Building Code Ordinance Amendment - Historic BuildingsMEMORANDUM
May 23, 2002
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
SUBJECT: Amending the City Buildings and Building Regulations (Building Code)
Ordinance
Building Services Manager Rich Russell is recommending adoption of the Dubuque
Historic Buildings Code.
The adoption of the Dubuque Historic Buildings Code will provide owners, contractors,
architects and Building Services staff with another alternative when dealing with existing
buildings. The 2000 international Building Code, the 1997 Uniform Code for Building
Conservation and the Historic Building Code will be the three options.
Providing another alternative will reduce the barrier (real and/or perceived) of codes
when a property owner is contemplating renovation of their downtown buildings.
The Historic Preservation Commission supports this adoption. I have attached a letter
from Terry Mozena, Chair of the commission for your reference.
The Building Code Board of Appeals has also reviewed this code and recommends its
adoption.
I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council
approval.
Michael C. Van Mflhgen
MCVM/jh
Attachment
cc: Barry Lindahl, Corporation Counsel
Cindy Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager
Rich Russell, Building Services Manager
Dan LoBianco, Dubuque Main Street, Ltd.
CITY OF DUBUQUE, IOWA
MEMORANDUM
May 1,2002
TO: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
FROM: Rich Russell, Building Services Manager
RE: Amending the City Buildings and Building Regulations (Building Code)
Ordinance
INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this memo is to recommend the amending of
the City Ordinance by adoption of the Dubuque Historic Buildings Code.
BACKGROUND: The City has previously adopted the 1997 Uniform Code for
Building Conservation for use on projects in existing buildings.
DISCUSSION: The adoption of the Dubuque Historic Buildings Code will provide
owners, contractors, architects and Building Services staff with another
alternative when dealing with existing buildings. The 2000 International Building
Code, the 1997 Uniform Code for Building Conservation and the Historic Building
Code will be the three options.
Providing another alternative will reduce the barrier (real and/or perceived) of
codes when a property owner is contemplating renovation of their downtown
buildings.
The Historic Preservation Commission supports this adoption. I have attached a
letter from Terry Mozena, Chair of the commission for your reference.
The Building Code Board of Appeals has also reviewed this code and
recommends its adoption.
The adoption of this ordinance is one of the recommendations of the Affordable
Housing Committee.
RECOMMENDATION: I recommend the Dubuque Historic Building Code be
adopted. I have attached a resolution for the City Council's use.
ACTION REQUIRED: The desired action step is for the City Manager to
recommend to the City Council adoption of the Dubuque Historic Building Code.
Plmming Services Department
City HalI
50 West 13th Street
Dubuque, Iowa 52001~1864
(563) 589-4210 office
(563) 589-4221 fax
planning@cityofdubuque.org
March 4, 2002
Rich Russell
Building Services Manager
City of Dubuque
50 W. 13th Street
Dubuque, IA 52001
Subject: Wisconsin Historic Building Code for Dubuque
Dear Mr. Russell,
The City of Dubuque Historic Preservation Commission has recently reviewed the
Wisconsin Historic Building Code and is please to support the adoption of the code for
use in Dubuque.
The City of Dubuque was one of Iowa's first cities, and therefore has a large housing
and commercial building stock that dates from the late 1800's and early 1900's. The
Wisconsin Historic Building Code will allow adaptive reuse of these structures that
wouldn't be allowed under the current building codes.
Because of the checks and balances rating system, the Wisconsin Historic Building
Code would allow changes to the structure that wouldn't affect it's architectural or
historical significance.
The adoption of the Wisconsin Historic Building Code will help preserve the City of
Dubuque's architectural and historic urban landscape, which continues to lure tourists to
this city every year.
Sincerely,
Terry Mozena, Chairperson
Historic Preservation Commission
CC: David Harris, Housing and Community Development Director
Michael Van Milligen, City Manager
Historic Preservation Commission
ORDINANCE NO. 43-02
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CITY OF DUBUQUE
CODE OF ORDINANCES CHAPTER 11 BY ADDING A
NEW ARTICLE V HISTORIC BUILDINGS, PROVIDING
ALTERNATIVE BUILDING STANDARDS FOR
PRESERVING OR RESTORING BUILDINGS OR
STRUCTURES DESIGNATED AS HISTORIC BUILDINGS
AND PROVIDING FOR THE ADMINISTRATION AND
ENFORCEMENT OF SAID STANDARDS.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF DUBUQUE, IOWA:
Section 1. That Chapter 11 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Dubuque,
Iowa be amended by adding the following new article:
ARTICLE V. Historic Buildings
Section 11-70. Purpose, Scope and Application
Section 11-71. Administration and Enforcement
Section 11-72. Definitions
Section 11-73. Building Evaluation Method
Section 11-74. Miscellaneous Building Requirements
Section 11-75. Alternate Structural Requirements
Section 11-76. Alternate Accessibility Requirements
Section 11-77. Alternate Mechanical Requirements
Section 11-78. Alternate Electrical Requirements
Section 11-79. Totally Preserved Buildings Used As Historical Exhibits
Sec. 11-70. Purpose, Scope and Application
(a) Authority. This Article constitutes the historic building code.
(b) Purpose. The purpose of this Article is to:
(1) Provide alternative building standards for preserving or restoring buildings or
structures designated as historic buildings;
(2) Facilitate the restoration of historic buildings so as to preserve their original or
restored architectural elements and features;
(3) Permit a cost-effective approach to historic preservation and restoration;
(4) Provide for the health, safety and welfare of occupants and visitors in
qualified historic buildings;
(5) Provide a process for the Building Services Department to grant variances in
order to permit the proper preservation or restoration of qualified historic
buildings; and
(6) Provide a reasonable means of access to historic buildings for people with
physical disabilities.
(c) Scope. The provisions of these sections are not retroactive.
(1) QUALIFIED BUILDINGS. This Article applies solely to qualified historic
buildings:
(a) Listed on, or nominated by the state historical society for listing on, the
national register of historic places in Iowa;
(b) Included in a district which is listed on, or nominated by the state
historical society for listing on, the national register of historic places, in
Iowa, and which has been determined by the state historical society to
contribute to the historic significance of the district;
(c) Included in a historic district designated by the procedure described in
Section 25-6 of this code.
(2) NON-QUALIFIED BUILDINGS. This Article does not apply to the following:
(a) Nursing homes;
(b) Hospitals;
(c) Community-based residential facilities;
(d) Schools;
(e) New additions to historic buildings;
(f) New buildings constructed in an historic district; and
(g) Buildings that are reproduced.
(d) Election of Code.
(1) USE REMAINS UNCHANGED.
