underground except that ABS and PVC pipe may be coextruded and
copper tube and fittings may be type M for commercial and structures that are more than a one and two-family
dwelling.A one and two-family dwelling may use type DWV copper tube.
(30) Table 702.1 Drainage Fixtures Unit Values (DFU) is amended by adding the following to
footnote#8:
Public use shall be any building or structure that is not a dwelling unit. Fraternities and sororities are not classified
by this section as a dwelling unit.
(31) Section 703.1 Minimum Size, Size of Drainage Piping, is amended by adding the following at
the end of the section:
No underground drainage piping or vent shall be less than two(2)inches inside diameter.
(32) Section 704.3 Commercial Sinks is amended to read"At the discretion of the Plumbing Inspector
and Sanitarian' pot sinks, scullery sinks, dishwashing sinks, silverware sinks, and other similar fixtures shall have
an airgap indirect waste connection to a properly trapped and vented floor sink. Commercial kitchens must have at
least one floor sink with a three inch waste line serving the main scullery sink.
(33) Section 705.0.1 is added: No molded rubber coupling (Fernco Coupling or equivalent) shall be
used on any sanitary sewer or storm sewer. Appropriate stainless steel shielded molded rubber couplings may be
used as connections when connecting sanitary or storm sewers. Single band shielded couplings (no hub clamps) are
not allowed on any exterior building sanitary sewer, or storm sewer.
(34) Section 717.1 General,Size of Building Sewers,is amended to read as follows:
The minimum size of any building sewer shall be determined on the basis of the total number of fixture units
drained by such sewer, in accordance with Table 717.1 Maximum/Minimum Fixture Unit Loading on Building
Sewer Piping. No building sewer shall be smaller than four(4) inches. The building sewer shall not be smaller than
the building drain.
In unusual circumstances, with prior approval from the plumbing inspector, a sewage ejector may discharge the
building sewer to the public sewer manhole when the public main is too shallow to allow the building sewer
discharge to flow by gravity. The pipe material to be used shall be Polyethylene (P.E.) Two (2) inch SDR 7, 3408.
The 2" line shall at all times be a minimum of five (5) feet deep or be blue-boarded. The sewage ejector shall be
vented with a minimum two(2) inch pipe.The ejector pumps shall comply with section 710.9
(35) Section 718.2 Support is amended to read as follows:
Building sewer pipe made of cast iron, copper, or extra strength vitrified clay shall be laid on a firm bed. Pipe
consisting of Schedule 40 PVC/ABS, PVC SDR 23.5/35 and PVC truss pipe shall be enveloped on bottom, sides
and top with a minimum of four(4) inches of either one(1)inch clean or 3/8"minus crushed rock, 3/8"washed chip
or"pea gravel'. After enveloping the pipe,the remainder of the ditch may be filled once the inspection is complete.
(36) Section 718.3 Protection from Damage is amended to read as follows:
No building drain or sewer shall be closer than two (2) feet from the building structure or footing that is not made
out of cast iron, Schedule 40 PVC, or Type"L"copper.At no point shall the building sewer be less than five(5)feet
in depth on new construction or when replacing existing sewers. If less than five(5)feet in depth,the trench shall be
lined with 1 ''/z"thick blue-board insulation. The insulation of the sides shall be at least five (5) feet below finished
grade with a cap over the two sides.
One(1) inch clean 3/8" minus, 3/8" washed chips, and pea gravel rock shall be placed on the bottom, sides and top
of pipe whenever any type of PVC is used. Whenever cast iron is used sand may take the place of the one (1) inch
rock. Whenever possible,the building sewer shall be at a depth of nine (9) feet below street grade from the main to
the property line on new construction. Whenever possible on a duplex or single-family dwelling,the building sewer
shall not be located under a driveway.
(37) Section 719.6 Manholes is amended by deleting the second paragraph.
(38) Section 801.4 Bar and Fountain Sink Traps is amended to read as follows:
Sinks (except hand sinks) in a bar, nightclub, tavern, or soda fountain shall drain to an approved and properly
trapped and vented floor sink through an approved airgap or airbreak. The floor sink, drain line, trap, and strainer
inlet shall be at least three (3) inch pipe size. The developed length from the fixture outlet to the floor sink shall not
exceed five(5)feet.
(39) Section 807.3 Domestic Dishwashing Machine is amended to read as follows:
No domestic dishwashing machine shall be directly connected to a drainage system or food waste disposer without
the use of an approved dishwasher air gap fitting on the discharge side of the dishwashing machine, or without
looping the discharge line of the dishwasher as high as possible near the flood level of the kitchen sink where the
waste disposer is connected. The looped discharge line of the dishwasher shall be supported or strapped. Listed air
gap fittings shall be installed with the flood level(FL)marking at or above the flood level of the sink or drainboard,
whichever is higher.
(40) Section 901.2 Vents Required,is amended by adding new sub-section 901.2.1
Section 901.2.1 All single-family or two-family dwelling units with a basement shall be provided with a two (2)
inch future vent. The future vent shall be combined with other vents or terminate through the roof. Such vent shall
be capped in the floor joist area of the basement for future use. The two (2) inch vent is for a future basement
bathroom or other approved fixtures.
(41) Section 902.2 Bars, Soda Fountains, and Counter,Vents Not Required, is amended to read as
follows:
Sinks (except hand sinks) in a bar, nightclub, tavern, or soda fountain shall drain to an approved and properly
trapped and vented floor sink through an approved airgap or airbreak. The floor sink, its drain line,trap, and strainer
inlet shall be at least three(3) inch pipe size. The developed length from the fixture outlet to the floor sink shall not
exceed five(5)feet.
(42) Section 903.1 Applicable Standards,Materials,is amended to read as follows:
Drainage and vent pipe and fitting used inside a new building or an existing building for underground shall be
copper(Type L),brass,ABS(Schedule 40),PVC(Schedule 40)or cast iron.
Above ground piping shall be the same as underground except that coextruded PVC and ABS nay be used,
and copper tube and fittings may be Type M for commercial and structures that are other than a one and two-family
dwelling. One and two-family dwellings may use type DWV copper tube.
(43) Section 903.2 Use of Copper or Copper Alloy Tubing is amended to remove "type DWV" and
replace it with"type L".
(44) Section 903.2.1 Aboveground is amended to remove "type DWV" and replace it with "type L",
and to add
Exception: Single-family and two-family dwellings may use copper tube type DWV.
(45) Section 904.1 Size, Add after second sentence "No vent smaller than 2 inch is allowed below
ground".
(46) Section 906.7 Frost or Snow Closure,Vent Termination, is amended to read as follows:
Change two(2)inches to three(3)inches and ten(10)inches to twelve(12)inches and remove reference to mm.
(47) Section 908.2 Horizontal Wet Venting for a Bathroom Group. is amended to Water closets,
bathtubs, showers and floor drains within one bathroom group located on the same floor level and for private use
shall be permitted to be vented by a horizontal wet vent where all of the conditions of Section 908.2.1 through
Section 908.2.5 are met.
(48) Table 1002.2 Horizontal Lengths of Trap Arms is amended to read as follows:
Maximum Allowable Horizontal Length Of Trap Arms
1-1/4" 5' 0"
1-1/2" 6' 0"
2" 8' 0"
3" 12' 0"
4"and larger 13' 0"
The developed length between the trap of a water closet or similar fixture(measured from
the top of the closet flange to the inner edge of the vent) and its vent shall not exceed six
feet.
(49) Section 1101.3 Storm Water Drainage to Sanitary Sewer Prohibited is amended by adding the
following:
Whenever such connection or arrangement is found to exist in violation of the ordinances of this city and Chapter 5,
whereby surface water runoff, subsoil or footing drainage is discharged or diverted into the sanitary sewer system,
the inspector shall issue a written notice to the owner to cause such to be abated by ordering a connection to a public
storm main or collector line.
