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15.04 – Building Code

15.04.010 – 2021 International Building Code – Regulations Adopted and Modified

The 2021 International Building Code issued by the International Code Council, Inc., 4051 West Flossmoor Road, Country Club Hills, IL, 60478, one (1) full edition of which has been and are on file in the Office of the Clerk of the City of St. Charles, Illinois, for more than thirty (30) days, together with the amendments listed in Section 15.04.015 hereof, are hereby adopted as the regulations governing the construction of buildings and structures within the City of St. Charles, except for one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories in height, which are covered by Section 15.04.020. (For adoption of administrative provisions in Chapter 1 of the International Building Code, see Chapter 15.101).

(2022-M-24: § 1; 2016-M-8; 2010-M-42: § 1; 2004-M-62: § 1)

15.04.015 – Amendments to the 2021 International Building Code

1.         Amend Section 202 “Definitions” by adding the following:

Townhouse: A single family dwelling unit constructed in a group of 3, 4, 5, or 6 attached units in which each unit extends from foundation to roof and with open

space on at least two (2) sides. Dwelling units where more than six (6) units are attached shall be governed by code provisions applicable to multiple family dwellings, rather than the provisions of this one (1) and two (2) family dwelling code.

2.         Amend Section 410.6 “Automatic Sprinkler System” by deleting exceptions #2.

3.         Delete the provision in section 706.3 “Materials” in its entirety and substitute the following therefore:

706.3 Materials: Firewalls shall be constructed of approved masonry materials or other similar approved product or assembly.

4.         Delete the provisions in Section 903.2 “Automatic Sprinkler Systems – Where

Required” inclusive of subsections 903.2.1, 903.2.2, 903.2.3, 903.2.4, 903.2.6, 903.2.7, 903.2.9 and 903.2.10 and substitute the following therefore:

903.2 Where required. Notwithstanding any language to the contrary, that is contained elsewhere in this code, an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with the provisions of all applicable codes and standards shall be provided and maintained in full operating condition throughout every story and basement of all Use Groups as listed in section 302.1 of the International Building Code.

Exceptions:

  1. Structures not considered to be habitable or occupiable of less than 5,000 square feet, with a low fire or life hazard risk and located not less than 30 feet from another structure. Buildings of this type would normally be classified within the Utility and Miscellaneous Group U as described in section 312 of the International Building Code, Provided:
    1. The structure is continually monitored by an approved automatic fire alarm system.
  2. Open Parking Garages

The requirements, contained in these exceptions, shall be subject to modifications by the authority having jurisdiction to compensate for particular building conditions to meet the intention of the code

5.         Amend Section 903.6 and add 903.6.1 as follows:

903.6.1 Change of use classification. Notwithstanding any language to the contrary contained elsewhere in the codes adopted, an automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a building, when the use classification of the building or a space within the building changes, provided one of the following conditions exists:

  1. If the new or proposed use is more hazardous, based on life and fire risk, than the existing use. (see table 903.6.1)

This requirement shall be subject to modifications by the authority having jurisdiction to compensate for particular building conditions.

Hazard Category

Table 903.6.1

Relative Hazard

Occupancy Classifications

1 (highest hazard)

H

2

I-2, I-3, I-4

3

A, E, I-1, M, R-1, R-2, R-4

4

B, F-1, R-3, S-1

5 (lowest hazard)

F-2, S-2, U

6.          Delete the provisions of Section 907.2 “Where required” including the exceptions and substitute the following therefore:

907.2 Where required. An approved fire alarm system installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and NFPA 72 shall be provided in new buildings and structures in accordance with Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.23 and provide occupant notification in accordance with 907.5, unless other requirements are provided by another section of this code. Notwithstanding any provision of Section 907 and its subsections to the contrary, an approved manual fire alarm signaling system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5, shall be installed and maintained in all buildings over one (1) story in height or over 1,000 square feet.

7.         Delete the provisions of Section 907.9 “Where required in existing buildings and structures” and substitute the following therefore:

907.9 Where required in existing buildings and structures. An approved fire alarm system shall be installed in existing buildings and structures where required in chapter 11. Notwithstanding any provision of Section 907, Section 1103.7 or their subsections to the contrary, an approved manual fire alarm signaling system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5, shall be installed and maintained in all buildings over one (1) story in height or over 1,000 square feet.

8.         Amend the provisions of Section 912.1 “Installation” and substitute the following therefore:

912.1 Installation. The type (Siamese, Storz) and size of the fire department connection shall be in accordance with the NFPA standard applicable to the system design, shall comply with Sections 912.2 through 912.7 and be subject to approval of the Fire Department.  Generally, a 5-inch size, Storz type connection with a 30 degree downturn is required

9.         Delete exception #2 to section 914.6.1

10.       Amend item #5 and add items #6 & #7 to Section 1008.3.3 “Rooms and Spaces” as follows:

             5. All restrooms

             6. In all rooms and spaces over 1,000 square feet in area with an occupancy load of 20 or more.

             7. All occupiable mechanical rooms

11.       Amend Table 1020.2 to read as follows:

Table 1020.2
Corridor Fire Resistance Rating

Occupancy

Occupant Load Served by Corridor

Required Fire-Resistance Rating (hours)

Without Sprinkler System

With Sprinkler System (c)

H-1, H-2, H-3

All

Not Permitted

1

H-4, H-5

Greater than 30

Not Permitted

1

A, E, F, M, S, U

Greater than 30

Not Permitted

1

R

Greater than 10

Not Permitted

1

I-2 (a), I-4

All

Not Permitted

1

I-1, I-3

All

Not Permitted

1 (b)

B

Greater than 30

Not Permitted

1 (d)

(a) For requirements for occupancies in Group I-2, see Section 402.3 and 407.3 of the International Building Code.
(b) For a reduction in the fire-resistance rating of occupancies in Group I-3, see Section 408.8 of the International Building Code.
(c) Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 where allowed.

d) Glass permitted in wall.

12.       Delete Section 1807.1.4 “Permanent Wood Foundation Systems” in their entirety.

13.       Add Exhibit A:

Exhibit A

Performance Guidelines for High Hazard Uses in the City of St. Charles

  1. Specific location: The geographic location and distances to other structures, rivers,  streams, and other use groups.
  2. Zoning: The proximate distances to Assembly, Educational, Institutional, and Residential uses and vacant land zoned for these uses.
  3. Types of hazardous materials which are not allowed: Materials listed in Section 307.3 High Hazard Group H-1 that present a detonation hazard shall not be permitted under any circumstances.
  4. Allowable construction types: Type I and II only.
  5. Required fire protection for High Hazard materials.
    1. Provide extra hazard Group II fire sprinkler system
    2. Provide a fixed foam fire protection system
  6. Required water supply system: 3,000 to 6,000 gallons per minute from a reliable source.
(2022-M-24: § 1; 2016-M-8: § 1; 2010-M-42: § 2; 2006-M-63: § 1; 2004-M-62: § 1)

15.04.020 – 2021 International Residential Code - Regulations Adopted and Modified

The provisions of the 2021 International Residential Code for One-and Two-Family Dwellings, published February 2021 by the International Code Council, Inc., 5203 Leesburg Pike, Suite 708, Falls Church, Virginia 22041-3401 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “the IRC”), not less than one full edition of which has been and are on file in the Office of the Clerk of the City of St. Charles, Illinois for more than thirty (30) days, together with the amendments listed herein, are hereby adopted as the regulations governing the construction of one-and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories in height.