(a) Preserved, renovated, repaired or restored. If a qualified historic
building is preserved, renovated, repaired or restored to maintain the
building in its original condition and the use remains unchanged from the
time of odginal construction, the owner may elect to be subject to one of
the following codes:
1. This Article;
2. The code in effect at the time of original construction;
3; The Uniform Code for Building Conservation; or
4. The prevailing code.
(b) Altered or remodeled. When a qualified historic building is altered or
remodeled and that portion being altered or remodeled affects the
structural strength, fire hazard, exits, required natural lighting or
replacement of major equipment, the owner may elect to be subject to one
of the following:
1, This Article; or
2. The prevailing code.
(2) USE CHANGES. When a qualified historic building is changed to a new use
or converted from a use as an exempt building, to a public building or
place of employment, the owner may elect to be subject to one of the
following codes:
(a) This Article; or
(b) The prevailing code.
(e) Impact of other codes on qualified historic buildings.
(1) CODES AND ORDINANCES. Except as specified in sub. (2), no owner of a
qualified historic building who elects to be subject to this Article may be required
to comply with any requirement of the following:
(a) Any other building code administered by the City, if the building code
concerns a matter addressed by this Article;
(b) Any other local ordinance or regulation, if the ordinance or regulation
concerns a matter addressed by this Article.
(2) LIMITATIONS. This Article shall not be construed to affect City of Dubuque
requirements relating to land use, zoning, fire districts or other similar
requirements.
(f) Verification of a qualified historic building. If an owner elects to be subject
to this Article, the owner shall prove that the building is a qualified historic
building by submitting a verification of historic building status form that is signed
by the state historical preservation officer or the Planning Services Department
verifying that the building is a qualified historic building.
(g) Application of historic building code.
(1) QUALIFIED HISTORIC BUILDINGS. Except as specified in sub. (2), if an
owner elects to be subject to this Article, those sections shall be applied in their
entirety. ·
(2) TOTALLY PRESERVED BUILDINGS USED AS HISTORICAL EXHIBITS.
Any qualified historic building that is totally preserved and used solely as an
historical exhibit shall comply with the requirements specified in Section 11-79.
Sec. 11-71. Administration and Enforcement
(a) Plan examination.
(1) PLAN SUBMITTAL. Plans and specifications for all qualified historic buildings
subject to this Article shall be submitted in accordance with the following:
(a) Altered or remodeled. If a qualified historic building is remodeled or
altered and that portion being remodeled or altered affects the structural
strength, fire hazard, exits of the building, required natural lighting, or
replacement of major equipment, plans and specifications shall be
submitted to the department for examination and be approved before
commencing work.
(b) Change in use. If a qualified historic building is changed to a new use,
or converted from a use as a nonpublic building to a public building, plans
and specifications showing compliance with this chapter shall be
submitted to the department for examination and be approved before
commencing work.
(2) BUILDINGS EXEMPT FROM DEPARTMENT PLAN SUBMITTAL.
(a) Preserved, renovated, repaired, or restored buildings. Plans and
specifications are not required to be submitted to the department for
qualified historic buildings that are preserved, renovated, repaired or
restored and the use remains unchanged from the time of original
construction.
(b) Totally preserved buildings used as historical exhibits. If a qualified
historic building complies with Section 11-79 for a totally preserved
building used as an historical exhibit, plans and specifications are not
required to be submitted to the department for examination and approval.
($) PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS AND DATA. If plans and specifications are
required to be submitted, at least 2 complete sets of plans, which are clear,
legible and permanent copies, and two copies of specifications and data shall be
submitted for examination.
(a) Preparation. Plans and specifications shall be prepared as specified in
Iowa Code Chapter 544A Architectural Law and/or Iowa Code Chapter
542B Engineering Law. All plans shall contain the name of the owner and
the address of the building. The signature and stamp or seal of the
architect, engineer or designer who prepared the plans shall appear on
the title sheet, in accordance with Chapters 544A and/or 542B.
(b) Building plans. The building plans shall provide sufficient information to
evaluate whether the building conforms to the requirements of this Article
and shall include the following.
1. Plot plan. The location of the building with respect to all property lines,
adjoining streets, alleys and any other buildings on the same lot or
property shall be indicated on the plot plan.
2. Floor plans. Floor plans shall be provided for each floor. The size and
location of all rooms, doors, windows, firewalls, toilet facilities, structural
features, exit passageways, exit lights, fire alarms, standpipes, stairs and
other pertinent information shall be indicated. Schematic exit plans shall
be provided indicating normal paths of egress.
3. Elevations. The elevations shall contain information on the exterior
appearance of the building and indicate the location and size of doors,
windows, roof shape, chimneys, exterior grade, footings and foundation
walls, and include information about the exterior materials.
4. Sections and details. Sections and details shall include information to
clarify the building design.
(c) Footing.7 and foundation. If footing and foundation plans are
required to be submitted, at least 2 complete sets of footing and
foundation plans including plot plans, schematic floor plans
showing exits, elevations and itemized structural loads shall be
submitted to the department.
(d) Heating, ventilating and air conditioning plans. Heating,
ventilating and air conditioning plans shall indicate the layout of the
system, including location of equipment and size of all piping, duct
work, dampers, fire dampers, chimneys, vents and controls. The
quantity of outside air introduced to each zone, and the quantity of
supply air and exhaust air for each room shall be listed on the
plans. The type of equipment and capacity, including the input and
output, shall be indicated on the plans or equipment schedules,
unless indicated in the specifications.
(e) Specifications. The specifications shall be properly identified
with the drawings and describe the materials and the workmanship.
(4) STRUCTURAL REPORT. When plans and specifications are required to be
submitted to the department or its authorized representatives a structural report
as specified in Section 11-75 which identifies the structural condition of the
building shall be submitted with the plans.
(5) APPROVAL APPLICATION FORMS.
(a) Plan approval application. A plan approval application approved by the
department shall be submitted along with the plans and specifications as
required in paragraph (3).
(b) Verification form. A verification of historic status form shall be
submitted and signed by the state historic preservation officer or the
Planning Services Department verifying that the building is a qualified
historic building.
(c) Building evaluation form. When the building evaluation method is used,
a completed building evaluation form as specified in Section 11-73 (d)
shall be submitted.
(b) Approvals.
(1) DEPARTMENT APPROVAL. The department shall review and make a
determination on an application for plan review within 15 business days of receipt
of the application and all forms, fees, plans and documents required to complete
the review.
(a) Plan approval
1. Conditional approval. If, upon examination, the department or its
authorized representative determines that the plans and the
application for approval substantially conform to the provisions of
this Article, a conditional approval, in writing, shall be granted. All
non-code-complying conditions stated in the conditional approval
shall be corrected before or during construction: A conditional
approval issued by the-department shall not be construed as an
assumption of any responsibility for the design or construction of
the building.
2. Denial of approval. If the department determines that the plans or
the application do not substantially conform to Sections 11-70
through 11-79, the application for conditional approval shall be
denied, in writing.
(b) Footing and foundation approval. Upon submission of 2 sets of footing
and foundation plans, a plans approval application form, structural
foundation calculations and a fee, the department, may conditionally
approve the footing and foundation plans to permit construction of the
footings and foundations for a relocated qualified historic building. The
department or its authorized representative shall review and make a
determination on an application for footing and foundation approval within
15 business days of receipt of the application and all forms, fees, plans
and documents required to complete the review.
