CITY OF KATY POOL PLAN SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS

BEFORE SUBMITTING PLANS, CHECK ALL REQUIREMENTS BELOW ☐Two (2) copies of all pool plans and documents must be submitted with a completed Swimming Pool permit application form ☐A signed Swimming Pool Barrier Agreement is required when submitting a swimming pool permit application. ☐Certification of – Pool Protection Device Installation, is a Notary Public Document for the homeowner to waiver the required inspection of all alarms from inside the leading out to the pool. This is optional, but if not provided during the construction of the pool a door alarm inspection will be required and be accessible ☐Provide a survey of the property with all details below,

a) Show all dimensions for all sides of the pool to the home, lines (no part of the pool structure can be placed inside the building lines) and easements (Nothing is allowed inside the utility easements) ☐Show all depths of the pool and measurements from the pool to the or . Per Code, the pool location to the home must be on a 1:1 ratio depth to foundation, unless as noted on existing engineered foundation plans of the home. ☐Submit a cross-sectional layout for the main steel rebar. Include rebar size and spacing that will be used for the pool steel and . ☐Show the code required barrier around the pool meeting the Barrier Requirements. a) Show the location of the self-closing door entrance to the pool with the required 54” latch ☐Show the location of all pool equipment.

a. Locate any or all transformers b. GFCI Receptacle c. Pool Heater ☐Show the spacing for the Main drains

☐Submit a gas one-line diagram for all gas appliances to be installed.

☐ If any part of the pool is heated, submit the vapor-retardant cover or the exception information for code section 303.1.3 covers. ☐Show the location of the fill line with the pressure vacuum breaker or the location of the air gap ☐What will be installed for the surface around the pool, steel (concrete) or any other material a) If deck steel is installed, provide the rebar size and spacing to be used. Expansion joints must be installed 10 feet on center or maximum 144 Sq. Ft. D) Pavers or stone – See Electrical requirements (B) (b) FENCE BARRIER OPTIONS – CHAPTER 3, 2015 ISPSC A. Swimming pool covers must include all manufacturer documents, electrical, and installation instructions. B. 48” minimum to top of fence C. 2” maximum clearance at bottom to natural grade, 4” if solid surface D. If horizontal members less than 45” apart, they must be on pool side of barrier and maximum openings in barrier 1-3/4” E. If horizontal members greater than 45” apart, then maximum opening in barrier may be 4” F. Pedestrian open away from pool with latch 54” above the bottom of the gate and be self-closing/self-latching G. If pedestrian gate latch less than 54”, must be on pool side 3” minimum below top of fence and gate and barrier shall have no openings greater than ½” within 18” minimum of latch REQUIREMENTS A. All closed system (low pressure) PVC water piping tested at 35 psi with no leaks B. Pressure vacuum breaker installed at fill line, unless air gap is used C. If a pool heater is installed or any other gas appliances such as BBQ grills and fire pits, a one-line diagram must be submitted showing gas pipe size, valves, tracer wire, and regulators

2 ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS A. No receptacles within 6 feet of pool or install permanent fence or barrier B. Equipotential Bonding required per NEC 680.26 – See drawings a. Concrete with rebar – 360 degrees around the pool. Equipotential bonding must extend 3 ft. beyond the inside of the pool – NEC 680.26 (B)(2) b. Solid #8, 18-24 inches from the waters edges equal attachment grid around pool with minimum 4 connections. Equipotential bonding of perimeter surfaces alternative means – copper conductor 680.26(B)(2)(b) C. Minimum of one receptacle within 20 feet of pool and all receptacles within 20 feet GFCI protected D. Existing light fixtures within 5 feet of pool wall must be minimum 5 feet above pool surface and rigidly attached to existing structure and GFCI protected E. Switches located minimum of 5 feet from wall of pool or permanent fence or barrier must be installed F. Overhead wiring, per 2017 NEC – 680.9 G. Underground conduit burial depth per 2017 NEC Table 300.5 and show location of transformers H. Underground ferrous conduit has corrosion protection per 2017 NEC 680.14 I. No underground wiring within 5 feet of pool wall, unless supplying pool equipment and installed within rigid metal conduit, IMC or PVC conduit J. Wet-niche light fixtures located minimum 18” below normal water level top of fixture lens K. Brass or other approved corrosive-resistant metal must be used for wet- niche fixtures L. All metallic parts or fittings attached to pool structure, pool motors, pool covers, pool fencing and all metallic parts within 5 feet of pool are bonded with #8 solid copper conductor

3 M. Connectors for bonding are pressure connectors or clamps of brass or any other corrosion-resistant metal N. Wet -niche fixtures(s), motor(s), panel board(s) equipment grounding conductors sized per 2017 NEC Table 250.122 O. All exterior sub-panels, timer boxes approved for exterior use P. All timers and sub-panels have proper working clearance, wide as the equipment and 36” in front

NOTES:

1. The City will contact the pool builder upon approval of the pool permit application. Plumbing and electrical permits must be obtained PRIOR to the issuance of the pool permit and prior to starting any work. FEES DOUBLE IF WORK IS PERFORMED WITHOUT PERMITS. 2. All contractors must register with the City of Katy and provide proof of general liability insurance in the minimum amount of $300,000. Certificate of Insurance must list City of Katy as certificate holder and must be provided directly from the insurance company. If insurance is from out of state, it will need to list the job address on the certificate of insurance. 3. The permit holder is responsible for requesting and completing all required inspections. 4. The City of Katy does not issue credit on water bills for the filling of swimming pools.