Chapter 1 – Administration:

A. Section R101.2 Scope: Revise to read as follows:

R101.2 Scope.  The provisions of the International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings shall apply to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, removal, and demolition of detached one and two family dwellings not more than three stories in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures.”

B. Section R102 Applicability: Revise to add the following new sections R102.8 and R102.9

C. Section R102.8 Electrical:  All references within this code to “ICC electrical code” shall be deleted in their entirety and in lieu thereof, the following language shall be submitted: “National Electric Code, 2020, prepared and published by the NFPA.

D. Section R102.9 Plumbing. All references within this code to the ICC plumbing code shall be deemed changed to read the "Illinois plumbing code, as currently adopted, prepared and published by the Illinois department of public health".

E. Section R105 Permits:  Revise to add a new section to read as follows.

Section R105.1.1 Workmanship:  Repairs, maintenance work, alterations or installations which are caused directly or indirectly by the enforcement of this code shall be executed and installed in a workmanlike manner and installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

F. Section R105.2 Work exempt from permit:  Delete this section its entirety.

G. Section R105.2.3 Public service agencies:  Delete this section in its entirety.

H. Section R105.7 Placement of permit:  Revise to read as follows:

R105.7 Placement of permit.  The building permit card shall be kept on the site of the work and be visible from the street until such time as a certificate of occupancy permit has been issued, or a final inspection has been performed.

I. Section R106.3.1 Approval of construction documents:  Revise to read as follows:

R106.3.1 Approval of construction documents.  When the Building Official issues a permit, the construction documents shall be approved in writing or by stamp.  One set of the approved construction documents as reviewed shall be retained by the Building Official.  The other set shall be returned to the applicant

and shall be kept on the site of the project and shall be open to inspection by the Building Official or his or her authorized agent/representative.

J. Section R106.4.1 Information for construction in flood hazardous areas:  Add new section to read as follows:

K. R106.4.1Information for construction in flood hazardous areas.  For buildings and structures in flood hazard areas, as established on local floodway rate maps, locally adopted flood plain ordinances shall apply.

L. Section R109.1.3 Flood plain inspection:  Delete  this section in its entirety.

M. Section R110.1 Use and occupancy:  Delete the exceptions.

N. Section R110.3 Certificate issued:  Delete lines 3, 5, 7, 8, and 9.

O. Section R112 Board of Appeals:  Delete this section in its entirety

Chapter 2 – Definitions:

A. Change the stated term MANUFACTURED HOME to MANUFACTURED/MOBILE HOME.

B. Delete the stated definition of Townhouse and substitute therefore:

TOWNHOUSE. A single family dwelling unit constructed in a group of 3, 4, 5 or 6 attached units in which each unit extends from foundation to roof and with open space on at least two sides. Dwelling units where more than six units are attached shall be governed by code provisions applicable to multiple family dwellings, rather than the provisions of this one and two-

family dwelling code.

Chapter 3 - Building Planning:

A.        Table R301.2(1) Climatic and Geographic Design Criteria:  Revise to read as follows:

TABLE R301.2(1)

CLIMATIC AND GEOGRAPHIC DESIGN CRITERIA

 

 

Ground Snow Load

Wind Design

Seismic Design Category

Subject to Damage From

Winter Design Temp

Ice Barrier Underlayment Required

Flood Hazards

Air Freezing Index

Mean Annual Temp

Speed (mph)

Topographic effects

Special wind region

Wind-borne debris zone

Weathering

Frost line depth

Termite

30

115

No

No

No

B

Severe

42-Inches

Mod to Heavy

-5F

Yes

Local Ordinance

2000

48.5

 

 

See captions under Table R301.2in the book for exceptions and conditions of approvals

B. Section R301.2.4 Floodplain construction.  Delete this section.

C. Section R302.2 Townhouses:  Amend to read as follows:

R302.2 Townhouses. Each townhouse, as defined in this code, shall be constructed as a separate single-family dwelling unit and shall be separated by a minimum of an approved 2-hour rated UL listed assembly which shall extend vertically from the foundation to the underside of the roof sheathing and horizontally the full length of the common wall. The number of single family dwelling units attached in this manner shall not exceed six (6).

D. Section R302.3 Two family dwellings: Amend to read as follows:

R302.3 Two family dwellings. Dwelling units in two family dwellings shall be constructed as a separate single-family dwelling unit and shall be separated by a minimum of an approved 2-hour rated UL listed assembly wall or similar materials, which shall extend vertically from the foundation to the underside of the roof sheathing and horizontally the full length of the common wall. Floor/ceiling assemblies shall extend to and be tight against the exterior wall, and wall assemblies shall extend from the foundation to the underside of the roof sheathing and shall extend the full length of the common wall.

Exception: When the complete building is provided with an approved residential fire sprinkler system, an approved 1-hour rated UL listed assembly wall can substitute for the 2-hour rated UL listed assembly wall.

F. Section R302.6 Dwelling/garage fire separation: Amend to read as follows:

R302.6 Dwelling/garage fire separation. The garage shall be separated from the residence and any attic area by not less than 5/8-inch type X gypsum board applied to the garage side and taped with a minimum one coat of approved joint tape and compound. Where the separation is a floor-ceiling assembly, the structure supporting the separation shall be protected by not less than 5/8-inch type X gypsum board with one coat of approved joint tape and compound or equivalent. The garage floor shall be poured a minimum of 4-inches below the top of the foundation to form a gas curb on any wall of the garage abutting the house.

Delete Table R302.6.

G. Section R311.2 Egress Door Amend this section to read as follows:

R311.2 Egress Door.  Not less than two (2) exits shall be required from each dwelling unit.  The required egress doors shall provide direct egress from habitable portions of the dwelling to the exterior without requiring travel through the garage. The required egress doors shall be a side-hinged door not less than 36” in width and six feet and eight inches (6'8") in height, except that, for doors other than the front or main entry/exit door, a minimum six foot (6') wide sliding glass door, with a minimum clear width of thirty-two inches (32") when opened, may be used.  Egress doors other than the front or main entry/exit door do not require a landing when it meets the requirements of Section 311.3.2

Exception:  In One and Two-Family dwellings attached (2 units) where an automatic residential fire sprinkler system is installed, not less than one (1) exit conforming to this section shall be required from each dwelling unit.

H. R313.1 Townhouse automatic fire sprinkler systems.

An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall be installed in townhouses.

Exception No. 1: An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall not be required when additions or alterations are made to existing townhouses that do not have an automatic residential fire sprinkler system installed.

Exception No. 2: An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall not be required where, as determined and certified by an approved fire protection engineer, the existing domestic water service system cannot meet the standards set forth for the installation of such system. The applicant shall reimburse the City for the actual cost of service invoiced to the City by the fire protection engineer.