(c) Evidence of plan approval. The architect, engineer, designer, builder, or
owner shall keep at the building site one set of plans bearing the stamp of
conditional approval and a copy of the specifications. The plans shall be open to
inspection bythe department. · · : ,.
(d) Expiration of plan approval. Plan approval bythe department or its
authorized representative shall expire 180 days after the date indicated on the
approved plans if construction has not commenced within that 180-day period or
if there has been a break in significant construction activity of more than 180
days.
(e) Inspections. Inspections shall be conducted by the department to ascertain
whether the construction or installations conform to the conditionally approved
plans, the conditional approval letter, and provisions of this Article.
(f) Fees. Fees for plan examination and inspection shall be submitted to the
department after the plans are approved and a plan review fee can be
determined, based on the hours spent reviewing. Fees for plan examination and.
permits shall be as adopted for the prevailing code.
(g) Petition for variance. The department shall consider and may grant a
variance to a provision of this chapter in accordance with procedures adopted by
the department. The petition for variance shall include a position statement from
the Fire Department.
(h) Penalties. Penalties for violations of this Article shall be assessed in
accordance with Sections 1-15 through 1-17 of this Code of Ordinances.
Sec. 11-72. Definitions
In these Sections:
(1) "Altered" or "alterations" means to modify a qualified historic building which
affects the structural strength, fire hazard, access for the disabled, energy
conservation, heating and ventilating, or electrical systems yet retains some
original or restored architectural elements or features.
(2) "Building" means any structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering
any use or occupancy.
{3) "Certified municipal register of historic property" means a register of historic
property that is part of an historic preservation ordinance promulgated by the City
of Dubuque.
{4) "Change in use" means the process of adapting a building to accomplish a
use other than that for which it was originally designed, but does not mean a
change of use within an occupancy chapter.
(5) "Department" means the Building Services Department.
{6) "Historic fabric" means the original materials, and Portions of the building still
intact when exposed or as they appeared and were used in the past.
{7) "Historic aspect" means the particular features of the historic site, building or
structure that gives it its historic significance.
(8) "National register of historic places in Iowa" means the places in Dubuque
that are listed on the national register of historic places maintained by the U.S.
Department of the Interior.
(9) "Occupancy" means the purpose for which a building or structure is used or
intended to be used as regulated in the prevailing code.
('10) "Occupancy chapter" means a classification of similar uses designated
under a chapter heading in the prevailing code.
(11) "Original material" means those features or elements of a qualified historic
building or structure that have some historic significance.
(12) "Preserved" means maintaining a qualified historic building in its present
condition or as originally constructed.
(13) "Prevailing code" means the most current editions of the International
Building Code, International Fire Code, Uniform Plumbing Code, Uniform
Mechanical Code and National Electrical Code.
(14) "Qualified historic building" means a building that is:
(a) Listed on, or nominated by the state historical society for listing on, the
national register of historic places in Dubuque;
(b) Included in a district which is listed on, or has been nominated by the
state historical society for listing on, the national register of historic places
in Dubuque, and has been determined by the state historical society to
contribute to the historic significance of the district;
(c) Listed on a cedified municipal register of historic property; or
(d) Included in a designated historical district and has been determined by
the City of Dubuque to contribute to the historic significance of the district.
(16) "Reconstituted" means a qualified historic building that is reassembled
piece-by-piece on the same site or new site.
(16) "Relocated" means any qualified historic building or a portion of a qualified
historic building that will be moved to a new location.
(17) "Remodeled" means to substantially change the structure of a qualified
historic building, including load-bearing and non-loading walls or partitions or
both; change the location of exits; or change the toilet facilities; but shall not
include maintenance, redecoration, re-roofing or alteration of mechanical or
electrical systems.
(18) "Renovated" means to make sound again any structure by cleanup and
replacement of deteriorated detail or structure.
(19) "Repaired" means to replace, cleanup, rebuild or renew any portion of a"
qualified historic building for the purpose of its maintenance.
(20) "Reproduced" means the process of rebuilding an entirely nonexistent
structure to its original appearance through archival and archeological
investigation.
(21) "Restored" means the process of accurately recovering, by the removal of
later work or the replacement of missing earlier work, as it appeared at a
particular period of time.
(22) "Structural deterioration" means a decline in the original strength of a
structural element caused by fire, water, wind, snow, insects, age or excessive
loading, which result in cracks, distortions, deflections, misalignments, abrasion,
erosion or corrosion to the structure.
(23) "Test-of-time" means a structure that has over a period of time withstood
the combined service loads and environmental stresses imposed upon it and
shows no sign of serious deterioration.
Sec. 11-73. Building Evaluation Method
(a) Scope. This section provides an alternative method for determining code
compliance for a qualified historic building being remodeled, altered or changed
in use.
(b) Building evaluation method. The building evaluation method section
provides a method for evaluating the degree of life safety of a qualified historic
building by comparing 17 building safety parameters with the requirements of the
prevailing code.
(1) LIFE SAFETY. The degree of life safety is measured in terms of:
(a) Fire safety. The category of fire safety includes the building safety
parameters affecting the structural fire resistance, detection, alarm and
extinguishing features of a qualified historic building.
(b) Means of egress. The category of means of egress includes those
building safety parameters of a qualified historic building affecting safe
evacuation.
(c) General safety. The category of general safety includes all the safety
building parameters under fire safety and means of egress.
(2) SEVENTEEN BUILDING PARAMETERS. A qualified historic building shall be
evaluated using the 17 building safety parameters indicated in Table 1.
Table 1
1. Number of Stories
2. Building Area
3. Building Setback
4. Attic Compartmentalization
5. Fire stopping
6. Mixed Occupancies
7. Vertical Openings
8. HVAC Systems
9. Smoke detection
10. Fire Alarms
11. Smoke Control
12. Exit Capacity
13. Dead ends
14. Maximum Travel
15. Emergency Lighting
16. Elevator Control
17. Sprinklers
(3) DETERMINING NUMERICAL VALUE. Each building safety parameter shall
be evaluated using the criteria specified under that particular building safety
parameter (Tables 2 - 18) in order to determine the degree of life safety provided
by the qualified historic building and the numerical value assigned for the degree
of life safety.
(a) Numerical values may not be interpolated and shall be listed according
to value and positive (+) or negative (-) sign.
(b) Numerical values may not be assigned to those spaces on the
summary sheet identified with NA.
(c) Where a building parameter does not apply, a value of zero (0) shall be
assigned.
(4) BUILDING EVALUATION FORM. After the numerical value has been
determined for each building safety parameter the same numerical value shall be
entered on the Building Evaluation form in Section 11-73 (d) under each of the
life safety categories titled, "Fire Safety", "Means of Egress" and "General Safety"
for each building parameter.
(5} TOTAL BUILDING SAFETY SCORE. After each building parameter of the
building is evaluated, the numerical values shall be algebraically summed or
totaled according to value and sign for each column on the evaluation form in
Section 11-73 (d) for fire safety, means of egress and general safety to
determine a total building safety score.