FEES: Private pool: $50.00 Public pool: $70.00 Plumbing and Electrical permit fees are separate from pool fees

4 FEES DOUBLE IF WORK IS NON-TRANSFERABLE PERFORMED WITHOUT NO REFUNDS PERMIT BEING ISSUED EXPIRES IN 180 DAYS

Permits / Inspections Department | Website: www.cityofkaty.com | Email: [email protected] | Code Questions: [email protected] P.O. BOX 617 | 901 AVENUE C KATY, TEXAS 77492 | 281-391-4830 | FAX 281-391-4834 APPLICATION FOR SWIMMING POOL Build • Repair • Demolition • Other • Use: Residential • Commercial • Date of Application: ______Project Address: ______Lot: ______Block: ______Subdivision: ______County: ______

Legal Property Owner: ______Owner’s Address/City/State/Zip: ______Owner’s Phone #: ______Email: ______Contractor’s Name: ______Address/City/State/Zip: ______Contractor’s Phone #: ______Email: ______Description of Project: ______Pool – In Ground • Above Ground • Dimensions – Length ______Width ______Depth ______SQ.FT. ______

Pool Heated – Yes No If pool is heated, it m•ust comply • with 2015 International Swimming Pool and Code **Contractor, trades, and property owners will receive updates by email during the duration of the project** SPA – Yes • No • Value of Work: $______Fees:

Residential Pool - $50.00 Commercial Pool - $70.00

Reinspect Fees: (If required) Reinspection fee is $15.00 for the first reinspection, and the fee increases in increments of $15.00 each for each subsequent reinspection. (Ordinance 2240 adopted 11/10/03)

Original Signature of Contractor/Property Owner Printed Name Date

Approved By: ______Date: ______Note: Inspections called in before 2:00pm will be scheduled for the next business day, after 2:00pm will be scheduled for two (2) business days. City of Katy Swimming Pool Barrier Agreement

I certify that I am the homeowner at ______and the following pool company ______will be acting as the General Contractor installing the pool.

We both agree and understand the swimming pool barrier (fencing) will be installed in accordance with the 2015 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code Barrier Requirements for swimming pools, and inspected before any water is put into the pool. I understand that if any water is put into the pool before a barrier is placed, inspected, and approved by the City of Katy, a citation will be issued to the General Contractor and homeowner for each day the violation is not in compliance. The amount of the citation per day would not be less than $500.00 nor more than $2,000.00.

Attached to this agreement is a copy of the barrier requirements from the 2015 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code.

Swimming Pool Finals Agreement

As the homeowner, I understand and agree that the swimming pool shall not be used until all final inspections on the swimming pool have passed.

As the pool contractor, I understand and agree that final inspections on the swimming pool must be scheduled as soon as the pool is complete and the pool cannot be used by the homeowner until all finals have passed.

Printed name of homeowner: ______

Signature of homeowner: ______

Date: ______

Printed name of General Contractor & Title: ______

Signature of General Contractor: ______

Date: ______CITYOF KATY

NOTICE TO ALL SWIMMING POOL/SPA CONTRACTORS AND HOMEOWNERS

The Construction Ordinance of the City of Katy requires that swimming pools and be completely surrounded by a code-approved barrier. These requirements are intended to provide protection against potential and near drowning by restricting access to swimming pools and spas. When the wallsof a house are part of the barrier, all in a wall of a dwelling that provide direct access to the pool/spa area must satisfy the barrier requirements. This means that the doors must be fitted with a code-approved audible alarm. In order for the Building Inspector to verifythat affected doors meet the barrier requirements, the Building Inspector must have access to the interior of the house. This requires that either the homeowner or the homeowner's agent be present when the inspection is performed.

All doors with direct access to the pool through that wall shall be equipped with an alarm which produces an audible warning when the door and its screen, if present, are opened. The alarm shall sound continuously for a minimum of 30 seconds immediately after the door is opened and be capable of being heard throughout the house during normal household activities. The alarm shall automatically reset under all conditions. The alarm shall be equipped with a manual means, such as a touchpad or switch, to temporarily deactivate the alarm fora single opening. Such deactivation shall last for not more than 15 seconds. The deactivation switch(es) shall be located at least 54 inches (1372 mm) above the threshold of the door.

The City of Katy offers the homeowner an option. The homeowner may choose to complete a CERTIFICATIONOF HOUSE-POOL PROTECTIONDEVICE INSTAl.LATION FORM. This formmust be completed in full and the original must be on file with the Building Inspections Department prior to the pool contractor requesting the pool steel/bonding inspection or made available to the inspector at the time of the inspection. The Building Inspector will accept this form in lieu of the interior inspection. If the pool steel/bonding inspection is requested and the formis not on file or available, access to the house is necessary, but if not provided, the pool contractor will be assessed a re-inspection fee and the inspection will be disapproved.

By completing and returning the attached form, the Building Inspector will be able to provide the pool steel/bonding inspection without entering the house to verifydoor barrier compliance. It is the homeowner's option to have the protection devices inspected rather than use this form. By using the form, the homeowner accepts responsibility of complying with the City of Katy code requirements as evidenced by the execution of the form. To use the form the homeowner should proceed as follows: 1. Legibly print your address 2. Legibly initial the option(s) used forcomplying with the City of Katy code requirements 3. Legibly print your name 4. Sign and date the document before a Notary Public (the Notary Public will complete the remainder of the form) 5. Return the completed and notarized form to the Building Inspections Department located at 901 Avenue C Katy, TX. The form may be mailed or delivered in person.

It is recommended that the homeowner and the pool contractorcommunicate regarding the use of this form and the timing of inspections. Forms are available from the permits clerk at the time the application is submitted. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Roy Frankum, Building Official at 281-391-4830 or at [email protected]. City of Katy Certification of House – Pool Protection Device Installation

I certify that I am the homeowner at ______and the following swimming pool barrier protection devices has been installed between all doors with direct access to the pool area.

______1. All doors with direct access into the pool shall be equipped with an alarm which produces an audible warning when the door and its screen, if present, are opened. The alarm shall sound continuously for a minimum of 30 seconds immediately after the door is opened and be capable of being heard throughout the house during normal household activities. The alarm shall automatically reset under all conditions. The alarm system shall be equipped with a manual means, such as touchpad or switch, to temporarily deactivate the alarm for a single opening. Such deactivation shall last for not more than 15 seconds. The deactivation switch(es) shall be located at least 54 inches above the threshold of the door.

Printed name of homeowner: ______

Signature of homeowner: ______

Date: ______NOTARY PUBLIC TO COMPLETE THE REMAINDER OF FORM

STATE OF TEXAS

COUNTY OF ______

Before me, the undersigned authority, on this ______day of ______in the year 20____, Personally appeared ______, known to me to be a credible person and the signer on the foregoing certificate, and who, after being by me duly sworn, did upon his/her oath, state that information contained in such application is true and correct to the best of his/her knowledge and belief.