(50) Section 1101.4 Material Uses is amended to read as follows:
Rainwater piping placed within the interior of a building to two(2)feet out of building or footings shall be cast iron,
brass, copper (Type M), Schedule 40 PVC or Schedule 40 ABS DWV. Schedule 40 PVC and ABS pipe installed
within a duct or plenums shall be insulated with an insulation having a flame-spread index of not more than 25 and a
smoke index of not more than 50. Coextruded PVC&ABS pipe not allowed below grade.
Rainwater piping placed outside a building shall be cast iron,brass,copper(Type M), Schedule 40 PVC or Schedule
40 ABS DWV,reinforced concrete pipe(RCP), vitrified clay pipe(VCP), SDR 23.5 PVC, SDR 35 PVC,PVC truss
pipe,PVC A2000 pipe,and corrugated high-density polyethylene(P.E.)
SDR 23.5 PVC, SDR 35 PVC, schedule 40 PVC or Schedule 40 ABS, PVC truss, PVC A2000, and corrugated
polyethylene pipe outside a building shall be enveloped with four (4) inches of crushed rock, either one (1) inch
clean or 3/8" minus 3/8"washed chips, or"pea gravel", on the top,bottom and sides. Coextruded PVC&ABS pipe
not allowed below grade. The storm water sewer may be connected to the City storm main at intakes, manholes, or
connected directly into the storm main. Whenever a direct connection is made to the storm main, the connection
shall be made by a clamping saddle or a fitting with a sealant that makes the joints water and root proof.
If the storm sewer is one-half('/2)or more of the size of the storm main, a manhole shall be required at the point of
connection to the storm main.All manholes shall meet the Iowa Statewide Urban Standards(SUDAS).
All direct taps into the storm main shall be installed on the top one-half('/2)of the main.
The storm sewer shall have a cleanout installed every one hundred (100) feet and every change of direction
exceeding 135°. In place of a cleanout every one hundred(100)feet, a manhole shall be placed every three hundred
(300)feet(manhole shall meet Iowa Statewide Urban Standards(SUDAS)).
No Fernco coupling or no-hub clamp shall be used on the storm sewer or main.
Exception: When converting to PVC truss pipe or clay pipe, a Fernco stainless steel shielded coupling shall be used
on storm sewer.
(51) Section 1101.6.1 Discharge,Subsoil Drains, is amended to read as follows:
The subsoil drains may be allowed to discharge to a pond, or waterway if approved by the Building Official. If not
allowed by the Building Official,the subsoil drain shall be discharged to a storm main.
Regardless,the gravity line shall have a backwater valve.
In existing buildings, if granted permission by the plumbing inspector, the perimeter tile may flow by gravity to a
storm main, intake, or manhole if there is at least ten (10) feet vertical height difference between the perimeter tile
and the storm main, intake, or manhole.
(52) Section 1101.6.2 Sump, is amended by replacing "fifteen (15) gpm" with "17 gpm with a
seventeen(17)foot head"and adding the following to the end of the section:
The sump pumpline may be either Schedule 40 PVC or Schedule 80 PVC pipe.
The fittings shall be either schedule 80 PVC deep socket or schedule 40 deep socket pressure fittings. The sump
pump line may also be 1 ''/z" polyethylene(PE) SDR 9, 3408. The PE joints shall be made with ribbed insert fittings
secured by stainless steel clamps. The sump line shall be buried no less than five (5) feet in depth from finished
grade. If this depth cannot be maintained, the sides and top of pipe wall shall be covered with 1 ''/z" blue board
insulation. The sides of the insulation shall be at least five(5)feet in depth. When the sump line is discharged into a
storm manhole, intake, or storm main that is not five(5)feet below final surface grade, a quarter('/4)of an inch hole
shall be drilled into the bottom portion of the horizontal 90°elbow before pipe is placed in the vertical position.
If two sump lines are combined together, the sump line shall be a two (2) inch line to the storm main, intake, or
manhole. The sump pump shall have an electrical outlet within reach of the manufacturer's cord.
No foundation drain service line shall be discharged onto property, someone else's property, or into the building
drain or building sewer. No floor drain, clothes washer, or any other plumbing fixture shall be discharged into the
foundation sump pit.
Every sump pit in an elevator shaft shall meet the rules and regulations of the State of Iowa Elevator Inspector. No
hydraulic elevator sump shall be discharged into a storm or sanitary sewer.
(53) Section 1101.6.3 Splash Blocks is deleted.
(54) Section 1101.6.5 Open Area is deleted.
(55) Tables 1101.8 Sizing of Horizontal Rainwater Piping, 1101.12 Sizing of Roof Drains,
Leaders, and Vertical Rainwater Piping, and 1103.3 Size of Gutters are amended by adding the following note
to the end of each table:
Rainfall rates for the City of Ames shall be based at three and one-half(3 ''/2)inches of rain per hour.
(56) D102.1 General, of Appendix D UPC is amended to add at the end of the section: The maximum
rainfall rate for the City of Ames shall be based on three and one-half(3 ''/2) inches per hour in Table D101.1
Maximum Rates of Rainfall for Various Cities for design.
(Ord. 4044, 9-28-10)
DIVISION III
CONTRACTOR AND TRADE LICENSES
Sec. 5.300. BUILDING CONTRACTOR REGISTRATION.
(1) Contractor registration required. Each person, firm, or corporation performing work requiring a
building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or sign permit must possess a valid State Division of Labor registration
number and provide proof of same to the Inspection Division prior to permit issuance. For electrical,plumbing, and
HVAC contractors, possession of a State of Iowa contractor license shall serve as evidence of registration with the
Division of Labor.
(2) Contractor insurance required.
All persons, firms, or corporations performing work that requires a building permit must possess current
Contractor's Commercial General Liability insurance in not less than $500,000.00 combined single limit, and
provide proof of coverage to the Inspection Division prior to permit issuance. For electrical, plumbing, and HVAC
contractors,possession of a State of Iowa contractor license shall serve as evidence of adequate insurance coverage.
Sec.5.301. CITY ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR REGISTRATION AND STATE LICENSING.
Before doing any electrical work governed by this code in the City of Ames, an electrical contractor must register
with the City of Ames Inspection Division as an electrical contractor on a form provided by the Division.
(1) Conditions for Registration. An electrical contractor must hold a valid State of Iowa license as an
electrical contractor.
(2) Information to be provided. An applicant for electrical contractor registration under this section
shall provide the following information:
(a) Copy of possession of current State license;
(b) Name, mailing address, email address, phone number of the principal of the registered
firm or corporation; and
(c) The names and State license classifications of all employees who may be working on
projects in the City of Ames.
(3) Registration not Transferable. Contractor registration is not transferable to any other person, firm
or corporation.
Sec. 5.302. STATE ELECTRICIAN LICENSE CATEGORIES.
(1) Apprentice electrician. An apprentice electrician is a person who holds an apprentice electrician
license issued by the State of Iowa.
(2) Journeyperson electrician. A journeyman electrician is a person who holds a Journeyperson
electrician license issued by the State of Iowa.
(3) Master electrician. A master electrician is a person who holds a master electrician license issued
by the State of Iowa.
(4) Electrical Contractor. An electrical contractor is a person, firm or corporation that holds an
electrical contractor license issued by the State of Iowa.
Sec. 5.303. STATE ELECTRICIAN LICENSE REQUIRED.
(1) Where this code requires electrical work to be performed by a licensed person, such person must
hold and have in their immediate possession, a valid Electricians license issued by the State of Iowa that authorizes
the work being performed.
See.5.304. EXEMPTIONS.