R313.1.1 Design and installation. Automatic residential fire sprinkler systems for townhouses shall be designed and installed in accordance  with NFPA 13D.

I. Section R313.2 One- and two-family dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems: Delete this section in its entirety.

J. Section R317.1.2.3 Wood columns:  Amend to read as follows:

R317.1.2.3 Wood columns.  Posts, poles, and columns supporting structures that are embedded in concrete, in direct contact with the earth or are embedded in concrete exposed to the weather are prohibited.

K. Section R322 Flood resistant construction:  Delete  this section in its entirety.

Chapter 4 – Foundations:

A. Section R401.1 Application:  Amend to read as follows:

R401.1 Application.  The provisions of this Chapter shall control the design and construction of the foundation and foundation spaces of all buildings and structures and delete any provisions to the use of wood foundations.

B. Section R402.1, 402.1.1, 402.1.2:  Delete these sections in their entirety.

C. Section R403.1 General:  Delete the words “wood foundation” within the first sentence.

D. Section R403.1.1 Minimum size:  Amend to read as follows:

R403.1.1 Minimum size.  Minimum sizes for concrete and masonry footings shall be as follows.  Footing width shall be a minimum of twice the width of the wall it is supporting, or a minimum of 18-inches, whichever is greater.  Unless soil conditions warrant a greater width, or so designed and certified by a license design professional, footing projections shall be equal to ¼ the width of the footing and the wall must fit center on the footing.  Single story structures may be placed on 12-inch wide by 42-inch deep trench footingFooting thickness shall be a minimum of 8-inches or the same depth as the wall thickness, whichever is greater, or as designed by a licensed design professional.  See Figure R403.1 (1) for an illustration.

​​​​​​​E. Table R403.1 Minimum width of concrete or masonry footings (inches):  Delete this table. See amended Figure R403.1(1)

 

 

 

                                                  Figure R403.1(1)

 

F.         Figure R403.1 (2) Permanent Wood Foundation Basement Wall Section:  Delete this figure.

 

G.        Figure R403.1 (3) Permanent Wood Foundation Crawl Space section:  Delete this figure.

 

H.        Section R403.2 Footings for Wood Foundations:  Delete this section in its entirety.

 

I.          Section R404.1.5.3 Pier and Curtain Wall Foundations:  Delete this section in its entirety.

 

J.         Section R404.2 Wood Foundation Walls:  Delete this section in its entirety.

 

K.        Section R405.1 Foundation Drainage: Delete Exception.

 

L.        Sections R405.2:  Delete this section in its entirety.

 

M. Sections R406.3 Damp Proofing of Wood Foundations:  Delete this section in

its entirety.

 

N.        Section R408 8 Under-Floor Space:  Add a new section to read as follows:

R408.9 Crawl Space Floor.  A minimum of a 2-inch thick slush coat of poured concrete shall be installed over a minimum of 4-inch thick stone in the crawl space, with a minimum of a six (6) mil thick polyethylene film moisture barrier with all joints lapped a minimum of 6-inches.

 

Chapter 5 – Floors:

      

A. Section R502.11.4 Truss Design Drawings:  Amend by adding the following:

13. Layout Design

B.  Section R504 Pressure Preserved Treated Wood Floors (on ground):  Delete this section in its entirety.

C. Section R506.1 General:  Amend to read as follows:

R506.1 General.  Concrete slab-on-ground floors for garage floors shall be minimum 4-inches thick with a minimum of 6x6 welded wire fabric embedded in the mid cross section of the slab.  The compressive strength of concrete shall be as set forth in Section R402.2.  Fiber mesh can be used in place of welded wire for garage floors.

D. Section R506.2.1 Fill):  Amend by adding a new section to read as follows:

R506.2.1.1 Back-Fill under Concrete Garage Floors (attached).  The sub-base for poured concrete garage floors shall be undisturbed inorganic soil.  All fill material shall be clean graded sand, crushed stones, or gravel.  The use of any soils as fill material is prohibited.  Compacted non-organic material can be used with dowelling #4 rebar into the foundation wall a minimum of 4-inches extending into the garage floor area a minimum of 3-feet, placed 24-inches on center around the three (3) walls forming the garage area.  Any practice of soaking the soils within this area will be done in strict conformance with the locally applicable water conservation ordinance and shall be metered.

Chapter 8 – Roof-Ceiling Construction:

A. Section R802.10.1 Truss Design Drawings:  Amend to read as follows:

R802.10.1 Truss Design Drawings.  (See Section R502.11.4, as amended by this ordinance.)

Chapter 13 – General Mechanical System Requirements:

A. Section M1307.3 Elevation of Ignition Source:  Amend by adding the following new section: M1307.3.2

M1307.3.2 Heating Units in Garages.  Units designed to heat the habitable space of the home shall not be located in a garage.

Chapter 22 – Special Piping and Storage Systems: Delete  Chapter 22 in its entirety.

Chapters 25 through 32 - Plumbing:

A. “Delete Chapters 25 through 32.  Substitute therefore:  The most current State of Illinois Plumbing Code as adopted and/or amended by the City of St. Charles.”

Chapter 36 – Services

A.     E3601.7 Maximum Number of Disconnects: Delete this section in its entirety.

B.     E3601.8 Emergency Disconnects: Delete this section in its entirety.

Appendix Adoption:

            Adopt the following Appendices

-           Appendix AF – “Radon Control Systems” – Delete Figure AF103.1 and Section AF104 Testing

(2022-M-25: § 1; 2019-M-48; 2017-M-45; 2016-M-59: § 1; 2016-M-10: § 1 ; 2016-M-8; 2015-M-71: § 1; 2010-M-43: § 1; 2003-M-6: § 1; 1997-M-140: § 1; 1983-M-14: § 1 (part); 1978-M-19: § 1 (part); Prior code: § 13.102.2.)

15.04.025 – 2021 International Swimming Pool & Spa Code – Regulations adopted and modified

The provisions of the 2021 International Swimming Pool & Spa Code issued by the International Code Council Inc., 4051 West Flossmoor Road, Country Club Hills, IL 60478, not less than one (1) copy of which have been and are on file in the Office of the Clerk of the City of St. Charles, Illinois for more than thirty (30) days, together with the amendments listed herein, are hereby adopted.

Amendments to the 2021 International Swimming Pool & Spa Code:

  1. Chapter 1 – Scope and Administration.  The City has adopted a separate Administrative Code under the Municipal Code Chapter 15.101.
    1. Section 105.4.3 Expiration – delete in its entirety.
    2. Section 105.4.4 – Extensions – delete in its entirety.
    3. Section 108.6. –Refunds - delete in its entirety.
    4. Section 111 Means of Appeal - delete in its entirety.
    5. Section 112 – Board of Appeals – delete in its entirety
    6. Section 113.4 – Violation penalties – delete in its entirety
(2022-M-30: § 1)

15.04.030 – International Mechanical Code 2021 – Regulations adopted and modified

The provisions of the 2021 International Mechanical Code issued by the International Code Council Inc., 4051 West Flossmoor Road, Country Club Hills, IL 60478, not less than one (1) copy of which have been and are on file in the Office of the Clerk of the City of St. Charles, Illinois for more than thirty (30) days, together with the amendments listed herein, are hereby adopted.