Notary Public in and for ______County Seal State of Texas

My Commission Expires ______

Texas Penal code Section 37.10 states that a person commits a Class A misdemeanor if they knowingly mark false entries in, or false alteration of, a governmental record or makes or uses any record document or thing with knowledge of it’s falsity and with intent that it be taken as a genuine government record. SWIMMING POOL PRE-CONSTRUCTION INFORMATION

GENERAL INFORMATION: ____ The City of Katy is currently using the 2015 ISPSC and the 2017 NEC ____ The address MUST be posted at the job site for the duration of the project. If the address is not posted, the inspections will be put on hold until it is posted and visible from the street.

____ A copy of the APPROVED PLANS and a copy of the PERMIT must be posted at the job site for the duration of the project. ____ DO NOT make changes to the approved plans without approval from the city. ____ Aluminum wiring CANNOT be used for branch circuits. ____ All contractors MUST register with the City of Katy and provide proof of liability insurance listing the City of Katy as a certificate holder.

____ BEFORE CONCRETE IS POURED: An inspection must be scheduled and pass. An approved wash out area must be on site or trucks must have a wash out system.

____ Contractors must have licensed workers and placards on their vehicles. ____ An enclosure inspection MUST be scheduled and passed BEFORE WATER CAN BE PLACED IN POOL. INSPECTIONS: ____ If an inspection is requested by 2:00PM, the inspection will usually be conducted the following business day, between 7:00AM and 3:30 PM, SCHEDULE PERMITTING. The City of Katy DOES NOT perform same day inspections. If an inspection is requested after 2:00PM, the inspection will be conducted in two (2) business days. No set time can be given for inspections except for FINALS. When you call the office to schedule an inspection, you will need the permit number, address and type of inspection. The only people who can call for inspections are the ones who have been authorized by the company or license holder on the contractor registration form. If an inspection needs to be cancelled for any reason, the cancellation needs to be called in BEFORE 7:30AM on the day of the inspection.

____ The inspector will leave a tag at the job site to let you know the result of the inspection. If you receive a GREEN TAG, the inspector passed the inspection and you may proceed. If you receive a YELLOW TAG, you must make the corrections and call the office for a re-inspection. You have ten (10) days to call for a re-inspection. If you DO NOT call within ten (10) days, a re- inspection fee will be assessed and is required to be paid prior to re-scheduling. If you receive a RED TAG, a re-inspection fee is required to be paid prior to re-scheduling. ____ If the pool surface around the pool is anything other than deck steel (concrete) A BOND WIRE INSPECTION WILL BE REQUIRED. ____ ALL Sub-contractors that have a permit must call the office for their FINAL inspection. Once all the required inspections have passed, and all the sub-contractors have called in for their inspections, the GENERAL CONTRACTOR MUST call the office to schedule the FINAL. ALL FINALS WILL BE DONE AT THE SAME TIME.

SWIMMING POOL INSPECTIONS REQUIRED ____ Site Inspection – The pool must be marked in the location per the plans. ____ Main Steel & Main Drain – Both inspections must be approved before gunite can be installed. Main drain pressure must be a minimum 35 psi. ____ Vacuum Breaker – See plumbing requirements on the Pool Plan requirement form for more information ____ Yard Drains/Deck drains – If installed a plumbing permit is required. Drains must be inspected before deck steel inspection or pavers/stone. ____ Gas line & GTO – If the pool is heated, both inspection will be required. ____ Electrical Underground – All or any conduit installed is required to be inspected per code. ____ Electrical Light Niches – Both low voltage and high voltage lights are required to have an inspection. ____ Bond Wire – If the pool has pavers or any other material other than 36” of concrete away from the pool water, it is required to have a bond wire inspection. (See Diagrams for Equipotential Bonding) ____ Deck Steel – All conduit, drains, and piping under concrete must be installed and inspected before the deck steel inspection. The inspector will also check the equipotential bond wire around the pool, per code. ____ Enclosure & Door Alarm – The barrier around the pool must meet code to pass inspection. If the pool protection device document was not submitted at plan review, the home owner will need to be home for the inspector verify the door alarm was installed. ____ POOL Final – The building, electrical, and plumbing final will be inspected all at the same time.

I have read and understand the above instructions. I acknowledge that I have received a copy of the list of required inspections. I understand that additional inspections may apply depending on the type of project.

______Signature Date

______Printed Name

______Company Name

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( NOT ALL POSSIBLE POOL FENCE DESIGNS ARESHOWN. PLEASE CHECK WIT! I THE PERMITS DEPARTMENT FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.)

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GATE LATCHING REQUIERMENTS

( PEDESTRIAN GATES SHALL OPEN OUTWARD AWAY FROM THE POOL. SHALL BE SELF CLOSING AND SELF LATCHING. ALL OTHER GATES SHALL REMAIN LOCKED WHEN NOT IN USE.)

Releasemechanism must be located at no openings greater than 1/2" Releasemechanism may bi: within 18" of the release located on eilherside of c:nclosurc least 54• frombottom of gate unless mechanism. ifat 54• orgreater measured from 1 condition 1 is used. the bottomf o thegate. the release mechanism --,.,....,..--'Tl-----, must be 3" below the top of the gate, on the )r_,_·_1 pool side. , i l I .I l , ·1 � ,,..,I .; l I ._l .,�L t { condition 1: condition 2:

Releasemechanism located Releasemechanism located less than 54" from the bottom more than54" . from the bottom of the gate. bottom of the gate. ) r Deck steel for concrete. At least 3 feet from waters edge. I #8 bonding jumper approved connector #8 bare copper conductor • Pool Steel attachment point in easement must be encapsulated. UTILITY EASEMENT 680.26 (B) (2) ELECTRICAL (steel is used in place of #8 bare copper conductor )