(a) If the total building safety score under each column is equal to or
greater than zero, the qualified historic building is considered to be a code
complying building and may be used for the proposed use.
(b) If the total building safety score of any one of the columns related to
fire safety, means of egress or general safety is less than zero, additional
safety measures shall be provided to bring the total numerical score of
that column to a value which is equal to or greater than zero.
(6) FILING OF BUILDING EVALUATION FORM. A copy of the building
evaluation form shall be submitted with the plans and specifications.
(a) Single use. One building evaluation form shall be completed for a
qualified historic building containing a single use or a similar use within the
same occupancy classification or where an occupancy separation is not
provided.
(b) Mixed uses. One building evaluation form for each use shall be
completed for a qualified historic building containing uses not within the
same occupancy classifications, separated by an occupancy separation.
(c) Building evaluation procedures. When the building evaluation method is
used, the process specified in this section shall be used in its entirety. The
building evaluation method analyzes a qualified historic building in accordance
with the building safety parameters specified in this section and compares them
against the prevailing code to determine a numerical value of safety provided in
the qualified historic building.
(1) NUMBER OF STORIES.
(a) Class of Construction
1. The class of construction of the qualified historic building shall be
determined by comparing the actual building elements to those
specified in the prevailing code.
2. Buildings with different classes of construction shall be separated
with a separation specified in the prevailing code unless the lowest
class of construction is used as the basis for the evaluation.
(b) The allowable number of stories for the class of construction of the
qualified historic building shall be determined in accordance with the
prevailing code and the class of construction or height requirements or
both as specified in the applicable occupancy chapters.
(c) A single numerical value from Table 2 shall be determined and the
numerical value and its sign, either positive or negative, shall be
entered on the evaluation form in Section 11-73 (d) under the safety
parameter, number of stories, for fire safety, means of egress and
general safety.
TABLE 2 Safety Parameter/Number of Stories Numerical Value.
Each story above the maximum number of stories allowed -5
Complies with prevailing code 0
Each story below the maximum number of stories +5
(maximum value, +10)
(2)
BUILDING AREA.
(a) The allowable building area of a qualified historic building shall be
determined using the allowable area requirements for the class of
construction and use as specified in the prevailing code and the allowable
area requirements specified in the applicable occupancy chapter.
(b) If the qualified histodc building has more stories than permitted by the
prevailing code, the maximum number of stories allowed for that class of
construction in the prevailing code shall be used to determine the maximum
allowable area requirements for the building.
(c) When the entire building is protected by an approved automatic
sprinkler system complying with the prevailing code, the allowable building
area may be increased'as specified in the prevailing code.
(d) Where an assembly hall is located in a building with other uses, the
building shall comply with the class of construction requirements as specified
in the prevailing code.
(e) A single numerical value shall be determined from Table 3 and the
numerical value and its sign, either positive or negative, shall be entered on
the evaluation form in Section 11-73 (d) under the safety parameter, building
area, for fire safety,, means of egress and general safety.
TABLE 3 Building Area Numerical Value.
More than 150% of the allowed area -5
131% - 150% of allowed -4
121% - 130% of allowed -3
111% - 120% of allowed -2
90% -110% of allowed area 0
Where code does not have area limitations 0
80% - 89% of allowed +2
70% - 79% of allowed +3
50% - 69% of allowed +4
Less than 50% of the area allowed +5
(3)
BUILDING SETBACKS.
(a) The building setback shall be compared with those specified in the class
of construction requirements in the prevailing code and the class of
construction requirements in the appficable occupancy chapter.
(b) A single numerical value shall be determined from Table 4 using the worst
case condition and the numerical value and its sign, either positive or
negative, shall be entered on the evaluation form in Section 11-73 (d) under
the safety parameter, building setback, for fire safety and general safety.
TABLE 4
Building Setbacks Numerical Value.
Closer than allowed under the prevailing code -2
Complies with prevailing code 0
Greater than the prevailing code +2
(4) ATTIC COMPARTMENTALIZATION.
(a) The attic area of a qualified historic building shall be evaluated against
the compartmentalization standards specified in the prevailing code.
(b) A single numerical value shall be determined from Table 5 and the
numerical value and its sign, either positive or negative, shaft be entered
on the evaluation form in Section 11-73 (d) under the safety parameter,
attic compartmentalization, for fire safety and general safety.. ·
(c) If the total attic area is less than 3,200 square feet, the numerical value
is 0.
(d) All existing or proposed building features used or considered under this
subsection shall be shown or indicated on the plans submitted for review.
TABLE 5 Attic Compartmentalization Numerical Value.
Attic compartmentalized into areas > 3200 square feet-3
Complies with prevailing code (= 3200 square feet) 0
Attic compartmentalized into areas < 2000 square feet +3
(5) FIRESTOPPING.
(a) The fire-stopping characteristics of a qualified historic building shall be
evaluated in accordance with the fire-stopping requirements specified in
the prevailing code.
(b) if the existing wall material is removed and the wail cavity is exposed,
fire stopping shall be provided in accordance with the prevailing code.
(c) A single numerical value shall be determined from Table 6 for the
entire building based on the worst case condition and the numerical value
and its sign, either positive or negative, shall be entered on the evaluation
form in Section 11-73 (d) under the safety parameter, fire-stopping, for fire
safety and general safety.
TABLE 6 Fire-stopping Numerical Value.
No fire-stopping or No verification of fire-stopping -5
Fire-stopping provided at basement and attic levels and wherever
accessible -3
Complies with prevailing code (or verified) 0
(6) MIXED OCCUPANCIES.
(a) Occupancy separations in a qualified historic building shall be
evaluated as required under the occupancy chapters of the prevailing
code and the occupancy separation requirements in the applicable
occupancy chapters.
(b) A single numerical value shall be determined from Table 7 based on
the worst case condition and the numerical value and its sign, either
positive or negative, shall be entered on the evaluation form in Section 11-
73 (d) under the safety parameter, mixed occupancies, for fire safety and
general safety.
TABLE 7 Occupancy Separations Numerical Value.
No separation provided, but required -5
Provided, but 2-hours less than required -4
Provided, but 1-hour less than required -2
Complies with prevailing code for fire resistive ratings 0
No separation is required 0
Provided and I or more hours greater than required +2*
*Where a 3-hour is required and a 4-hour is provided, the value shall be 0.
(7) VERTICAL OPENINGS.
(a) The fire-resistive rating of enclosures of stairway exits, hoistways,
escalator openings and other shafts within a qualified historic building or
openings between 2 or more floors shall be evaluated in accordance with
the prevailing code.
(b) Atriums more than 3 levels shall not be considered in the evaluation of
vertical openings, but shall comply with Section 11-74 (b).
(c) Where assembly halls are located in buildings with other uses, the
required exits shall comply with the prevailing code.
(d) A single numerical value shall be determined in accordance with Table
8 based on the worst case condition and the numerical value and its sign,
either positive or negative, shall be entered on the evaluation form in
Section 11-73 (d) under the safety parameter, vertical openings, for fire
safety, means of egress and general safety.