 

Amendments to the 2021 International Mechanical Code:

  1. Chapter 1 Administration.  The City has adopted a separate Administrative Code under the Municipal Code Chapter 15.101.
    1. Section 106.4.3 – “Expiration” – Delete in its entirety
    2. Section 106.4.4 – “Extensions” – Delete in its entirety
    3. Section 109.6 – “Refunds” – Delete in its entirety
    4. Section 114 – “Means of Appeal” – Delete in its entirety
    5. Section 115.4 – “Violation Penalties” – Delete in its entirety
    6. Section 301.11 – “Plumbing Connections” – Delete in its entirety and substitute the following therefore:

Section 301.11 – Plumbing Connections - Section 301.11 Plumbing Connections. All references within this code to the “international plumbing code” shall be changed to read, “Illinois plumbing code” as currently adopted, as sponsored and published by the Illinois department of public health, and as amended by the procedures and provisions of Title 15 ‘Buildings and Construction’ of the St. Charles Municipal Code.”  The provisions of said plumbing code, as amended, shall apply to the installation, alteration, repair and replacement of plumbing systems, including appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances thereto.

 

(2022-M-27: § 1; 2016-M-17: § 1; 2010-M-45: § 1; 2004-M-63: § 1; 1993-M-59: § 1)

15.04.035 – International Fuel Gas Code 2021– Regulations adopted and modified

The provisions of the 2021 International Fuel Gas Code issued by the International Code Council Inc., 4051 West Flossmoor Road, Country Club Hills, IL 60478, not less than one (1) copy of which have been and are on file in the Office of the Clerk of the City of St. Charles, Illinois for more than thirty (30) days, together with the amendments listed herein, are hereby adopted.

Amendments to the 2021 International Fuel Gas Code:

  1. Chapter 1 Scope and Administration.  The City has adopted a separate Administrative Code under the Municipal Code Chapter 15.101.
    1. Section 106.5.3 “Expiration” – Delete in its entirety
    2. Section 106.5.4 “Extensions” – Delete in its entirety
    3. Section 109.6 “Refunds” – Delete in its entirety
    4. Section 113 “Means of Appeal” – Delete in its entirety
    5. Section 114 “Board of Appeals” – Delete in its entirety
    6. Section 115.4 “Violation Penalties” – Delete in its entirety
  2. Chapter 4 Gas Piping Installations:
    1. Section 403.4.5 “Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing” – Delete in its entirety.
(2022-M-28: § 1; 2016-M-18: § 1; 2016-M-10: § 1; 2010-M-46: § 1; 2004-M-64: § 1)

15.04.040 – National Electrical Code 2020 – Regulations Adopted and Modified

The provisions of the 2020 Edition of the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70, issued by the National Fire Protection Association, Inc., One Batterymarch Park, Quincy, Massachusetts, 02269 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the “NEC”) not less than three (3) copies of which have been and are on file in the Office of the Clerk of the City of St. Charles, Illinois, for more than thirty (30) days, together with the amendments listed herein, are hereby adopted.

  1.       Article 110 Section 110.5 Conductors: revise by deleting and substituting the following:

Other than service conductors provided by the Utility or multiplexed aerial cables as allowed in Article 396 Section 396.2(4) that comply with Article 310, all conductors shall be copper unless otherwise specifically approved by the City of St. Charles Building and Code Enforcement or the City of St. Charles Electric Utility.

2.         Article 110 Section 110.13 (A) Mounting: Add a new paragraph to read as follows:

(A) Mounting. All electric panels mounted on concrete or masonry walls that are either exterior walls or below grade, shall have a minimum of 1/2 inch plywood installed behind the panel, or the panel shall be mounted to structural mounting channel that provides a minimum 1/2 inch airspace between the panel and the wall, for the purposes of support and to help prevent moisture entering the panel. Such mounting shall allow panel replacement if required.

3.         Article 210 Section 210.70 Lighting Outlets Required: Add a new paragraph to read as follows:

(D) Illumination of Mechanical Equipment. All occupancies shall have luminaries installed within four (4) feet of the front of all electric panels and within four (4) feet of all mechanical equipment to enable servicing the equipment.

4.         Article 225 Outside Branch Circuits and Feeders

            a.         Section 225.30 Number of Supplies: Add a new paragraph to read as follows:

            (G) Everything in this complete section applies only to feeders and branch circuits, and not Electric Utility services.

5.         Article 230 Services Part 1 General

  1. Section 230.2 Number of Services: revise by adding the following language:  All new construction, as well as One and Two-Family Attached (two units) and Detached dwellings that are rebuilt or added onto from the foundation or partial foundation upward, are required to have an underground electrical service. 
  2. Section 230.2 Number of Services, (B) Special Occupancies: By special permission, which means written consent and approval by the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility, additional services shall be permitted for either of the following:
    1. Multiple-occupancy buildings where there is no available space for service equipment accessible to all occupants
    2. A single building or other structure sufficiently large to make two or more services necessary
    3. Add new paragraph to read as follows: 3. Multiple-occupancy buildings will have either an external building main disconnect, a key operated shunt trip main disconnect, or parallel key operated shunt trip main disconnects for all services supplied to the building. Parallel shunt trip key operated main disconnects must be provided and installed in a manner approved by the City St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility
  3. Section 230.3 One Building or Other Structures Not to be Supplied Through Another: revise by deleting and substituting the following:  230.3 One Building, or Other Structure, or Tenant Space, Not to be Supplied Through Another.  Service conductors, feeders, or branch circuits of one building, or other structure, or tenant space, shall not pass through the interior of another building, or structure, or tenant space.
  4. Section 230.6 Conductors Considered Outside the Building: Add new paragraph to read as follows: (6) Where installed in any “common area” (hallway, corridor or common space accessible to multiple premises) that meets the construction requirements of a one-hour fire rating. Conductors shall be installed in solid metal raceway conduit within “common areas” and shall have a label every five (5) feet identifying the conductors within the conduit.
  5. Section 230.43 Wiring Methods for 1000 volts, nominal, or Less: revise by                               deleting the list of approved methods and substituting the following:
    1. Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC)
    2. Intermediate Metal Conduit (IMC)
    3. Rigid Polyvinyl Chloride Conduit (PVC)- but only for underground                                     installations with conversion to RMC or IMC above grade if exposed.
  6. Section 230.44 Cable Trays: Delete entire section
  7. Section 230.46 Spliced and Tapped Conductors: revise by deleting and substituting the following: 230.46 Spliced Conductors. : Splices in service entrance conductors, other than those installed by the Electric Utility, are not allowed. Taps on the line side of the service main disconnect are not allowed.
  8. Section 230.70 General (A) Location, (1) Readily Accessible Location: revise by deleting and substituting the following: (1) Readily Accessible Location. Service disconnecting means shall be provided either outside the building or through a shunt trip main with remote control at the Fire Control Panel and shall have provisions to allow the service to be locked open. Each building/tenant space shall have a main disconnect incorporated within the main distribution panel inside the space in addition to any external main or building shunt trip main for multiple occupancy buildings.
  9. Section 230.70 General (A) Location: (3) Remote Control: revise by deleting and substituting the following: Where remote control devices are used to actuate the service disconnecting means, the service conductors installed inside a building without over current protection shall not exceed five (5) feet in length. 
  10. Section 230.71 Maximum Number of Disconnects: revise by deleting the entire section and substituting the following:  All buildings are limited to one (1) electric service in accordance with 230.2 and one (1) electric service disconnect. Exceptions are as listed in 230.2; single family residences are limited to one (1) service; two family duplex residences are limited to two (2) services; townhomes of three to six residences are limited to three (3) to six (6) services; and multi-tenant buildings must have one (1) building service disconnect which is ahead of all tenant metered services.
  11. Section 230.79 Rating of Service Disconnecting Means (C) One- and Two-Family Attached (two units) and Detached Dwelling: revise by deleting and substituting the following:  (C) One-and Two-Family Attached (two units) and Detached Dwelling:  All electric panel installations for new single-family dwellings and remodel/additions of existing dwellings that rebuild from the foundation or any part thereof upward shall be a minimum of 200-ampere rated. The main service disconnecting means (circuit breaker or fused switch) shall be 200-ampere rated.            (D) All Others: revise by deleting and substituting the following: (D) Multi-family and Single-family Attached Dwellings. All apartment or dwelling unit electric panel installations for new multi-family dwellings and new single family attached six (6) or less dwelling units shall be a minimum of 100-ampere rated. The occupancy main service disconnecting means (circuit breaker or fused switch) for each apartment or dwelling unit shall be a minimum of 100-ampere rated. (E) All Others. For all other installations, the service disconnecting means shall have a rating of not less than 60-ampere, unless approved by the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility.
  12. Section 230.82 Equipment Connected to the Supply Side of Service Disconnect: revise by deleting all and substituting the following: Only the following equipment shall be permitted to be connected to the supply side of the service disconnecting means:
    1.  Cable limiters- only allowed when reviewed and approved by the Electric Utility.
    2. Meters and meter sockets nominally rated not in excess of 1000 volts, if all metal housings and service enclosures are grounded in accordance with Part VII and bonded in accordance with Part V of Article 250.                                                                      Equipment and interconnections cannot be installed on the supply side of the service meter/main.
  13. Section 230.85 Emergency Disconnects: revise by deleting all and substituting    the following:

