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S.B. 211

             1     

BUILDING CODE AMENDMENTS

             2     
2009 GENERAL SESSION

             3     
STATE OF UTAH

             4     
Chief Sponsor: Curtis S. Bramble

             5     
House Sponsor: Todd E. Kiser

             6     
             7      LONG TITLE
             8      General Description:
             9          This bill modifies the adoption and administration of the building and fire codes.
             10      Highlighted Provisions:
             11          This bill:
             12          .    modifies the powers and duties of the Uniform Building Code Commission,
             13      including:
             14              .    authorizing the commission to recommend building codes to the Legislature for
             15      adoption; and
             16              .    authorizing the commission to adopt building codes for public welfare during
             17      the legislative interim that are repealed at the end of the next legislative session;
             18          .    modifies the powers and duties of the Fire Prevention Board, including:
             19              .    authorizing the board to recommend fire codes to the Legislature for adoption;
             20      and
             21              .    authorizing the board to adopt fire codes for public welfare during the
             22      legislative interim that are repealed at the end of the next legislative session; and
             23          .    makes technical corrections.
             24      Monies Appropriated in this Bill:
             25          None
             26      Other Special Clauses:
             27          None


             28      Utah Code Sections Affected:
             29      AMENDS:
             30          26-15-3, as last amended by Laws of Utah 1995, Chapter 218
             31          26A-1-113, as last amended by Laws of Utah 2002, Chapter 249
             32          26A-1-114, as last amended by Laws of Utah 2008, Chapter 339
             33          53-7-106, as last amended by Laws of Utah 2001, Chapter 25
             34          53-7-202, as last amended by Laws of Utah 2007, Chapter 253
             35          53-7-204, as last amended by Laws of Utah 2008, Chapter 382
             36          53-7-209, as last amended by Laws of Utah 2001, Chapter 25
             37          58-56-3, as last amended by Laws of Utah 2007, Chapter 145
             38          58-56-4, as last amended by Laws of Utah 2008, Chapter 382
             39          58-56-5, as last amended by Laws of Utah 2002, Chapter 75
             40          58-56-6, as last amended by Laws of Utah 2002, Chapter 75
             41          58-56-7, as last amended by Laws of Utah 2008, Chapter 382
             42     
             43      Be it enacted by the Legislature of the state of Utah:
             44          Section 1. Section 26-15-3 is amended to read:
             45           26-15-3. Department to advise Uniform Building Code Commission regarding the
             46      code and specific edition of a plumbing code.
             47          The department shall advise the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing
             48      and the Uniform Building Code Commission with respect to the code and specific edition of a
             49      plumbing code adopted by a nationally recognized code authority to be [adopted] administered
             50      by the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing, and amendments to that code as
             51      provided for under Section 58-56-5 . The department may enforce the plumbing code adopted
             52      by the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing under Section 58-56-4 . The
             53      provisions of Section 58-56-9 do not apply to health inspectors acting under this section.
             54          Section 2. Section 26A-1-113 is amended to read:
             55           26A-1-113. Right of entry to regulated premises by representatives for inspection.
             56          (1) Upon presenting proper identification, authorized representatives of local health
             57      departments may enter upon the premises of properties regulated by local health departments to
             58      perform routine inspections to insure compliance with rules, standards, regulations, and


             59      ordinances as adopted by the Departments of Health and Environmental Quality, local boards
             60      of health, county or municipal governing bodies, or administered by the Division of
             61      Occupational and Professional Licensing under Section 58-56-4 .
             62          (2) Section 58-56-9 does not apply to health inspectors acting under this section.
             63          (3) This section does not authorize local health departments to inspect private
             64      dwellings.
             65          Section 3. Section 26A-1-114 is amended to read:
             66           26A-1-114. Powers and duties of departments.
             67          (1) A local health department may:
             68          (a) subject to the provisions in Section 26A-1-108 , enforce state laws, local ordinances,
             69      department rules, and local health department standards and regulations relating to public
             70      health and sanitation, including the plumbing code [adopted] administered by the Division of
             71      Occupational and Professional Licensing under Section 58-56-4 and under Title 26, Chapter
             72      15a, Food Safety Manager Certification Act, in all incorporated and unincorporated areas
             73      served by the local health department;
             74          (b) establish, maintain, and enforce isolation and quarantine, and exercise physical
             75      control over property and over individuals as the local health department finds necessary for
             76      the protection of the public health;
             77          (c) establish and maintain medical, environmental, occupational, and other laboratory
             78      services considered necessary or proper for the protection of the public health;
             79          (d) establish and operate reasonable health programs or measures not in conflict with
             80      state law which:
             81          (i) are necessary or desirable for the promotion or protection of the public health and
             82      the control of disease; or
             83          (ii) may be necessary to ameliorate the major risk factors associated with the major
             84      causes of injury, sickness, death, and disability in the state;
             85          (e) close theaters, schools, and other public places and prohibit gatherings of people
             86      when necessary to protect the public health;
             87          (f) abate nuisances or eliminate sources of filth and infectious and communicable
             88      diseases affecting the public health and bill the owner or other person in charge of the premises
             89      upon which this nuisance occurs for the cost of abatement;