TABLE 8 Vertical Openings Numerical Value (per shaft or opening).
No enclosure -3
Enclosure with no rating -2
Enclosure provided but 1-hour < the required protection level -1
Complies with prevailing code 0
1-hour required, but 2-hour provided +1
(8) HEATING, VENTILATING, AND AIR CONDITIONING.
(a) The number of floors in a qualified historic building served by an
individual heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system shall be
evaluated in accordance with the prevailing code.
(b) A single numerical value shall be determined from Table 9 and the
numerical value and its sign, either positive or negative, shall be entered
on the evaluation form in Section 11-73 (d) under the safety parameter,
HVAC, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety.
TABLE 9 HVAC Systems Numerical Value.
Greater than 5--floor levels served by undampered duct system,
combustibles in air plenums, or corridors used as air plenums. -5
3 to 5-floor levels served by undampered duct system -2
2-floor levels served by undampered duct system -1
Complies with prevailing code or provided with fire dampers 0
Multi-level buildings having 1-floor level HVAC system or central system
with no ducts serving other floor levels +5
(9) SMOKE DETECTION.
(a) A qualified historic building shall be evaluated for the building's ability
to detect smoke from a fire, based on the location and operation of smoke
detectors that are in addition to the smoke detectors required by the
applicable occupancy chapters of the prevailing code.
(b) A single numerical value shall be determined from Table 10 and the
numerical value and its sign, either positive or negative, shall be entered
on the evaluation form in Section 11-73 (d) under the safety parameter,
smoke detection, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety.
TABLE 10 Smoke Detection Numerical Value. Complies with prevailing code 0
Elevator lobby only and not required by the prevailing code +1
HVAC supply only and not required by the prevailing code +2
HVAC supply and elevator lobby and not required by the prevailing code
+3
All corridors, in addition to those required by the code, including elevator
lobbies +4*
Total space with interconnection of smoke detectors and building fire
alarm system and not required by the prevailing code +5
*If required detectors meet the requirements for corridor protection, enter
0.
(10)
FIRE ALARMS.
(a) The fire alarm system shall be evaluated in accordance with the
prevailing code and the fire alarm requirements in the applicable
occupancy chapter.
(b) A single numerical value shall be determined from Table 11 and the
numerical value and its sign, either positive or negative, shall be entered
on the evaluation form in Section 11-73 (d) under the safety parameter,
fire alarms, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety.
TABLE 11 Fire Alarms Numerical Value·
Manual fire alarm system required, but not provided -5
Manual fire alarm system required and provided, but does not comply with
the prevailing code -2
Complies with the prevailing code 0
Manual fire alarm system provided but not required* +1
Manual fire alarm and voice alarm or manual fire alarm with public
address system provided; but not required** +3
Central control station*** **** +4
Central control station and interconnected to a remote control station
which is permanently monitored*** **** +5
*If a numerical value of (+5) is taken under (9) smoke detection, the
numerical value for this section is 0.
**Voice alarm and public address system shall be activated from a
location which is occupied by an employee during all periods of building
occupancy.
***The central control station must comply with the prevailing code
****Fire department may require systems to be interconnected with the fire
'department.
(11)
SMOKE CONTROL.
(a) The ability to control the movement of smoke from a fire by natural or
mechanical venting, exhaust or pressurization systems in a qualified
historic building shall be evaluated in accordance with the prevailing code
for the entire building based on the worst case condition.
(b) A single numerical value shall be determined from Table 12 and the
numerical value and its sign, either positive or negative, shall be entered
on the evaluation form in Section 11-73 (d) under the safety parameter,
smoke control, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety.
(c) If a building is 2 stories or less in height, the numerical value is 0.
TABLE 12 Smoke Control Numerical Value.
Operable windows, that are operable without special keys or tools, are
provided throughout the entire building, but not required +2
Automatic smoke vents provided throughout entire building, but not
· required +3
One smoke proof stair enclosure provided and building has operable
windows, but neither required +5
Pressurized stairs (all stairs) provided, but not required +7
Engineered smoke control and removal system provided that covers the
entire building, but not required +10
(12)
EXIT CAPACITY.
(a) The means of egress by number of exits, location of exits, occupant
load and capacity.of exits in a qualified historic building shall be evaluated
in accordance with the prevailing code for the entire building based on the
worst case condition.
(b) The minimum number of exits shall be provided as specified in the
prevailing code for the applicable occupancy chapter.
(c) A single numerical value shall be determined from Table 13 and the
numerical value and its sign, either positive or negative, shall be entered
on the evaluation form in Section 11~73 (d) under the safety parameter,
exit capacity, for means of egress and general safety.
(d) If exiting differs on various floor levels, the worst case floor shall be
evaluated.
TABLE 13 Exit Capacity Number Value (per exit). Complies with prevailing code 0
Horizontal exits are provided in addition to the required exits* +2
Exits to grade or enclosed stairs exceed the minimum number of exits**
+3
Eliminate a fire escape exit and provide a code complying enclosed
stairway exit serving 3 or more levels +5
*No more than one-half the exits may be horizontal exits.
**Exits shall be at least 20 feet.apart.
(13)
DEAD ENDS.
(a) The length of the travel path in which the building occupants are
confined to a single direction of egress shall be evaluated in accordance
with Table 14 for the entire building based on the worst case condition.
(b) Dead ends greater than 30 ft. are not permitted.
(c) The creation of new dead end corridors is prohibited.
(d) A single numerical value shall be determined from Table 14 and the
numerical value and its sign, either positive or negative, shall be entered
on the evaluation form in Section 11-73 (d) under the safety parameter,
dead ends, for means of egress and general safety.
TABLE 14 Dead Ends Numerical Value (per dead end). Dead ends more than 20 feet -5
Complies with prevailing code or dead ends less than 20 feet 0
(14)
MAXIMUM TRAVEL DISTANCE TO AN EXIT.
(a) The length of travel to a required exit in a qualified historic building
shall be evaluated in accordance with the prevailing code..
(b) When the entire building is protected by an approved automatic
sprinkler system, complying with the prevailing code, the travel distances
may be increased as specified in the prevailing code.
(c) Travel distances that exceed 25% above the required limitations are
not permitted.
(d) A single numerical value shall be determined from Table 15 and the
numerical value and its sign, either positive or negative, shall be entered
on the evaluation form in Section 11-73 (d) under the safety parameter,
maximum travel distance, for means of egress and general safety.
TABLE 15 Maximum Travel Distance Numerical Value.
111% - 125% of limit allowed -5
90% - 110% of prevailing code limit 0
50% - 89% of limit allowed* +3
Less than.50% of limit al{owed* +5
*For residential occupancies no credit may be taken for reduced exit
distance.
(15)
EMERGENCY POWER.
(a) The availability of emergency power for emergency lighting in a
qualified historic building shall be evaluated in accordance with the
prevailing code.
(b) A single numerical value shall be determined from Table 16 and the
numerical value and its sign, either positive or negative, shall be entered
on the evaluation form in Section 11-73 (d) under the safety parameter,
emergency power, for means of egress and general safety.