            “Emergency Disconnect-Not Service Disconnect” installations are not allowed. Residential services 1-2-3-4-5-6 family installations (single family, duplexes, townhomes for 3-6 units) allowed to have a single service to the building with separate meter/mains for each occupancy, with required labeling. All other buildings are to have an exterior service main disconnect or an exterior key operated switch to disconnect an interior shunt-trip service main disconnect.

6.         Article 242 Overvoltage Protection:

  1. Section 242.12 Type 1 SPDs (A) Installation (1): revise by deleting and substituting the following:(1) Equipment and connections to the supply side of the service disconnect are not allowed.
  2. Section 242.12 Type 1 SPDs (B) At the Service: revise by deleting and substituting the following: (1) Equipment grounding terminal in the service equipment.

7.         Article 250 Grounding and Bonding

  1.  Section 250.24 Grounding of Service-Supplied Alternating-Current Systems (A) System Grounding Connections (1) General: revise by deleting and substituting the following: The grounding electrode conductor connection from each grounding electrode shall be made at a single point at the terminal or bus to which the grounded service conductor is connected at the service disconnecting means.
  2. Section 250.25 Grounding Systems Permitted to be Connected on the Supply Side of the Disconnect: revise by deleting and substituting the following: Grounding electrode conductors and equipment grounding conductors are not allowed to be connected on the supply side of the service main disconnect.
  3. Section 250.28 Main Bonding Jumper and System Bonding Jumper (A) Material: revise by deleting and substituting the following: Main bonding jumpers and system bonding jumpers shall be of copper. Main bonding jumpers and System bonding jumpers shall be copper conductors or factory supplied or approved bus.
  4. Section 250.50 Grounding Electrode System: revise by deleting and substituting the following: All grounding electrodes as described in 250.52(A)(1) through (A)(7) that are present at each building or structure served shall be utilized for grounding the electric service  at the first point of disconnect only, and all grounding electrode conductors and their respective raceways must be installed directly from the grounding electrode in a dedicated raceway.
  5. Section 250.53 Grounding Electrode System Installation (D) Metal Underground Water Pipe (2) Supplemental Electrode Required: revise by deleting and substituting:                                                                                                           A metal underground water pipe shall be supplemented by an additional electrode of a type specified in 250.52 (A) (2-8).  If the additional electrode is a rod type as specified in 250.52 (A) (5), then that electrode must also have a supplemental additional electrode of a type specified in 250.53 (A) (2), unless as noted in 250.53 (D) (2) Exception that the first supplemental electrode has a resistance to earth of 25 ohms or less as evidenced by a fall-of-potential test witnessed by the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility. All supplemental electrodes shall be connected with a grounding electrode conductor to the grounded service-entrance conductor at the service main disconnecting means, except that a 250.52 (A) (5) supplemental ground rod electrode may connect to the first additional electrode if it is also a ground rod.
  6. Section 250.62 Grounding Electrode Conductor Material: revise by deleting and substituting the following: All grounding electrode conductors shall be copper, and the installation of the conductor shall protect against corrosion. Conductors of the wire type shall be solid or stranded, and insulated, or covered, or bare.
  7. Section 250.64 Grounding Electrode Conductor Installation: Section 250.64 installations must be in accordance with Section 250.50.
  8. (A) Aluminum or Copper-Clad Aluminum: revise by deleting and substituting the following: All grounding electrode conductors shall be copper only.

    (B) Securing and Protecting Against Physical Damage: revise by deleting and substituting the following: All grounding electrode conductors shall be installed in an independent and dedicated raceway directly from the grounding electrode to the service single first point of disconnect.

    (C) Continuous: revise by deleting and substituting the following: Grounding electrode conductor(s) shall be installed in one continuous length without a splice or joint.

    (E) Raceways and Enclosures for Grounding Electrode Conductors. (1)   General: revise by including additional language as follows: Ferrous metal raceways and enclosures for grounding electrode conductors shall be electrically continuous from the point of attachment to cabinets or equipment to the grounding electrode and shall be securely fastened to the ground clamp or fitting. Ferrous metal raceways and enclosures shall be bonded at each end of the raceway or enclosure to the grounding electrode or grounding electrode conductor. All grounding electrode conductor raceways that are exterior and exposed above grade shall be ferrous metal RMC or IMC conduit. Schedule 40 rigid PVC conduit is permitted for grounding electrode conductor raceways installed both above grade and underground in the interior of a building, as well as exterior underground if the entire raceway is completely below grade. Schedule 40 rigid PVC grounding electrode conductor raceways are not required to be electrically continuous.

    (F) Installation to Electrode(s). revise by deleting and substituting the following:  Unless granted a specific exemption by the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric   Utility, all grounding electrode conductors and raceways must be installed separately and continuously from each grounding electrode to the service grounded conductor (neutral) grounding/bonding termination point at the service main disconnect.