             90          (g) make necessary sanitary and health investigations and inspections on its own
             91      initiative or in cooperation with the Department of Health or Environmental Quality, or both,
             92      as to any matters affecting the public health;
             93          (h) pursuant to county ordinance or interlocal agreement:
             94          (i) establish and collect appropriate fees for the performance of services and operation
             95      of authorized or required programs and duties;
             96          (ii) accept, use, and administer all federal, state, or private donations or grants of funds,
             97      property, services, or materials for public health purposes; and
             98          (iii) make agreements not in conflict with state law which are conditional to receiving a
             99      donation or grant;
             100          (i) prepare, publish, and disseminate information necessary to inform and advise the
             101      public concerning:
             102          (i) the health and wellness of the population, specific hazards, and risk factors that may
             103      adversely affect the health and wellness of the population; and
             104          (ii) specific activities individuals and institutions can engage in to promote and protect
             105      the health and wellness of the population;
             106          (j) investigate the causes of morbidity and mortality;
             107          (k) issue notices and orders necessary to carry out this part;
             108          (l) conduct studies to identify injury problems, establish injury control systems,
             109      develop standards for the correction and prevention of future occurrences, and provide public
             110      information and instruction to special high risk groups;
             111          (m) cooperate with boards created under Section 19-1-106 to enforce laws and rules
             112      within the jurisdiction of the boards;
             113          (n) cooperate with the state health department, the Department of Corrections, the
             114      Administrative Office of the Courts, the Division of Juvenile Justice Services, and the Crime
             115      Victim Reparations Board to conduct testing for HIV infection of convicted sexual offenders
             116      and any victims of a sexual offense;
             117          (o) investigate suspected bioterrorism and disease pursuant to Section 26-23b-108 ; and
             118          (p) provide public health assistance in response to a national, state, or local emergency,
             119      a public health emergency as defined in Section 26-23b-102 , or a declaration by the President
             120      of the United States or other federal official requesting public health-related activities.


             121          (2) The local health department shall:
             122          (a) establish programs or measures to promote and protect the health and general
             123      wellness of the people within the boundaries of the local health department;
             124          (b) investigate infectious and other diseases of public health importance and implement
             125      measures to control the causes of epidemic and communicable diseases and other conditions
             126      significantly affecting the public health which may include involuntary testing of convicted
             127      sexual offenders for the HIV infection pursuant to Section 76-5-502 and voluntary testing of
             128      victims of sexual offenses for HIV infection pursuant to Section 76-5-503 ;
             129          (c) cooperate with the department in matters pertaining to the public health and in the
             130      administration of state health laws; and
             131          (d) coordinate implementation of environmental programs to maximize efficient use of
             132      resources by developing with the Department of Environmental Quality a Comprehensive
             133      Environmental Service Delivery Plan which:
             134          (i) recognizes that the Department of Environmental Quality and local health
             135      departments are the foundation for providing environmental health programs in the state;
             136          (ii) delineates the responsibilities of the department and each local health department
             137      for the efficient delivery of environmental programs using federal, state, and local authorities,
             138      responsibilities, and resources;
             139          (iii) provides for the delegation of authority and pass through of funding to local health
             140      departments for environmental programs, to the extent allowed by applicable law, identified in
             141      the plan, and requested by the local health department; and
             142          (iv) is reviewed and updated annually.
             143          (3) The local health department has the following duties regarding public and private
             144      schools within its boundaries:
             145          (a) enforce all ordinances, standards, and regulations pertaining to the public health of
             146      persons attending public and private schools;
             147          (b) exclude from school attendance any person, including teachers, who is suffering
             148      from any communicable or infectious disease, whether acute or chronic, if the person is likely
             149      to convey the disease to those in attendance; and
             150          (c) (i) make regular inspections of the health-related condition of all school buildings
             151      and premises;


             152          (ii) report the inspections on forms furnished by the department to those responsible for
             153      the condition and provide instructions for correction of any conditions that impair or endanger
             154      the health or life of those attending the schools; and
             155          (iii) provide a copy of the report to the department at the time the report is made.
             156          (4) If those responsible for the health-related condition of the school buildings and
             157      premises do not carry out any instructions for corrections provided in a report in Subsection
             158      (3)(c), the local health board shall cause the conditions to be corrected at the expense of the
             159      persons responsible.
             160          (5) The local health department may exercise incidental authority as necessary to carry
             161      out the provisions and purposes of this part.
             162          Section 4. Section 53-7-106 is amended to read:
             163           53-7-106. Adoption of fire code.
             164          (1) A fire code promulgated by a nationally recognized code authority and adopted by
             165      the [Utah Fire Prevention Board pursuant to Section 53-7-204 ] Legislature under Section
             166      58-56-4 is the state fire code, to which cities, counties, fire protection districts, and the state
             167      shall adhere in safeguarding life and property from the hazards of fire and explosion.
             168          (2) (a) The legislative body of a political subdivision may make ordinances that are
             169      more restrictive in its fire code requirements than the state fire code, in order to meet the public
             170      safety needs of the political subdivision.
             171          (b) The legislative body of a political subdivision shall provide to the Utah Fire
             172      Prevention Board one copy of each ordinance enacted under Subsection (2)(a).
             173          (c) The state fire marshal shall keep an indexed copy of the ordinances.
             174          (d) Copies of the ordinances are available from the state fire marshal on request.
             175          Section 5. Section 53-7-202 is amended to read:
             176           53-7-202. Definitions.
             177          As used in this part:
             178          (1) "Agricultural and wildlife fireworks" means a class C dangerous explosive that:
             179          (a) uses sound or light when deployed; and
             180          (b) is designated to prevent crop damage or unwanted animals from entering a
             181      specified area.
             182          (2) "Board" means the Utah Fire Prevention Board created in Section 53-7-203 .