TABLE 16 Emergency Power Numerical Value.
Emergency power required, but not provided -5
Complies with prevailing code 0
Emergency power provided, but not required* +2
*Does not apply to buildings 2 stories or less in height.
(16)
ELEVATOR CONTROL.
(a) The elevator equipment and controls that can be used by the fire
department in a qualified historic building to rescue building occupants
from upper floors during a fire when installed shall be evaluated in
accordance with the prevailing code.
(b) A single numerical value shall be determined from Table 17 and the
numerical value and its sign, either positive or negative, shall be entered
on the evaluation form in Section 11-73 (d) under the safety parameter,
elevator control, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety
TABLE 17 Elevator Control Numerical Value.
No elevators in buildings 3 stories or more in height -3 '
No elevator in buildings 2 stories or less in height 0
Elevator with fire department control in buildings 3 stories or less in height
+1
Elevator with automatic recall in buildings 3 stories or more in height +4
Elevator with fire department control and automatic recall in buildings 3
stories or more in height +5
(17)
SPRINKLERS.
(a) The sprinkler system provided in a qualified historic building shall be
evaluated in accordance with the prevailing code and the applicable
occupancy chapters.
(b) A single numerical value shall be determined from Table 18 and the
numerical value and its sign, either positive or negative, shall be entered
on the evaluation form in Section 11-73 (d) under the safety parameter,
sprinklers, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety.
(c) If the bui.lding area evaluation was based on sprinkler protection as
allowed by Section 11-73 (c)(2), the numerical value under this section is
TABLE 18 Sprinklers Numerical Value.
System required but not provided* -5
Existing sprinkler system is required but does not meet prevailing code** -
1
Sprinkler system is not required and not provided 0
Sprinkler system required and provided in accordance with the prevailing
code 0
Existing sprinkler system is not required and does not meet prevailing
code* +1
Sprinklers provided in unseparated hazardous areas and exit .
passageways, but not required +3
Partial sprinkler system is provided throughout at least 75% of the
build!ng, but not required +5
If sprinkler system is required, and regular sprinkler heads are replaced
with quick response heads +5
Complete sprinkler system provided throughout entire building, but not
required +7
Complete sprinkler system complying with NFPA 13 for quick response
heads is provided throughout the entire building, but not required***+10
*If-5 was entered under Section 11-73 (c)(2), numerical value is 0.
** Does not apply to partial systems.
***If-5 was entered under Section 11-73 (c)(2), numerical value is +5.
(d) Building evaluation form. The numerical values determined in Section 11-
73 (c) shall be entered in Table 19.
TABLE 19
Safety Fire Safety Means of General Comments
Parameters Egress Safety
1. Number of
Stories
2. Building Area
3. Building NA
Setback
4. Attic NA
Compart-
mentalization ' '
5. Firestopping NA
6. Mixed NA
Occupancies
7. Vertical
Openings
8. HVAC
Systems
9. Smoke
Detection
10. Fire Alarms
11, Smoke NA
Control
12. Exit NA
Capacity
13. Dead Ends NA
14. Maximum NA
Travel Distance
15. Emergency NA
Power
16. Elevator
Control
17. Sprinklers
TOTAL SAFETY
SCORE
Sec. 11-74. Miscellaneous Building Requirements
(a) Purpose. The purpose of this section is to provide alternative building
standards for qualified historic buildings.'
(b) Atriums. Where the use of a qualified historic b0ilding is changed to a new
use and an atrium exists, the atrium may remain subject to the following:
(1) THREE LEVELS OR LESS. Except as provided in subsection (3),
atriums in a qualified historic building serving 3 levels or less may remain
as constructed; however, the atrium will be considered an unenclosed
shaft under Section 11-73 (c)(7).
(2) MORE THAN THREE LEVELS. Atriums in a qualified historic buildings
serving more than 3 levels, but not exceeding 8 levels, may be permitted
subject to the requirements in the prevailing code or the alternate atrium
standards specified in subsection (3).
(3) ALTERNATE ATRIUM STANDARDS.
(a) Separations. The atrium opening shall be separated at each
floor by non-rated partitions or glazing.
(b) Doors. Doom shall be provided in the openings separating the
atrium from the floor: ' ' '
1. Existing doors may be non-rated.
2. New doom shall be of a solid wood core type or
particleboard core type door and may have glazing. Door
frames may be of wood.
3. All doors shall be automatic self-closing in accordance
with the prevailing code. The hold-open device shall be
activated by a product of combustion detector which
responds to products of combustion other than heat.
(c) Smoke detection. A smoke detection system, interconnected to
a building fire alarm system, shall be provided on each floor at the
atrium perimeter.
(d) Smoke removal A mechanical smoke removal system shall be
provided at the top of the atrium to exhaust smoke to the outside.
1. The smoke removal system shall be activated by activation of 2
or more of the detectors required by paragraph (c) above.
2~ The smoke removal system shall exhaust 6 air changes per hour
based on the volume of the atrium and spaces open to the atrium
but not less than 40,000 CFM. ....
3. The smoke removal system shall be subject to the prevailing
Mechanical Code.
(e) Exiting. At least one exit shall be provided from each space on
each floor level that is independent of any exit located in/or through
the atrium.
(4) NEW ATRIUMS. Atriums constructed on or after January 1, 1986, shall
comply with the requirement of the prevailing code.
(c) Roof coverings. Existing roof coverings not in conformance with the ratings
specified in Chapter 15 of the prevailing code may be allowed to remain on the
building. Repairs may be made up to 50% of the entire roof surface with
materials that match the existing roof coverings. If more than 50% of the entire
roof surface needs to be repaired, the roof covering shall conform to the
requirements of the prevailing code. Where wood shingles are utilized to
preserve the historic features, the shingles shall be of a fire treated type and of a
class C rating.
(d) Illuminated exit signs. Exit signs shall be provided in accordance with the
prevailing code.
(e) Fire escapes.
(1) PERMITTED USES. Existing fire escapes constructed in accordance
with the prevailing code or the prevailing Uniform Code for Building
Conservation may continue to be used as an exit unless the building use
is changed to a use where fire escapes are not permitted.
(2) EXITS TO FIRE ESCAPES. Every fire escape shall be accessible from
a public passageway, or shall be directly accessible from each occupied
room. Exits to fire escapes shall be standard exit doom as specified in the
prevailing code. Access to a required fire escape platform may be
provided with an interior stairs complying with the prevailing code.
(3) STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS. All existing fire escapes intended to be
used as a required exit shall be inspected, structurally analyzed or load
tested prior to use. A written report from the engineer or architect stating
the results of the inspection and structural analysis or load test shall be
submitted to the department. The report shall document the physical
condition of the fire escape, condition of the attachment of the fire escape
to the exterior wall and capacity of the fire escape to support imposed
loads. The report shall outline what corrective action is necessary, if any,
and shall be submitted to the department.