  9. Section 250.68 Grounding Electrode Conductor and Bonding Jumper Connection to Grounding Electrodes (C) Grounding Electrode Connections: revise by deleting (1), (2) and (3) and substituting the following:  The metal structural frame of a building can only be used as a bonding conductor for a grounding electrode conductor by specific approval of the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility. 
  10. Section 250.118 Types of Equipment Grounding Conductors: revise by deleting and substituting the following:  The equipment grounding conductor must be a separate copper conductor run with the circuit conductors unless given exemption by the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility which may require approved certified testing.

8.         Article 300 General Requirements for Wiring Methods and Materials

  1. Section 300.1 Scope (A) All Wiring Installations: add new paragraph to read as follows: (1) With the exception of one and two family dwellings, all current carrying conductors exceeding 50 volts shall be installed in rigid metal conduit, intermediate metallic conduit, electrical metallic tubing, flexible metallic tubing, MC cable, or AC cable, with the exception that PVC conduit may be used with the approval of the City of St. Charles Building and Code Enforcement Department for corrosive or other special application areas.
  2. Section 300.5 (C) Underground Installations: delete Exception No. 1 and delete Exception No. 2
  3. Section 300.5 Underground Installations, (D) Protection from Damage, (3) Service Conductors: revise by deleting and substituting the following:  (3) Service Conductors. Single and two family dwelling underground service conductors shall be installed in minimum 3” Schedule 40 PVC. All other underground service conductors shall be installed in RMC, IMC, or Schedule 40 PVC conduit that is encased in concrete unless given exemption by the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility.
  4. Table 300.5 Minimum Cover Requirements, 0 to 1000 Volts, Nominal, Burial in Millimeters (Inches): delete the third row table entries related to Under a Building.
  5. Table 300.5 Minimum Cover Requirements, 0 to 1000 volts, Nominal, Burial in Millimeters (Inches): revise by deleting the fourth row and substituting the  following fourth row description to read as follows:  Table 300.5 Minimum Cover Requirements, 0 to 1000 Volts, Nominal, Burial in Millimeters (Inches). Under minimum of 102 mm (4 inch) thick concrete interior or exterior slab with no vehicular traffic and the slab extending not less than 152 mm (6 inch) beyond the underground installation.

9.         Article 310 Conductors for General Wiring

  1. II Installation: Section 310.10 Uses Permitted (G) Conductors in Parallel (3) Separate Cables or Raceways: revise by deleting and substituting:  Where run in separate cables or raceways, the cables or raceways with conductors shall have the same number of conductors and shall have the same electrical characteristics. All conductors of a circuit shall have the same physical and electrical characteristics.
  2. Section 310.3 Conductors (B) Conductor Material. Revise by deleting and substituting the following:  (B) Conductor Material. Other than service conductors provided by the Utility, or multiplexed aerial cables as allowed by Section 396.2 (4) that comply with Article 310, all conductors shall be copper unless otherwise specifically approved by the City of St. Charles Building and Code Enforcement Department or the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility.

10.       Article 314 Outlet, Device, Pull, and Junction Boxes; Conduit Bodies; Fittings; and Handhole Enclosures:

  1. Section 314.28(E): add to description- Power Distribution Blocks are not allowed on the supply side of a service disconnect.
  2. Section 314.3 Nonmetallic Boxes. Delete this section.       
  3. Section 314.43 Nonmetallic Boxes. Delete this section.

11.       Article 334 Nonmetallic-Sheathed Cable: Types NM, NMC, and NMS

  1. Section 334.40 Boxes and Fittings (A) Boxes of Insulating Materials. Revise by deleting and substituting the following:  Nonmetallic outlet boxes are only permitted for use in corrosive applications as determined and approved by the City of St. Charles Building and Code Enforcement Department.
  2. Section 334.40 Boxes and Fittings (B) Devices of Insulating Materials: Delete this section.

12.      Article 625 Electric Vehicle Power Transfer System

  1. Section 625.1 Scope: revise by adding the following: EV Power Transfer Systems require an electric service application and permitting through the Building and Code Enforcement Division. All permits will be reviewed for impacts to the Customer’s service and the Utility Distribution System.

13.       Article 695 Fire Pumps

  1. Section 695.3 Power Source(s) for Electric Motor-Driven Fire Pumps, (B) Multiple Sources (2) Individual Source and On-Site Standby Generator : add a new paragraph to read as follows:  Signage- where a generator provides a secondary source for a fire pump, and the generator feeds other systems, clearly marked key operated shunt trip switches must be provided at the fire panel allowing Fire Department personnel the ability to open main breakers to panels not feeding the fire pump.

14. Article 700 Emergency Systems

  1. Section 700.16 Emergency Illumination: Add new paragraph to read as follows:  (1) Additional spaces that require emergency lighting shall include all restrooms and mechanical rooms.

15.  Article 701 Legally Required Standby Systems: 1- General

  1. Section 701.5 Transfer Equipment (A) General : add new paragraph to read as follows:  Transfer Equipment Requirements: Open type transfer switches are the only approved method for connection of standby systems. All transfer switch connections shall be “break before make” to insure the complete separation from the utility system and the generator supply. No parallel operation with the utility system shall be allowed. A minimum time delay of three (3) seconds and a maximum of ten (10) seconds after loss of utility power should be established before starting the generator. Utilization of Kirk Key systems or other mechanical means of isolating generating sources from the utility source are not allowed.
  2. III Sources of Power, Section 701.12 (B) Equipment Design and Location Set: add new paragraph to read as follows: Generator Noise Output. The maximum noise level allowable within ten (10’) feet of transformer, switchgear, or other specified equipment as required and operated by the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility (SCMEU) is 80dB (decibels). Sound enclosures or sound barrier walls or other sound mitigation may be required if the noise level near SCMEU equipment exceeds 80dB. Analysis of the need for sound abatement equipment will be performed by the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility personnel after the generator is installed and tested.

16.       Article 702 Optional Standby Systems

  1. Section 702.5 Transfer Switches (B) Meter Mounted Transfer Switches: delete

17.       Article 705 Interconnected Electric Power Production Sources

  1. Section 705.11 Supply Side Source Connections: delete
  2. Section 705.12(B)(3) Bus bars (6): delete
(2022-M-33: § 1; 2016-M-19: § 1; 2010-M-47: § 1; 2003-M-79: § 1; 1997-M-140: § 2; 1993-M-59: § 1)

15.04.045 – National Electric Code 2014 NFPA 70 - Amendments

1.      Article 110 Section 110.5 Conductors:  Revise by deleting and substituting the following:

Other than service conductors provided by the Utility or multiplexed aerial cables as allowed in Article 396 Section 396.2(4) that comply with Article 310, all conductors shall be copper unless otherwise specifically approved by the City of St. Charles Building and Code Enforcement or the City of St. Charles Electric Utility.        