             183          (3) "Class A explosive" means a division 1.1 or 1.2 explosive as defined by the U.S.
             184      Department of Transportation in Part 173, Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations.
             185          (4) "Class B explosive" means a division 1.2 or 1.3G explosive as defined by the U.S.
             186      Department of Transportation in Part 173, Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations.
             187          (5) "Class C explosive" means a division 1.4G explosive as defined by the U.S.
             188      Department of Transportation in Part 173, Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations.
             189          (6) (a) "Class C common state approved explosive" means a class C explosive that is:
             190          (i) a cardboard or heavy paper cylindrical tube or cone that:
             191          (A) produces a shower of color and sparks that reach a maximum height of 15 feet;
             192          (B) may whistle or pop; and
             193          (C) is not designed to explode or leave the ground;
             194          (ii) a pyrotechnic wheel device that:
             195          (A) may be attached to a post or tree; and
             196          (B) contains up to six "driver" units or tubes;
             197          (iii) any device that:
             198          (A) spins, jumps, or emits popping sounds when placed on the ground;
             199          (B) does not exceed a height of 15 feet when discharged; and
             200          (C) does not travel laterally more than ten feet on a smooth surface when discharged;
             201          (iv) a morning glory, suzuki, or flitter sparkler; and
             202          (v) a single tube day type parachute that does not carry any flare or flame upon descent.
             203          (b) "Class C common state approved explosive" does not mean:
             204          (i) class C dangerous explosives; or
             205          (ii) exempt explosives.
             206          (7) (a) "Class C dangerous explosive" means a class C explosive that is:
             207          (i) a firecracker, cannon cracker, salute, cherry bomb, or other similar explosive;
             208          (ii) a skyrocket or any device other than a model rocket that uses combustible or
             209      explosive material and rises more than 15 feet when discharged;
             210          (iii) a roman candle or other device that discharges balls of fire over 15 feet in height;
             211          (iv) a tube or cone aerial firework that propels comets, shells, salutes, flash shells, or
             212      similar devices more than 15 feet into the air; and
             213          (v) a chaser, whistler, or other device that darts or travels more than ten feet laterally


             214      on a smooth surface or exceeds 15 feet in height when discharged.
             215          (b) A "class C dangerous explosive" does not mean:
             216          (i) class C common state approved explosives; or
             217          (ii) exempt explosives.
             218          (8) "Display fireworks" means an aerial shell, salute, flash shell, comet, sky battle,
             219      mine, and any similar class C explosive or class B explosive.
             220          (9) (a) "Display operator" means the person who purchases and is responsible for
             221      setting up and discharging display fireworks.
             222          (b) "Display operator" does not mean a fire department.
             223          (10) "Exempt explosive" means a model rocket, toy pistol cap, emergency signal flare,
             224      snake or glow worm, party popper, trick noisemaker, match, and wire sparkler under 12 inches
             225      in length.
             226          (11) (a) "Fireworks" means:
             227          (i) class C explosives;
             228          (ii) class C dangerous explosives; and
             229          (iii) class C common state approved explosives.
             230          (b) "Fireworks" does not mean:
             231          (i) exempt explosives;
             232          (ii) class A explosives; and
             233          (iii) class B explosives.
             234          (12) "Importer" means a person who brings class B or class C explosives into Utah for
             235      the general purpose of resale within the state or exportation to other states.
             236          (13) (a) "Pyrotechnic" means any composition or device manufactured or used to
             237      produce a visible or audible effect by combustion, deflagration, or detonation.
             238          (b) "Pyrotechnic" does not mean exempt explosives.
             239          (14) "Retail seller" means a person who sells class C common state approved
             240      explosives to the public during the period authorized under Section 53-7-225 .
             241          (15) "State fire code" means a nationally recognized fire code [adopted] administered
             242      by the Utah Fire Prevention Board pursuant to Section 53-7-204 .
             243          (16) "Trick noisemaker" includes a:
             244          (a) tube or sphere containing pyrotechnic composition that produces a white or colored


             245      smoke as its primary effect when ignited; and
             246          (b) device that produces a small report intended to surprise the user, including a:
             247          (i) "booby trap," which is a small tube with a string protruding from both ends that
             248      ignites the friction sensitive composition in the tube when the string is pulled;
             249          (ii) "snapper," which is a small paper-wrapped device containing a minute quantity of
             250      explosive composition coated on bits of sand that explodes producing a small report;
             251          (iii) "trick match," which is a kitchen or book match coated with a small quantity of
             252      explosive or pyrotechnic composition that produces a small shower of sparks when ignited;
             253          (iv) "cigarette load," which is a small wooden peg coated with a small quantity of
             254      explosive composition that produces a small report when the cigarette is ignited; and
             255          (v) "auto burglar alarm," which is a tube that:
             256          (A) contains pyrotechnic composition that produces a loud whistle and smoke when
             257      ignited;
             258          (B) may contain a small quantity of explosive to produce a small explosive noise; and
             259          (C) is ignited by a squib.
             260          (17) "Unclassified fireworks" means any of the following:
             261          (a) a pyrotechnic device that is used, given away, or offered for sale, that has not been
             262      tested, approved, and classified by the U.S. Department of Transportation;
             263          (b) an approved device that has been altered or redesigned since obtaining approval by
             264      the U.S. Department of Transportation; and
             265          (c) a pyrotechnic device that is being tested by a manufacturer, importer, or wholesaler
             266      before receiving approval by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
             267          (18) "Wholesaler" means any of the following:
             268          (a) a person who sells class C common state approved explosives to a retailer; and
             269          (b) a person who sells class B explosives or class C dangerous explosives for display
             270      use.
             271          Section 6. Section 53-7-204 is amended to read:
             272           53-7-204. Duties of Utah Fire Prevention Board -- Local administrative duties.
             273          (1) The board shall:
             274          (a) make rules in accordance with Title 63G, Chapter 3, Utah Administrative
             275      Rulemaking Act:


             276          (i) [adopting] administer a nationally recognized fire code and the specific edition of
             277      that fire code as the state fire code to be used as the standard;
             278          (ii) establishing minimum standards for the prevention of fire and for the protection of
             279      life and property against fire and panic in any:
             280          (A) publicly owned building, including all public and private schools, colleges, and
             281      university buildings;
             282          (B) building or structure used or intended for use as an asylum, a mental hospital, a
             283      hospital, a sanitarium, a home for the aged, an assisted living facility, a children's home or day
             284      care center, or any similar institutional type occupancy of any capacity; and
             285          (C) place of assemblage where 50 or more persons may gather together in a building,
             286      structure, tent, or room for the purpose of amusement, entertainment, instruction, or education;
             287          (iii) establishing safety and other requirements for placement and discharge of display
             288      fireworks based upon:
             289          (A) the specific edition of the nationally recognized fire code [selected by the board
             290      under Subsection (1)(a)(i)] adopted by the Legislature under Section 58-56-4 ; and
             291          (B) relevant publications of the National Fire Protection Association;
             292          (iv) establishing minimum safety standards for retail storage, handling, and sale of
             293      class C common state approved explosives;
             294          (v) defining methods to establish proof of competence to place and discharge display
             295      fireworks;
             296          (vi) for deputizing qualified persons to act as deputy fire marshals, and to secure
             297      special services in emergencies;
             298          (vii) implementing Sections 53-7-106 and 53-7-205 ;
             299          (viii) setting guidelines for use of funding;
             300          (ix) establishing criteria for training and safety equipment grants for fire departments
             301      enrolled in firefighter certification; and
             302          (x) establishing minimum ongoing training standards for hazardous materials
             303      emergency response agencies;
             304          (b) recommend to the commissioner a state fire marshal;
             305          (c) develop policies under which the state fire marshal and the state fire marshal's
             306      authorized representatives will perform;


             307          (d) provide for the employment of field assistants and other salaried personnel as
             308      required;
             309          (e) prescribe the duties of the state fire marshal and the state fire marshal's authorized
             310      representatives;
             311          (f) establish a statewide fire prevention, fire education, and fire service training
             312      program in cooperation with the Board of Regents;
             313          (g) establish a statewide fire statistics program for the purpose of gathering fire data
             314      from all political subdivisions of the state;
             315          (h) establish a fire academy in accordance with Section 53-7-204.2 ;
             316          (i) coordinate the efforts of all people engaged in fire suppression in the state;
             317          (j) work aggressively with the local political subdivisions to reduce fire losses;
             318          (k) regulate the sale and servicing of portable fire extinguishers and automatic fire
             319      suppression systems in the interest of safeguarding lives and property;
             320          (l) establish a certification program for persons who inspect and test automatic fire
             321      sprinkler systems;
             322          (m) establish a certification program for persons who inspect and test fire alarm
             323      systems; [and]
             324          (n) establish a certification for persons who provide response services regarding
             325      hazardous materials emergencies[.]; and
             326          (o) in accordance with Section 58-56-4 , make a report to the Business and Labor
             327      Interim Committee by no later than November 30 of each year recommending the adoption of,
             328      amendment to, or repeal of a nationally promulgated fire code.
             329          (2) The board may incorporate in its rules by reference, in whole or in part, nationally
             330      recognized and readily available standards and codes adopted by the Legislature pertaining to
             331      the protection of life and property from fire, explosion, or panic.
             332          (3) (a) The board [may only make] shall recommend to the Legislature in accordance
             333      with Subsection (1)(o) amendments to the state fire code adopted [under Subsection (1)(a)(i)]
             334      by the Legislature in accordance with Section [ 53-7-205 ] 58-56-7 .
             335          (b) The amendments, as adopted by the Legislature, may be applicable to the entire
             336      state or within a city, county, or fire protection district.
             337          (4) The following functions shall be administered locally by a city, county, or fire


             338      protection district:
             339          (a) issuing permits, including open burning permits pursuant to Sections 11-7-1 and
             340      19-2-114 ;
             341          (b) creating a local board of appeals in accordance with the state fire code; and
             342          (c) establishing, modifying, or deleting fire flow and water supply requirements.
             343          Section 7. Section 53-7-209 is amended to read:
             344           53-7-209. Inspection of buildings by officials.
             345          (1) A fire chief or officer may enter any building or premises not used as a private
             346      dwelling at any reasonable hour to inspect the building or premises and enforce the rules made
             347      under this part, including the state fire code adopted under Section [ 53-7-204 ] 58-56-4 .
             348          (2) The owner, lessee, manager, or operator of any building or premises not used as a
             349      private dwelling shall permit inspections under this section.
             350          Section 8. Section 58-56-3 is amended to read:
             351           58-56-3. Definitions.
             352          In addition to the definitions in Section 58-1-102 , as used in this chapter:
             353          (1) (a) "Adopted code" means:
             354          (i) (A) a new edition of or amendment to an existing code, including the standards and
             355      specifications contained in the code, adopted by the Legislature under Section 58-56-7 ; and
             356          (B) administered by the division under Section 58-56-6 ; and
             357          (ii) adopted by a nationally recognized code authority, including:
             358          (A) a building code;
             359          (B) the National Electrical Code promulgated by the National Fire Protection
             360      Association;
             361          (C) a residential one and two family dwelling code;
             362          (D) a plumbing code;
             363          (E) a mechanical code;
             364          (F) a fuel gas code;
             365          (G) an energy conservation code; and
             366          (H) a manufactured housing installation standard code.
             367          (b) "Adopted code" includes:
             368          (i) a fire code administered by the Fire Prevention Board under Section 53-7-204 ; and