(f) Stairway requirements. Except for the following, existing required exit
stairways shall comply with the prevailing code:
(1) WIDTH. Minimum stairway width shall be at least 36 inches.
(2) RISER AND TREADS.
(a) Ten or/ess people. Existing stairways serving 10 or less people
may have riser and tread dimensions not to exceed a 45° angle
with the horizontal.
(b) More than 10 people. All required exit stairways shall have a
uniform rise of not more than 7-3/4 inches and a uniform tread not
less than 9-1/2 inches, measuring from riser to riser and tread to
tread.
(3) HANDRAILS. Except for the following, handrails shall comply with the
prevailing code.
(a) Extensions. The 12-inch handrail extension as specified in the
prevailing code at the bottom and topof stairways does not apply to
existing stairways.
(b) Openings below top rail. Existing handrails protecting the open
sides of stairways and ramps may have an opening no larger than
12 inches between the rails.
(g) Guardrails. Except for the following, guardrails shall comply with the
prevailing code.
(1) HEIGHT. If the height of a guardrail is less than 36 inches, an
additional rail shall be provided to the top of the rail to increase the overall
height to 42 inches.
(2) OPENINGS BELOWTOP RAIL. Additional rails provided in
accordance with subsection (1) above shall be installed such that the
distance between the 2 top rails does not allow the passage of an object
with a diameter larger than 12 inches.
(h) Doors. Exit door size and swing shall comply with the prevailing code.
Double doors may be used with a door leaf less than 32 inches in width provided
the total door width measures at least 36 inches.
(i) Sanitary facilities. Sanitary facilities shall be provided in accordance with the
prevailing code.
Sec. 11-75, Alternate Structural Requirements
{a) Purpose. The purpose of this section is to ensure that qualified historic
buildings are structurally sound, while allowing the significant historic fabric of the
building to remain.
(b) Scope. All qualified historic buildings shall meet the loading requirements
specified in this section.
(c) Application.
(1) ALTERNATE STRUCTURAL REQUIREMENTS. Except as provided in
sub. (2) below, this section applies to historic buildings being:
(a) Reconstituted;
(b) Repaired;
(c) Remodeled; or
(d) Changed in use.
(2) NON-HISTORIC ADDITIONS AND ALTERATIONS.
(a) Structurally separated. New additions that are structurally
separated from the existing qualified historic structure shall comply
with the loading requirements of the prevailing code.
(b) Affect existing structure. New additions or alterations which
impose vertical or lateral loads on an existing qualified historic
building are not permitted unless the supporting structure of the
qualified historic building is capable of supporting the imposed load
or unless the structure is augmented to meet the additional
imposed loads.
(d) Structural report.
(1) WHEN REQUIRED. A structural report shall be prepared on historic
structures in accordance with the following:
(a) Less than 25%. When a qualified historic building is remodeled
or changed in use which affects less than 25% of the total area of
the building, a structural analysis shall be performed on that portion
being remodeled.
(b) 25% ormore. When a qualified historic building is remodeled or
changed in use that affects 25% or more of the total area of the
building, a complete structural analysis shall be performed on the
entire building.
(c) Reconstituted building. Prior to reconstituting any vacant
qualified historic building, a structural analysis of the entire building
shall be performed.
(d) Repairs and replacements. If any part of an historic building is
repaired or replaced, a structural analysis shall be performed on
that portion being repaired or replaced showing that the repair or
replacement equals or exceeds the structural capability of the part
being repaired or replaced.
(2) VISUAL EXAMINATION. A visual examination shall be made by an
engineer or architect to determine if the building structure has cracks,
distortions, sagging, excessive deflections, significant misalignment, signs
of leakage and peeling of finishes caused by fire, wind, water or snow.
(3) ANALYSIS. A structural analysis shall be prepared by an Iowa
registered engineer or amhitect that describes the structural condition of
the building.
(a) The analysis shall demonstrate that the building structure can
support the imposed live loads.
(b) An analysis shall be made of the floors to determine the actual
load carrying capacity.
(c) An analysis shall be made of the roof to determine the actual
load carrying capacity or, the architect or engineer shall submit a
statement, signed and sealed that the roof structure has stood the
test of time described in Section 11-75 (e) (2).
(d) An analysis shall be made to determine if the structural frame
can carry all combined loads.
(e) Alternative standards. The alternative standards for loading and materials
may be used in lieu of those in the prevailing code.
(1) FLOOR LIVE LOADS.
(a) Reductions. Except for storage areas and assembly
occupancies, the following floor live loads may be used in all
occupancies in lieu of augmenting the structure to accommodate
the required loading specified in the prevailing code.
1. The live load specified in the prevailing code may be
reduced by 15% for flexure if 3 or more wood structural
members are spaced less than 24 inches on center and are
joined by a load-distributing element. This live load reduction
may not be applied to-the supports or if the original design
used repetitive' allowable stresses.
2. The reductions specified in the prevailing code for large
tributary areas which comply with the prevailing code may be
used.
3. The live load specified in the prevailing code may be
reduced by 10% if the existing structure provides a 2-hour
fire-resistive rating. This reduction may be applied to steel
and concrete systems only.
4. The permitted reductions specified in subsections 1-3
above are not to be used cumulatively.
(b) Posting. If the actual live load capability is less than the required
live load specified in the prevailing code, the actual live capability
load shall be conspicuously posted and no greater load may be
imposed upon the building.
(2) TEST OF TIME STANDARD. The test of time standard may be applied
in lieu of meeting the design load requirements for roof dead load, live
load and wind load specified in the prevailing code where no change of
loading will occur, providing:
(a) The historic building has been determined to support the
imposed floor loads; and
(b) The building has stood for more than 20 years with no visible
signs of deterioration.
(f) Use of archaic materials. This section establishes alternative standards that
may be used to evaluate the performance of archaic materials and assemblies in
qualified historic buildings.
(1) ALLOWABLE STRESSES AND CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS.
Allowable stresses and construction requirements for archaic materials
may be assigned on the basis of comparison with similar conventional
codified materials or tests or both.
(a) Archaic codes. Whenever possible, allowable stresses and
construction requirements shall be assigned on the basis of the
code in effect at the time of construction.
(b) The allowable stresses may be determined as follows:
1. Wood. Unless wood is laboratory tested, the allowable
stress shall not exceed the lowest allowable stress for that
particular species and grade. If the grade and species can
not be determined, the allowable stress for the lowest grade
and species may be used.
2. Masonry. Allowable stresses for masonry may be
determined by laboratory results.
3. Steel. The allowable stresses for steel may be determined
using earlier editions of steel design manuals for the period
when the steel was fabricated.
4. Concrete. The allowable stresses for concrete may be
determined using earlier editions of concrete design
manuals.
(2) STRUCTURAL CHANGES. Structural changes to buildings that are
restored, altered or repaired may be made with the same materials of
which the existing building or structure was constructed in order to
maintain historical integrity.
(3) FIRE RESISTANT PROPERTIES.