2.      Section 110.13 (A) Mounting:  Add a new paragraph to read as follows:

(A) Mounting.  All electric panels mounted on concrete or masonry walls that are either exterior walls or below grade, shall have a minimum of 1/2 inch plywood installed behind the panel, or the panel shall be mounted to structural mounting channel that provides a minimum 1/2 inch airspace between the panel and the wall, for the purposes of support and to help prevent moisture entering the panel.  Such mounting shall allow panel replacement if required.

3.      Section 210.70 Lighting Outlets Required:  Add a new paragraph to read as follows:

(D) Illumination of Mechanical Equipment.  All occupancies shall have luminaries installed within four (4) feet of the front of all electric panels and within four (4) feet of mechanical heating equipment to enable servicing the equipment.

4.      Article 230 Services

a.  Section 230.2 Number of Services, (B) Special Occupancies:   By special permission, which means written consent and approval by the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility, additional services shall be permitted for either of the following:

(1) Multiple-occupancy buildings where there is no available space for service equipment accessible to all occupants.

(2)  A single building or other structure sufficiently large to make two or more services necessary.

Add new paragraph to read as follows:

(3) Multiple-occupancy buildings will have either an external building main disconnect, a key operated shunt trip main disconnect, or a parallel key operated shunt trip main disconnects for all services supplied to the building.  Parallel shunt trip key operated main disconnects must be provided and installed in a manner approved by the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility

 b.      Section 230.3 One Building or Other Structures Not to be Supplied Through Another:    Revise by deleting and substituting the following:

230.3 One Building, or Other Structure, or Tenant Space, Not to be Supplied Through Another, Service conductors, feeders, or branch circuits of one building, or other structure, or tenant space shall not pass through the interior of another building, or structure, or other space.

c.      Section 230.6 Conductors Considered Outside the Building:  Add new paragraph to read as follows:

(5) Installed in any “common area” (hallway, corridor or common space accessible to multiple premises) that meets the construction requirements of a one-hour fire rating.  Conductors shall be installed in solid metal raceway pipe within “common areas” and shall have a label every five (5) feet identifying the conductors within the conduit.

           d.      Section 230.44 Cable Trays:  Delete entire section

           e.      Section 230.46 Spliced Conductors:  Revise by deleting and substituting the following:

           230.46 Spliced conductors:  Splices in service entrance conductors, other than those installed     by the Electric Utility, are not allowed.

f.       Section 230.70 General (A) Location, (1) Readily Accessible Location:   Revise by deleting and substituting the following:

(1) Readily Accessible Location.  Service disconnecting means shall be provided either outside the building or through a shunt trip main with remote control at the Fire Control Panel and shall have provisions to allow the service to be locked open.  Each building/tenant space shall have a main disconnect incorporated within the main distribution panels inside the space in addition to any external main or building shunt trip main for multiple occupancy buildings.

g.      Section 230.70 General (A) Location: (3) Remote Control:  revise by deleting and substituting the following: Where a remote control device (s) is used to actuate the service disconnecting means, the service conductors installed inside a building without over current protection shall not exceed five (5) feet in length.

h.      Section 230. 79 Rating of Service Disconnecting Means ( C) One Family

                           Dwelling, (D) All Others: Revise by deleting and substituting the following:

C) One or Two Family Dwelling: All electric panel installations for new single family detached dwellings shall be a minimum of 200 -ampere rated. The main service disconnecting means ( circuit breaker or fused switch) shall be 200 -ampere rated.

D) Multi -family and Single-family Attached Dwellings. All apartment or dwelling unit electric panel installations for new multi -family dwellings and new single family attached six (6) or less dwelling units shall be a minimum of 100 - ampere rated. The occupancy main service disconnecting means ( circuit breaker or fused switch) for each apartment or dwelling unit shall be a minimum of 100 -ampere rated.

E) All Others. For all other installations, the service disconnecting means shall have a rating of not less than 60 -ampere, unless approved by the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility.  

 5.               Article 250 Grounding and Bonding

a.      Section 250.24 Grounding Service -Supplied Alternating -Current Systems   (A) System Grounding Connections (1) General: Revise by deleting and substituting the following: The grounding electrode conductor connection from each grounding.

b.      electrode shall be made at a single point at the terminal or bus to which the grounded service conductor is connected at the service disconnecting means.

c.      Section 250.53 Grounding Electrode System Installation (D) Metal Underground Water Pipe (2) Supplemental Electrode Required: revise by deleting and substituting: A metal underground water pipe shall be supplemented by an additional electrode of a type specified in 250.52 ( A) (2- 8). If the additional is a rod type as specified in 250.52 ( A) (5), then electrode must also have a supplemental additional electrode of a type specified in 250.53 ( A) (2) unless as noted in 250.53 A) (2) Exception the first supplemental electrode has a resistance to earth of 25 ohms or less as evidenced by a fall -of -potential test witnessed by the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility. Supplemental electrodes shall be connected with a grounding electrode conductor to the grounded service - entrance conductor at the service main disconnecting means.

d.      Section 250.62 Grounding Electrode Conductor Material: revise by deleting   and substituting the following: All grounding electrode conductors shall be copper, and the installation of the conductor shall protect against corrosion.   Conductors of the wire type shall be solid or stranded, and insulated, or covered, or bare.

e.      Section 250.64 Grounding Electrode Conductor Installation: Aluminum or Copper -Clad Aluminum Conductors. Delete entire Item (A)

C) Continuous: revise by deleting and substituting the following: Grounding electrode conductor(s) shall be installed in one continuous length without a splice or joint.

E) Raceways and Enclosures for Grounding Electrode Conductors. (1) General: revise by including additional language as follows: Ferrous metal raceways and enclosures for grounding electrode conductors shall be electrically continuous from the point of attachment to cabinets or equipment to the grounding electrode and shall be securely fastened to the ground clamp or fitting.  Ferrous metal raceways and enclosures shall be bonded at each end of the raceway or enclosure to the grounding electrode or grounding electrode conductor. All grounding electrode conductor raceways that are exterior and exposed above grade shall be ferrous metal RMC or IMC conduit. Schedule 40 rigid PVC conduit is permitted for grounding electrode conductor raceways    installed both above grade and underground in the interior of a building, as well as exterior underground if the entire raceway is -completely below grade.  Schedule 40 rigid PVC grounding electrode conductor raceways are not required to be electrically continuous.

F) Installation to Electrode(s). revise by deleting and substituting the following:  Unless granted a specific exemption by the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility, all grounding electrode conductors and raceways must be installed  separately and continuously from each grounding electrode to the service grounded conductor neutral) grounding/bonding termination point at the service main disconnect.

f.       Section 250.68 Grounding Electrode Conductor and Bonding Jumper Connection to Grounding Electrodes (C) Grounding Electrode Connections:  revise by deleting ( 1) exception; and substituting the following for: (2) The  metal structural frame of a building can only be used as a bonding conductor for a grounding electrode conductor by specific approval of the City of St. Charles   Municipal Electric Utility.

g.      Section 250.118 Types of Equipment Grounding Conductors: Revise by deleting and substituting the following: 250.118 Types of Equipment Grounding Conductors: The equipment grounding conductor must be a separate conductor run with the circuit conductors unless given exemption by the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility or an approved certified testing  agency.

6.               Article 300 General Requirements for Wiring Methods and Materials

a.      Section 300.1 Scope (A) All Wiring Installations: Add new paragraph to read as follows:

(1) With the exception of one and two family dwellings, all current carrying conductors exceeding 50 volts shall be installed in rigid metal conduit, intermediate metallic conduit, electrical metallic tubing, flexible metallic tubing, MC cable, or AC cable, with the exception that PVC conduit may be used   with the approval of the City of St. Charles Building and Code Enforcement Department for corrosive or other special application areas.

b.      Section 300.5 (C) Underground Installations: delete Exception No. 1 and delete Exception No. 2

c.      Section 300.5 Underground Installations, (D) Protection from Damage, (3) Service Conductors: Revise by deleting and substituting the following:  (3) Service Conductors. Single and two family dwelling underground service conductors shall be installed in minimum 3" Schedule 40 PVC. All other underground service conductors shall be installed in RMC, IMC, or Schedule 40 PVC conduit that is encased in concrete unless given exemption by the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility.

d.      Table 300.5 Minimum Cover Requirements, 0 to 1000 Volts, Nominal, Burial in Millimeters (Inches): Delete the third row table entries related to  Under a Building.

e.      Table.300.5 Minimum Cover Requirements, 0 to 1000 volts, Nominal, Burial in Millimeters (Inches): Revise by deleting and substituting the fourth row to read as follows:  Table 300. 5 Minimum Cover Requirements, 0 to 1000 Volts, Nominal, Burial in Millimeters (Inches). Under minimum of 102 mm (4 inch) thick concrete interior or exterior slab with no vehicular traffic and the slab extending not less than 152 nun ( 6 inch) beyond the underground installation.

7.      Article 310 Conductors for General Wiring

a.      I1 Installation: Section 310. 10 Uses Permitted (If) Conductors in Parallel (3) Separate Cables or Raceways: revise by deleting and substituting: Where run in separate cables or raceways, the cables or raceways with conductors shall have the same number of conductors and shall have the same electrical characteristics.  All conductors of a circuit shall have the same physical and electrical    characteristics.

b.      Section 310. 106 Conductors (B) Conductor Material. Revise by deleting and substituting the following:  (B) Conductor Material. Other than service conductors provided by the Utility, or  multiplexed aerial cables as allowed by Section 396. 2 ( 4) that comply with Article 310, all conductors shall be copper unless otherwise specifically approved by the City of St. Charles Building and Code Enforcement Department or the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility.

8.      Article 314 Outlet, Device, Pull, and Junction Boxes; Conduit Bodies; Fittings; and              Handhole Enclosures:

                           a.      Section 3143 Nonmetallic Boxes. Delete this section.

                           b.      Section 314. 17 (C) Nonmetallic Boxes and Conduit Bodies. Delete this section.

                           c.      Section 314.43 Nonmetallic Boxes. Delete this sectio

9.      Article 334 Nonmetallic -Sheathed Cable: Types NM, NMC, and NMS

a.      Section 334.40 Boxes and Fittings (A) Boxes of Insulating Materials. Revise by deleting and substituting the following: Nonmetallic outlet boxes are only permitted for use in corrosive applications as determined and approved by the City of St. Charles Building and Code Enforcement Department.

b.      Section 334.40 Boxes and Fittings (B) Devices of Insulating Materials: Delete this section.

 10.    Article 695 Fire Pumps: Section 695.3 Power Source(s) for Electric Motor –Driven Fire           Pumps, (B) Multiple Sources ( 2) Individual Source and On -Site Standby Generator (a) Signage: Add new paragraph to read as follows:  Where a generator provides a secondary source for a fire pump, and the generator feeds other systems, clearly marked key operated shunt trip switches must be provided at the fire panel allowing Fire Department personnel the ability to open main breakers to panels      not feeding the fire pump.

11.    Article 700 Emergency Systems Section 700.16 Emergency Illumination: Add new                  paragraph to read as follows:  (1) Additional spaces that require emergency lighting shall include all restrooms and mechanical rooms.

12.    Article 701 Legally Required Standby Systems:

I General: Section 701.5 Transfer Equipment: Add new paragraph to read as follows:

(D) Transfer Equipment Requirements: Open type transfer switches are the only  approved method for connection of standby systems. All transfer switch connections shall be " break before make" to insure the complete separation from the utility system and the generator supply. No parallel operation with the utility system shall be allowed. A minimum time delay of three (3) seconds and a maximum of ten (10) seconds after loss of utility power should be established before starting the generator. Utilization of Kirk Key systems or other mechanical means of isolating generating sources from the utility source are not allowed.

b. III Sources of Power, Section (B) Generator Set: Add new paragraph to read as follows:

6) Generator Noise Output. The maximum noise level allowable within ten (10') feet of transformer, switchgear, or other specified equipment as required and operated by the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility (SCMEU) is 80dBA decibels). Sound enclosures or sound barrier walls or other sound mitigation may be required if the noise level near SCMEU equipment exceeds 80dBA.  Analysis of the need for sound abatement equipment will be performed by the City of St. Charles Municipal Electric Utility personnel after the generator is installed and tested.

(2016-M-19: § 1; 2016-M-10: § 1; 2010-M-47: § 1; 2003-M-79: § 2)

15.04.055 – International Energy Conservation Code 2021 – Regulations Adopted and Modified.

The provisions of the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code issued by the International Code Council, Inc., 4051 West Flossmoor Road, Country Club Hills, IL 60478, not less than one copy if which have been and are on file in the Office of the Clerk of the City of St. Charles, Illinois for not more than thirty (30) days, as hereby adopted.

(2022-M-32: § 1; 2016-M-21: § 1; 2016-M-10: § 1; 2013-M-20: § 1; 2012-M-44: § 2)

15.04.060 – International Existing Building Code 2021 – Regulations adopted and modified

The provisions of the 2021 International Existing Building Code issued by the International Code Council Inc., 4051 West Flossmoor Road, Country Club Hills, IL 60478, not less than one (1) copy of which have been and are on file in the Office of the Clerk of the City of St. Charles, Illinois for more than thirty (30) days, together with the amendments listed herein, are hereby adopted.

Amendments to the 2021 International Existing Building Code:

  1. Chapter 1 – Scope and Administration.  Delete in its entirety.  The City has adopted a separate Administrative Code under the Municipal Code Chapter 15.101.
(2022-M-32: § 1; 2016-M-22: § 1; 2016-M-10: § 1; 1978-M-21: § 1; Prior code: § 13.101.)

15.04.090 – Building Permit - Required

Any owner or owner’s authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move or the demolition of a building or structure or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by the City’s adopted code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the Building Official and obtain the required permit.

(2016-M-24: § 1; Prior code: § 13.104)

15.04.105 – Flood damage prevention

The requirements under Title 18, Flood Damage Prevention, shall be followed in connection with all proposed construction, substantial improvements, or other development within floodplain areas.

(2016-M-10: § 1; 1981-M-32: § 6)

15.04.120 – Time limit

No building permit shall be valid for a period of more than one year from the date of issuance.

(Prior code: § 13.108)