(1) No license or registration shall be required for minor repair work, including the replacement of
lamps and fuses, or the connection of approved portable electrical equipment to approved permanently installed
receptacles, or for simple replacement of electrical fixtures such as wall plugs, and light fixtures, in single family
dwellings when the person performing the repair work is the owner of the structure, and has his or her primary place
of residence there.
(2) No license or registration shall be required for a mobile home dealer or the employee of a mobile
home dealer to perform electrical connections in a mobile home space or within ten feet of such space, located in a
mobile home park, all within the meaning and intent of Section 103A.52 Code of Iowa. The requirements for
permits and inspections remain in effect, and the mobile home dealer shall pay the permit and inspection fees.
Sec. 5.305. CITY PLUMBING CONTRACTOR REGISTRATION AND STATE LICENSING.
Before doing any plumbing work governed by this code in the City of Ames, a plumbing contractor must register
with the City of Ames Inspection Division as a plumbing contractor on a form provided by the Division.
(1) Conditions for Registration. A plumbing contractor must hold a valid State of Iowa license as a
plumbing contractor.
(2) Information to be provided. An applicant for plumbing contractor registration under this section
shall provide the following information:
(a) Copy of possession of current State license;
(b) Name, mailing address, email address, phone number of the principal of the registered
firm or corporation;and
(c) The names and State license classifications of all employees who may be working on projects in
the City of Ames.
(3) Registration not Transferable. Contractor registration is not transferable to any other person, firm
or corporation.
Sec.5.306. STATE PLUMBERS LICENSE CATEGORIES.
(1) Apprentice plumber.An apprentice plumber is a person who holds an apprentice plumber license
issued by the State of Iowa.
(2) Journeyperson plumber. A journeyman plumber is a person who holds a journeyperson plumber
license issued by the State of Iowa.
(3) Master plumber. A master plumber is a person who holds a master plumbers license issued by
the State of Iowa.
(4) Plumbing contractor. A plumbing contractor is a person, firm or corporation that holds a
plumbing contractor license issued by the State of Iowa.
Sec. 5.307. STATE PLUMBERS LICENSES REQUIRED.
(1) Where this code requires plumbing work to be performed by a licensed person, such person must
hold and have in their immediate possession, a valid Plumbers license issued by the State of Iowa that authorizes the
work being performed.
Sec. 5.308. EXEMPTIONS.
(1) No license or registration shall be required for plumbing work to be performed on a single family
residential structure when the person performing.the plumbing work is the owner of the structure, and has his/her
primary place of residence there.
(2) No license or registration procedure shall be required for a mobile home dealer or employee of a
mobile home dealer to perform water, gas, or utility service connections in a mobile home space or within ten feet of
such space, located in a mobile home park, all within the meaning and intent of Section 103A.52 Code of Iowa. The
requirements for permits and inspections remain in effect, and the mobile home dealer shall pay the permit and
inspection fees.No homeowners or mobile home dealer will be allowed to tap a water main, sanitary or storm main
or repair nor be allowed to install a building sanitary sewer, water service, foundation drain, or a storm sewer or
make repair of such.
Sec. 5.309. CITY MECHANICAL HVAC CONTRACTOR REGISTRATION AND STATE
LICENSING.
Before doing any heating, ventilation, air conditioning, or ducted heating work governed by this code, in the City of
Ames, an HVAC contractor must register with the City of Ames Inspection Division as an HVAC contractor on a
form provided by the Division.
(1) Conditions for Registration. An HVAC contractor must hold a valid State of Iowa license as an
HVAC contractor.
(2) Information to be provided. An applicant for HVAC contractor registration under this section shall
provide the following information:
(a) Copy of possession of current State license;
(b) Name, mailing address, email address, phone number of the principal of the registered
firm or corporation;and
(c) The names and State license classifications of all employees who may be working on
projects in the City of Ames.
(3) Registration not Transferable. Contractor registration is not transferable to any other person, firm
or corporation.
Sec. 5.310. STATE HVAC MECHANICAL LICENSE CATEGORIES.
(1) HVAC Mechanical Apprentice. An HVAC mechanical apprentice is a person who holds an
HVAC mechanical apprentice license issued by the State of Iowa.
(2) HVAC Mechanical Journeyperson. An HVAC mechanical joumeyperson is a person who holds
an HVAC mechanical joumeyperson license issued by the State of Iowa.
(3) HVAC Mechanical Master. An HVAC mechanical master is a person who holds an HVAC
mechanical master license issued by the State of Iowa.
(4) HVAC Mechanical Contractor. An HVAC mechanical contractor is a person, firm or
corporation that holds an HVAC mechanical contractor license issued by the State of Iowa.
Sec. 5.311. STATE HVAC MECHANICAL LICENSES REQUIRED.
(1) Where this code requires mechanical work to be performed by a licensed person,such person must
hold and have in their immediate possession, a valid HVAC license issued by the State of Iowa that authorizes the
work being performed.
Sec. 5.312.EXEMPTIONS.
(1) No such license or registration procedure shall be required for mechanical work to be performed
on a single family residential structure when the person performing the mechanical work is the owner of the
structure, and has his/her primary place of residence there.
(2) No license or registration procedure shall be required for a mobile home dealer or employee of a
mobile home dealer to perform water, gas,or utility service connections in a mobile home space or within ten feet of
such space, located in a mobile home park, all within the meaning and intent of Section 103A.52 Code of Iowa. The
requirements for permits and inspections remain in effect, and the mobile home dealer shall pay the permit and
inspection fees. No homeowners or mobile home dealer will be allowed to tap a water main, sanitary or storm main
or repair nor be allowed to install a building sanitary sewer, water service, foundation drain, or a storm sewer or
make repair of such.
(Ord. 4044, 9-28-10)
DIVISION IV
DANGEROUS BUILDINGS
Sec. 5.400. TITLE AND ADOPTION.
These regulations shall be known as the Dangerous Building Code of the City of Ames, hereinafter referred to as
"this code".
(1) Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the use and occupancy, repair, maintenance,
removal and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected with or attached to such
buildings or structures, including all electrical,mechanical,plumbing, and fire alarm and suppression equipment and
systems. Buildings and structures may be declared dangerous based upon unsafe conditions found in any one or
more of these building systems.
(2) Intent. The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum standards of structural strength and
stability,means of egress,health and sanitation, light and ventilation,necessary to safeguard the public health,safety
and general welfare from fire and other hazards, and to provide safety to fire fighters, police, and other emergency
responders during routine and emergency operations.
(3) Referenced codes. The codes adopted by reference in Section 5.100 of the City of Ames Building,
Electrical, Mechanical and Plumbing Code shall be used as the minimum standards to be followed under this
chapter.
See. 5.401. DEFINITIONS.
The following words when used in this chapter shall have the meanings:
(1) Abatement means the repair, modification, stoppage, removal or demolition of that which causes
or constitutes a public nuisance.
(2) Building Official means the City official designated to administer and enforce the provisions of
this code, or designee.
(3) Dangerous building. For the purpose of this code, any building, shed, garage, fence, or structure
which has any or all of the conditions or defects hereinafter described shall be deemed to be a dangerous building,
provided that such conditions or defects exist to the extent that the life,health,property or safety of the public or its
occupants are endangered:
(a) Whenever any door,aisle,passageway, stairway or other means of exit is not of sufficient
width or size or is not so arranged as to provide safe and adequate means of exit
in case of fire or panic.
(b) Whenever the walking surface of any aisle, passageway, stairway or other means of exit
is so warped, worn, loose, torn or otherwise unsafe as to not provide safe and
adequate means of exit in case of fire or panic.
(c) Whenever the stress in any materials, member or portion thereof, due to all dead and live
loads, is more than one and one half times the working stress or stresses allowed
in the Building Code for new buildings of similar structure,purpose or location.