(a) The fire resistance of an archaic building element may be
determined from tables on fire ratings of archaic materials and
assemblies recognized by the department and in accordance with
the following conditions:
1. The building element shall be constructed of materials
with the same dimensions and properties as indicated in the
tables;
2. The thickness shall be at least equal to, or greater than
that specified in the tables;
3. All penetrations in the building element, or assembly, for
electrical, plumbing and heating, ventilating and air
conditioning systems shall be packed with noncombustible
cementitious materials and so fixed that the packing material
will not fall out when it loses its water of hydration; and
4. Any effect of age, wear and tear shall be repaired so that
the building element is sound, and the original thickness of
all components is maintained.
(b) Fire resistance ratings for a building element may be
determined by:
1. An actual test by an approved testing laboratory as ·
specified in prevailing code;
2. Typical examples as listed in the prevailing code; or
3. An approved calculation method that utilizes the principles
and theories of heat flow, mechanical properties, deflection,
capacity and as outlined in the prevailing code.
(c) New materials. The fire resistance of any new assembly or
materials shall conform to the provisions of the prevailing code.
Sec. 11-76. Alternate Accessibility Requirements
(a) Purpose. The purpose of this section is to ensure that qualified historic
buildings provide access for people with physical disabilities, while maintaining
the significant historic fabric or historic aspects of such buildings.
(b) Accessibility requirements. All qualified historic buildings being altered or
remodeled, added to or changed in use shall comply with the requirements of the
prevailing code or the prevailing Uniform COde for Building Conservation and
ADA,AG 4.1.7.
Sec, 11-77. Alternate Mechanical Requirements
(a) Purpose. The purpose of this section is to ensure that qualified historic
buildings are properly heated, ventilated and air conditioned, while allowing the
significant historic fabric of the building to remain.
(b) Application.
(1) ALTERNATE MECHANICAL REQUIREMENTS. Except for historic
exhibits and seasonal use buildings, used during the period of May 15
through September 15, all qualified historic buildings shall be provided
with a heating system.
(a) The building shall be equipped with heating equipment that
equals or exceeds the transmission losses and ventilation of
infiltration losses, whichever are greater. The heat loss shall be
based on the design criteria for outside temperatures and interior
design temperatures for the specific use specified in the prevailing
code.
(b) If the existing heating equipment output equals or exceeds the
heat loss, the heating equipment may be used provided all the
safety devices are in working order or the defective safety devices
are replaced.
(c) If room sizes are increased and the heating equipment serving
the room has sufficient capacity to meet the increased heat loss,
the equipment may be used provided:
1. The equipment has sufficient capacity to meet the new
heat loss and the equipment can operate safely at the
increased temperature or pressure; and
2. Safety devices are repaired or replaced to operate at the
increased temperature or pressure.
(d) If room sizes are increased and the heating equipment serving
the room does not have sufficient capacity to meet the increased
heat loss:
1. Additional equipment shall be added to meet the new heat
loss; or
2. New heating equipment shall be provided to offset the
additional heat loss.
(e) If rooms are reduced in size such that the resulting heat loss is
less than that provided to the space, the existing equipment may be
altered by reducing the heat to that space if reducing the heat does
not affect the safety devices regulating the system.
(f) Any alteration or remodeling of existing heating equipment or
systems shall conform to the prevailing code for that portion being
remodeled or altered. Unless replaced with a like kind, the
replacement shall conform to the prevailing code.
(2) LIGHT AND VENTILATION. Except for historic exhibits., all qualified
historic buildings shall be provided with natural light and ventilation as
specified in the prevailing code.
(3) AIR CONDITIONING. Existing air conditioning systems may be .
allowed to remain. Any alteration made to an existing air conditioning
system shall conform to the prevailing code.
Sec. 11-78. Alternate Electrical Requirements
(a) Purpose. The purpose of this section is to ensure that qualified historic
buildings are properly wired while allowing the significant historic fabric of the
building to remain.
(b) Application.
(1) QUALIFIED HISTORIC BUILDINGS. Except for historic buildings
complying with subsection (2) below, all other qualified historic buildings
shall be serviced with electricity as follows:
(a) Change of use. If a qualified historic building is changed in use,
a load calculation of the building shall be performed for the
proposed use. If the load calculation exceeds the actual service
provided, the service shall be upgraded to meet the new load.
(b) Reconstituted. If a qualified historic building is without electrical
service and is going to be reconnected to electrical service, the
existing wiring shall be inspected at the service panels, outlets,
switches and where exposed to determine the physical condition of
the wire and equipment.
(c) Alterations and repairs. Any alterations, repair or replacement to
an existing conductor, outlet, switch and equipment in a qualified
historic building shall be made in accordance with the prevailing
electrical code for that portion being altered, repaired or replaced.
(d) Existing building. Existing qualified historic buildings may use
the existing electrical system without upgrading the electrical
system to the prevailing code.
(2) HISTORIC EXHIBITS. Qualified historic buildings used as historic
exhibits do not require electrical service.
Sec. 11-79. Totally Preserved Buildings Used As Historical Exhibits
(a) Scope. This section establishes alternative standards for a qualified historic
building that is open to the public and used solely as an historic exhibit. Repairs
may be made without conformity to the prevailing code to restore the building to
the original condition.
(b) Historic exhibits.
(1) Exempt. Except as specified in subsection (2) below, a qualified
historic building used as an historic exhibit is exempt from complying
with the requirements of the prevailing code or other sections of this
Article.
(2) Minimum safety requirements. The following minimum safety
requirements shall be complied with:
(a) The historic building is open to the public only under the
supervision of a tour guide;
(b) The historic building is not lived in, slept in or worked in except
for the purpose of demonstrating to the public how people lived in a
particular era;
(c) No smoking is allowed in the building;
(d) No open flame equipment is installed in the building, other than
fireplaces and original equipment;
(e) Fire extinguishers are provided, but may be located in a non-
conspicuous location on the premise;
(f) At least one smoke detector is provided for each 1,200 square
feet of area with a minimum of one detector per floor level. Where
electricity is available, the smoke detectors shall be connected to
the electrical power. Where no electrical power is available, the
smoke detector may be of a battery type. Smoke detectors shall be
tested weekly;
(g) Access for the disabled is provided in accordance with Section
11-76;
(h) The capacity of the floor system shall be determined by a
registered architect or engineer and any changes that are
necessary shall be made prior to the building being open to the
public;
(i) Historic buildings provided with only one exit shall be restricted
to a capacity of 10 persons located above the first floor at any one
time;
(j) Signs shall be posted in the building identifying and warning of
stairs and headroom clearance that do not conform to the prevailing
code; and
(k) Exit signs shall be provided in accordance with the prevailing
code in buildings occupied prior to 1/2 hour before sunrise and 1/2
hour after sunset and in all areas not provided with natural lighting.
(c) Sanitary requirements. Toilet facilities shall be made available in
accordance with the prevailing code. The facilities may be located on the site and
serve more than one historic exhibit.
Section 2. This Ordinance shall be in effect after its final passage, aPl~)~-ai"and
publication as required by law.
Passed, approved and adopted this 3rd
__ dayof June , 2002.
Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk