HomeMy WebLinkAbout021549 ORD - 01/12/1993AN ORDINANCE
ADOPTING THE NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE, 1993 EDITION;
AMENDING DIVISION 2, ELECTRICAL CODE OF ARTICLE III
ELECTRICAL, OF CHAPTER 13 BUILDINGS; CONSTRUCTION AND
RELATED OPERATIONS; HOUSING AND HOUSING PREMISES
STANDARDS OF THE CITY CODE OF ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR
ADDITIONS, DELETIONS, AND CHANGES TO SAID CODE; PROVIDING
FOR LICENSING REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRICIANS; ESTABLISHING
PERMIT REQUIREMENTS, INSPECTION FEES, AND PENALTIES;
PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN
CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION; PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE OF JANUARY 12, 1993.
WHEREAS, the 1993 edition of the National Electrical Code
(NFPA 70-1993) was adopted by the National Fire Protection
Association, Inc. ("National Electrical Code" or NEC);
WHEREAS, the City of Corpus Christi desires to adopt the City
of Corpus Christi Electrical Code based on the 1993 National
Electric Code with certain additions, deletions, and changes for
regulatory purposes and in the interest of life and property
protection;
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CORPUS
CHRISTI, TEXAS.
SECTION 1. That Article III ELECTRICAL of Chapter 13
BUILDINGS; CONSTRUCTION AND RELATED OPERATIONS; HOUSING AND HOUSING
PREMISES STANDARDS of the Code of Ordinances, City of Corpus
Christi, 1976, as amended, is hereby amended by replacing Section
13-60 through 13-149, in their entirety with the following Article
III:
ARTICLE III. ELECTRICAL
Section 13-60. City of Corpus Christi Electrical Code Adopted;
Amendments: the 1993 edition of the "National Electrical Code," a
copy of which is on file in the Office of the City Secretary, is
hereby adopted as part of the Code of Ordinances of the City of
Corpus Christi to the same affect as if copied verbatim herein and
shall be in effect except as it may be changed, modified, or
amended herein:
MiCiOF_ILMED
0218
ELECTRICAL CODE CHAPTER 1
ADMINISTRATION
Section 13-61 Title and Scope
13-61.1 Title
The provisions embraced within the following sections and all
provisions incorporated by reference herein from the National
Electrical Code (NFPA 70-1993) shall constitute and be cited
as "Corpus Christi Electrical Code," or as may be referred to
herein as "this Code."
13-61.2 Definitions
Words when not otherwise separately defined herein shall have
meanings which conform to the meanings in the "National
Electrical Code," 1993 Edition, if specified; otherwise, they
shall have the meanings in the Webster's Ninth New Collegiate
Dictionary, as revised. The following terms shall be defined
as follows:
Board: The Electrical Advisory Board as constituted and
appointed by the City Council.
Building Official: The person designated by the Director of
Community Development as responsible for the administration
and enforcement of the Corpus Christi Electrical Code.
Inspections: That division within the City charged with the
responsibility for the administration of the Corpus Christi
Electrical Code, including, but not limited to, all
assistants, inspectors, and other employees of the City who
may be delegated authority by the Director of Community
Development and the Building Official to carry out such
duties.
Certificate of Occupancy: A certificate issued by the City
which authorizes occupancy of a structure, or portions
thereof, and temporary promotional events.
Certified Electrical Maintenance Person: A person who has
passed the examination for certification in accordance with
this Code.
City: City shall mean the territory bounded within the
corporate limits of the City of Corpus Christi, Texas, or the
legally constituted governing body thereof, its agents and its
officers.
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Chief Electrical Inspector (Senior Inspector): An employee of
the City in charge of the Electrical Section of the
Inspections Division.
Code Enforcement Official: The Building Official or other
designee of the City Manager to make application for
administrative and criminal search warrants under authority of
the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 18.05, as such
warrants may be necessary to enforce any provision of the Code
of Ordinances of the City of Corpus Christi or other municipal
ordinances duly promulgated.
Construction Loop Inspection: The inspection that is made
prior to the release of service to the utility company.
Director of Community Development: The department head
who administers the Inspections Division.
Electrical Permit: The permit issued by City which authorizes
the installation of electrical wiring, fixtures, or equipment
or to make any alterations, additions, changes, or repairs
within the scope of this Code.
Examination Committee: A committee comprised of the Building
Official, the Chief Electrical Inspector, and the Chief Permit
Officer charged with the responsibility of reviewing and
approving license applications under this Code.
Final Inspection: The inspection that is made when the scope
of work identified on the Electrical Permit has been
completed.
Electrical Inspector: An individual who has been designated
by the City as an electrical inspector.
Licensed Electrician: A person who holds a current and valid
license issued by the City fulfilling all prerequisites
specified by this Code for the designation of "Electrician" in
a specific class.
Maintenance: Maintenance shall mean the act of keeping in a
state of safe operating condition any conductor or piece of
equipment used inside or outside, attached or connected to any
structure's electrical system by the replacement of units or
elements thereof, but shall not include additions to, or
replacement of any existing system or branch thereof.
Chief Permit Officer: An employee of the City designated by
the Building Official as in charge of the permit office.
Pipe in Slab Inspection: The inspection that is made prior to
encasing an electrical raceway in concrete.
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Rough Inspection: The inspection of all wiring, raceways, and
conductors before they are concealed or covered in any manner.
Underground Conduit Inspection: The inspection that is made
prior to backfilling of any trenches that contain electrical
wiring.
13-61.3 Adopted Code
The "National Electrical Code," 1993 Edition, a copy of which
is on file in the office of the City Secretary, is hereby
adopted as part of this Code to the same effect as if copied
verbatim herein and shall be in effect except as it may be
changed, modified, or amended by the provisions of Article
III, Chapter 13 of the City Code of Ordinances.
13-61.4 Quality Control
Quality control of materials and workmanship is not within the
purview of this Code except as it relates to the purpose
stated herein.
13-61.5 Standards for Electrical Material
Conformity of electrical equipment with the applicable
standards of the Underwriters' Laboratories Inc., or other
nationally recognized standards association, shall be prima
facie evidence that such equipment is reasonably safe to
persons and property. Only standard parts and materials
approved by Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc., or any
nationally recognized standards association shall be permitted
in electrical installations, repair or maintenance work.
13-61.6 Permitting and Inspection Liability
The inspection or issuance of a permit for any project within
the scope of this Code, by any jurisdiction, shall not be
construed in any court as a warranty of the physical condition
of such structure or the adequacy of such plan. Neither
jurisdiction nor any employee thereof shall be liable for
damages for any defect or hazardous or illegal condition or
inadequacy in such structure or plan, nor for any failure of
any component of such structure, which may occur subsequent to
permitting or inspection.
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13-61.7 Public Service Liability
All employees of the City or members of the Electrical
Advisory Board, charged with the enforcement of this Code,
acting for the applicable governing body in the discharge of
their duties, shall not render themselves liable personally,
and are hereby relieved from all personal liability for any
damage that may accrue to persons or property as a result of
any act required or permitted in the discharge of their
duties. Any suit brought against any employee of the City,
officer, employee, or member of the Electrical Advisory Board,
because of an act performed during the enforcement of any
provision of this Code, shall be defended by the Legal
Department as directed by the City Manager until the final
termination of administrative or legal proceedings.
13-61.8 Responsibility For Safe Work
This Code shall not be construed to relieve from or lessen the
responsibility or liability of any person owning, operating,
authorizing, or installing electrical conductors, devices,
appliances, fixtures, apparatus, motors, or equipment for
damages to persons or buildings caused by any defect therein;
nor shall the City be held liable for any damages by reason of
the enforcement of this Code.
13-61.9 Applicability
This Code shall govern all installation of electrical
conductors or equipment hereafter made, and all existing
installations which are altered, or for which the use has
changed. Repair, rehabilitation and maintenance work shall be
such that if any electrical conductor or equipment is removed
and later replaced, same shall be replaced in accordance with
the provisions of this Code.
13-61.10 Federal And State Authority
The provisions of this Code shall not be held to deprive any
Federal or State agency, or any applicable governing body
having jurisdiction, of any power or authority which it had on
the effective date of the adoption of this Code or of any
remedy then existing for the enforcement of its orders, nor
shall it deprive any individual or corporation of its legal
rights as provided by law.
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13-61.11 Existing Buildings
Alterations, repairs or rehabilitation work may be made to any
existing building without requiring the building to comply
with all the requirements of this Code provided that the
alteration, repair or rehabilitation work conforms to the
requirements of this Code for new construction. The Building
Official shall determine the extent to which the existing
system shall be made to conform to the requirements of this
Code for new construction.