             369          (ii) a code listed in Subsection (1)(a)(ii) that was adopted or amended by the division
             370      and Uniform Building Code Commission or the Fire Protection Board before May 12, 2009.
             371          (2) (a) (i) "Approved code" means a code, including the standards and specifications
             372      contained in the code, approved by the division under Section 58-56-4 for use by a compliance
             373      agency; and
             374          (ii) administered by the division under Section 58-56-6 .
             375          (b) "Approved code" does not include an adopted code listed under Subsection (1)(b).
             376          (3) "Board" means the Fire Prevention Board created in Section 53-7-203 .
             377          [(1)] (4) "Building" means a structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering any
             378      use or occupancy and any improvements attached to it.
             379          [(2) "Code(s)" means the following codes, including the standards and specifications
             380      contained in them:]
             381          [(a) codes adopted by the commission under Subsection 58-56-4 (2); and]
             382          [(b) codes approved by the commission under Subsection 58-56-4 (4)(a).]
             383          [(3)] (5) "Commission" means the Uniform Building Code Commission created under
             384      this chapter.
             385          [(4)] (6) "Compliance agency" means:
             386          (a) an agency of the state or any of its political subdivisions which issues permits for
             387      construction regulated under the codes;
             388          (b) any other agency of the state or its political subdivisions specifically empowered to
             389      enforce compliance with the codes; or
             390          (c) any other state agency which chooses to enforce codes adopted under this chapter
             391      by authority given the agency under a title other than Title 58, Occupations and Professions.
             392          [(5)] (7) "Factory built housing" means manufactured homes or mobile homes.
             393          [(6)] (8) (a) "Factory built housing set-up contractor" means an individual licensed by
             394      the division to set up or install factory built housing on a temporary or permanent basis.
             395          (b) The scope of the work included under the license includes the placement or
             396      securing, or both placement and securing, of the factory built housing on a permanent or
             397      temporary foundation, securing the units together if required, and connection of the utilities to
             398      the factory built housing unit, but does not include site preparation, construction of a
             399      permanent foundation, and construction of utility services to the near proximity of the factory


             400      built housing unit.
             401          (c) If a dealer is not licensed as a factory built housing set-up contractor, that individual
             402      must subcontract the connection services to individuals who are licensed by the division to
             403      perform those specific functions under Title 58, Chapter 55, Utah Construction Trades
             404      Licensing Act.
             405          [(7)] (9) "HUD code" means the National Manufactured Housing Construction and
             406      Safety Standards Act, 42 U.S.C. Sec. 5401 et seq.
             407          (10) "Legislative action" means the Legislature's:
             408          (a) adoption of a new adopted code;
             409          (b) adoption of an amendment to an existing adopted code;
             410          (c) repeal of an adopted code; or
             411          (d) repeal of a provision of an adopted code.
             412          [(8)] (11) "Local regulator" means each political subdivision of the state which is
             413      empowered to engage in the regulation of construction, alteration, remodeling, building, repair,
             414      and other activities subject to the codes.
             415          [(9)] (12) (a) "Manufactured home" means a transportable factory built housing unit
             416      constructed on or after June 15, 1976, according to the HUD Code, in one or more sections,
             417      which:
             418          (i) in the traveling mode, is eight body feet or more in width or 40 body feet or more in
             419      length, or when erected on site, is 400 or more square feet; and
             420          (ii) is built on a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a dwelling with or
             421      without a permanent foundation when connected to the required utilities, and includes the
             422      plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, and electrical systems.
             423          (b) Manufactured homes constructed on or after June 15, 1976, shall be identifiable by
             424      the manufacturer's data plate bearing the date the unit was manufactured and a HUD label
             425      attached to the exterior of the home certifying the home was manufactured to HUD standards.
             426          [(10)] (13) "Mobile home" means a transportable factory built housing unit built prior
             427      to June 15, 1976, in accordance with a state mobile home code which existed prior to the HUD
             428      Code.
             429          [(11)] (14) "Modular unit" means a structure built from sections which are
             430      manufactured in accordance with the construction standards adopted pursuant to Section


             431      58-56-4 and transported to a building site, the purpose of which is for human habitation,
             432      occupancy, or use.
             433          [(12)] (15) "Opinion" means a written, nonbinding, and advisory statement issued by
             434      the commission concerning an interpretation of the meaning of the codes or the application of
             435      the codes in a specific circumstance issued in response to a specific request by a party to the
             436      issue.
             437          [(13)] (16) "State regulator" means an agency of the state which is empowered to
             438      engage in the regulation of construction, alteration, remodeling, building, repair, and other
             439      activities subject to the codes adopted pursuant to this chapter.
             440          Section 9. Section 58-56-4 is amended to read:
             441           58-56-4. Definitions -- Adoption of building codes -- Amendments -- Approval of
             442      other codes -- Exemptions.
             443          (1) As used in this section:
             444          (a) "agricultural use" means a use that relates to the tilling of soil and raising of crops,
             445      or keeping or raising domestic animals;
             446          (b) "not for human occupancy" means use of a structure for purposes other than
             447      protection or comfort of human beings, but allows people to enter the structure for:
             448          (i) maintenance and repair; and
             449          (ii) the care of livestock, crops, or equipment intended for agricultural use which are
             450      kept there; and
             451          (c) "residential area" means land that is not used for an agricultural use and is:
             452          (i) (A) within the boundaries of a city or town; and
             453          (B) less than five contiguous acres;
             454          (ii) (A) within a subdivision for which the county has approved a subdivision plat
             455      under Title 17, Chapter 27a, Part 6, Subdivisions; and
             456          (B) less than two contiguous acres; or
             457          (iii) not located in whole or in part in an agricultural protection area created under Title
             458      17, Chapter 41, Agriculture and Industrial Protection [Area] Areas.
             459          [(2) (a) Subject to the provisions of Subsections (4) and (5), the following codes, each
             460      of which must be promulgated by a nationally recognized code authority, shall be adopted, in
             461      the manner described in Subsection (2)(b), as the construction codes which the state and each


             462      political subdivision of the state shall follow in the circumstances described in Subsection (3):]
             463          [(i) a building code;]
             464          [(ii) the National Electrical Code promulgated by the National Fire Protection
             465      Association;]
             466          [(iii) a residential one and two family dwelling code;]
             467          [(iv) a plumbing code;]
             468          [(v) a mechanical code;]
             469          [(vi) a fuel gas code;]
             470          [(vii) an energy conservation code; and]
             471          [(viii) a manufactured housing installation standard code.]
             472          [(b) In accordance with Title 63G, Chapter 3, Utah Administrative Rulemaking Act,
             473      the division, in collaboration with the commission, shall adopt by rule specific editions of the
             474      codes described in Subsection (2)(a), and may adopt by rule successor editions of any adopted
             475      code.]
             476          [(c) The division, in collaboration with the commission, may, in accordance with
             477      Section 58-56-7 , adopt amendments to the codes adopted under Subsection (2)(a), to be
             478      applicable to the entire state or within one or more political subdivisions.]
             479          [(3) Subject to the provisions of Subsections (4) and (5), the codes and amendments
             480      adopted under Subsection (2) shall be followed when:]
             481          [(a) new construction is involved;]
             482          [(b) the owner of an existing building, or the owner's agent, is voluntarily engaged in:]
             483          [(i) the repair, renovation, remodeling, alteration, enlargement, rehabilitation,
             484      conservation, or reconstruction of the building; or]
             485          [(ii) changing the character or use of the building in a manner which increases the
             486      occupancy loads, other demands, or safety risks of the building.]
             487          (2) A person shall follow an adopted code when:
             488          (a) new construction is involved; and
             489          (b) the owner of an existing building, or the owner's agent, is voluntarily engaged in:
             490          (i) the repair, renovation, remodeling, alteration, enlargement, rehabilitation,
             491      conservation, or reconstruction of the building; or
             492          (ii) changing the character or use of the building in a manner which increases the


             493      occupancy loads, other demands, or safety risks of the building.
             494          (3) (a) Beginning May 12, 2009, the board and commission shall, in accordance with
             495      Sections 53-7-204 and 58-56-5 , make recommendations to the Business and Labor Interim
             496      Committee as to whether or not the Legislature should take legislative action.
             497          (b) (i) If the Business and Labor Interim Committee decides to recommend legislative
             498      action to the Legislature, the Business and Labor Interim Committee shall prepare legislation
             499      for consideration by the Legislature in the next general session.
             500          (ii) The legislation described in Subsection (3)(b)(i) shall direct:
             501          (A) the division to administer an adopted code, excluding the fire code, in accordance
             502      with legislative action approved by the Legislature; and
             503          (B) the board to administer an adopted fire code in accordance with legislative action
             504      approved by the Legislature.
             505          (4) (a) Notwithstanding Subsection (3), the commission may, in accordance with Title
             506      63G, Chapter 3, Utah Administrative Rulemaking Act, adopt an adopted code, except the fire
             507      code, if the commission determines that waiting for legislative action in the next general
             508      legislative session under Subsection (3) would:
             509          (i) cause an imminent peril to the public health, safety, or welfare; or
             510          (ii) place a person in violation of federal or other state law.
             511          (b) If the commission adopts an adopted code under Subsection (4)(a), the commission
             512      shall file with the division:
             513          (i) the text of the adopted code; and
             514          (ii) an analysis that includes the specific reasons and justifications for its findings.
             515          (c) The division shall, in accordance with Subsection (4)(b):
             516          (i) publish the adopted code in accordance with Section 58-56-6 ; and
             517          (ii) notify the Business and Labor Interim Committee of the adoption, including a copy
             518      of the commission's analysis described in Subsection (5)(b).
             519          (d) An adopted code adopted under this Subsection (4) is repealed effective at midnight
             520      on the last day that the Legislature adjourns sine die at its next annual general session.
             521          (5) (a) Notwithstanding Subsection (3), the board may, in accordance with Title 63G,
             522      Chapter 3, Utah Administrative Rulemaking Act, adopt a fire code, if the board determines that
             523      waiting for legislative action in the next general legislative session under Subsection (3) would:


             524          (i) cause an imminent peril to the public health, safety, or welfare; or
             525          (ii) place a person in violation of federal or other state law.
             526          (b) If the board adopts a fire code under Subsection (5)(a), the board shall file with the
             527      division:
             528          (i) the text of the adopted fire code; and
             529          (ii) an analysis that includes the specific reasons and justifications for its findings.
             530          (c) The board shall, in accordance with Subsection (5)(b):
             531          (i) publish the adopted fire code; and
             532          (ii) notify the Business and Labor Interim Committee of the adoption, including a copy
             533      of the board's analysis described in Subsection (5)(b).
             534          (d) A fire code adopted under this Subsection (5) is repealed effective at midnight on
             535      the last day that the Legislature adjourns sine die at its next annual general session.
             536          [(4)] (6) (a) The division, in [collaboration] consultation with the commission, has
             537      discretion to approve, without adopting, certain approved codes [in addition to those described
             538      in Subsection (2)(a)], including specific editions of the approved codes, for use by a
             539      compliance agency.
             540          (b) [If the applicable code is one which the division has approved under Subsection
             541      (4)(a)] Under Subsection (6)(a), a compliance agency has the discretion to:
             542          (i) adopt an ordinance requiring removal, demolition, or repair of a building, according
             543      to [a] an adopted code;
             544          (ii) adopt, by ordinance or rule, a dangerous building code; or
             545          (iii) adopt, by ordinance or rule, a building rehabilitation code.
             546          [(5)] (7) (a) Except in a residential area, a structure used solely in conjunction with
             547      agriculture use, and not for human occupancy, is exempted from the permit requirements of
             548      [any code adopted by the division] an adopted code.
             549          (b) Notwithstanding Subsection [(5)] (7)(a), unless otherwise exempted, plumbing,
             550      electrical, and mechanical permits may be required when that work is included in the structure.
             551          Section 10. Section 58-56-5 is amended to read:
             552           58-56-5. Uniform Building Code Commission -- Composition of commission --
             553      Commission duties and responsibilities.
             554          (1) There is established a Uniform Building Code Commission to advise the division


             555      with respect to the division's responsibilities in administering the codes under this chapter.
             556          (2) The commission shall be appointed by the executive director who shall submit [his]
             557      those nominations to the governor for confirmation or rejection. If a nominee is rejected,
             558      alternative names shall be submitted until confirmation is received. Following confirmation by
             559      the governor, the appointment [shall be made] is effective.
             560          (3) The commission shall consist of eleven members who shall be appointed in
             561      accordance with the following:
             562          (a) one member shall be from among candidates nominated by the Utah League of
             563      Cities and Towns and the Utah Association of Counties;
             564          (b) one member shall be a licensed building inspector employed by a political
             565      subdivision of the state;
             566          (c) one member shall be a licensed professional engineer;
             567          (d) one member shall be a licensed architect;
             568          (e) one member shall be a fire official;
             569          (f) three members shall be contractors licensed by the state, of which one shall be a
             570      general contractor, one an electrical contractor, and one a plumbing contractor;
             571          (g) two members shall be from the general public and have no affiliation with the
             572      construction industry or real estate development industry; and
             573          (h) one member shall be from the Division of Facilities Construction Management,
             574      Department of Administrative Services.
             575          (4) (a) Except as required by Subsection (4)(b), as terms of current commission
             576      members expire, the executive director shall appoint each new member or reappointed member
             577      to a four-year term.
             578          (b) Notwithstanding the requirements of Subsection (4)(a), the executive director shall,
             579      at the time of appointment or reappointment, adjust the length of terms to ensure that the terms
             580      of commission members are staggered so that approximately half of the commission is
             581      appointed every two years.
             582          (5) When a vacancy occurs in the membership for any reason, the executive director
             583      shall appoint a replacement [shall be appointed] for the unexpired term.
             584          (6) No commission member may serve more than two full terms, and no commission
             585      member who ceases to serve may again serve on the commission until after the expiration of


             586      two years from the date of cessation of service.
             587          (7) A majority of the commission members shall constitute a quorum and may act on
             588      behalf of the commission.
             589          (8) (a) (i) Members who are not government employees shall receive no compensation
             590      or benefits for their services, but may receive per diem and expenses incurred in the
             591      performance of the member's official duties at the rates established by the Division of Finance
             592      under Sections 63A-3-106 and 63A-3-107 .
             593          (ii) Members may decline to receive per diem and expenses for their service.
             594          (b) (i) State government officer and employee members who do not receive salary, per
             595      diem, or expenses from their agency for their service may receive per diem and expenses
             596      incurred in the performance of their official duties from the commission at the rates established
             597      by the Division of Finance under Sections 63A-3-106 and 63A-3-107 .
             598          (ii) State government officer and employee members may decline to receive per diem
             599      and expenses for their service.
             600          (c) (i) Local government members who do not receive salary, per diem, or expenses
             601      from the entity that they represent for their service may receive per diem and expenses incurred
             602      in the performance of their official duties at the rates established by the Division of Finance
             603      under Sections 63A-3-106 and 63A-3-107 .
             604          (ii) Local government members may decline to receive per diem and expenses for their
             605      service.
             606          (9) (a) The commission shall annually designate one of its members to serve as chair of
             607      the commission.
             608          (b) The division shall provide a secretary to facilitate the function of the commission
             609      and to record its actions and recommendations.
             610          [(10) The duties and responsibilities of the commission are to:]
             611          [(a) recommend to the director the:]
             612          [(i) adoption by rule of codes and amendments under Subsections 58-56-4 (2)(b) and
             613      (c); and]
             614          [(ii) approval by rule of the codes referenced in Subsection 58-56-4 (4)(a);]
             615          [(b) offer an opinion regarding the interpretation of or the application of any of the
             616      codes adopted or approved under Section 58-56-4 upon a formal submission by a party to the


             617      matter in question which submission must clearly state the facts in question, the specific code
             618      citation involved and the position taken by all parties;]
             619          [(c) act as an appeals board as provided in Subsection 58-56-8 (3);]
             620          [(d) establish advisory peer committees on either a standing or ad hoc basis to advise
             621      the commission with respect to matters related to the codes described in Section 58-56-4 ,
             622      including a committee to advise the commission regarding health matters related to the
             623      plumbing code; and]
             624          [(e) assist the division in overseeing code-related training in accordance with Section
             625      58-56-9 .]
             626          (10) The commission shall:
             627          (a) in accordance with Section 58-56-4 , make a report to the Business and Labor
             628      Interim Committee by no later than November 30 of each year;
             629          (b) ensure that the report includes recommendations as to whether or not the
             630      Legislature should take legislative action, excluding any recommendations on the fire code;
             631          (c) offer an opinion regarding the interpretation of or the application of an adopted
             632      code, excluding the fire code, or an approved code if a party submits a request for an opinion;
             633          (d) act as an appeals board as provided in Section 58-56-8 ;
             634          (e) establish advisory peer committees on either a standing or ad hoc basis to advise the
             635      commission with respect to matters related to an adopted code, excluding the fire code, or
             636      approved code, including a committee to advise the commission regarding health matters
             637      related to the plumbing code; and
             638          (f) assist the division in overseeing code-related training in accordance with Section
             639      58-56-9 .
             640          (11) A party requesting an opinion under Subsection (10)(c) shall submit a formal
             641      request clearly stating:
             642          (a) the facts in question;
             643          (b) the specific code citation at issue; and
             644          (c) the position taken by all parties.
             645          Section 11. Section 58-56-6 is amended to read:
             646           58-56-6. Building codes -- Division duties and responsibilities.
             647          (1) The division shall administer the codes adopted or approved under Section 58-56-4


             648      pursuant to this chapter, but [shall have] has no responsibility or duty to conduct inspections to
             649      determine compliance with the codes, issue permits, or assess building permit fees.
             650          (2) Administration of the codes adopted or approved under Section 58-56-4 by the
             651      division shall include:
             652          [(a) receiving recommendations from the commission and thereafter adopting by rule
             653      the editions of the codes and amendments to the codes under Subsections 58-56-4 (2)(b) and
             654      (c);]
             655          [(b) receiving recommendations from the commission and thereafter approving by rule
             656      the code editions referenced in Subsection 58-56-4 (4)(a);]
             657          [(c) maintaining and publishing for reference on a current basis the adopted
             658      amendments to the codes under Subsection 58-56-4 (2)(c); and]
             659          [(d) receiving requests for amendments and opinions from the commission,]
             660          (a) scheduling appropriate hearings [and publishing the amendments to the codes and];
             661          (b) maintaining, publishing for reference, and keeping the current adopted code,
             662      excluding the fire code, and approved code; and
             663          (c) publishing the opinions of the commission with respect to interpretation and
             664      application of the codes.
             665          Section 12. Section 58-56-7 is amended to read:
             666           58-56-7. Code amendments -- Commission recommendations -- Division duties
             667      and responsibilities.
             668          (1) (a) [The] Subject to Subsection (1)(b), the division, in consultation with the
             669      commission, shall establish by rule the procedure and manner under which requests for
             670      [amendments to codes under Subsection 58-56-4 (2)(c)] legislative action to an adopted code
             671      shall be:
             672          [(a)] (i) filed with the division; [and]
             673          [(b) recommended or declined for adoption.]
             674          (ii) reviewed by the commission; and
             675          (iii) recommended by the commission to the Business and Labor Interim Committee
             676      for legislative action in accordance with Section 58-56-5 .
             677          (b) Notwithstanding Subsection (1)(a), the board shall recommend legislative action to
             678      the fire code in accordance with Section 53-7-204 .


             679          (2) The division shall accept from any local regulators, state regulators, state agencies
             680      involved with the construction and design of buildings, the contractors, plumbers, or
             681      electricians licensing boards, or from recognized construction-related associations a request for
             682      amendment to the codes under [Subsection] Section 58-56-4 [(2)(c)].
             683          (3) (a) [The] Except in the case of the fire code, the division may make
             684      recommendations to the commission for [amendments to codes under Subsection
             685      58-56-4 (2)(c). The] legislative action.
             686          (b) Except in the case of the fire code, the commission may also consider
             687      [amendments] legislative action on its own initiative.
             688          (4) (a) On May 15 and [November 15] October 15 of each calendar year, or the first
             689      government working day [thereafter] after those dates if either date falls on a weekend or
             690      government holiday, the division shall convene a public hearing, [as a part of the rulemaking
             691      process,] before the commission concerning requests for [amendment of the codes,
             692      recommended by the division and commission to be adopted by rule] legislative action to an
             693      adopted code in accordance with Section 58-56-4 .
             694          (b) The hearing shall be conducted in accordance with the rules of the commission.
             695          (5) The commission shall, after the hearing described in Subsection (4), make a written
             696      report of recommended amendments to be included in the commission's report to the Business
             697      and Labor Interim Committee under Section 58-56-5 .
             698          (6) In making rules required by this chapter, the division shall comply with Title 63G,
             699      Chapter 3, Utah Administrative Rulemaking Act.
             700          [(5) Within 15 days following completion of the hearing under Subsection (4), the
             701      commission shall provide to the division a written recommendation concerning each
             702      amendment.]
             703          [(6) The division shall consider the recommendations and promulgate amendments by
             704      rule in accordance with Title 63G, Chapter 3, Utah Administrative Rulemaking Act and as
             705      prescribed by the director.]
             706          [(7) The decision of the division to accept or reject the recommendation of the
             707      commission shall be made within 15 days after receipt of the recommendation.]
             708          [(8) All decisions of the division pertaining to adoption of a code edition or
             709      amendments to any code, which are contrary to recommendations of the commission, may be


             710      overridden by a two-thirds vote of the commission according to a procedure to be established
             711      by rule.]
             712          [(9) (a) Amendments with statewide application:]
             713          [(i) shall be effective on the January 1 or July 1 following the public hearing or as soon
             714      after that date as the requirements of Title 63G, Chapter 3, Utah Administrative Rulemaking
             715      Act, are met; or]
             716          [(ii) may be effective prior to the dates in Subsection (9)(a)(i) if designated by the
             717      division and the commission as necessary for the public health, safety, and welfare.]
             718          [(b) Amendments with local application only shall be effective on a date to be
             719      determined by the division and the commission.]
             720          [(c) In making rules required by this chapter, the division shall comply with the
             721      provisions of Title 63G, Chapter 3, Utah Administrative Rulemaking Act. The provisions of
             722      that chapter shall have control over this section in case of any conflict.]




Legislative Review Note
    as of 2-18-09 6:19 AM


Office of Legislative Research and General Counsel


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