(d) Whenever any portion thereof has been damaged by fire, earthquake, wind, flood or by
any other cause, to such an extent that the structural strength or stability thereof
is materially less than it was before such catastrophe and is less than the
minimum requirements of the Building Code for new buildings of similar
structure,purpose or location.
(e) Whenever any portion or member or appurtenance thereof is likely to fail, or to become
detached or dislodged, or to collapse and thereby injure persons or damage
property.
(f) Whenever any portion of a building, or any member, appurtenance or ornamentation on
the exterior thereof is not of sufficient strength or stability, or is not so anchored,
attached or fastened in place so as to be capable of resisting a wind pressure of
one half of that specified in the Building Code for new buildings of similar
structure, purpose or location without exceeding the working stresses permitted
in the Building Code for such buildings.
(g) Whenever any portion thereof has wracked, warped, buckled or settled to such an extent
that walls or other structural portions have materially less resistance to winds or
earthquakes than is required in the case of similar new construction.
(h) Whenever the building or structure, or any portion thereof,because of
(i) dilapidation, deterioration or decay;
(ii) faulty construction;
(iii) the removal, movement or instability of any portion of the ground necessary for
the purpose of supporting such building;
(iv) the deterioration, decay or inadequacy of its foundation; or
(v) any other cause,is likely to partially or completely collapse.
(i) Whenever, for any reason, the building or structure, or any portion thereof, is manifestly
unsafe for the purpose for which it is being used.
(j) Whenever the exterior walls or other vertical structural members list, lean or buckle to
such an extent that a plumb line passing through the center of gravity does not
fall inside the middle one third of the base.
(k) Whenever the building or structure, exclusive of the foundation, shows 33 percent or
more damage or deterioration of its supporting member or members, or 50
percent damage or deterioration of its nonsupporting members, enclosing or
outside walls or coverings.
(1) Whenever the building or structure has been so damaged by fire, wind, earthquake or
flood,or has become so dilapidated or deteriorated as to become
(i) an attractive nuisance to children;
(ii) a harbor for vagrants,criminals or immoral persons;or as to
(iii) enable persons to resort thereto for the purpose of committing unlawful or
immoral acts.
(m) Whenever any building or structure has been constructed, exists or is maintained in
violation of any specific requirement or prohibition applicable to such building
or structure provided by the building regulations of this city, as specified in the
City of Ames Municipal Code Chapter 5, Building, Electrical, Mechanical and
Plumbing Code, or City of Ames Municipal Code Chapter 13, Rental Housing
Code, or of any law or ordinance of this state or city relating to the condition,
location or structure of buildings.
(n) Whenever any building or structure which, whether or not erected in accordance with all
applicable laws and ordinances, has in any non-supporting part, member or
portion less than 50 percent, or in any supporting part, member or portion less
than 66 percent of the:
(i) strength,
(ii) fire-resisting qualities or characteristics, or
(iii) weather-resisting qualities or characteristics required by law in the case of a newly
constructed building of like area,height and occupancy in the same location.
(o) Whenever a building or structure, used or intended to be used for dwelling purposes,
because of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, decay, damage, faulty
construction or arrangement, inadequate light, air or sanitation facilities, or
otherwise, is determined to be unsanitary,unfit for human habitation or in such a
condition that is likely to cause sickness or disease.
(p) Whenever any building or structure, because of obsolescence, dilapidated condition,
deterioration, damage, inadequate exits, lack of sufficient fire-resistive
construction, faulty electric wiring, gas connections or heating apparatus, or
other cause, is determined to be a fire hazard.
(q) Whenever any building or structure is in such a condition as to constitute a public
nuisance known to the common law,or in equity jurisprudence.
(r) Whenever any portion of a building or structure remains on a site after the demolition or
destruction of the building or structure or whenever any building or structure is
abandoned for a period in excess of six months so as to constitute such building
or portion thereof an attractive nuisance or hazard to the public.
(4) Imminently dangerous structure is any building, shed, fence or other man-made structure which, is
in danger of imminent collapse of all or any part of such structure and is thereby an imminent danger to the health
and safety of the general public or adjacent property.
(5) Owner means any person, agent, operator, firm or corporation having a legal or equitable interest
in the property; or recorded in the official records of the state, county or municipality as holding title to the property;
or otherwise having control of the property, including the guardian of the estate of any such person,and the executor
or administrator of the estate of such person if ordered to take possession of real property by a court; or a trustee.
(6) Property means any real property,premises,structure or location on which a dangerous building is
alleged to exist.
(7) Public nuisance means any fence, wall, shed, deck, house, garage, building, structure or any part
of any of the aforesaid; or any tree, pole, smokestack; or any excavation, hole, pit basement, cellar, sidewalk
subspace, dock, wharf or landing dock; or any lot, land, yard, premises or locations which in its entirety, or in any
part thereof, by reason of the condition in which the same is found or permitted to be or remain, shall or may
endanger the health, safety, life, limb or property, or cause any hurt, harm, inconvenience, discomfort, damage or
injury to any one or more individuals in the City, in any one or more of the following particulars:
(a) By reason of being a menace, threat and/or hazard to the general health and safety of the
community.
(b) By reason of being a fire hazard.
(c) By reason of being unsafe for occupancy, or use on, in, upon, about or around the
aforesaid property.
(d) Is an imminently dangerous structure.
(e) By reason of the existence of any condition set forth in Section 5.401(3)of this code.
(8) Summary abatement means abatement of the dangerous building by the City, or a contractor
employed by the City, by removal, repair, or other acts without prior notice to the owner, agent, or occupant of the
property.
See. 5.402. AUTHORITY.
(1) City Officials. The Building Official, City Sanitarian, Fire Inspector, or their designees are
authorized to conduct inspections and take any other actions to carry out and enforce the provisions of this chapter
relating to dangerous buildings.
(2) Abatement. All buildings or portions thereof which are, on inspection, determined to be
dangerous, as provided in subsection 5.401(3) above, are hereby declared to be public nuisances and shall be abated
by repair,rehabilitation, vacation,securing against entry,demolition or removal.
(3) Summary Abatement. Where it has been determined that a structure is imminently dangerous the
City may proceed by Summary Abatement.
(4) Failure to Obey Notice. If any person, firm, or corporation shall refuse to comply with a notice
issued by the Building Official in regard to a dangerous structure, the Building Official
may cause the person to be prosecuted or institute actions to abate the building as a public
nuisance by securing against entry, initiating repair or initiating demolition.
Sec.5.403. PROCEDURE TO REMEDY.
Whenever the Building Official or other inspector determines that any structure is dangerous the Building Official
shall:
(1) Post Notice. Cause to be posted in a conspicuous place on the structure a notice which shall read
substantially as follows: "Danger-Unsafe or Unfit Structure."
(2) Serve Notice. Cause to be served upon the owner thereof and the occupants, if any, a written
notice which shall contain:
(a) The street address and a legal description sufficient for identification of the premises
upon which the structure is located;
(b) A statement that the Building Official has found the structure to be a dangerous structure
with a description of the conditions found to render the structure dangerous under the provisions of Section
5.401(3);
(c) A statement that the structure must be vacated by all occupants within a specified time,
which shall be reasonable under the circumstances;
(d) A statement of the corrective action to be taken as determined by the Building Official
including a time for commencing and completing such corrective action. Corrective action may include repair,
removal, demolition, or other abatement, as determined by the Building Official. All repair or modification or
demolition work ordered shall be commenced within a reasonable time as determined by the Building Official.
When required action is repair, such work shall be completed within a reasonable time as determined by the
Building Official.Requests for time extensions shall be submitted in writing to the Building Official.