13-61.12 Fifty Percent (50%) Rule
When alterations or repairs costing in excess of fifty percent
(50%), of the then physical value of the structure are made
within any period of twelve months to an existing structure,
the entire electrical system shall be made to conform to the
requirements of this Code for new construction. Physical
value of the building shall be determined by the Building
Official.
The basis for physical value shall be the value shown for
improvement on the tax rolls of the Nueces County
Appraisal District on or before the date such electrical
alternations or repairs commenced.
13-61.13 Damaged Structures
An existing structure, damaged by fire or otherwise, shall be
surveyed for damage by the Building Inspection Department,
after applicable survey fees are paid. If the structure is
found to be damaged in excess of fifty percent (50%), of its
then physical condition, the electrical system will be subject
to conform to the requirements of this Code for new
construction if repair is made. Physical condition shall be
measured as the value shown for the improvement on the tax
rolls of the Nueces County Appraisal District on or before the
date of destruction or damage. Nothing contained within this
Code shall be construed to allow a nonconforming use to be
replaced in contravention of the Zoning Ordinance of the City.
13-61.14 Vacant Structures
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to
connect, or cause to have connected, the source of energy at
a utility meter which has been disconnected, for a period of
time, until a Re -Out Inspection is made and approval has been
issued in writing by the Building Official or his authorized
representative, authorizing the reconnection and use of such
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wiring, devices, or equipment. See Section 13-66.10 for
applicable time periods.
13-61.15 Maintenance of Structures
All structures, both existing and new, and all parts thereof,
shall be maintained in a safe condition. All systems or
safeguards which are required by this Code in a structure when
erected, altered, or repaired, shall be maintained in good
working order. The owner, or his designated agent, shall be
responsible for the maintenance of structures.
13-61.16 Unsafe Structures
All conditions in a structure or components therefore which
are unsafe, or which constitute a fire hazard as determined by
the Building Official, or which are otherwise dangerous to
human life, or which in relation to existing use constitute a
hazard to safety or health by reason of inadequate
maintenance, dilapidation, obsolescence, or abandonment, are
in violation of this section, and declared unsafe conditions.
All such unsafe conditions are hereby declared illegal and
shall be abated by repair or rehabilitation, or may be subject
to electrical power disconnect as specified herein for
defective wiring.
13-61.17 Change Of Occupancy
In the event that the occupancy use of an existing structure
is changed, the electrical system shall be made to conform to
the intent of this Code to accommodate any new construction
for the new occupancy.
13-61.18 Special Historic Buildings And Districts
The provisions of this Code relating to the installation,
alteration, repair, additions, or rehabilitation of a
structure shall not be mandatory for existing buildings or
structures identified and classified by the State or local
jurisdiction as Historic Structures or Historic Buildings,
provided that, any proposed construction, alteration, repair,
or restoration of such structure not in strict compliance
with this Code shall nevertheless provide adequate
protection for life and property and meet the spirit and
intent of this Code. Accompanying the application for a
permit for such work, the applicant must submit
documentation which identifies the structure to be a
Historic Structure or Historic Building and must submit
complete architectural and engineering plans and
specifications bearing the seal of a registered
professional Engineer and/or Architect in the State of
Texas.
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Section 13-62 Organization, Powers and Duties
13-62.1 Delegation of Authority
The Building Official or successor in authority is hereby
designated as the person responsible for the administration
and enforcement of the Corpus Christi Electrical Code. The
Building Official may delegate said authority to the Chief
Electrical Inspector, Chief Permit Officer, Inspectors, and
other employees of the City as may be required to carry out
his duties.
13-62.2 Defective Unsafe Wiring
The Chief Electrical Inspector shall have the power to order
electric service disconnected where improper or defective
unsafe wiring exists.
13-62.3 Installation Without Permits
The Building Official or Chief Electrical Inspector shall have
the power to order electric service disconnected where
electrical construction or equipment has been installed
without a permit as required by this Code.
13-62.4 Emergency Situations
The Chief Electrical Inspector shall have the power to
disconnect electrical service, in cases of emergency where the
protection or safety of persons or property is jeopardized or
where electrical equipment or power may interfere with the
work of the Fire Department.
13-62.5 Notices
The Chief Electrical Inspector shall have the power to
attach to electrical equipment or electrical meters any
official notice or seal which might be necessary to
prevent the use of electricity; and it shall be unlawful
for any person to use any such seal or break, change,
destroy, tear, mutilate, cover or otherwise deface or
injure any such official notice or seal posted by any
Inspector.
13-62.6 Restrictions On Employees
No employee of the City responsible for enforcement of this
Code shall be financially interested, as defined by the Code
of Ethics, in the furnishing of labor, material, or appliances
for the installation, alteration, or maintenance of an
electrical system, or in the making of plans or
specifications therefor.
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13-62.7 Right of Entry for Inspection
Whenever necessary to make an inspection to enforce any of the
provisions of this Code, or whenever the Building Official has
reasonable cause to believe that there exists in any structure
or upon any premises any condition or code violation which
makes such structure or premises unsafe, dangerous or
hazardous, the Building Official or his authorized
representative may enter such structure or premises at all
reasonable times to inspect the same or to perform any duty
imposed upon the Building Official by this Code, provided that
if such structure or premises is occupied, he shall first
present proper credentials and request entry. If such
structure or premises is unoccupied, he shall first make a
reasonable effort to locate the owner or other persons having
charge or control of the structure or premises and request
entry. If such entry is refused, the Building Official shall
have recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry.
13-62.8 Warrant
When the Building Official or Code Enforcement Offical shall
have first obtained a proper inspection warrant or other
remedy provided by law to secure entry, no owner or occupant
or any other persons having charge, care or control of any
structure or premises shall fail or neglect, after proper
request is made as herein provided, to promptly permit
entry therein by the Building Official or Code
Enforcement Official for the purpose of inspection and
examination pursuant to this Code.
13-62.9 Stop Work Order Upon Notice
Upon notice from the Building Official or his authorized
representative that work on any structure or premises is being
done contrary to the provisions of this Code or in a dangerous
or unsafe manner, such work shall immediately stop. Notice
shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the
property, or to his agent, or to the person doing the work,
and shall state the conditions under which work may be
resumed. If the person to whom any order or notice issued
pursuant to the provisions of this Code cannot be found, after
a reasonable search has been made, then such order or notice
may be served by posting same in a conspicuous place upon the
premises occupied by said person or the premises where the
improper work is taking place or on the premises which may be
deemed unsafe or dangerous. Such service shall be equivalent
to personal service of such order or notice. Where an
emergency exists, no written notice shall be required to be
given by the Building Official.
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13-62.10 Injunction
In addition to the penal remedy herein, the City Attorney
shall, upon the direction of the City Manager or the Building
Official, institute any appropriate action or proceeding,
including actions for injunction to prevent, restrain, correct
or abate any act, conduct, work, business, practice, or use
which is in violation of this code and illegal as specified
herein. The City Attorney shall, thereby, be authorized to
pursue a cause of action for civil penalties as provided by
State law.
13-62.11 Revocation Upon Misrepresentation on Application
The Building Official may revoke a permit or approval, issued
under the provisions of this Code, in the event that there has
been any false statement, omission, or misrepresentation as to
a material fact in the application or plans on which the
permit or approval was based, or whenever the permit or
approval was issued in error.
13-62.12 Revocation Upon Violation Of Code Provisions
The Building Official may revoke a permit upon determination
that the alteration, repair, rehabilitation, or additions
within the scope of this Code for which the permit was issued
is in violation of, or not in conformity with, the provisions
of this Code.
13-62.13 Requirements Not Covered By Code
Any requirement necessary for the safety or health of the
occupants of an existing or proposed structure, not
specifically covered by this Code, shall be determined by the
Building Official.
13-62.14 Alternate Materials and Alternate Methods of Construction
The provisions of this Code are not intended to prevent the
use of any material or method of construction not specifically
prescribed by this Code, provided any such alternate has been
approved by the Building Official. The Building Official
shall approve any such alternate, provided he finds that the
alternate for the purpose intended is at least the equivalent
of that prescribed in this Code in quality, strength,
effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and safety. The
Building Official shall require that sufficient evidence or
proof be submitted to substantiate any claim made regarding
the alternate.