POOL I I I EQUIPOTENTIAL BONDING REQUIREMENT FOR CONCRETE & STEEL DECKING #8 bare copper conductor attached a minimum of four (4) points uniformly spaced around the perimeter of pool. 18" to 24" from the waters edge. ELECTRICAL EQUIPOTENTIAL BONDING REQUIREMENT OTHER THAN CONCRETE & STEEL DECKS ( PAVERS, BRICKS, GRASS, ETC. ) 680.26 (B) (2) (b)

#8 bare copper conductor attached a minimum of four (4) points uniformly spaced around the perimeter if the pool. 18" to 24" from the waters edge. Perimeter Surface other than concrete & steel

#8 bare copper conductor

#8 bonding jumper

approved connector SWIMMING POOLS

TABLE E4203.7 (680.10) MINIMUM BURIAL DEPTHS WIRING METHOD I UNDERGROUND WIRING (inches) Rigid metal conduit 6 Intermediate metal conduit 6 Nonmetallic raceways listed for direct burial and under concrete exterior slab not less than .4 inches in - thicknessand extending not less than 6 inches (162 mm) beyond theunderground installation 6 Nonmetallic raceways listed fordirect burial without concrete encasement 18 other approved raceways• 18

For SI: 1 inch= 25.4 mm. a. Raceways ap proved forburial only where concrete-encased shall require a concrete envelope not less than 2 inches in thickness.

It SECTION E4204 1.2.2. shall conform to the contour of the pool . BONDING 1.2.3. It shall be arranged in a 12-inch (305 mm) E4204.1 Performance. The equipotential bonding required by 12-inch (305 mm) network of conduc­ by this section shall be installed to reduce voltage gradients in tors in a uniformly spaced perpendicular the prescribedareas of permanently installed swimming pools grid pattern with a tolerance of 4 inches I and spas and hot tubs other than the storable/portable type. (102 mm). E4204.2 Bonded parts.The part s of pools, spas, and hot tubs 1.2.4. It shall be secured within or under the pool specifiedin Items 1 through 7 shall be bonded together using not more than6 inches (152 mm) fromthe insulated, covered or bare solid copper conductors not smaller outer contour of the pool shell. than 8 AWG or using rigid metal conduit of brass or other [680.26(B)(l)] identifiedcorrosion-resistant metal. An 8 AWG or larger solid 2. Perimeter surfaces. The perimeter surface shall extend copper bonding conductor provided to reduce voltage gradi­ for 3 feet (914 mm) horizontally beyond the inside ents inthe pool, spa, or area shall not be required to be walls of the pool and shall include unpaved surfaces, extended or attached to remote panelboards, service equip­ poured concrete surfaces and other types of paving. ment, or electrodes. Connections shall be made by exothermic Perimeter surfaces that extend less than 3 feet (914 welding, by listed pressure connectors or clamps that are mm) beyond the inside wall of the pool and that are labeled as being suitable forthe purpose and that are made of separated from the pool by a permanent wall or build­ stainless steel, brass, copper or copper alloy, machine screw­ ing 5 feet (1524 mm) or more in height shall require type fasteners that engage not less than two threads or are equipotential bonding on the pool side of the permanent secured with a nut, · thread-forming machine screws that wall or building. Bonding to perimeter surfacesshall be engage not less than two-threads,or terminal bars. Connection provided as specified in Item 2.1 or 2.2 and shall be devices or fittings that depend solely on solder shall not be attached to the pool, spa, or hot tub reinforcing st�el or used. Sheet metalscrews shall not be used to connect bonding copp�r conductor gridat a minimum of fourpoints uni­ conductors or connection devices: [680.26(B)] formly spaced around the perimeter of the pool, spa, or 1. Conductive pool shells. Bonding to conductive pool hot tub. For nonconductive pool shells, bonding at four shells shall be provided as specified in Item 1.1 or 1.2. points shall not be required. Poured concrete, pneumatically applied or sprayed con­ Exceptions: crete, and concrete block with painted or plastered coat­ 1. Equipotential bonding of perimeter surfaces ings shall be considered to be conductive materials shall not be required for spas and hot tubs because of their water permeability and porosity. Vinyl where all of the following conditions apply: liners and fiberglass composite shells shall be consid­ ered to be nonconductive materials. 1.1. The spa or hot tub is listed as a self­ contained spa for aboveground use. 1.1. Structural reinforcing steel. Unencapsulated struc­ tural reinforcing steel shall be bonded together by 1.2. The spa or hot tub is not identified as steel tie wires or the equivalent. Where structural suitable only forindoor use. reinforcing steel is encapsulated in a nonconduc­ 1.3. The installation is in accordance with tive compound, a copper conductor grid shall be the manufacturer's instructions and is installed in accordance with Item 1.2. located .on or above grade. 1.2. Copper conductor grid. A copper conductor grid 1.4. To top rim of the spa or hot tub is not shall be provided and shall comply with Items less than 28 in. (711 mm) above all 1.2.1 through 1.2.4: perimeter surfaces that are within 30 1.2.1. It shall be constructedof minimum 8 A WG in. (762 mm), measured horizontally bare solid copper conductors bonded to from the spa or hot tub. The height of each other at all points of crossing. nonconductive external steps for entry