(e) A statement that the Building Official may require the owner to obtain structural, or other
appropriate evaluations and reports to be prepared by a structural engineer or
other appropriately licensed persons for use in developing a complete and
detailed corrective action plan. The notice shall set a date for submittal of such
professional evaluations and reports. If the owner is unwilling or unable to
obtain such required evaluations and reports,the Building Official may contract
with qualified persons and invoice the building owner to recover costs for such
services, or assess the costs against the property in the manner of a special
assessment.
(f) A statement that if the required repair, modification or demolition work is not
commenced or completed within the time specified,the City may cause the structure to be abated or demolished and
assess all costs thereof.
(g) A statement that the Building Official will report the failure of
the owner to repair,modify or demolish the structure to the Building Board of Appeals(as established
in Municipal Code Chapter 5 Division VI,hereinafter referred to as"the Board"),City Manager,and City
Council; and
(i) that the Board will conduct a public hearing on the report and may
direct the Building Official to proceed with demolition of the structure or abatement of the dangerous
condition and assessment of costs in accord with procedures set forth in this code,and
(ii) that the owner may file written objections with the Building
Official,and appear at the public hearing and be heard orally in relation to the matter at the time of
the public hearing before the Board.
(h) A statement that the owner has the right to request a hearing by the Board
to appeal the notice.
(i) A statement that any person who is the record owner of the premises,location
or structure at the time an order pursuant to this Ordinance is issued and served upon him,shall be
responsible for complying with that order, and liable for any costs incurred by the City therewith,
notwithstanding the fact that the Building Official conveys his interests in the property to another after such
order was issued and served.
(3) Form of Notice. Such notice may be in the form of an ordinance, or by certified mail, or by
personal service to the property owner as shown by the records of the city assessor and to the occupants, if any, and
shall state the time within which action is required. However, in an emergency, the city may perform any action
which may be required under this section without prior notice, as a Summary Abatement and assess costs.
(4) File Notice. The Building Official shall file a copy of such written notice with the county recorder.
See.5.404. ABATEMENT BY OWNER; TIME FOR COMPLIANCE.
(1) Duties. The owner or occupant of a Dangerous Building who has been served notice
under Section 5.403 shall:
(a) Promptly take action to make the dangerous building as safe,secure, and free
from danger to others as is possible pending repair or demolition.
(b) Within fifteen(15)days after date of the notice file with the Building Official a written
statement of intent to comply which includes plans detailing the repairs or demolition to be done, and
includes a completion date.
(c) Obtain approval from the Building Official of the repair or demolition plans
submitted.
(d) Within a reasonable time after filing a statement of intent and receiving
approval,commence actual repairs or modification in accord with the statement of intent.
(2) Time Extensions. Extensions of time may be granted as follows:
(a) The owner may request one extension of time from the Building Official for the
owner to abate the dangerous conditions by demolition or to make required repairs,provided such
extension is limited to a specific time period.
(b) If the owner has been granted one extension of time by the Building Official,
any additional request for an extension of time shall be taken as an appeal to the Building Board.
Sec. 5.405. APPEAL PROCEDURES.
(1) Manner. The owner or occupant of the property who has been served with a notice
pursuant to this Code that a dangerous building exists and that it must be abated or repaired as set forth in
the Building Official's notice may make a written request to the Building Official for a hearing before the
Building Board.This request shall be made within fifteen(15)days after the date of such notice.
(2) Grounds. A request for a hearing shall be based on one or more of the following grounds:
(a) That the Building Official erred in the determination that a building is
dangerous;or
(b) where the Building Official rejects or refuses to approve the mode or manner of
construction and/or material to be used in the repair or abatement of the building; or
(c) where it is asserted that the true intent of this code has been incorrectly
interpreted; or
(d) where it is asserted that the provision of this code do not fully apply;or
(e) that specific proposed alternative actions will remove or eliminate the condition
such that it no longer endangers the health,safety, life, limb or property, or causes any hurt,harm,
inconvenience, discomfort, damage or injury to any one or more individuals in the City;or
M additional time for compliance is sought and one extension of time has already
been granted by the Building Official.
(3) Date.The Building Official shall,within fifteen(15)days after receipt of such a written
request,set a date for a hearing by the Board.The hearing shall be held as soon as practicable following
receipt by the Building Official of the written request and at least seven(7)days notice of the hearing shall
be given to the individual who made the written request for the hearing.
(4) Authority of Board.The hearing shall be heard and conducted by the Board.When
acting on a dangerous building appeal,the Board may uphold the notice as issued, or amend or modify the notice, or
extend the time for compliance with the notice by such time limit as the majority of the Board may determine, all in
accord with the scope of authority as follows:
(a) In determining whether a building is dangerous,the Board shall consider
whether a building or structure has any or all of the conditions set forth in Sec. 5.401(3)of this code
to the extent that the life,health,property, or safety of the public or its occupants,are endangered
(b) In considering alternative methods of compliance,the Board may approve
any alternate if it finds that the proposal is satisfactory and that the material,method or work offered
is,for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this code in quality, strength,
effectiveness,fire resistance, durability and safety;and that application of such alternative will
eliminate or remove all of the conditions identified as dangerous,as set forth in Sec. 5.401(3)of this
code.
(c) In considering alternative methods of compliance,the Board may require
that sufficient evidence or proof be submitted to substantiate any claim that may be made regarding
the use of alternative methods or materials.
(d) The Board shall have no authority to waive the requirements of this code.
(e) In considering interpretations of the Code,the Board shall follow the intent,
spirit and purpose of the code.
(0 The Board shall have no authority relative to interpretation of the
procedural provisions of this code.
(g) A decision of the Board to vary the application of any provision of this
Code or to modify an order of the Building Official shall specify in what manner such variation or
modification is made,the conditions upon which it is made, and the reasons therefore.
(h) The Board may find that the Building Official erred in the determination
that a dangerous building exists.To make this finding,the Board must conclude the building has none
of the conditions or defects described in Section 5.401(3)of this Code,to the extent that the life,
health,property or safety of the public or the building occupants are endangered.
(i) When an owner has applied for an extension of time,the Board may grant one
extension of time to comply with an order to repair or modify or demolish a structure when the owner
affirmatively shows the financial ability to perform the work; and the work cannot practicably be
completed within the time provided. Such extension shall be for a reasonable period of time generally not
to exceed ninety(90)days for repairs or modifications and generally not to exceed sixty(60)days for
demolition, except when extraordinary circumstances can be shown, the Board may exceed these general
time periods.
(5) No Defense. It shall not be a defense to the determination that a dangerous building exists that the
structure is boarded up or otherwise enclosed.
Sec. 5.406 DEMOLITION OR ABATEMENT BY CITY.
(1) When the owner fails to commence or complete the required repairs,removal or demolition within
the specified time period and does not timely appeal, the Building Official shall report the owner's failure to the
Board,City Manager, and City Council.
(2) The Board shall then hold a hearing and may,by majority vote of approval, authorize the Building
Official to demolish the structure, or may take other abatement action as deemed appropriate, including the granting
of a stay pursuant to Section 5.407.
(3) Following Board action, the Building Official shall file a certified copy of the Board's decision
with the county recorder, and shall issue a notice of intent to demolish or abate to the owner of the structure.
Sec. 5.407. STAY OF DEMOLITION OR ABATEMENT.
(1) The owner may request a delay in the demolition or abatement of a structure at the time of hearing
on the Building Official's recommendation for Board action approving demolition or abatement. Such request shall
be made in writing.The Board may grant such request when in its opinion it is practical, economical and structurally
possible to rehabilitate the structure to comply with this code, and the owner complies with the following conditions.