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Alternate materials and methods may be requested of the
Building Official, provided such alternatives are in
conformity with all types of electrical signs having
application standards of Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc.,
National Electrical Safety Code, or electrical provisions of
other safety codes approved by the American National Standards
Institute. Such conformity shall be prima facie evidence that
installations are reasonably safe to persons and property.
13-62.15 Technical Ruling
A technical ruling is a decision rendered by
Electrical Inspector necessary to govern
construction for some particular, specific
building, or structure not covered by this Code.
such ruling shall be approved by the Board before
effective and shall apply only to the instant proj
13-62.16 Modifications
the Chief
electrical
occupancy,
A copy of
it becomes
ect.
The electrical regulations of this Code may be modified
in particular cases where such modification is
reasonable, does not differ from the intent of this Code,
and does not create an injustice. All requests for
modifications to the Code shall be made in writing on a
form available from the Building Official's office and
processed through the Chief Electrical Inspector.
Approval of any such modification shall in all cases be
obtained from the Chief Electrical Inspector in writing.
The Board shall also concur in approved modification, and
such concurrence must be entered into its minutes prior
to beginning the work.
Section 13-63 Application for Permit
13-63.1 Permits Required
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation,
within the City limits to install or cause to be installed, or
to permit any person to install any electrical wiring,
fixtures, or equipment or to make any alterations, additions,
changes or repairs within the scope of this Code without first
having procured a permit. There shall be one permit for each
building for which rough work for electrical conductors, or
electrical equipment is installed. Accessory buildings shall
not be considered separate buildings when the work is to be
installed thereon as one complete project and at one time,
except where separate electrical services are installed.
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13-63.2 Emergency Work
If the need arises to begin work because of an emergency, the
contractor shall, before a specific job is started, notify the
Building Inspection Department, and must within twenty-four
(24) hours (Saturday, Sunday, and Legal Holidays exempted)
file an application with the Building Inspection Department.
If the contractor fails to do so, the permit fee will be
subject to the fees specified by the Permit Fee Schedule for
work being performed without a permit.
13-63.3 Federal and State Property
No permit shall be required for the installation of electrical
conductors or equipment to be installed where such
installation will be on premises within the control and
supervision of the United States or the State of Texas and
where such installations will be a part of facilities
operated, maintained and controlled by said State of Texas or
the United States Government.
13-63.4 Ordinary Minor Repairs
No permit shall be required for performing ordinary minor
repairs, provided that such repairs shall not violate any of
the technical provisions of this Code. The following items
shall be deemed to constitute ordinary minor repairs:
a. Garage door openers, if plug-in type;
b. Replacement of light fixtures with similar fixtures
including ceiling fans;
c. Replacing fluorescent ballasts in a residence by the home
owner;
d. Replacement of receptacles or light switches;
e. Replacement of residential type garbage disposals,
dishwashers and trash compactors provided that the
electrical system is not modified;
f. Replacement of residential type electric water heaters
when wired with copper wire. If wired with aluminum wire
a qualified electrician shall make the connections;
g. Replacement of circuit breakers in electric panels with
other circuit breaker of same brand and amperage;
h. Replacement of any fluorescent ballast by any Licensed
Electrician, by a Certified Electrical Maintenance
Person, employed to perform building maintenance while on
the premises of their employer;
i. Replacement of air conditioning system or furnace if done
by State licensed mechanical contractor with a City
mechanical permit;
j. Disconnection, installation of disconnects, and
connection of air conditioning systems or furnaces, if
done by a Licensed Electrical Contractor;
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k. Oil well pump and service wiring;
1. Changing light bulbs, flood lights or lamps;
m. Maintenance work performed by City licensed electrician
on the premises of his employer; and
n. Replacement of any sign ballast and transformer up
to a rating of 15,000 secondary volts (60 ma), by
any City licensed Master electrician.
13-63.5 Maintenance Work
No permit shall be required for maintenance work performed by
a Licensed Electrician or by a Certified Electrical
Maintenance Person on the premises of his employer.
13-63.6 Industrial Work
Where an industry occupies a site of twenty (20) or more acres
in the use of said plant site and the conduct of general
operations is such that the plant site is inaccessible to the
general public and the operations on the plant site involve
the assembly, disassembly, reassembly, alteration or
improvements under the observation and direct supervision of
a registered architect or a Registered Professional Engineer,
no permit shall be necessary and no inspection shall be
performed by the City for the erection of the plant or the
assembly, disassembly, reassembly, remodeling, alterations or
improvements of the plant or any portions thereof used in any
manufacturing process, pilot plant use, laboratory testing or
for the use of any mechanical process equipment or laboratory
testing of chemical or chemical manufacturing equipment. Any
structure used principally not for any purpose related to the
manufacturing or testing of equipment or operations shall not
be exempt under this section from the necessity of obtaining
a permit for such work but shall be permitted as for the same
type of structure elsewhere within the City limits. In order
to qualify for an exemption from permitting and inspection, an
affidavit on every project shall first be filed with the
Building Official before work commences, setting forth
sufficient facts to show that the affiant is entitled to the
exemption requested and that all improvements constructed
shall be performed under direct supervision of a registered
professional engineer or a registered architect, on the form
provided by the Building Official. Upon completion of the
project, the registered professional engineer and/or
registered architect who made the affidavit shall certify that
all improvements meet minimum code and life safety criteria.
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13-63.7 Agricultural Use
Permits and inspections are not required for installations,
alterations, additions, changes or repairs within the scope of
this Code to any structure which is being used exclusively in
connection with the ranching or agricultural use of any tract
of land of ten (10) acres or more in area, within the City of
Corpus Christi, at the time of annexation, as long as the
entire premises being used for agricultural or ranching
purposes at the time of annexation is not converted to any
other use. Any structure used for residential occupancy shall
not be exempt under this section from the requirements for
permits and inspections.
13-63.8 Low Energy Circuits
Permit and inspections are not required for low voltage
electrical conductors or equipment installation meeting the
requirements of Article 720, Article 725, and Article 820 of
the "National Electrical Code," 1990.
13-63.9 Application Form
Each application for a permit shall be filed with the Building
Official, on a form furnished by him, and shall contain a
general description of the proposed work and its location.
Each application for a permit shall indicate the proposed
occupancy of the building and shall contain such other
information as may be required by the Building Official. The
application shall be signed by the Master of Record or the
Master of Record's authorized agent. To obtain a permit, the
Master of Record must have a current Master Electrician
license and Master Electrician Contractor's Affidavit filed
with the Building Official.
13-63.10 Drawings, Specifications, and other Required Data
When commercial plans are required by the Building Official,
two or more copies of specifications and drawings with
sufficient clarity and detail to indicate the nature and
character of the work, shall accompany the application. Such
drawings and specifications shall contain information, in the
form of notes or otherwise, as to the quality of materials,
where quality is essential to conformity with this Code. Such
information shall be specific, and this Code shall not be
cited as a whole or in part, nor shall the term "legal" or its
equivalent be used, as a substitute for specific information.
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13-63.11 Additional Data
The Building Official may require details, calculations and
other data necessary to describe the proposed work and the
data shall bear the signature and/or seal of the person
responsible for the design in accordance with Section 13-
63.13.
13-63.12 Plan Identification
All plans and specifications accompanying an application for
an electrical permit shall bear the name, address, and phone
number of the designer.
13-63.13 Engineer Required
Plans and specifications, if designed for any of the following
listed buildings and structures, shall be designed by an
Engineer, registered in the State of Texas, and shall bear the
official seal of the designer.
a. New buildings of Group E - Education, Group I -
Institutional, and Group A - Assembly occupancies;
b. New buildings of Group R -Residential occupancy having
more than two stories, two story buildings containing
more than four dwelling units and one story buildings
containing more than eight dwelling units;
c. New buildings of all occupancies having more than one
story, or exceeding 5,000 square feet in floor area,
except Group R - Residential occupancy; and
d. New buildings of all occupancies having atriums,
sprinkler systems, or being of a complex nature.
13-63.14 Penetrations
Plans and specifications for all buildings shall indicate in
sufficient detail how required fire -resistive integrity will
be maintained where a penetration of a required fire -resistive
wall, floor, or partition will be made for electrical and
communication conduits.
13-63.15 Plot Diagram
When exterior electrical work is to be performed, the Building
Official may require drawings showing the location of the
structure and of the proposed work on the site or lot.
13-63.16 Examination of Drawings
The Building Official shall examine or cause to be examined
each application for permit and the drawings and computations
filed therewith and shall ascertain by such examinations
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whether the work indicated and described appears to be in
conformance with the requirements of this Code and all other
pertinent laws or ordinances.
13-63.17 Application Processed
If the Building Official is satisfied that the work described
in an application for permit and the drawings filed therewith
appear to conform to the requirements of this Code and
other pertinent laws and ordinances, he shall issue a
permit therefor to the applicant.
13-63.18 Application Refused
If the application for a permit and the drawings filed
therewith describe work which does not appear to conform to
the requirements of this Code or other pertinent laws or
ordinances, the Building Official shall refuse to issue such
permit. Such refusal shall, when requested, be in writing and
shall contain reasons therefor.
Section 13-64 Permits
13-64.1 Code Violation
A permit issued shall be construed to be a license to proceed
with the work and shall not be construed as authority to
violate, cancel, alter, or set aside any of the provisions of
this Code, or any other ordinance, nor shall such issuance of
a permit prevent the Building Official or his authorized
representative from thereafter requiring correction of any
errors in plans or in construction, or of violations of this
Code.
13-64.2 Permits Expire
Any permit issued shall become invalid unless the work
authorized by it shall have been commenced within two (2)
months after its issuance. Any permit issued shall become
invalid if the work authorized by such permit is suspended or
abandoned for a period of six (6) months after the time the
work is commenced; provided, that for cause beyond the permit
holder's control, one or more extensions of time for periods
not exceeding forty-five (45) days each may be allowed in
writing by the Building Official. A request for extension
shall be submitted in writing with sufficient documentation to
support the request. Extensions of time shall not exceed an
aggregate total of 365 days (1 year), from the date of
issuance after which the permit shall be inactive, and the
project shall be re -permitted.
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13-64.3 Permits Not Transferable
The Electrical Permit shall be valid only for work performed
by the applicant who obtained the permit and shall only apply
to the location specified on the permit.
13-64.4 Homeowner's Permit
A permit may be issued to qualified property owners for
electrical installation or repair within the scope of this
Code for work to be performed by themselves in a single family
dwelling owned and occupied by them as their homestead.
13-65.5 Permits For Part Jobs
When one electrician completes the rough work, in whole or in
part, on any electrical wiring or installation of fixtures or
equipment and a second electrician is called upon to complete
the work in whole or in part, then, in that event, a separate
permit is required for which regular fees shall be paid for
the work to be done. Each electrician shall be held
responsible only for the portion of the work actually
installed by himself or herself. The issuance of the second
permit shall cancel the first permit, and there shall be no
refund of fees paid for the canceled permit.
13-64.6 Drawings to Be Kept at the Site
When the Building Official issues a permit, he shall endorse
in writing and stamp both sets of plans "cleared." One set of
drawings so cleared shall be retained by the Building
Official, and the other set shall be returned to the applicant
who shall keep said drawing at the site of the work and
available for inspection by the Building Official or his
authorized representative.
Section 13-65 Fees
13-65.1 Fees Must Be Paid
No permit shall be issued until the fees prescribed in this
section shall have been paid, nor shall a permit be issued if
the discovery is made that there are any outstanding fees due
to the Building Inspection Department.
13-65.2 Schedule of Permit Fees
On all alterations, additions, changes, or repairs within
the scope of this Code requiring an electrical permit, a
fee for each permit shall be paid as required, in
accordance with the Permit Fee Schedule established by a
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separate ordinance (codified as Section 13-2, "Permit Fee
Schedule"). The Permit Fee Schedule shall set forth all
fees for which a payment is required by this Code.
13-65.3 Failure to Obtain a Permit
If any person commences any work within the scope of this Code
before obtaining the necessary permit from the applicable
governing body, he shall be subject to an Administrative or
Investigation Fee as specified below.
13-65.4 Administrative Fee
In the event that an inspection is made, and the resultant
discovery of the inspector is that work, for which a permit is
required by this Code, is commenced prior to the obtaining of
said permit, then an Administrative Fee shall be paid in
accordance with the Permit Fee Schedule.
13-65.5 Investigation Fee
In the event that an inspection is made, and the resultant
discovery of the inspection is that the work, for which a
permit is required by this Code, is completed prior to
obtaining said permit, then an Investigation Fee shall be paid
in accordance with the Permit Fee Schedule.
Section 13-66 Inspections
13-66.1 Inspection of Premises
Before issuing a permit, the Building Official may examine, or
cause to be examined, any premises for which an application
has been received for an electrical permit.
13-66.2 Pre -Fabrication Inspection
When deemed necessary, the Building Official shall make an
inspection of materials or assemblies at the point of
manufacture or fabrication.
13-66.3 Follow -Up Inspections
The Building Official may make, or cause to be made, the
inspections of all electrical work from time to time, during
and after the completion of the work, for which a permit was
issued.
13-66.4 Certified Inspections
The Building Official may accept written reports of
inspections from a licensed Master Electrician service or from
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an Engineer registered in the State of Texas in cases where
circumstances preclude the presence of a City electrical
inspector.
13-66.5 Investigation Inspection
The Building Official may make, or cause to be made, an
investigative inspection on a specific complaint from anyone
for a condition that may exist which is in violation of this
Code.
13-66.6 Periodic General Inspection
The Building Official shall, upon probable cause or in a
systematic manner, inaugurate periodic inspections of
installations of all electric wiring, electric devices, and
electric equipment now installed, or that may hereafter be
installed within the scope of this Code, and when the
installation of any such wiring, devices or equipment is found
to be dangerous or in an unsafe condition, the person, firm or
corporation owning, using or operating the same shall be
notified in writing by the Building Official or his authorized
representative. The responsible party shall immediately make
the necessary repairs or changes required to place such
wiring, devices or equipment in a safe condition. When the
installation of any such wiring, devices, or equipment is
found to be defective, the notice may specify a longer period
for correction as the public health, safety, and welfare may
permit. If correction is not timely effected, the Building
Official may immediately order the disconnection, or
discontinuance of electrical services to such wiring devices
or equipment which appears to be unsafe until the same has
been made safe as directed.
13-66.7 Permit Holder Must Call for Inspections
The permit holder or his agent shall notify the Inspection
Division requesting the Building Official or his authorized
representative to make the inspections of the structures or
premises and such other inspections as may be necessary. The
party making the request shall provide the physical address of
the construction site and the permit number for the project.
13-66.8 Rough Inspection
A rough inspection shall be called for by the permittee and
shall be made prior to the concealment of such work.
13-66.9 Final Inspection
A final inspection shall be called for by the permittee and
shall be made of every structure or premises, for which a
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permit was obtained, upon completion and prior to final
approval of or the issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy,
as required herein.
13-66.10 Re -Out Inspection
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to
connect, or cause to have connected, the source of energy at
a utility meter which has been disconnected, for a period of
time, until a Re -Out Inspection is made and approval has been
issued in writing by the Building Official or his authorized
representative, authorizing the reconnection and use of such
wiring, devices, or equipment. For commercial buildings the
disconnection period of time requiring inspection shall be
twenty-four (24) hours and for residential buildings the
period of time shall be six (6) months.
13-66.11 Work Concealed
No wiring or raceway shall be covered or work concealed in any
manner whatsoever without first obtaining the written approval
of the Building Official. The Building Official or his
authorized representative shall have the authority to order
the removal of items that have obscured the view of components
that require inspection. The Building Official may accept the
certification for City Electrical Code Compliance made by a
professional Engineer registered in the State of Texas, in the
event that such work is covered or concealed without the
Building Official's approval.
13-66.12 Faulty Work
When a permit is obtained, and inspections are called
for, and if it is found that the electrical wiring or
installation of fixtures or equipment is faulty, or
incorrectly or defectively installed, the Inspector shall
notify the responsible person who installed such work, of
the changes necessary to be made in order that the work
may conform to this Code. The permittee shall within
forty-eight (48) hours from the time of notification make
or start to make the changes ordered and shall proceed
with the work until the same is complete. Upon completion
thereof, the permittee shall notify the Building
Inspection Department to the effect that the faulty work
has been corrected and can be inspected. If the
permittee fails to correct the faulty work within forty-
eight (48) hours, the Building Official shall refuse to
issue or extend to any such person any further permits
until said work in question is corrected and approved.
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13-66.13 Electrical Service Connection
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to
make connections from a source of electrical energy which has
been disconnected by the order of the Building Official or the
use of which has been prohibited for reasons herein set forth
until approval has been issued by him or his authorized
representative authorizing the reconnection and use of such
wiring devices or equipment.
13-66.14 Testing
The Building Official may require tests or test reports as
proof of compliance. Tests, if required, are to be made at
the expense of the owner, or his agent, by an approved testing
laboratory or other approved agency. Copies of such test
reports or the results of all such tests shall be kept on file
in the office of the Building Official or Chief Electrical
Inspector.
13-66.15 Re -Inspections
A reinspection is required, and a reinspection fee shall be
paid when:
a. It has been found that the portion of the construction
for which an inspection was requested is not ready for
the inspection; or
b. Corrections that were called for have not been made; or
c. The premises are not made readily available for
inspection.
The permit holder or his agent shall pay a Re -Inspection Fee
in accordance with the Permit Fee Schedule, prior to the
conducting of said re -inspection.
13-66.16 Removal Request
A11 abandoned dead wire, unused poles or electrical apparatus
in or on the structure or premises shall be removed at the
expense of the owners thereof, and the said owners shall
respond promptly to an electrical inspector's removal request.
Section 13-67 Certificate of Occupancy
13-67.1 When Required
No new or existing building or new portion thereof shall be
occupied and no change in occupancy or the nature or the use
of a structure or part of a structure shall be made until
after the Building Official shall have issued a Certificate of
Occupancy therefor.
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13-67.2 Existing Structures
A Certificate of Occupancy for any existing structure shall be
obtained by applying to the Building Official. When
necessary, in the opinion of the Building Official, two sets
of detailed drawings, or a general inspection, or both, may be
required. When, upon examination and inspection, it is found
that the building conforms to the provisions of this Code, or
the Code under which the building was built for such
occupancy, a Certificate of Occupancy shall be issued. A
Certificate of Occupancy fee shall be paid in accordance with
the Permit Fee Schedule at the time of application.
13-67.3 Contents of Certificate
Upon completion of a building or portion thereof erected in
accordance with approved plans, and after the final
inspection, and upon application for a Certificate of
Occupancy, the Building Official shall issue a Certificate of
Occupancy, stating the nature of the occupancy permitted in
accordance with the provisions of this Code.
13-67.4 Temporary Occupancy
A temporary Certificate of Occupancy may be issued for a
specified portion or specified portions of a building which
may safely be occupied prior to final completion of the
structure. A temporary Certificate of Occupancy shall also be
issued for temporary promotional events or temporary
structures which will be removed after a specified time.
Section 13-68 Electrical Advisory Board
13-68.1 Board Appointment
There is hereby created the Electrical Advisory Board (the
"Board") consisting of nine (9) persons who shall be appointed
by the City Council. This Board shall have the guidance and
assistance of the Building Official and the Chief Electrical
Inspector.
13-68.2 Duties of the Board
The Board shall review grievances filed against any licensed
electrical contractors, shall review grievances within the
scope of this Code, shall concur on a proposed alternate
material, alternate method of construction, or technical
ruling, and shall recommend changes of the City of Corpus
Christi Electrical Code to the City Council.
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13-68.3 Qualifications
Persons who serve on the Electrical Advisory Board as members
shall be qualified as follows:
a. Two (2) persons, each of whom shall have had at least
five (5) years active experience as a Master Electrician;
b. One person who shall have had at least five (5) years
active experience as a Journeyman Electrician;
c. Two (2) Engineers; one (1) shall be a registered
professional engineer in the State of Texas, and the
other shall have a Bachelor of Science degree in
Electrical Engineering and a minimum of five (5) years
experience in Electrical Engineering;
d. One person who shall have had at least five (5) years
experience in the commercial building industry;
e. One person who shall have had at least five (5) years
experience in the home building industry; and
f. Two (2) persons, residents of Corpus Christi, not
connected with the electrical industry.
13-68.4 Tenure of Office
All terms shall be for two (2) years. The term of each member
shall continue until his successor is appointed, subject to
limitations of the City Charter or term limitation established
by ordinance. Any member of the Board may be removed by the
City Council for cause. Vacancies within the Board shall be
filled by appointment for the unexpired term.
13-68.5 Organization
The Board shall conduct during the first meeting of each
calendar year, the election of a Chairman and a Vice Chairman,
and shall prescribe additional procedures and orders of
business for hearing matters brought to it as provided herein.
13-68.6 Frequency of Meetings
The Board shall hold one (1) regular meeting per month and
shall hold such special or called meetings as necessary for
its proper performance of duty. The regular called meeting
shall be held on the third Thursday of each month, except when
there are no transactions or business for the Board to
address, in which case the meeting may then be canceled.
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13-68.7 Quorum
Five (5) members of the Board present at any meeting shall
constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, and the
concurring vote of not less than five (5) members of the Board
shall be necessary to constitute an official action of the
Board.
13-68.8 Records
The Board shall keep record of all transactions and business
of the Board. The Board's records shall be maintained in the
office of the Building Official.
13-69 Reserved.
ELECTRICAL CODE CHAPTER 2
LOCAL REQUIREMENTS IN ADDITION TO THE NEC
13-70 Local Changes to NEC
Local Requirements - Certain special local rules covering
electrical wiring and equipment installations are set forth herein,
and certain exceptions are hereby adopted to the rules and
regulations of the National Electrical Code to raise the safety
level of electrical installations and to prevent the rapid
deterioration of electrical materials and equipment from severe
atmospheric and underground corrosive action, all of which
exceptions are set forth in this Chapter.
NEC 90-2(b)5, Electrical Utility Companies - Permits and
inspections are required for electric utility companies,
their employees and agents, to install exterior lighting,
except exterior lighting located in public streets or
alley rights-of-way and except exterior lighting located
in utility or electric easements recorded on plats filed
for record in the plat records of the County Clerk's
office,
NEC 210-22, 210-24, 210-52 and 310-5 Current Capacity - All
circuits, except lighting circuits, shall have conductors
sized to provide a minimum current capacity of twenty (20)
amperes. Not more than ten (10) incandescent lighting
fixtures and/or general use receptacles (duplex) shall be
installed on a 120 volt branch circuit. Not more than three
(3) receptacles (duplex) shall be installed on each of the
required small appliance circuits in dwellings. For circuits
supplying lighting fixtures having ballasts, transformers, or
autotransformers, the computed load based on the total ampere
ratings of such fixtures shall determine the number of
fixtures on a lighting circuit.
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NEC 210-52 Receptacles Required - The following listed
buildings shall have a minimum of one (1) receptacle installed
for every twenty (20) feet measured horizontally around the
interior wall at the floor level of each room, excluding
storage rooms:
Office Buildings
Restaurants
Taverns
Bank Buildings
Mechanical Garages
Studios
NEC 230-65, Minimum Fault Current Protection - All electrical
service entrance equipment, except for temporary construction
loops, shall be provided with fault current protection of not
less than 22,000 amps, in addition to that required by Section
230-65 of the National Electrical Code. When approved by the
Building Official or his authorized representative, the
provisions of this subsection need not apply to any particular
installation for which compliance with Section 230-65 of the
National Electrical Code has been certified by a professional
registered Engineer in the State of Texas.
NEC 370-17 Prohibited Connectors - The use of crimp type
connectors and couplings used with electrical metallic tubing
shall be prohibited.
NEC 250-81 Service Grounding - Electrical service
equipment shall be grounded as per the requirements in
NEC 250-81, grounding electrode system. A metal
underground water pipe shall be supplemented by an
additional electrode of a type specified in NEC 250-81 or
NEC 250-83. Where none of the electrodes specified in
NEC 250-81 is available a made electrode shall be used:
a. Pipe Electrodes -
copper; or
b. Rod Electrodes
copper, or copper
D x 8' L.
Electrodes of pipe shall be of brass or
- Rod electrodes shall be of brass,
clad steel, and shall be at least 5/8"
NEC 310 Prohibited Conductors - As of March 1982, the use of
aluminum conductors of No. 2 gauge and smaller shall be
prohibited in electrical wiring installations, except that
exterior, overhead conductors shall be exempted from this
prohibition.
NEC 310-5 See Amendment to NEC 210-22 Current Capacity above
NEC 338-2 and 338-3 - Service entrance conductors and sub
feeds to electrical distribution panels shall run in conduits
or raceways. A masthead used for support of service drop
conductors shall extend forty-two inches above the roof and
shall be two inches or larger rigid metal conduit.
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NEC 346-1(c) Underground Electrical Conduit - All underground
installations of single runs or grouped runs of electrical
conduit shall be nonmetallic. In lieu of rigid metal conduit
for underground wiring in hazardous location, schedule 80
Electrical PVC may be used.
NEC 384-1 and NEC 384-15 Spare Circuits and Raceways - One
spare circuit shall be installed for every five (5) circuits
in all new buildings. For each panel a spare one inch (1")
raceway shall be installed from the panel to an accessible
location.
NEC 440-B Disconnecting Means - A disconnecting means
shall be provided in the ungrounded conductors of each
branch circuit to electrically operated air conditioning
components. The disconnecting means shall be within
sight of and in no case farther than six feet from the
equipment. A fusible disconnect switch shall be
installed for air conditioning equipment of five (5) tons
rating or less. Disconnecting means shall not be
required on equipment with integrally installed
disconnecting means.
Section 13-71 Local Requirements in Addition to NEC
13-71.1 Individual Metering Required
A building or buildings containing more than five dwelling
units shall provide for individual metering or submetering of
each dwelling unit.
13-71.2 Raceways or Metal Clad Cables
All commercial buildings shall be wired in electrical
conduits, except as provided herein.
13-71.3 Exceptions to Raceways or Metal Clad Cables
Raceways or Metal Clad Cables will not be required when
structures were originally constructed and used as single-
family, single -story, residential -use buildings, and which are
thereafter converted to commercial usage if, at the time such
building is converted to commercial usage, such pre-existing
electrical wiring, equipment and fixtures in such structures
conform to all other applicable provisions of this Code. To
obtain the benefit of the exemption granted by this section,
the owner or occupant of such building must obtain an
inspection for a Certificate of Occupancy as required. Any
installation of new electrical wiring, fixtures or apparatus
installed in any building which was converted to commercial
usage, or any rewiring of such structure shall be wired in
raceways or metal clad cables.
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13-71.4 Construction/Development Temporary Buildings
Temporary buildings, the uses of which are incidental to
construction operations or sale of lots during development
being conducted on the same or adjoining tract or subdivision
and which shall be removed upon completion of development, are
not required to be wired in raceways or metal clad cables.
13-71.5 Electrically Charged Fencing
Installation of electrically charged fencing for the
purpose of security, animal containment and other similar
uses shall be installed in accordance with approved
Underwriter's Laboratories, or any other nationally
recognized testing agency, devices. Upon installation
such fencing shall be clearly identified with signage not
to exceed a 50 foot maximum spacing on this electrical
fencing. The signage shall be legible from a distance of
five feet and shall be properly maintained while fence is
in use.
ELECTRICAL CODE CHAPTER 3
Section 13-80 Licensing
13-80.1 Requirement For License
It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in the business
of installing, maintaining, altering or repairing any wiring,
fixtures or equipment used for the conducting of electricity,
or for any person or employee of any business in any manner to
undertake to execute such work unless such person or employee
is the holder of a currently valid license as required herein.
13-80.2 False Representing of Licensing
It shall be unlawful for any person to falsely represent
himself as a licensed electrician of any class set forth in
this division or to use the words electrical contractor,
master electrician, electrician, or words of similar meaning,
on signs, cards, stationery, or by any other manner
whatsoever, unless said person is properly licensed within the
meaning of the word as prescribed by this Code.
Section 13-81 Method of Licensing
13-81.1 Examination
To secure a license as a qualified and competent electrician
in any of the classes specified herein, an application shall
be made in writing and shall show the applicant's name,
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address, phone number and such other information as may be
prescribed by the Examination Committee, and shall be made out
on forms available in the offices of the Chief Electrical
Inspector/and Chief Permit Officer. An examination must then
be taken and passed by the applicant for a license to become
effective. All examinations shall be based on the latest
edition of the National Electric Code.
13-81.2 Reciprocal Licenses
To secure a license as a qualified and competent electrician
in any of the classes specified herein, an electrician may
apply for and receive a license without taking an examination
provided that the following conditions are complied with:
a. The applicant shall show that he has obtained a license
from such other City (Ha reciprocal city") which city
requires its electrician license applicants to pass a
comprehensive written examination based on the latest
edition of the NEC from an approved testing agency
satisfactorily demonstrating the applicant's knowledge of
the provisions of the National Electrical Code, or the
applicant shall submit evidence that he has passed an
electrical licensing examination based on the latest
National Electrical Code adopted by the City of Corpus
Christi;
b. The applicant receiving a license under this provision
shall pay a license fee according to the Permit Fee
Schedule and shall comply with all other requirements
under this Chapter; and
c. After the licensing procedures of the reciprocal city
have been approved by the Board, the Building Official
may issue the applicant an electrician license, provided
that such reciprocal city permits master, journeyman,
limited journeyman, the maintenance electricians licensed
in the City of Corpus Christi the right to obtain
electrician licenses under substantially similar
conditions and reciprocal licensing procedures as
required by the City of Corpus Christi. Reciprocity for
licensing will remain in effect until such time there are
substantial changes in the licensing ordinances of the
City of Corpus Christi or the reciprocal city.
Section 13-82 Exceptions from License Requirements
13-82.1 Low Voltage Wiring
The installation, alteration or repairing of any wiring
devices or equipment in accordance with Article 720, Article
725 and Article 820 of the National Electrical Code is exempt
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from licensing requirements.
13-82.2 Electrical Utility Companies
The installation, alteration or repair of electric
wiring, wiring devices, and electrical equipment by an
electrical utility company for the generation,
transmission, distribution or metering of electrical
energy shall be exempt from the licensing requirement of
this Chapter.
13-82.3 State and Federal Sites
The installation, alteration or repair of electric
wiring,devices, appliances and equipment installed by or for
the state or federal government in connection with
construction or repair of buildings used, owned and located on
property owned by said state or federal government is exempt
from licensing requirements.
13-82.4 Industrial Sites
Where any industry occupies a site of twenty (20) or more
acres in the use of said plant site, and the conduct of
general operations is such that the plant site is inaccessible
to the general public, and the operations on the plant site
involve the assembly, disassembly, reassembly, alterations or
improvements under the supervision of a registered
professional architect or a registered professional engineer
and such industry has duly secured the exemption under Sec.
13-63.6, no electrical license shall be necessary for the
erection of the plant or the assembly, disassembly,
reassembly, remodeling, alterations or improvements of the
plant or any portions thereof used in any manufacturing
process, pilot plant use, laboratory testing or use of any
mechanical process equipment or laboratory testing of chemical
or chemical manufacturing equipment. However, any person
engaged in the electrical installation, maintenance,
alteration, or electrical repair to any building used
principally as office building, shipping docks, assembly room,
restrooms, warehousing and not for any purpose related to the
manufacturing or testing of equipment or operations, shall not
be exempt under this section from the necessity of obtaining
an electrical license, and any electrical construction or
repair of any such building or structure shall require the
electrician to hold a valid electrical license as for the same
type work performed elsewhere within the city limits.
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13-82.5 Homeowner
The installation, alteration, or repair
devices, or electrical equipment by a
herself in and on the premises occupied
as his or her homestead shall be exempt
provisions.
of any wiring, wiring
homeowner himself or
, owned, and declared
from these licensing
13-83 Examinations - Scheduling, and Grading:
13-83.1 Examination Committee
It shall be the duty of the Examination Committee to review
and approve the qualifications of all applicants for licenses.
Any person who shall make application for an Electrician
License shall obtain proper forms from the Building Inspection
Division. Upon receipt of the application, the Examination
Committee shall review the application for approval. The
applicant will be notified of approval within ten (10) days,
and if approved the applicant shall pay the examination fee
and shall be scheduled for examination.
13-83.2 Scheduling
Applications must be approved and examination fees paid in
full, least thirty (30) days prior to the scheduled exam date.
The examinations will be scheduled on the first Monday of each
yearly quarter, and shall be held on the following business
day if that Monday should be a Holiday.
Section 13-84 Types of Licenses
13-84.1 License Classifications
There shall be seven (7) classes of licenses and one
of certification which shall be known as follows:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
Master Electrician
Master Electrician -Sign
Master Electrician -Elevator
Journeyman Electrician
Limited Journeyman Electrician
Maintenance Electrician
Apprentice Electrician
Certified Electrical Maintenance Person
13-84.2 Master Electrician
(1) class
An applicant for a license as master electrician shall
file with the application an affidavit setting forth that
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such applicant is not less than twenty-one (21) years of
age and has had not less than five (5) years experience
in the installation, alteration and repair of electrical
equipment and conductors, two (2) of which must have been
worked as a journeyman electrician. Applicants shall be
examined as provided herein. A certificate of graduation
from, or successful completion of a recognized technical
school, college or military service in the electrical
field. The applicant shall be credited one (1) year of
experience for one (1) year of education not to exceed
three (3) years as part of the required five (5) years
experience.
13-84.3 Master Electrician -Sign or Elevator
If the applicant desires to do work in electrical elevator or
electrical sign installation, repair and/or maintenance, he
shall pass a special examination on the same basis as that
given to his particular classification. Such applicant shall
file with the application an affidavit setting forth that such
applicant is not less than eighteen (18) years of age and has
had not less than five (5) years experience in the
installation, alteration, and repair of electrical elevators
or signs, or equally qualifying experience for at least five
(5) years. Applicant shall be examined as provided herein. A
certificate of graduation or successful completion of a
recognized technical school or college on the electrical field
shall be credited one (1) year of experience for one (1) year
of education not to exceed three (3) years as part of the
required five (5) years experience.
13-84.4 Journeyman Electrician
An applicant for a journeyman electrician license shall be not
less than eighteen (18) years of age, and shall meet either
one of the following requirements:
a. The applicant shall have not less than four (4) years
experience in the electrical trade; or
b. The applicant shall have not less than three (3) years
experience as an electrician's helper or apprentice, and
shall have successfully completed a course related to the
electrical trade of at least 49 continuing education
hours at a college or vocational school or in an
apprenticeship program.
Said applicant shall be required to file an affidavit in
the Building Official's office certifying that the
foregoing requirements have been fully complied with, and
further stating that said applicant shall perform
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electrical work in the City of Corpus Christi in
accordance with the Corpus Christi Electrical Code; that
said applicant shall perform such work only under the
supervision of the holder of a Master Electrician
license, Master Electrician -Sign license, or Master
Electrician -Elevator license; and that said applicant
shall not independently engage in the business of
contracting such electrical work.
13-84.5 Limited Journeyman Electrician
An applicant for license as a limited journeyman electrician
shall file with the application and affidavit setting forth
that he is not less than eighteen (18) years of age, and that
he has had not less than two (2) years experience in the
electrical trade. Applicant shall make in his application
affidavit a statement that he will engage only as an employee
or under the supervision of a master electrician (sign) or a
master electrician (elevator); and that he shall perform all
installation, alteration and repair of equipment in accordance
with the Corpus Christi Electrical Code and that he will not
independently engage in the business of contracting such
electrical work.
13-84.6 Maintenance Electrician
An applicant for registration as a maintenance electrician
shall file with the application an affidavit setting forth
that he is not less than eighteen (18) years of age and has
had not less than two (2) years of experience in building
electrical maintenance under a person who was a licensed
electrician. Applicant shall file with his application a
letter bearing the signature of the person by whom he will be
regularly employed by and the address of employment.
Applicant shall pass an examination administered by the
Building Inspection Department.
13-84.7 Apprentice Electrician
Applications filed for a license as apprentice electrician
shall state the age of the applicant and the intent that he is
engaging in the learning of or assisting in the installation,
maintenance or repair of electrical wiring, fixtures and
equipment working directly under the supervision of a person
holding a license of any of the foregoing classifications.
13-84.8 Certified Electrical Maintenance Person
An application for Certified Electrical Maintenance
Person shall be made in writing and addressed to the
Building Official. The application shall show the
applicant's name and address, and such other information
\SF\024.ORD.aar
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32
as may be prescribed by the Examination Committee, and
shall be made out on forms available in the office of the
Permit Officer. The applicant shall file with his
application a letter bearing the signature of the person
by whom he is regularly employed, the address of the
place of employment, a statement that he will notify the
Chief Electrical Inspector of any change in his
employment, and acknowledgment that work time as a
Certified Electrical Maintenance person shall not be
credited towards experience needed for an electrician's
license. The applicant shall engage in maintenance or
repair of electrical wiring and fixtures. An applicant
for certification shall pass an examination administered
by the Inspection Department on electrical basics or be
certified through the completion of a certified and/or
accredited trade school in the electrical trades or shall
have passed an examination administered through any
approved Model Code Agency. Certification shall be valid
upon payment of the fee prescribed in the Permit Fee
Schedule.
Section 13-85 Examination and License
13-85.1 Issuance of License
The license as issued shall bear the signature of the Building
Official or his authorized representative and the signature of
the Chief Electrical inspector, upon confirmation that all
qualifications for the license have been met and after the
applicant has paid to the City the required annual license fee
for his classification as set forth in the Permit Fee
Schedule.
13-85.2 Examination Fees and License Fees
All fees are subject to that specified in the Permit Fee
Schedule, as amended.
13-85.3 Lost or Destroyed Licenses
Licenses lost or destroyed during the year for which they are
issued shall be reissued by the Chief Electrical Inspector,
upon payment of the fee established by the Permit Fee
Schedule.
13-85.4 Termination of License, no Refund
Refunds shall not be given for the unexpired portion of the
annual license period.
\SF\024.ORD.aar
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13-85.5 License Expiration
A license shall expire December thirty-one (31) of each year,
and unless renewed, the holder shall be deemed unlicensed
under the provisions of this Code; provided, however,
reinstatement and renewal can be made by payment of the annual
fee within six (6) months, or the license holder can secure
the license by examination or by payment of twice the annual
fee within two (2) years of the date of expiration. Failure
to secure reinstatement and renewal within two (2) years from
the expiration date shall require a new application and
examination.
Section 13-86 Suspension or Revocation of Rights
13-86.1 Review of Grievances
It shall be the duty of the Board to conduct reviews of
grievances, make investigations, and render recommendations in
keeping with their findings.
13-86.2 Findings
The Board may recommend that the City Council suspend or
revoke the license of any electrician who is found guilty of:
a. The practice of any fraud or deceit in obtaining such
license;
b. Taking out electrical permits in the name of some person,
firm or corporation authorized by law to do
electrical work and thereafter permitting a person
without a proper license to do the work; or
c. Any gross negligence, incompetency or misconduct in
the performance of electrical work within the
jurisdiction of the City under this article.
13-86.3 Board Hearing
In determining any such charges, upon sworn information
furnished it by an official of the city, or by some person
aggrieved by the action of an electrician in the performance
of electrical work for which an Electrical Permit is required
by the this Code, such information being in writing and duly
verified by the person familiar with the facts alleged,
the Board, if it deems the information sufficient to
support further action on its part, shall set a public
hearing at a specified time and place, and the secretary
of the Board, with the advice of the City Attorney shall
cause a copy of the Board's order and of the information
to be served upon the licensee by registered mail at
least thirty (30) days before the hearing date. The
licensee may appear in person or by counsel at the
\SF\024.ORD.aar
34
hearing. The City Attorney, as directed by the City
Manager, shall provide counsel for the Board. If the
accused fails or refuses to appear, the Board may proceed
to hear and determine the charge in his absence. If the
licensee confirms the allegations, or if, upon a hearing
of the charge, the Board determines the charges to be
true, it may recommend suspension or revocation of the
licensee. Upon completion of its hearing, the Board
shall file its findings and recommendations with the City
Secretary for consideration by the City Council. The
Board shall also forward a certified copy of same to the
licensee.
13-86.4 Council Hearing
The City Council shall as soon as practicable, after receiving
the Board's recommendation, set a hearing to either adopt,
amend or reject the recommendation of the Board. Notice of
said hearing shall be given to the licensee by registered mail
at least five (5) days prior to the date thereof. In the
event an order is entered for suspension or revocation of the
license of such electrician, the City Council shall specify a
time period for when the applicant will be allowed to re -apply
for the license and satisfactorily pass an examination. Such
order of reinstatement shall be filed as a part of the
electrician's record, and a copy shall be provided to the
electrician.
13-86.5 Violation of Order
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation whose
rights under a license have been suspended or revoked by the
City Council to engage in or do electrical work.
13-86.6 Unauthorized Use of License
It shall be unlawful for any person to lend, rent or transfer
his license, badge or any rights to any other person, and for
any person to make use of any such rights which are not
actually his own.
13-86.7 Altering or Amending Licenses
It shall be unlawful for any person other than the Chief
Electrical Inspector at the direction of the Examination
Committee to alter or amend in any manner any license as set
forth herein.