® 2015 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 737 SWIMMING POOLS

to or exit from the self-contained spa is motor shall be extended from the bonding grid not used to reduce or increase this rim to an accessible point in the vicinity of the pool height measurement. pump motor. Where there is no connection I 2. The equipotential bonding requirements for between the swimming pool bonding grid and perimetersmfaces shall not applyto a listedself­ the equipment grounding system for the prem­ contained spa or hot tub located indoors and ises, this bonding conductor shall be connected installedabove a finishedfloor. to the equipment grounding conductor of the motor circuit. [680.26(B)(6)(a)] 2.1. Structural reinforcing steel. Structural reinforcing steel shall be bonded in accordance with Item 1.1. 6.2. Pool water heaters. For pool water heaters rated at more than 50 amperes and having specific 2.2. Alternatemeans. Where structuralreinforcing steel instructions regarding bonding and grounding, is not available or is encapsulated in a nonconduc­ only those parts designated to be bonded shall tive compound, a copperconductor(s) shall be used be bonded and only those parts designated to be in accordance with Items 2.2.1 through 2.2.5: grounded shall be grounded. [680.26(B)(6)(b)] 2.2.1. At least one minimum 8 AWG bare solid 7. All fixed metal parts including, but not limited to, copper conductor shall be provided. metal-sheathed cables and raceways, metal piping, 2.2.2. The conductors shall follow the contour of metal awnings, metal fences and metal door and win­ the perimeter smface. dow frames. [680.26(B)(7)] 2.2.3. Splices shall be listed. Exceptions: 2.2.4. The required conductor shall be 18 to 24 1. Those separated from the pool by a permanent inches ( 457 to 610 mm) from the inside barrier that prevents contact by a person shall walls of the pool. not be required to be bonded. [680.26(B)(7) ExceptionNo. 1] 2.2.5. The required conductor shall be secured within or under theperimeter smface4 to 6 2. Those greater than 5 feet (1524 mm) horizon­ inches (102 mm to 152 mm) below thesub­ tally fromthe inside walls of the pool shall not grade. [680.26(B)(2)] be required to be bonded. [680.26(B)(7) Exception No. 2] 3. Metallic components. All metallic parts of the pool structure, including reinforcing metal not addressed in 3. Those greater than 12 feet (3658 mm) mea­ Item 1.1, shall be bonded. Where reinforcing steel is sured vertically above the maximum water encapsulated with a nonconductivecompound, the rein­ level of the pool, or as measured vertically forcing steel shall not be required to be bonded. above any observation stands, towers, or plat­ [680.26(B)(3)] forms, or any structures, shall not be required to be bonded. [680.26(B)(7) Excep­ 4. Underwater . All metal forming shells and tionNo. 3] mounting brackets of no-niche luminaires shall be bonded. [680.26(B)(4)] E4204.3 Pool water. Where none of the bonded parts is in direct connection with the pool water, thepool water shall be Exception: Listed low-voltage lighting systems in direct contact with an approved corrosion-resistant con­ with nonmetallic forming shells shall not require ductive smface that exposes not less than 9 in.2 (5800 mm2) bonding. [680.26(B)(4) Exception] of smface area to the pool water at all times. The conductive 5. Metal fittings.All metal fittingswithin or attachedto the smface shall be located where it is not exposed to physical pool structureshall be bonded. Isolated parts thatare not damage or dislodgement during usual pool activities, and it over 4 inches (102 mm) in any dimension and do not shallbe bonded in accordance with SectionE4204.2. penetrate into the pool structure more than1 inch (25.4 E4204.4 Bonding of outdoor hot tubs and spas. Outdoor mm) shall not require bonding. [680.26(B)(5)] hot tubs and spas shall comply withthe bonding requirements 6. Electrical equipment. Metal parts of electrical equip­ of Sections E4204. l through E4204.3. Bonding by metal-to­ ment associated with thepool water circulating system, metal mounting on a common frame or base shall be permit­ including pump motors and metal parts of equipment ted. The metal bands or hoops used to secure wooden staves associated with pool covers, including electric motors, shall not be required tp be bonded as required in Section shall be bonded. [680.26(B)(6)] E4204.2. [680.42 and 680.42(B)] Exception: Metal parts of listed equipment incorpo­ E4204.5 Bonding of indoor bot tubs and spas. The follow­ ratingan approved system of double insulationshall ing parts of indoor hot tubs and spas shall be bonded together: not be bonded. [680.26(B)(6) Exception] 1. All metal fittings within or attached to the hot tub or 6.1. Double-insulated water pump motors. Where a spa structure. [680.43(D)(l)] double-insulated water pump motor is installed 2. Metal parts of electrical equipment associated with the under the provisions of this item, a solid 8 hot tub or spa water circulating system, including pump AWG copper conductor of sufficient length to make a bonding connection to a replacement

2015 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL 738 cooe- SWIMMING POOLS

motors unless part of a listed self-contained spa or hot 7. Panelboards that are not part of the service equipment ( tub. [680.43(D)(2)] and that supply any electrical equipment associated 3. Metal raceway and metal piping that are within 5 feet with the pool, spa or hot tub. (680.7) (1524 mm) of the inside walls of the hot tub or spa and E4205.2 Luminaires and related equipment. Other than that are not separatedfrom the spa or hot tub by a per­ listed low-voltage luminaires not requiring grounding, all manentbarrier. [680.43(D)(3)] through-wall lighting assemblies, wet-niche, dry-niche, or no-niche luminaires shall be connected to an insulated copper 4. All metal surfaces that are within 5 feet (1524 mm) of equipment grounding conductor sized in accordance with the inside walls of the hot tub or spa and that are not Table E3908.12 but not smaller than 12 AWG. The equip­ separated fromthe hot tub or spa area by a permanent ment grounding conductor between the wiring chamber of the barrier.[680.4 3(D)(4)] secondary winding of a transformer and a junction box shall Exception: Small conductive surfaces not likely to be sized in accordance with the overcurrent device in such become energized, such as air and water jets and circuit. The junction box, transformer enclosure, or other drain fittings, where not connected to metallic pip­ enclosure in the supply circuit to a wet-niche or no-niche ing, towel bars, mirror frames, and similar nonelec­ luminaire and thefield-wiring chamber of a dry-niche lumi­ trical equipment, shall not be required to be bonded. naire shall be grounded to the equipment grounding terminal [680.43(D)(4) Exception] of the panelboard.The equipment grounding terminal shall be 5. Electrical devices and controls that are not associated directly connected to the panelboard enclosure. The equip­ withthe hot tubs or spas and thatare located less than 5 ment grounding conductor shall be installed without joint or feet (1524 mm)from such units. [680.43(D)(5)] splice. [680.23(F)(2) and 680.23(F)(2) Exception] E4204.5.1 Methods. All metal parts associated with the Exceptions: hot tub or spa shall be bonded by any of the following 1. Where more than one underwater luminaire is sup­ methods: plied by the same branch circuit, the equipment 1. The interconnection of threaded metal piping and grounding conductor, installed between the junction fittings. [680.43(E)(l)] boxes, transformer enclosures, or other enclosures in the supply circuit to wet-niche luminaires, or 2. Metal-to-metal mounting on a common frame or between thefield-wiring compartments of dry-niche base. [680.43(E)(2)] luminaires, shall be permitted to be terminated on 3. The provision of an insulated, covered or baresolid grounding terminals. [680.23(F)(2)(a)] copper bonding jumper not smaller than 8 AWG.lt 2. Where an underwater luminaire is supplied from a shall not be the intent to require that the 8 AWG or transformer, ground-fault circuit-interrupter, clock­ larger solid copper bonding conductor be extended operated switch, or a manual snap switch that is or attached to any remote panelboard, service equip­ located between the panelboard and a junction box ment, or any electrode, but only that it shall be connected to the conduit thatextends directly to the employed to eliminate voltage gradients in the hot underwater luminaire, the equipment grounding tub or spa area as prescribed. [680.43(E)(3)] conductor shall be permitted to terminateon ground­ E4204.5.2 Connections. Connections to bonded parts ing terminals on the transformer, ground-fault cir­ shall be made in accordance with SectionE340 6.13.1. cuit-interrupter, clock-operated switch enclosure, or I an outlet box used to enclose a snap switch. [680.23(F)(2)(b)] SECTION E4205 E4205.3 Nonmetallic conduit. Where a nonmetallic conduit GROUNDING is installed between a formingshell and a junction box, trans­ E4205.1 Equipment to be grounded. The following equip­ formerenclosure, or other enclosure, a 8 AWG insulated cop­ ment shall be grounded: per bonding jumper shall be installed in this conduit except 1. Through-walllighting assemblies and underwater lumi­ where a listed low-voltage lighting system not requiring naires other than those low-voltage lighting products groundingis used. The bonding jumper shallbe terminated in listed for the application without a grounding conduc­ the forming shell, junction box or transformer enclosure, or tor. ground-fault circuit-interrupter enclosure. Thetermination of the 8 AWG bonding jumper in the formingshell shallbe cov­ 2. All electrical equipment located within 5 feet (1524 ered with, or encapsulated in, a listed potting compound to mm) of the inside wallof the pool, spa or hot tub. protect such connection fromthe possible deteriorating effect 3. All electrical equipment associated with the recirculat- of pool water. [680.23(B)(2)(b)] ing system of the pool, spa or hot tub. E4205.4 Flexible cords. Other than listed low-voltage light­ 4. Junction boxes. ing systems not requiring grounding, wet-niche luminaires 5. Transformer and power supply en_closures. that are supplied by a flexible cord or cable shall have all exposed noncurrent-carrying metal parts grounded by an 6. Ground-fault circuit-interrupters. insulated copper equipment grounding conductor that is an integral part of the cord or cable. This grounding conductor

2015 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE• 739 SWIMMING POOLS shallbe connected to a grounding terminalin the supply junc­ ductors, conductors installed on the load side of a ground­ tion box, transformer enclosure, or other enclosure. The fault circuit-interrupter or transformer used to comply with grounding conductor shall not be smaller than the supply con­ the provisions of Section E4206.4, shall not occupy race­ ductors and not smaller tllan 16 AWG. [680.23(B)(3)] ways, boxes, or enclosures containing other conductors except where the other conductors are protected by ground­ E4205.5 Motors. Pool-associated motors shall be connected to an insulated copper equipment grounding conductor sized fault circuit interruptersor are grounding conductors. Supply in accordance with Table E3908.12, but not smaller than 12 conductors to a feed-through type ground-fault circuit inter­ AWG. Where the branch circuit supplying the motor is rupter shall be permitted in the same enclosure. Ground-fault installed in the interior of a one-family dwelling or in the circuit interrupters shall be permitted in a panelboard that interior of accessory associated with a one-family contains circuits protected by other than ground-fault circuit dwelling, using a cable wiring method permitted by Table interrupters. [680.23(F)(3)] E4202.l, an uninsulated equipment grounding conductor E4206.4 Underwater luminaires. The design of an under­ shallbe permittedprovided that it is enclosed within the outer water luminaire supplied froma branch circuit either directly sheath of the cable assembly. [680.21(A)(l) and (A)(4)] or by way of a transformer or power supply meeting the E4205.6 Feeders. An equipment grounding conductor· shall requirements of Section E4206.l, shall be such that, where be installed with the feeder conductors between the ground­ the fixture is properly installedwithout a ground-faultcircuit­ ing terminal of the pool equipment panelboard and the interrupter, there is no shock hazard with any likely combina­ grounding terminal of the applicable service equipment. The tionof fault conditions during normal use (not relarnping).In equipment grounding conductor shall be insulated, shall be addition, a ground-fault circuit-interrupter shall be installed sized in accordance with Table E3908.12, and shall be not in the branch circuit supplying luminaires operating at more smaller than 12 AWG. than the low-voltage contact limit, such that there is no shock hazard during relamping. The installation of theground-fault E4205.6.1 Separate buildings. A feeder to a separate circuit-interrupter shall be such that there is no shock hazard building or structure shall be permitted to supply swim­ with any likely fault-condition combination that involves a ming pool equipment branch circuits,or feeders supplying person in a conductive pathfrom any ungroundedpart of the swimming pool equipment branch circuits, provided that branch circuit or the luminaire to ground. Compliance with the grounding arrangements in the separate building meet this requirement shall be obtained by the use of a listed the requirements of Section B3607.3. The feeder equip­ underwater luminaire and by installation of a listed ground­ ment groundingconductor shall be an insulated conductor. fault circuit-interrupter in the branch circuit or a listed trans­ (680.2S(B)(2)] former or power supply for luminaires operating at more than E4205.7 Cord-connected equipment. Where fixed or sta­ the low-voltage contact limit.Luminaires that depend on sub­ tionaryequipment is connected with a flexible cord to facili­ mersion for safe operation shall be inherently protected tate removal or disconnection for maintenance, repair, or against the hazards of overheating when not submerged. storage, as provided in Section E4202.2, the equipment [680.23(A)(l), (A)(3), (A)(7) and (A)(8)] groundingconductors shall be connected to a fixedmetal part E4206.4.1 Maximum voltage. Luminaires shall not be of the assembly. The removable part shall be mounted on or installed for operation on supply circuits over 1S0 volts bonded to thefixed metal part. [680.7(C)] between conductors. [680.23(A)(4)] E4205.8 Other equipment. Other electrical equipment shall E4206.4.2 Lumioaire location. Luminaires mounted in be grounded in accordance withSection B3908. (Article2S0, walls shall be installed with the top of the fixturelens not PartsV, VI, and VII; and680.6) less than 18 inches (457 mm) below the normal water level of the pool, except where the luminaire is listed and identified foruse at a depth of not less than 4 inches (102 SECTION E4206 mm) below the normal water level of the pool. A lurni­ EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION naire facing upward shall have the lens adequately E4206.1 Transformers and power supplies. Transformers guarded to prevent contact by any person or shall be listed and power supplies used for the supply of underwater lumi­ foruse without a guard. [680.23(A)(5) and (A)(6)] naires, together with the transformer or power supply enclo­ E4206.5 Wet-niche luminaires. Forming shells shall be sure, shall be listed for swimming pool and spa use. The installed for the mounting of all wet-niche underwater lumi­ transformer or power supply. llhall incorporate either a trans­ naires and shall be equipped with provisions for conduit former of the isolated-winding type with an ungrounded sec­ entries. Conduit shall extend from the forming shell to a suit­ ondarythat has a grounded metal barrierbetween the primary able junction box or other enclosure located as provided in and secondary windings, or a transformerthat incorporates an Section B4206.9. Metal parts of the luminaire and forming approved system of double insulation between the primary shell in contact with thepool water shall be of brass or other and secondarywindings. [680.23(A)(2)] approved corrosion-resistant metal. [680.23(B)(l)] E4206.2 Ground-fault circuit-interrupters. Ground-fault The end of flexible-cordjackets and flexible-cordconduc­ circuit-interruptersshall be self-contained units,circuit -breaker tor terminations within a luminaire shall be covered with, or types,receptacle typesor otherapproved types.(680.S) encapsulated in, a suitable potting compound to prevent the E4206.3 Wiring on load side of ground-fault circuit-inter­ entry of water into the luminaire through the cord or its con- rupters and transformers. For other than grounding con-

740 2015 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODl:9 2. Swimming pools with a powered safety cover that complies with ASTM F 1346. 305.2 Outdoor swimming pools and spas. Outdoor pools and spas and indoor swimming pools shall be surrounded by a barrierthat complies with Sections 305.2.1 through 305.7. I 305.2.1 Barrier height and cJearances. Barrier heights and clearances shall be in accordance with all of the fol­ lowing: I. The top of the barrier shall be not less than 48 inches (1219 mm) above grade where measured on the side of the barrier that faces away from the pool or spa. Such height shall exist around the entire perimeter of the barrier and for a distance of 3 feet (914 mm) measured horizontally from the outside of the I required barrier. 2. The vertical clearance between grade and the bottom of the barriershall not exceed 2 inches (51 mm) for grade surfaces that are not solid, such as grass or gravel, where measured on the side of the barrier that faces away fromthe pool or spa. I 3. The vertical clearance between a surface below the barrier to a solid surface, such as concrete, and the bottom of the required barrier shall not exceed 4 inches (102 mm) where measured on the side of the required barrier that faces away from the pool or spa. 4. Where the top of the pool or spa structure is above grade, the barrier shall be installed on grade or shall I be mounted on top of the pool or spa structure. Where the barrier is mounted on the top of the pool or spa, the vertical clearance between the top of the pool or spa and the bottom of the barrier shall not exceed 4 inches (102 mm). 305.2.2 Openings. Openings in the barrier shall not allow I passage.. of a 4-inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere . 305.2.3 §olid barrier surfaces. Solid barriers that do not have openings shall not contain indentations or protrusions that formhandholds and footholds,except for normal con­ struction tolerances and tooled masonry joints. 305.2.4 Mesh fence as a barrier. Mesh fences, other than I chain link fencesin accordance with Section 305.2.7, shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer'sinstru c­ tions and shall comply with the following: 1. The bottom of the mesh fenceshall be not more than I SECTION 305 1 inch (25 mm) above the deck or installed surface BARRIER REQUIREMENTS or grade. 305.1 General. The provisions of this section shall apply to 2. The maximum vertical clearance from the bottom of I the design of barriers for pools and spas. These design con­ the mesh fence and the solid surfaceshall not permit trols are intended to provide protection against the potential the fence to be lifted more than 4 inches (102 mm) drowning and near drowning by restricting access to such fromgrade or decking. I pools or spas. These requirements provide an integrated level of protection against potential drowning through the use of 3. The fence shall be designed and constructed so that physical barriers and warning devices. it does not allow passage of a 4-inch (102 mm) sphere under any mesh panel. The maximum verti­ Exceptions: cal clearance from the bottom of the mesh fence and 1. Spas and hot tubs with a lockable safety cover that the solid surface shall not be more than 4 inches complies with ASTM F 1346. (102 mm) fromgrade or decking.

14 2015 INTERNATIONAL SWIMMING POOL AND SPA CODE™ GENERAL COMPLIANCE

4. An attachment device shall attach each barrier sec­ 305.3.1 Utility or service gates. Gates not intended for tion at a height not lower than 45 inches (1143 mm) pedestrian use, such as utility or service gates, shall remain above grade. Common attachment devices include, locked when not in use. but are not limited to, devices that provide the secu­ 305.3.2 Double or multiple gates. Double gates or multi­ rity equal to or greater than that of a hook-and-eye­ ple gates shall have at least one leaf secured in place and type latch incorporating a -actuated retaining the adjacent leaf shall be secured with a self-latching lever such as a safety gate hook. device. The gate and barriershall not have openings larger 1 Where a hinged gate is used with a mesh fence, the than / inch (12.7 mm) within 18 inches (457 mm) of the I 5. 2 gate shall comply with Section 305.3. latch release mechanism. The self-latching device shall 6. Patio deck sleeves such as vertical post receptacles comply with the requirements of Section 305.3.3. that are placed inside the patio surface shall be of a 305.3.3 Latches. Where the release mechanism of the nonconductive material. self-latching device is located less than 54 inches (1372 I 7. Mesh fences shall not be installed on top of mm) from grade, the release mechanism shall be located onground residential pools. on the pool or spa side of the gate not less than 3 inches I (76 mm) below the top of the gate, and the gate and barrier 305.2.5 Closely spaced horizontal members. Where the 1 shall not have openings greater than /2 inch (12.7 mm) barrier is composed of horizontal and vertical members within 18 inches (457 mm) of the release mechanism. and the distance between the tops of the horizontal mem- bers is less than 45 inches (1143 mm), the horizontal 305.4 Structure wall as a barrier. Where a wall of a dwell­ I members shall be located on the pool or saa side of the ing or structure serves as part of the barrier and where doors fence. Spacing between vertical members shall not exceed or provide direct access to the pool or spa through 3 that wall, one of the following shall be required: 1 /4 inches (44 mm) in width. Where there are decorative cutouts within vertical members, spacing within the cut­ 1. Operable windows having a sill height of less than 48 3 outs shall not exceed l /4 inches (44 mm) in width. inches (1219 mm) above the indoor finished floor and 305.2.6 Widely spaced horizontal members. Where the doors shall have an alarm that produces an audible barrier is composed of horizontal and vertical members warning when the , door or their screens are and the distance between the tops of the horizontal mem­ opened. The alarm shall be listed and labeled as a water bers is 45 inches (1143 mm) or more, spacing between hazard entrance alarm in accordance with UL 2017. In vertical members shall not exceed 4 inches (102 mm). dwellings or structures not required to be Accessible Where there are decorative cutouts within vertical mem­ units, Type A units or Type B units, the operable parts 3 of the alarm deactivation switches shall be located 54 bers, the interior width of the cutouts shall not exceed 1 /4 I inches (44 mm). inches (1372 mm) or more above the finished floor. In dwellings or structures required to be Accessible units, I 305.2. 7 Chain link dimensions. The maximum opening 3 Type A units or Type B units, the operable parts of the formed by a chain link fence shall be not more than 1 /4 alarm deactivation switches shall be located not greater inches (44 mm). Where the fence is provided with slats than 54 inches (1372 mm) and not less than 48 inches I fastened at the top and bottom which reduce the openings, (1219 mm) above the finishedfloor. such openings shall be not more than 13 inches (44 mm). I /4 2. A safety cover that is listed and labeled in accordance 305.2.8 Diagonal members. Where the barrier is com­ with ASTM F 1346 is installed for the pools andspas. posed of diagonal members, the maximum opening I formed by the diagonal members shall be not more than 3. An approved means of protection, such as self-closing 3 doors with self-latching devices, is provided. Such 1 /4 inches (44 mm). The angle of diagonal members shall be not greater than 45 degrees (0.79 rad) fromvertical. means of protection shall provide a degree of protection that is not less than the protection afforded by Item 1 or I 305.2.9 Clear zone. There shall be a clear zone of not less 2. than 36 inches (914 mm) between the exterior of the bar­ 305.5 Onground residential pool structure as a barrier. rier and any permanent structures or equipment such as An onground residential pool wall structure or a barrier pumps, filters and heaters that can be used to climb the mounted on top of an onground residential pool wall struc­ barrier. ture shall serve as a barrier where all of the following condi­ I 305.2.10 Poolside barrier setbacks. The pool or spa side tions are present: of therequired barrier shall be not less than 20 inches (508 1. Where only the pool wall serves as the barrier, the bot­ mm) from the water's edge. tom of the wall is on grade, the top of the wall is not 305.3 Gates. Access gates shall comply with the require­ less than 48 inches (1219 mm) above grade for the ments of Sections 305.3.1 through 305.3.3 and shall be entire perimeter of the pool, the wallcomplies withthe equipped to accommodate a locking device. Pedestrian access requirements of Section 305.2 and the pool manufac­ I gates shall open outward away from the pool or spa, shall be turer allows the wall to serve as a barrier. self-closing and shall have a self-latching device.

2015 INTERNATIONAL SWIMMING POOL AND SPA CODE™ 15 GENERAL COMPLIANCE

2. Where a barrier is mounted on top of the pool wall, the top of the barrier is not less than 48 inches (1219 mm) above grade forthe entireperimeter of the pool, and the wall and the barrier on top of the wall comply with the requirements of Section 305.2. 3. Ladders or steps used as means of access to the pool are capable of being secured, locked or removed to prevent access except where the ladder or steps are surrounded by a barrier that meets the requirements of Section 305. 4. Openings created by the securing, locking or removal of ladders and steps do not allow the passage of a 4- I inch ( 102 mm) diameter sphere. 5. Barriers that are mounted on top of onground residen­ I tial pool walls are installed in accordance with the pool manufacturer's instructions. I 305.6 Natural barriers. In the case where the pool or spa area abuts the edge of a lake or other natural , public access is not permitted or allowed along the shoreline, and required barriers extend to and beyond the water 11s edge not less than 18 inches (457 mm), a barrier is not required between the natural body of water shoreline and the pool or I spa. 305.7 Natural topography. Natural topography that prevents I direct access to the pool or spa area shall include but not be limited to mountains and natural rock formations. A natural barrier approved by the governing body shall be acceptable provided that the degree of protection is not less thanthe pro­ tection afforded by the requirements of Sections 305.2 July8,2005

CityofXaty BuildingDq,t. P.O.BoJ6J7 Katy, TX 71492

LJstcdbelow thea.re requircmenu for gasconnections for the pool heater upgradesfrom CenterPoint Energy.

• PoolJines must have a valve udunion a in closeproximity to Chemeter. • PoolJines notcan be connectedto themettl'.

•· Wheremultiple house lines exist (grill, fire pits,etc.), CenterPoint Energy wiIJ tie thepool line into the meter. AD other-lines needingm be 1iedin wUJnot bethe responsibilitycf CenterPointBnecgy. lfyou haveany questions, please feel freecontact to me at 281•342•8881.

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