(2) No stay granted shall be effective, however, unless and until such person signs a written
agreement with the city wherein the owner agrees:
(a) To make all of the necessary repairs consistent with the approved plans within a time limit to
be determined by the Board; and
(b) To grant the city the right to award a contract and to enter in and upon such premises for the
purposes of demolishing same upon the failure of the person to complete all required repairs within the agreed time
limit;and
(c) To reimburse the City for its actual costs incurred in inspection and administration expenses
until the structure is brought into compliance with the original notice,through repair or demolition; and
(d) To file with the city a corporate surety performance bond, a cashier's check, a certified check
drawn on an Ames bank or credit union, a letter of credit from an Ames bank or credit union, or other surety
approvable by the City, in an amount sufficient to pay the estimated cost of demolition or abatement as determined
by the Building Official, and to assure payment of the reimbursement of costs to the City. The surety shall be
conditioned upon performance of the repairs within the agreed time period, together with any subsequent written
time extensions thereto, and conditioned upon payment of the City's reimbursement as same shall become due.
Upon such owner's failure to make all of the repairs in a manner acceptable to the city within the agreed time
period, together with written extensions thereto, the Building Official may proceed to demolish or abate the
structure.
(3) The proceeds of the surety given pursuant to this Section shall be applied by the City first
against any unpaid reimbursement and then against the assessment for demolition.
Sec. 5.408. ACCESS FOR DEMOLITION OR ABATEMENT—PENALTIES.
The owner of the structure who has received notice of the intent of the Building Official to demolish or abate, shall
give entry and free access to the property to the Building Official and all other persons acting on behalf of the City.
Any owner who refuses, impedes, interferes with or hinders or obstructs entry by such agent pursuant to a notice
shall be subject to enforcement actions which may include arrest and prosecution for Interference with Official
Acts,or other civil or criminal charges.
Sec. 5.409. GRADING OF PREMISES AFTER DEMOLITION.
Whenever the premises is demolished,whether carried out by the owner or by the Building Official, such demolition
shall include the filling of the excavation on which the demolished structure was located in such manner as to
eliminate all potential danger to the public health, safety, or welfare arising from such excavation. This includes,
but is not limited to the removal of the entire basement including walls, floor, footings, and foundations; cisterns or
wells;accessory buildings and structures;abandoned utility services: water,sewer,gas, and electric.
Sec. 5.410. EXTERMINATION PROCEDURE BEFORE DEMOLITION OR ABATEMENT.
Demolition or abatement shall be preceded by an inspection of the premises by the Building Official to determine
whether or not extermination procedures are necessary. If the premises are found to be infested, appropriate
extermination to prevent the spread of rats, insects, or other vermin to adjoining or other areas or properties shall be
instituted before demolition, as appropriate. The costs for such actions shall be included in the final assessment
against the property and/or the owner.
Sec. 5.411. DEMOLITION OR ABATEMENT CONTRACT.
The Building Official shall commence demolition as follows:
(1) Pursuant to the Board's decision to proceed with demolition or abatement, the City shall award a
contract in accordance with the City's purchasing policies, for that work.
(2) A contract for demolition ordered by the Building Official or other designated City official in
response to an emergency condition shall be approved by the City Manager.
Sec. 5.412. REMOVAL OF POSTED NOTICE AND ENTRY ON POSTED PREMISES PROHIBITED.
(1) No person shall deface, cover, obliterate, or remove the notice posted pursuant to this Code
from any structure which has been so posted by the Building Official as unsafe or unfit. The Building Official shall
remove such posted notice when the defect or defects which caused the posted notice have been eliminated,or when
the demolition or removal of the structure is commenced.
(2) No such structure shall again be occupied or used until such posted notice is removed by
the Building Official. No persons shall enter a posted building except with the express permission of the
Building Official. This provision shall not apply to emergency fire,medical or police personnel responses.
Sec. 5.413. SERVICE BY PUBLIC UTILITIES.
(1) It is unlawful for any public utility corporation or company to furnish gas or electrical service to
any structure which has been posted as unsafe or unfit after the Building Official has notified the public utility of the
posting, and the date by which services shall be discontinued. The utility service shall not be restored to a posted
structure until notice, authorizing the restoration of such service is received from the Building Official by the utility
corporation or company. The Building Official may authorize temporary or limited restoration of service to be used
in connection with the renovation, repair or remodeling of the structure to enable compliance with the provisions of
this title.
Sec.5.414. SUMMARY ABATEMENT OF IMMINENTLY DANGEROUS STRUCTURES.
(1) Whenever a complaint is made to the Building Official or the Building Official otherwise becomes
aware of the existence of an imminently dangerous structure the Building Official shall promptly inspect such
structure. Should the Building Official find that an imminently dangerous structure exists, and that the public
health, safety or welfare may be in immediate danger, then summary abatement may commence and the Building
Official may promptly cause the structure or any portion of it,to be demolished,removed or abated.
(2) When a summary abatement is used, notice to the owner, agent or occupant of the property is not
required prior to abatement. Following summary abatement, the Building Official shall cause written notice to be
served promptly to the owner describing the action taken to abate the imminently dangerous structure.
Sec.5.415. COST OF ABATEMENT; LOW INCOME,ELDERLY PERSONS.
(1) Policy.Notwithstanding the other provisions of this code,the cost of abating a dangerous building
may be waived for low income and elderly persons, if upon application it appears to the Building Official that the
conditions set forth in subsection(2)are met.
(2) Eligibility. To be eligible for waiver of abatement costs a person must be classified as "low
income", defined as having household income of not more than 50%of the Story County
median income.
(3) Other eligibility requirements. Additionally, all persons wishing to qualify for waiver or nuisance
abatement costs must:
(a) Furnish proof of the income requirements as set forth above in the manner and form
designated by the Building Official;and
(b) Must own, or be in the process of purchasing the property from which the nuisance is
abated; and
(c) The property from which the nuisance is abated must be their primary residence.
(4) Official Notice. The abatement of the dangerous building in question must have been required by
the Building Official and the person requesting the waiver of costs must have been officially notified by the
Building Official to remove the same.
(5) Application. Applications for waiver of abatement costs shall be filed with the Building Official
on forms supplied by the City. All information required to be given on such form shall be supplied and verified by
the applicant.
(6) Amount. The Building Official shall have authority to waive up to $1,000 per calendar year, for
any one parcel of real property or any one person. Requests for waiver in excess of that granted by the Building
Official shall be subject to approval of the City Council.
See. 5.416. SEVERABILITY.
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this code is for any reason held to be invalid or
unconstitutional by the final decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the
validity of the remaining portions of this code. The City Council declares that it would have adopted this code and
each section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, despite the fact that any one or more section,
subsection,sentence, clause,phrase,or portion would be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
(Ord. 3986; 03-03-09)
DIVISION V
PENALTIES AND ENFORCEMENT
Sec. 5.500. VIOLATIONS.
Any violation of any provision of Chapter 5, Building Code, or any model code adopted in Chapter 5, is hereby
declared a municipal infraction,and a public nuisance.
Sec. 5.501. MUNICIPAL INFRACTION CITATION.
Any violation of any provision of Chapter 5 is punishable by a penalty of$500 for a first offense, and a penalty of
$750 for a second offense, and$1,000 for each succeeding offense.
Sec. 5.502. NUISANCE ABATEMENT.
Any violation of any provision of Chapter 5 may be abated as a Public Nuisance,in the manner that public nuisances
are now or may hereafter be commonly abated, in accord with provisions of the State Code of Iowa.
Sec. 5.503. STOP WORK ORDERS.
Any work being performed in violation of any provision of Chapter 5 may be ordered immediately stopped, in
accord with provisions of this code.
DIVISION VI
MEANS OF APPEAL
See. 5.600. BUILDING BOARD OF APPEALS
There is established a Building Board of Appeals to hear appeals of persons in matters of building construction,
safety and code compliance within the scope of the building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing codes as adopted
by the City of Ames.
See. 5.601. APPEAL APPLICATION.
Any person directly affected by a decision of the Building Official or a notice or order issued under this code shall
have the right to appeal. That appeal shall be heard by the Building Board of Appeals. An appeal shall be made in
writing and be filed no later than twenty (20) days after the date of the notice or order. An application for appeal
shall be based on a claim that:
(1) the true intent of this Code or the rules legally adopted hereunder have been incorrectly
interpreted, or
(2) the provisions of this Code do not fully apply, or
(3) the requirements of this Code are adequately satisfied by other means, and the specific proposed
alternative action will increase the degree of general code compliance of the specific system or the building and
premises, or
(4) there are specific fixed conditions that make strict compliance with this Code impracticable,or
(5) required actions cannot be completed within the time limit specified by the Building Official
See. 5.602. BOARD MEMBERSHIP AND APPOINTMENT.
(1) The Board shall consist of seven members who are qualified by experience and training to pass on
matters pertaining to building construction and who are not employees of the City of Ames. The Building Official
shall be an ex-officio member but shall have no vote on any matter before the Board. (2) Board members
shall be appointed by the Mayor with the approval of the City Council. The term of office shall be for three (3)
years, except for the terms of office for the Board when initially established. The Mayor may prescribe a shorter
than a full term of appointment in order to stagger terms.No member who has served two(2)full consecutive terms
is eligible for reappointment.
(3) Membership shall consist of:
1 licensed architect
1 professional engineer
1 general contractor
1 homebuilder
1 licensed journeyperson or master electrician, or electrical contractor
1 licensed journeyperson or master plumber,or plumbing contractor
1 licensed master hvac technician, or mechanical contractor
See. 5.603. BOARD CHAIRPERSON.
The Board shall annually elect one,of its members to serve as chairperson.
Sec. 5.604. CONFLICT OF INTEREST.
A member shall not hear an appeal in which the member or immediate family member has a personal, professional
or financial interest.
Sec.5.605. BOARD RECORDS.
The Building Official shall designate a qualified person to serve as secretary to the Board. The secretary shall file a
detailed record of all proceedings in the offices of the Inspection Division and the City Clerk.
See. 5.606. MEMBER COMPENSATION.
Members shall receive no compensation.
Sec.5.607. MEETING SCHEDULE.
The Board shall meet upon notice from the Building Official within 20 days of the filing of an appeal, or at stated
periodic dates. An appellant may waive a timely hearing by filing a written waiver explaining the cause for seeking
a delay.
Sec. 5.608. OPEN MEETINGS.
The Board shall adopt and make available to the public,procedures under which hearings will be conducted.
Sec. 5.609. BOARD AUTHORITY.
The Board has authority to affirm,modify or reverse the decision of the Building Official.
Sec. 5.610. ACTION ON BOARD DECISION.
The Building Official shall take prompt action in accordance with the decision of the Board.
Sec. 5.611. STAY OF ENFORCEMENT.
Appeal of a notice and order(other than an Imminent Danger notice) shall stay enforcement of the notice and order
until the appeal is heard by the Board.
Sec.5.612. CODE AMENDMENTS.
(1) Authority-The Board of Appeals may recommend revisions to this Code.
(2) General - The model codes adopted in this chapter shall be retained in their entirety, unless
compelling factual evidence indicates that deviation from them is necessary to accomplish the objective of the
codes. Local geographic and climatic conditions, for example, require local modification of structural design
parameters, and are included in this code.
(3) Process -Proposed revisions are subject to public hearing and action at the Board level, followed
by Council discussion,public hearing,and action.
DIVISION VII—Reserved
DIVISION VIII
BUILDING MOVING
Sec.5.801. STRUCTURE DEFINED.
The term "structure" as used in this division means any house, building, or other structure eight (8) feet or more in
width,which is to be moved from one location to another upon, along, across,over,or near any street,avenue, alley,
highway,sidewalk, or other public ground of the city.
(Code 1956, Sec.46-1;Ord.No. 3194, Sec. 1, 9-24-92)
Sec. 5.802. "HOUSE MOVER" DEFINED.
The term "house mover" as used in this chapter means a person who has been issued a valid license to move
structures.
(Code 1956, Sec.46-2; Ord,No. 3194, Sec. 1,9-24-92)
Sec. 5.803. LICENSE REQUIRED.
No person shall engage in the business of moving structures within the city without first obtaining a
license therefore,as hereinafter provided.
(Code 1956, Sec.46-3; Ord.No. 3194, Sec. 1, 9-24-92)
See.5.804. APPLICATION FOR LICENSE REQUIRED.
Any person, intending to carry on the business of house mover in the city shall file in the office of the city manager
an application in writing upon forms furnished by the city,and among other things such application shall state:
(1) The name and address of the applicant.
(2) The person who will have charge of work done, qualifications and experience as
such,and that the person has knowledge of the provisions of this Code and the city ordinances relating thereto.
(3) The applicant agrees to reimburse the city or others for all costs incurred in the
moving of structures under the provisions of the license and permit issued therefore.
See. 5.805. BOND.
The applicant must,before the license shall be issued,file with the city clerk a corporate surety bond executed to the
city in the amount of two thousand, five hundred dollars ($2,500.00) with sureties approved by the city clerk,
conditioned that all work done under such license shall be done in a good,competent manner and in accordance with
the ordinances of the city relating thereto and that the applicant or a surety will pay to the city or any person injured
all damages for injuries to persons or property caused by the negligence, fault or mismanagement of said applicant,
or due to any other cause, in doing any work under said license or any permit issued for such work, and will pay to
the city any cost or expense incurred in repairing or restoring any pavement, curbs, sidewalks, electric facilities or
other public works injured and of restoring such works to its previous condition.
(Code 1956, Sec.46-5; Ord.No. 3194, Sec. 1, 9-24-92)
Sec.5.806. INSURANCE REQUIRED.
Applicant shall procure and maintain, for the duration of the license period, insurance against claims for injuries to
persons or damages to property which may arise from or in connection with the function for which the license is
issued.Applicant shall furnish the City of Ames with certificates of insurance evidencing the following coverages:
(1) Comprehensive General Liability with limits of no less than $1,000,000 combined single
limits per occurrence for bodily injury,personal injury and property damage.
(2) Automobile Liability with limits of no less than $1,000,000 combined single limits per
occurrence for bodily injury,personal injury and property damage.
(3) Worker's Compensation and Employee's Liability as required by the laws of the State of
Iowa.The certificate must be on file in the office of the City Clerk,City of Ames before a license shall be issued.
(Code 1956, Sec.46-6;Ord.No.3043, Sec. 1,4-11-89; Ord.No.3194, Sec. 1,9-24-92)
See. 5.807. ISSUANCE OF LICENSE.
Upon approval of the application for a license,the filing and approval of the bond and certificate of
insurance set forth herein, and the payment of the license fee,the city clerk shall issue a license to the applicant as a
house mover.
(Code 1956, Sec.46-7; Ord.No. 3194, Sec. 1,9-24-92)
Sec. 5.808. LICENSE FEE; EXPIRATION; TRANSFERABILITY.
A fee for a license as a house mover shall be set by the city clerk to cover costs of administration and issuance. The
license shall expire on the first day of January next ensuing after issuance therefore. The license shall not be
transferable.
(Code 1956, Sec.46-8;Ord.No. 3194, Sec. 1,9-24-92)
Sec.5.809. REVOCATION OF LICENSE.
Any licensed house mover who shall, in any application for a permit, make any untrue or false statements, or who
shall be guilty of a violation of this chapter, or who shall be guilty of acts of negligence in the conduct of the
business, shall upon such finding have the license revoked by the city council.
(Code 1956, Sec.46-17;Ord.No. 3194, Sec. 1, 9-24-92)
Sec. 5.810. PERMIT REQUIRED.
No person shall move any structure upon, across or over any street, avenue, alley, highway, sidewalk or public
ground of the city, or raise, lower or move any structure within twenty(20)feet of any public sidewalk,without first
obtaining a permit therefore from the city manager as herein provided.
(Code 1956, Sec.46-9;Ord.No. 3194, Sec. 1, 9-24-92)
Sec. 5.811. APPLICATION FOR PERMIT.
All applications for a permit as herein required shall be in writing on forms furnished by the city, filed in the office
of the city manager, and among other things, shall state:
(1) The name and license number of the house mover.
(2) The present and proposed location of the structure to be moved together with the name
and address of the owner thereof.
(3) The building permit number as issued for the structure in the proposed location.
(4) A description of the structure to be moved, with the size, maximum height when loaded
and ready to be moved and the maximum width of the structure in the direction of travel.
(5) The route over which the structure is to be moved.
(6) The day and hour of the day when the structure will first be moved into the limits of the
public way and the approximate length of time the structure will be within said limits.
(7) Whether any, and what electric lines, telephone or telegraph wire, cables or guys will
have to be cut or moved or will be interfered with and the locations thereof.
(8) What railway tracks, if any, will be crossed, their location, and the day and approximate
hour when such crossing will be made.
(9) Whether any street structures will be removed or interfered with, including sidewalks,
curbing,fire hydrants, and street signs and signals.
(10) What shade trees, if any, will require trimming and the location of the property and name
of property owner thereof and whether consent for such trimming has been obtained from such owners.
(11) A description of the type of moving equipment to be used.
(12) Said application shall state that all work will be done in strict accordance with the
provisions of this chapter and under the direction and supervision of the city manager.
(Code 1956, Sec.46-10; Ord.No.3194, Sec. 1, 9-24-92)
Sec. 5.812. PERMITS TO UNLICENSED APPLICANTS AUTHORIZED.
The city manager may issue moving permits for structures to persons, whether licensed or not, when the maximum
width of such structure along the line of travel does not exceed fourteen (14) feet, and when they may be moved on
rubber tired vehicles or trucks in such a manner as will not substantially interfere with traffic, damage any street
structure or trees, require the removal of any electric, telephone or telegraph wires, or damage any street pavements
or sidewalks. Before issuing such a permit the city manager shall designate the route to be followed and the date and
time when such moving shall take place,and shall supervise the operation of moving thereof.
(Code 1956, Sec.46-13; Ord.No. 3194, Sec. 1,9-24-92)
Sec.5.813. PERMIT FEES.
The City Council shall establish and charge reasonable fees to cover the costs of issuing house moving permits.
Additionally, the city manager may charge the house mover for the costs of special services rendered by police
units,utility or street crews or any special city expense caused by the moving of a house or building.
(Code 1956, Sec.46-19; Ord.No. 3194, Sec. 1,9-24-92)
Sec. 5.814. COMPLIANCE WITH BUILDING,ZONING,OTHER ORDINANCES.
No moving permit shall be issued unless the structure, if moved to a new location in the city, will comply with the
zoning,building code and all other ordinances of the city.
(Code 1956, Sec.46-11;Ord.No. 3194, Sec. 1,9-24-92)
Sec. 5.815. OBSTRUCTING STREETS REGULATED.
No moving permit shall be issued to move any structure over the paved streets, avenues or highways of the city
when the maximum width of such structure in the direction of travel shall occupy more than two (2) feet less than
the total width of paving between curbs, and no structure shall be allowed to obstruct the free passage of any street,
avenue or highway for a greater length of time than set forth in the permit issued therefore, except in case of
unavoidable delay and through no fault or negligence on the part of the permit holder, the city manager may grant
such extension of time as is reasonable.
(Code 1956, See.46-12; Ord.No. 3194, Sec. 1, 9-24-92)
Sec. 5.816. MOVING OVER RAILWAY TRACKS.
No permit shall be issued for the moving of any structure across the tracks of any railway or street railway until the
mover thereof shall have given the superintendent of such railway or street railway companies not less than twenty-
four (24) hours notice before such crossing of the tracks is to be made and satisfactory arrangements for such
crossing have been made and the city manager advised in detail of such arrangements.
(Code 1956, Sec.46-14; Ord.No. 3194, Sec. 1,9-24-92)
Sec.5.817. CONSENT TO MOVE WIRES,CABLES REQUIRED.
No permit shall be issued for the moving of any structure which requires the removal of electric, telephone or
telegraph wires or cables until not less than twenty-four(24)hours notice has been given of the time and place such
removal is desired and the consent of the electric department of the city and/or the telephone or telegraph company
has been secured for such removal and the city manager advised of such satisfactory arrangements.
(Code 1956, Sec.46-15; Ord.No. 3194, Sec. 1, 9-24-92)
Sec.5.818. ISSUANCE,CONTENTS OF PERMITS; DENIAL.
When an application has been made for a moving permit as provided herein and is approved by the city manager,the
city manager shall, after being presented with a receipt for payment of the permit fee by the house mover to the city
clerk, issue to the applicant a permit, in duplicate, numbered in consecutive order, one copy being furnished the
applicant and a record thereof retained in the manager's office. Such permit shall contain the name and address of
the person to whom issued, the route to be followed, and the time of starting and completing the moving operation
within public ways, an abstract of the information and agreements contained in the application,and such regulations,
conditions, and instructions as the city manager may deem necessary to protect public and private property and
secure compliance with the provisions of this chapter. Such permit shall not take effect, and the work shall not be
commenced until the time therein stated and shall at all times be under the supervision and control of the city
manager or the manager's designee. The city manager may deny an application for a permit when it is necessary to
protect public or private property; or public safety;or to secure compliance with this Code or the laws of the State of
Iowa.
(Code 1956, Sec.46-16;Ord.No.2163, Sec.2, 10-18-66;Ord.No.3194, Sec. 1, 9-24-92)
Sec.5.819. AUTHORITY TO REQUIRE PLANKING OF STREETS.
When in the judgment of the city manager it is necessary to protect streets or street improvements,the city manager
may require the house mover to properly and adequately plank such streets and all rollers, trucks or other devices
used in conveying and moving same shall run upon and rest upon such planks at all times.
(Code 1956, Sec.46-18; Ord.No. 3194, Sec. 1, 9-24-92)
DIVISION IX
Noxious Weeds
Sec. 5.901. WEED ORDINANCE.
(1) Words and Terms Defined
(a) Noxious Weeds: Primary and secondary classes of weeds as defined by Iowa Code
Section 317.1 A.
(b) Weed Official:Person designated by the city manager to enforce this section.
(2) Nuisance Declared; Penalty
(a) It shall be a public nuisance for any owner or person in the possession or control of
any land to allow any noxious weeds to grow thereon.
(b) Duty To Cut Noxious Weeds: Each owner and each person in the possession or
control of any land shall cut or otherwise destroy, in whatever manner prescribed by the weed official, all noxious
weeds thereon and shall keep said lands free of such growth.
(c) Interference With Weed Official: No persons shall interfere with the weed official or
any appointed assistant while engaged in the enforcement of this chapter.
(Ord. No. 4114, 6-12-12)."
Section Two.All ordinances,or parts of ordinances, in conflict herewith are hereby repealed to the extent
of such conflict, if any.
Section Three. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect as of July 1,2017, after its passage and
publication as required by law.
Passed this 1P day of June,2017.
Diane R.Voss, City Clerk Ann H. Campbell,Mayor