\SF\024.ORD.aar
35
Section 13-87 Supervision of and Responsibility for Work
13-87.1 Supervision of and Responsibility for Work
In the actual work of installing, maintaining, altering
or repairing any electrical conductors or equipment for
which a permit is required by this Code, there shall be
present and in direct supervision a qualified electrician
of the proper classification. It shall be required that
an electrician of the license classification of the first
three (3) grades as listed herein, under License
Classifications, be liable and responsible for layout and
technical supervision of any work which has required the
securing of permits, and a journeyman or higher
classified grade electrician shall be in direct "on the
job" supervision of work carried out as specified herein:
except in work falling under the classifications of sign
or elevator work, which work shall be performed by or
directly supervised by the person holding such license or
a journeyman particularly qualified in such branch of
electrical work. Should it come to the attention of the
Building Official or his designee that such supervision
and control is not being maintained, in addition to
filing of complaint in the Municipal Court for such
violation, the inspector may order the work to be
discontinued, and the person, firm or corporation to whom
the permit has been issued shall discontinue further work
until approval by the Electrical Inspector that proper
supervision has been employed or supplied; provided
further, nothing herein shall be construed as prohibiting
the employment of apprentices assisting a person duly
licensed and qualified under the provisions of this
Chapter; and provided, further, that no more than three
(3) apprentices are employed for each duly licensed
master or journeyman electrician on any one electrical
installation.
Section 13-88 Electrical Contractors
13-88.1 Master of Record
Every electrical contractor doing business in the City must
have a Master of Record who holds a current master electrician
license and who is one of the following:
a. A sole owner of the business;
b. A full-time paid employee of the business; or
c. An owner or officer of the business who is actively
engaged full-time in the operation and conduct of the
electrical contractor business.
\SF\024.ORD.aar
7 m"
36
"Full-time" means actually engaged in the employment or
conduct of the business' work for an average of at least
thirty (30) hours per week, or who reasonably expects to be
actively engaged in the employment or conduct of the business'
work for an average of at least thirty (30) hours per calendar
week over a period of at least six (6) consecutive calendar
months. Said master electrician shall not qualify as the
required master electrician for more than one electrical
contractor business at one time. The Master of Record shall
not qualify as the required Master Electrician for more than
one electrical contractor business at one time.
13-88.2 Electrical Contractor's Affidavit
Every electrical contractor doing business in the City shall
file with the electrical inspection section of the City a
current electrical contractor's affidavit setting forth the
name, address, and telephone numbers of the business, the
names of persons having at least a 10% ownership interest in
the business, the names and addresses of the officers of the
business, the principal address of the business, the name and
address of the master electrician who shall be the Master of
Record, and the specific method of supervision of electrical
work to be conducted by the business. The affidavit shall be
presented annually to the City with the master electrician
license renewal fee.
13-88.3 Place of Business
Every Master of Record must have and maintain an
established place of business and shall have a business
telephone and shall make the necessary arrangements to
receive messages from the Building Inspection Department
or other persons concerned during regular business hours.
The Master of Record shall be responsible for the
supervision of all electrical work done pursuant to any
electrical permits issued to him or to his duly
authorized agent as described in the Corpus Christi
Electrical Code. Any duly authorized agent shall be a
full time employee of said electrical contractor
business.
13-88.4 Display or Evidence of License
It shall be required that all electricians fittingly display
their licenses as provided herein:
a. Every holder of a license as a master electrician, master
electrician -sign or master electrician -elevator shall
display his license in a conspicuous place in his
principal place of business; and
\SF\024.ORD.aar
37
b. Every holder of a license shall carry his license on his
person at all times while doing electrical work and shall
produce and exhibit it when requested by any electrical
inspector or official of the city.
13-88.5 Identification Of Vehicles
Each Master of Record engaged in the installation or repair of
electrical wiring shall have his firm's name conspicuously
displayed, legible from a distance of fifty (50) feet, on all
vehicles used by his firm in the transaction of his business.
SECTION 2. That all ordinances or parts of ordinances in
conflict herewith are hereby expressly repealed.
SECTION 3. Any person, firm, or corporation who violates a
provision of this Code, or fails to comply with any of the
requirements thereof, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be
liable to a fine of not more than Five Hundred Dollars ($500) .
Each such person, firm, or corporation shall be guilty of a
separate offense for each and every day during which any violation
of any of the provisions of this Code is committed or continued.
The owner or owners of any building or structure failing to comply
with any of the provisions of this Code, and the owner or owners of
any premises wherein a violation of the provisions of this code
occurs, and any architect, engineer, designer, builder, contractor,
agent, person, firm, or corporation employed therewith and who has
assisted in the commission of any such violation, shall be guilty
of a separate offense.
SECTION 4. If for any reason any section, paragraph,
subdivision, clause, phrase, word, or provision of this ordinance
shall be held invalid or unconstitutional by final judgment of a
court of competent jurisdiction, it shall not affect any other
section, paragraph, subdivision, clause, phrase, word or provision
of this ordinance, for it is the definite intent of this City
Council that every section, paragraph, subdivision, clause, phrase,
word or provision hereof be given full force and effect for its
purpose.
SECTION 5. This ordinance shall have an effective date of
January 12, 1993, and shall take effect for all permits issued from
and after February 1, 1993, after its final passage and publication
one time in the official publication of the City of Corpus Christi,
which publication shall contain the caption stating in summary the
purpose of the ordinance.
\SF\024.ORD.aar
'f r
38
at the foregoing or ' ance was read for the first time and passed to its second reading on
•
_.e •`= day of 19 ' by the' following vote:
Mary Rhodes
Cezar Galindo
Leo Guerrero
Betty Jean Longoria
That the foregoing ordinan
this the h day of
Mary Rhodes
Cezar Galindo
Leo Guerrero
Betty Jean Longoria
Edward A. Martin
Joe McComb
Dr. David McNichols
Clif Moss
Mary Pat Slavik
e was read for the second time and passed to its third reading on
19 by the following vote:
Edward A. Martin
Joe McComb
Dr. David McNichols
Clif Moss
Mary Pat Slavik
That the foregoing ordinance was read for the third time and passed finally on this the 12-
day
Zday of 3aArt 4 t L1Av , 19_ by the following vote:
Mary Rhodes
Cezar Galindo
Leo Guerrero
Betty Jean Longoria
Edward A. Martin
Joe McComb
Dr. David McNichols
Clif Moss
Mary Pat Slavik
PASSED AND APPROVED, this the i2 day of
City Secretary
APPROVED: Xl IDAY OF &-e,mixt/Li , 19.a:
JAMES R. BRAY, JR., CITY ATTORNEY
By St
044
'A T
CUawAd-
ITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI
, Assistant City Attorney
021549
PUBLISHER'S AFFIDAVIT
State of Texas, } CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI
County of Nueces } ss: AD# 83377
PO #
Before me, the undersigned, a Notary Public, this day personally
came Connie Haralson, who being first duly sworn, according to
law, says that she is Business Office Administrative Assistance
of the Corpus Christi Caller -Times, a daily newspaper published
at Corpus Christi in said County and State, generally circulated
in Aransas, Bee, Brooks, Cameron, Duval, Hidalgo, Jim Hogg, Jim
Wells, Karnes, Kenedy, Kleberg, Live Oak, Nueces, Refugio, San
Patricio, Victoria, and Webb Counties, and that the publication
of NOTICE OF PASSAGE OF ORDINANCE NO. 021549 ADOPTING THE
NATIONAL which the annexed is a true copy, was published in the
Corpus Christi Caller -Times on the 18th day of January, 1993.
One Time(s)
$ 52.20
Business Office Administrative Assistant
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 22nd day
of January , 1993.
Notary Public, Nueces County, Texas
F
NOTICE OF PASSAGE
OF ORDINANCE NO. 021549
ADOPTING ?HE NATIONAL
ELECTRICAL -CODE, 1993
EDITION; AMENDING DIVI-
SION 2, ELECTRICAL CODE ,
1 OF ARTICLE ID ELECTRICAL,
OF CHAPTER 13, BUILDINGS;
CONSTRUCTION AND RE-
1 LATER OPERATIONS;
POUSING AND
REMISES STANDARDSING OF
THE CITY CODE OF
NANCES; PROVIDINGOFOR
ADDITIONS, DELETION, AND
CHANGES TO SAID CODE;
PROVIDING FOR LICENSING
REQUIREMENTS FOR ELEC-
TRICIANS; ESTABLISHING
PERMIT REQUIREMENTS; IN-
SPECTION FEES, AND
SAVINGS CLAUSE;I ING REPEAL-
ING ALL ORDINANCES IN
CONFUCT; PROVIDING FOR
PUBLICATION; PROVIDING
FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE OF
JANUARY12, 1993.
The ordinance waspassed
and tpproved by th
Council of the City of
Corpus Christi, Texas on the
12th day /ofs/ January,Armando 1993.
City SaalltillY
ChAa
City of CorWa coati